exam £80 (Denplan £40) £50 (Denplan - included)
•
•
•
UBBESTON LODGE SWIMMING POOL
Looking
• Indoor poolHeated all year round
• Exclusive use for groups of up to 8
(Denplan - included)
£125 (Denplan £100)
£495 (Denplan £396)
WOODBRIDGE
Looking to keep fit or have some fun family time? Please email or call for availability and further details:
•
• Private changing rooms equipped with toilets and showers
heating throughout
• Playpen
£750 (Denplan £600)
£595 (Denplan £476) crowns £995 (Denplan £796) treatment from £350 (Denplan £280) whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
Street, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4BZ reception@leistondentalcare.co.uk Us: 01728 561873
Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm
• Underfloor heating throughout Please view the website for availability, booking, and further details: pool@ubbestonlodge.co.uk www.ubbestonlodge.co.uk
pool@ubbestonlodge.co.uk or 01986 799 007 (off the B1117
Egmere House, Market Place, Saxmundham
Telephone: (01728) 602084
Contact: John Pulham 0505825
New grants keep Woodbridge Tide Mill turning
The Trustees of Woodbridge Tide Mill Museum have secured grants from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and East Suffolk District Council to keep the Mill turning. Currently, the Mill is the only working tide mill in the UK producing flour.
The grants will enable vital work to the Hurst Frame. The frame supports the impressive oak and iron machinery that harnesses the river Deben's tides to mill local grain.
which will continue to supply commercial contracts, and rotating the millwheel to avoid it becoming waterlogged.
'Researching Criminal Children'
a talk by Linda Hammond
In October, the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group (AVSFHG) hosted a talk by Linda Hammond entitled 'Researching Criminal Children'. A genealogy researcher and lecturer, Linda spoke to us over Zoom from her home in France to our audience which was, in part in the Fromus Centre in Saxmundham and partly online.
schools were established. Children were to stay there, being well fed and cared for. They would learn to improve their behaviour and adopt a better way of life in response to the teaching. Children who became out of control at home were often housed there, with some parents contributing to the cost.
landmarks in our district - and a jewel in the crown of the River Deben. What makes it particularly precious as an attraction is its rare distinction as a working, flour producing mill, performing the same function it was built for hundreds of years ago. I'm delighted that this grant will help protect and enhance the internal framework that supports the machinery used to keep that tradition going."
Due to rising sea levels, the frame (which used to occasionally flood) now spends long periods submerged in salty river water.
A timber survey recommended work to ensure the frame remained structurally adequate. Sections of the lower part of both Hurst Frame legs need to be cut away and replaced by engineering brickwork.
The crucial work will be done during winter when the Mill is closed. Repairs to the Hurst Frame will interrupt milling,
A retired structural engineer joined the management team to oversee and provide expertise and a consulting structural engineering firm was commissioned to produce the scheme. The team approached local builders to quote for and schedule the work, indicating which areas of the Mill would be shut off to staff, volunteers and trustees. With this information an application was made to the Local Authority for permission to carry out the work and funding bids prepared.
The Trustees of The Woodbridge Tide Mill Charitable Trust are extremely grateful to East Suffolk District Council and National Lottery players for awarding grants to cover the cost of the work. The cost of the preparatory work involved in investigating the repair and the tender process have been paid by the Mill.
Cllr Caroline Topping (Leader of East Suffolk Council) said: "Woodbridge Tide Mill is one of the most iconic and important
John Carrington (Chair of Woodbridge Tide Mill Charitable Trust) said: "We are delighted to have received the support from National Lottery players through The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and East Suffolk District Council. This enables us to do this essential work without dipping into our reserves. The Mill is of national importance and because of its age and location needs continual maintenance. Our reserves mean that we can respond quickly if an urgent repair is needed."
The work is scheduled to be carried out in November 2024 and will (according to the approved schedule) take until mid-December 2024 to finalise and clear the site.
Around Victorian times, children's home lives were often very poor with little money for food, little comforts with parents often out at work or absent from home. Children frequently stole from family or strangers' homes or even from other children, stealing to raise money for food, clothing or to help the family.
Through her research, Linda followed the records of youngsters who were convicted of almost 'minor' crimes, followed by very harsh sentences. Child miscreants were treated as harshly as adults, with prison sentences, birching, transportation to Australia or New Zealand, and were even sentenced to death.
Alternatively, children who had committed crimes were housed in Industrial Schools where they worked and learned a trade so that by the time they had served their sentence they could be licensed to people who would give them a job. Through both these schools many children's lives were changed for the better. There were also industrial ships in some ports teaching seafaring. Some girls were housed in a Refuge, such as in Fulham, where they were taught many household skills, ready to enter into employment.
Many children lived in extreme poverty with a lack of education so no access to a good job. Diseases and crime spread, with much criminal behaviour leading youngsters astray. There was limited social care and little legal protection for them. Linda gave examples of girls and boys who were given sentences, like one girl of 16 who was given one month's hard labour in prison for stealing money. A lad of 13 was given eight strokes of the birch rod for stealing money from children. Charles aged 13 stole six pairs of drawers (underpants), he was in an adult prison awaiting trial for two weeks and then sent to a Reformatory for five years. Punishments were really harsh and conditions in prison with adults were traumatic and not suitable for young people.
By 1820, prisoners began to be separated by age and the Juvenile Offences Act in 1847 led to quicker court cases for children under 14. In the mid19th century Reformatory
Linda produced a helpful handout to guide us through the various records available. Sources of information, beside the census, could be court records, newspapers and the Newgate Calendar of young offenders. Reformatories and Industrial Schools kept very informative records of the children's progress and details of their families.
Linda Hammond is a professional genealogist and member of the Register of Qualified Genealogists. She has been active in genealogy for over 35 years as both a researcher and a lecturer. She's a member of the University of Strathclyde genealogy course faculty, where she works as a tutor for their PG Certificate, Diploma and Masters programs. In addition to her teaching role, Linda frequently speaks at conferences and family history fairs, where she shares her knowledge and expertise with enthusiasts. She has published articles on her research into Reformatory and Industrial Schools in England and has just published a book on the use of Mind Mapping in genealogy. www.avsfhg.org.uk
Hurst Frame investigation
Image: Caroline Peeke
Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group
Autumn and winter activities at Suffolk County Music Service
With county-wide musical activities, Suffolk County Music Service are well-placed to promote not one, but several charities over their forthcoming 2024/25 season.
As part of our commitment to supporting the wellbeing of Suffolk's young people, we're proud to be promoting James' Team for the 2024-25 academic year. The organisation was formed in memory of young musician and avid reader James, and they are currently raising funds to buy books for Year 6 pupils which help promote self-confidence and positive wellbeing in young people. They also fundraise for PAPYRUS (Prevention of Young Suicide), who help to break the stigma, start the conversation and save young lives.
SMART Suffolk exists to ensure that young people in
Suffolk have access to arts opportunities to enrich their lives. SMART provides funding to help Suffolk's young people access high-quality music and arts opportunities (including with us) and will be present at our preChristmas events.
Our latest news is that Suffolk County Music Service have just joined 'Hop to it! Suffolk', which follows the success of the previous St. Elizabeth Hospice Art Trails around Ipswich, and in 2025 will be extended to further locations in Suffolk: Felixstowe, Woodbridge, Beccles and Lowestoft, as part of the Art Trail's learning and community programme called Hopscotch. We're really excited about the prospect of designing and decorating our 'stargazing leveret' too, look out for further information and updates, but you will have to wait until next summer to see the end result!
A very smart speaker - Shame it doesn't work... and never will, with all components inaccessible in gloop!
Keep an eye out for our events in and around Suffolk, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas, where you will see collections for SMART, James' Team, and our Hare. We provide regular updates on social media so make sure you follow us to find out where we will be with our events and performances:
@SCMusicS_SCC
@suffolkcountymusic
serviceSCC
@suffolkcountymusicservice
Visit our website: suffolkcountymusicservice.co.uk to learn more about the wide range of activities we offer your children and young people at different locations across the county.
We look forward to getting Peter Penguin dancing again for the festive season!
Christmas Lights On Weekend
The Woodbridge Christmas Lights On Weekend is taking place from November 28th to December 1st, with music and street entertainment, mobile projections and Advent Calendar projections on the Tide Mill, rides, the annual Christmas Market, art and science workshops, food stalls and pop-up bars and light art on Market Hill, Whisstock's Place and the Thoroughfare.
This year's lights are being switched on by Town Mayor, Robin Sanders and Jenny Riddle Carpenter MP.
Woodbridge Light Art Advent Calendar projected on the Tide Mill, plus dance performances, workshops, food stalls and DJs.
It's great to repair an item which otherwise would have gone to landfill.
At the Suffolk Repair Shed, we fix about three quarters of the 60-70 things which come through each month.
But what about the quarter which isn't mended? A sixth of that are simply at the end of their life, every part fixed would simply have shown up the next part to be mended. That's fair enough.
More worrying is the next two thirds, split roughly into three equal parts, namely:
• Lack of information/spare parts: One premium brand of audio equipment will not provide information for any of its units, and won't support in any way items more than 10 years old. They just want you to buy a new one. Other manufacturers don't want the
costs of a support operation carrying spares, fulfilling warranties by replacement and landfill.
• Parts are available but too expensive: Meaning that it's simply not worth fixing. For example, one brand of vacuum cleaner retails at around £100, a spare motor £70.
• The item is not made to be repaired (by anybody): This goes beyond the wide use of special fasteners. It includes items glued together, sometimes becoming a solid lump of plastic, for example hair straighteners or circuit boards with all components glued into a block. It sometimes results from a design process which prioritises cheapness over repairability. Breadmakers could easily have a removable hatch to make belt replacement easy, but don't.
All of this is could be improved if people bought smarter. What can you do? Our experience in the Repair Shed suggests you should buy items which are:
• Simple: Every extra gizmo adds a possible thing to fail.
• Maintainable: There's a Repairability Index in force in France. See how your next purchase rates on the produitsdurables.fr website.
• Upgradeable: Do you really need this year's model? We can and should ask for better products. Now there's a resolution for 2025. For more information: www. suffolkrepairshed.org, email hello@suffolkrepairshed.org.
You can also find Suffolk Repair Shed on Facebook and Instagram.
The weekend begins with music, rides, mobile projections, Festival all ages art and rocket science workshops and food stalls at 4:30pm on November 28th at Market Hill, where the Mayor will host the switch on at 6pm, with special guest, MP, Jenny Riddle Carpenter. This will be followed by a community lantern parade to the Thoroughfare, where craft activities, music, food and bars will continue until 8pm.
The fun continues on November 29th at 4:30pm in Whisstock's Place, with the
On December 1st, the town continues its countdown to Christmas with its always popular annual Christmas Street Market taking over the Thoroughfare. Amongst the acts playing are street brass band East Angles, Peter Hepworth, Ozzie Henry Experience and Kevin Pearce, VJ Girl In A T-Shirt, Adrian Wiggins samba drum workshops and DJ Ben Osborne hosting events in Whisstock's Place. More acts are to be announced. Food Stalls include Donuts, Gourmet Burgers and sausages, pizzas, mulled wine and cidre, cocktails, craft beers and a pop up bar in a horse box, with popular local food outlets Korean Kitchen, Coffee Mod, Woodyard Pizza, Mr Bees Brewery, The Boathouse, Adnams, Hoxters, Mr Bees Brewery, Suffolk Coffee Pod and more taking part.
The events have been organised by Choose Woodbridge and Woodbridge Festival of Art and Music working with Woodbridge Town Council.
Group Pilates Classes at Knodishall & Bruisyard
Village Hall
Body Control Qualified Teacher with 10 years experience
Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays - Bruisyard Wednesdays - Knodishall
Improver, mixed ability & intermediate level classes + Pilates for Bone Health
Suitable for those with current or previous Pilates experience.
Any questions, call for a friendly chat www.pagepilates.co.uk 07826 191 326
LAND ROVER SPECIALISTS
GENERAL REPAIRS • SERVICING
• PARTS • MOT PREPARATION TRADE PARTS DELIVERED LAND ROVER DIAGNOSTICS & PERFORMANCE UPGRADES
Affordable, quality dentistry comes to Woodbridge
1, Bridge Works, The Street, Bruisyard Tel: 01728 663938 www.offroadrovers.co.uk
MOORE’S YARD, BENHALL, SAXMUNDHAM Tel: 01728 604615 www.offroadrovers.co.uk
Email: info@offroadrovers.com
Email: info@offroadrovers.com
In response to well-reported local inaccessibility to dental services and public dismay at the closure of two NHS dental practices in Leiston, we established Leiston Dental Care and opened in June 2022. Our aim was to provide a more affordable alternative to NHS dentistry within the local community.
Buoyed by the overwhelmingly positive response and opportunity to undertake a similar venture in Woodbridge, we established a lease for 21 Church Street, Woodbridge in late 2023. Having spent six months and over £250,000 renovating, refurbishing and equipping it to a high standard, it was with real delight that we opened for business in September 2024.
We proudly offer treatment in one of three brand new, airconditioned surgeries (with a dedicated hygienist suite) with access to a CBCT scanner for jaw imaging, intra-oral scanner for taking impressions and an operating microscope for complex root canal treatment.
Our digital intra-oral x-ray machines record fantastic detail with minimal exposure to radiation and intra-oral cameras further enhance our ability to record pathology and keep you
informed about changes in your mouth, such as tooth wear or decay.
Competitive pricing and focus on prevention:
We fully appreciate that the closure of NHS dental services has created a void with many unable to afford the cost of private dentistry. Our aim is to improve accessibility by offering premium quality dentistry at a more affordable price so that it's available to more people.
Prevention is so often overlooked but is at our core.
Regular dental attendance and oral hygiene instruction from your dentist and hygienist will help keep your teeth and gums healthy, preventing disease. There's no better substitute than your own healthy teeth and gums. They are provided free of charge and if well maintained, can last
you a life-time. We will help you keep them healthy for as long as possible and give you the help and advice you need to minimise intervention and future treatment costs.
How do I register with Woodbridge Dental Care?
We're delighted to welcome all age groups and anxious patients too; whether you've not been the dentist for years, or wish to join us from another practice because it's more convenient, joining our practice is easy:
• In person at: 21 Church St, Woodbridge, IP12 1DS
• Via email: reception@ woodbridgedentalcare.co.uk
• By phone: 01394 334555
• Via our website: www.woodbridge dentalcare.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you to our practice!
Groups in
Dennington (Village Hall) - Tuesdays
Leiston (L.T.A.A) - Thursdays
Call Julie for details
07940 583320
fasciitis
• Foot & ankle pain
Farlingaye High School shortlisted for prestigious MTI award
We are so excited and proud to announce that Farlingaye High School has been nominated and shortlisted for the "MTI Award for Achievement in Musical Theatre Provision" through the Music and Drama Education Awards to be held in London in January 2025.
The award, sponsored by Music Theatre International (MTI), acknowledges and celebrates outstanding musical theatre provision in the primary and secondary age setting. The winning school will demonstrate that musical theatre is vital to both the music and drama departments and the ethos of the entire school and company.
We feel so grateful to be shortlisted and recognised for the work we do with our students and the local community. This a combination of all the hard work and talent of our past and current shows. Farlingaye High School have produced many musical theatre shows over the years including Disney's 'Beauty & The Beast' and 'The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe'. Most recently 'The Little Mermaid', was also nominated for two 'National School Theatre Awards' this year, and won 'Best Supporting Actor'.
Pippa Parks (Head of Drama) said "We are over the moon that our students and staff have been recognised for this prestigious award. This is not just a testament to the incredible talent of the students on stage,
but also those off stage too. We are so lucky to have an amazing music department, using a predominantly student pit band, playing professional scores that perform live every night for our shows. We also have a student tech team running the lights and sound as well as our art department supporting students in creating props, set and helping backstage. Our school community is also brilliant at donating props and materials that can be turned into costumes by our creative parent helpers who have made such professional looking costumes. The shows are always a huge team effort, and I feel privileged to be a part of them and give our students such memorable experiences in their time at school here with us."
Headteacher Peter Smith added: "We're so proud of the brilliant efforts of drama and music students, and I couldn't be prouder of our staff, students, and entire school community for achieving this remarkable recognition. Being shortlisted for such a prestigious award is a testament to the dedication, talent, and creativity that goes into our productions and acknowledge just what a spectacle they are. Our students' commitment to excellence, supported by a team of passionate teachers, parents, and peer, truly reflects the collaborative spirit at the heart of Farlingaye. We're thrilled to see their hard work celebrated on such a significant platform."
• Orthotic prescription
• Achilles tendonitis
Woodbridge Dental Care
Farlingaye High School
M.DANIELS (Sid)
Karl Andrews Painter & Decorator
JAMES MILLER ELECTRICAL
Festive Dining
November is here, the nights are drawing in and, following a mild start to autumn, the woolly jumpers are back out as the temperature begins to drop. This all means only one thing... Christmas is not too far away!
One of the best things about this time of year has to be the opportunity to get together with family, friends, neighbours and colleagues, put your party outfit on and enjoy some good food and a glass or two of your favourite tipple.
Throughout December, our local pubs, restaurants, cafés and hotels will be running delicious festive menus, special dishes and themed nights, giving us all an excuse to get
This is especially important for larger groups. So, get the group chat going and start having those conversation with your friends and family about whether you are booking your favourite
or fancy trying a new restaurant. It's never too early to start planning your season of festive celebrations!
Suffolk Singers set the stage!
Join us for the FIND Charity Concert in January
Suffolk Singers have recently hosted another successful workshop for all singers, led by Claire Weston ably assisted by Jamie John Hutchings.
There was much joviality as we fa la la'd our way through a variety of music, learned lots of useful singing techniques, gave a short performance to friends and family and, of course, ate much cake. A great way to spend a wet Sunday amongst old and new friends, in harmony, enjoying our love of singing together.
November saw us performing in St. Michael's, the Parish Church of Framlingham, a venue much loved by the Choir, more of that in our next news release.
Although always a busy month, in December we will prepare for the annual Charity Concert in Aid of FIND (Families in Need).
So cast off those postChristmas blues and join Suffolk Singers as we team up with FIND for our spectacular annual charity concert. This will be the fourth time that Suffolk Singers and FIND have collaborated, helping to raise funds in support of this inspirational charity delivering vital services to those living in poverty in Suffolk. Established in 1990 by founder Maureen Reynel MBE. FIND offers help to those that are deprived of a minimum standard of living, by providing
food parcels, household items, furniture and other essentials.
The services that FIND offer are more essential and relevant now than they have ever been and Suffolk Singers are very pleased to be once again helping to raise much needed funds to help FIND continue their work.
Suffolk Singers are a choir much appreciated for beautiful blended singing, regularly performing concerts across Suffolk, other parts of East Anglia and beyond. Led by the choir's director Claire Weston, Suffolk Singers will bring their usual wide ranging programme of music from across the centuries. No doubt there will also be a few
surprises to keep the audience entertained.
Definitely a date for your diaries: FIND Concert, January 18th 2025 at 7:30pm at Woodbridge Community Hall, IP12 1AU. Tickets will be priced at £15 each and available from the ticket line on 07843 840876, through choir members and at www.wegottickets.com (booking fee applies). Advanced booking is advised as the concert usually sells out. Tickets include a light supper - but please bring your own drinks.
We hope to see you there but, in the meantime, here's hoping you have an enjoyable festive season! www.suffolksingers.co.uk
The best Christmas days out with the National Trust in Norfolk
The nights are drawing in, the weather's getting colder, and with Christmas just around the corner it's time to get into the festive spirit - and there's no better way than visiting the National Trust's Norfolk places with friends and family.
Visit Blickling's Jacobean House, with decorations inspired by the conservation of a Star Atlas by Andreas Cellarius and return after dark for an evening of colourful displays and illuminations.
Join the quest of two young wolves at Felbrigg Hall's immersive trail, filled with imaginative decorations, animal illustrations and soundscapes recorded on the estate.
Enjoy twinkling lights, Christmas trees aplenty, and traditional decorations that bring the '12 Days of Christmas' to life at Oxburgh Hall. Book now for storytelling with Father Christmas as his schedule soon fills up in December!
Here are some of the top Christmas events to enjoy this festive season in Norfolk!
Events correct at time of issue, please check individual webpages for full details and availability.
Blickling Estate Garden of Lights
Nov 30th-Dec 15th
5pm-8pm
(Booking essential)
Enter the spectacular front drive of Blickling Estate for an evening of colourful displays and illuminations, taking you on a journey through the seasons on a new accessible, level route.
Step into summer in the
Walled Garden, autumn on the parade, winter on the acre and the brightness of spring up at the Temple. All the seasons will be featured on the Parterre, where there'll be family activities to enjoy and a chance to make lasting memories together.
Head to the festive Farmyard for food and drinks or stop along the route and soak up the atmosphere under the stretch tent as you enjoy toasted marshmallows and mince pies. Adults: £18, children: £10, Family (1 adult, up to 3 children): £32, Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £50. Free carer tickets available on request, children under five go free but still require a ticket.
nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling
Blickling Estate Journey Through the Stars
Nov 30th - Jan 5th
(closed Dec 24th & 25th)
10am-3pm
Take a journey through the stars on a visit to Blickling's Jacobean mansion this winter, inspired by the conservation of a Star Atlas by Andreas Cellarius from the Long Gallery library. Explore star-filled rooms, wonder at the skies above as you explore the story of this special book a masterpiece of Dutch celestial mapmaking. With light installations, family fun and games and a chance to help decorate the hall, this is a festive adventure not to be missed!
Enjoy a spot of Christmas shopping in the shop or pop into the second-hand bookshop in the Farmyard to browse a selection of specialist books. Tuck into delicious seasonal food and warming drinks in the Stables
and Muddy Boots Cafés. Normal admission charges apply/free for National Trust members.
nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling
wreath making workshops, booking essential. All other events are free and don't require advance booking.
Oxburgh Estate The Hidden 12 Days of Christmas Nov 30th - Jan 5th
(closed Dec 24th, 25th & 26th)
Grounds open 9:30am-4pm, Tearoom open 10am-3pm, Hall open 11am-2pm
There's magic, wonder and festive fun for the whole family this Christmas at Oxburgh Estate!
You'll find twinkling lights and Christmas trees aplenty across the gardens, leading visitors along to Oxburgh Hall which will be brimming with traditional decorations that bring the '12 Days of Christmas' to life.
There will be a festive trail for little ones, as well as crafts, storytelling with Father Christmas and a delicious festive menu inside the Servant's Hall
Tearoom. Don't forget to visit the Courtyard Gift Shop and browse our collection of beautiful Christmas gifts too.
New for 2024: Oxburgh are also excited to offer British Sign Language storytelling sessions with Father Christmas on December 14th & 15th, as well as a dedicated SEN session for those living, or caring for people with autism, neurodivergence, or any other sensory needs on November 29th and December 14th, from 9:30am-5pm. These sessions are free, but booking's essential.
Standard admission charges apply. Free entry for National Trust members. Additional charges apply for storytelling with Father Christmas and
On-demand bus services to keep Suffolk moving this Christmas
This Christmas, a local collaboration is ensuring that residents in Suffolk Coastal can stay connected, even where traditional public transport falls short. Through partnerships between Katch, Coastal Accessible Transport Services, and Connecting Communities, an on-demand bus network, is making travel simpler for those in Framlingham, Wickham Market, Campsea Ashe, Snape Maltings, Leiston, Saxmundham, Aldeburgh, Woodbridge, and surrounding villages.
The service offers a lifeline for those in rural areas, where
access to regular bus or train routes can be limited. Residents can book a pickup to connect with the nearest public transport link, offering a seamless journey to their destination.
With the festive season in full swing, the demand for reliable travel options grows-whether it's for Christmas shopping, visiting family, or attending events. This initiative aims to reduce travel barriers and support community connectivity during one of the busiest times of the year.
Local residents have praised the service for its accessibility and flexibility, particularly in
areas where regular transport options are sparse. It's a timely reminder of the importance of innovative solutions to keep rural communities connected, especially during the Christmas period.
Discover all the festive happenings in Suffolk this Christmas on our events page and plan your journey today! www.katchalift.com
Alternatively, contact us to arrange a visit to our school for in-year admissions 01728 648251
Middleton Primary School, Rectory Road, IP17 3NR office.middleton@consortiumtrust.org.uk
Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate
Wild Wood Hall:
The Search for Red Selected dates between Nov 22nd - Dec 16th 11am - 3pm (no need to book)
Explore an indoor trail filled with imaginative decorations, animal illustrations and soundscapes recorded on Felbrigg Estate. Follow in the paw prints of two young wolves on a quest, through a series of ground floor showrooms. Encounter a mirror ball tree, a glittering fungi feast and frosty mountains as they search for Red, their pack's matriarch, and unexpectedly find her in a secret den with a litter of new pup playmates. Families can enjoy craft activities, and a quiet breakout space will be available for those with additional sensory needs. Themed treats and hot chocolates from the Squire's Pantry tea-room top-off the experience, with stocking fillers and gift options piled high in the shop and secondhand bookshop. Wintry walks beckon on the estate, which is free to visit and open from dawn to dusk. (Parking charges apply for non-members). Free entry to the Wild Wood Hall trail for National Trust members and under 5s. Adults: £13, children: £6.50, Family (2 adults, up to 3 children): £32.50, Family (1 adult, 2 children): £19.50. nationaltrust.org.uk/felbrigg
Pictured at St Botolph's Church, Culpho
Image: Hannah Parnell
Harleston Choral Society
You're invited to join Harleston Choral Society (HCS) on December 14th at 7pm in St. John's Church, Harleston IP20 9AZ for our programme of beautiful Christmas music.
Haydn's Missa Sancti Nicolai and other seasonal music, and carols, some with audience participation. All with our four soloists and the Harleston Chamber Orchestra. Tickets £15 (including wine or a soft drink and a mince pie) are available from choir members, on the door on the night, or from Harleston Information Plus. Accompanied children go free.
See our website: harlestonchoral.org.uk for more information about HCS, or contact Caroline Rodbourne on 01986 782545, caroline@rodbourne.org.uk, or Jo Curry, jo.curry@sky.com, 07768 544005.
Beccles Choral Society Christmas Cracker
Get in the festive mood with friends and family at Beccles' famous Christmas Cracker concert presented by Beccles Choral Society and Waveney Concert Band.
Our Christmas Extravaganza features favourite come and sing carols, traditional Christmas music and other popular seasonal items. This is the one not to miss!
News from The Pear Tree Fund
Once again, a heartfelt thank you goes to Kate, Kevin and all the team at The Queen's Head, Bramfield for their latest fundraiser for The Pear Tree Fund. The Big Charity Picture Quiz was such fun as well as raising a fantastic £158.
The i-Chameleon Pop-up Shop was a huge success and featured the best-dressed Mary Poppins scarecrow - Read more about this in the Dee's Den news on page 2.
Our Art Exhibition showcased the incredible work of clients who participate in the art therapy class run by talented local artist, Lorenzo Barron. We welcomed over 100 guests to the centre, helping to raise awareness of the work that we do. Thank you to Lorenzo, our artists, volunteers, staff and all who came along to see these magnificent works of art.
The Cake Stall at Laxfield Community Market had an
amazing array of cakes, home baked by our lovely volunteers. Thank you to Barb, Nikki and Louise for organising everything and special thanks to Sue Hall our almost resident cake baker. An incredible £324 was raised, now that's a lot of cakes! Thanks also to Laxfield Community Market for nominating the Pear Tree Fund for November's cake stall. Pop Chorus raised a whopping £7,105 at their Constellation Ball in October. This will be shared between eight charities, including the Pear Tree Fund. Thank you to Yula, John and all the choristers from Pop Chorus, it was truly a stellar event.
Please see our upcoming events on the 'What's on' page on pages 8-9.
We're delighted to have been nominated by Walberswick East of England Co-op to benefit from their Winter Local Giving campaign. From November
1st, through to January 31st, Walberswick Co-op will be fundraising on our behalf. We're incredibly grateful to Rosi and all the team for nominating us and also for their enthusiasm in helping us to spread the word about our work. The funds raised will be put to good use, helping our friends in the community who are facing a life-limiting illness, as well as their families, carers and people who have been bereaved. If you live in Walberswick or if you're visiting, do pop in.
Our condolences: Finally, we offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of Mrs. J.A Kibble and our deepest gratitude for the funeral donations made in Mrs. Kibble's memory.
Halesworth's Pear Tree Centre continues to offer holistic support, including information, counselling, complementary therapies and benefits advice to anyone diagnosed with a life-
The Christmas Cracker will be on Sunday, December 15th, at 4:30pm at St. Michael's Church, Beccles. Tickets: £15, under 16s free. beccleschoralsociety.co.uk
changing illness, their families/ carers or those who have been bereaved.
If you need support, you're welcome to drop in or contact us. We also work alongside the statutory and voluntary sector to help provide extra equipment and enhanced care in the last days of life. We offer emotional, physical and practical support tailored to the person and their family. We also help to facilitate choice about where care is received as the end of a person's life approaches.
Additionally, we support young people over 12 years old who are dealing with their own or a family member's lifechanging diagnosis or who are coping with bereavement. Visit www.peartreefund.org for more information.
'Restore TV' to provide free support in Bungay if TV interference occurs
Mobile network services are being upgraded in Bungay; boosting speed, performance and coverage.
There is a small chance that these improvements may cause interference to TV received through an aerial such as Freeview, BT, TalkTalk and YouView. These improvements will be implemented in Bungay, and symptoms could include intermittent sound, blocky images (pixilation) or loss of TV signal. For residents who are affected by the upgrades, free support is available from Restore TV. Restore TV is an independent programme created by Digital Mobile Spectrum Limited (DMSL), an organisation owned by the UK's four mobile network operators: EE, Virgin Media O2, Three and Vodafone.
Restore TV's role is to ensure people can continue to enjoy free to view TV if mobile service upgrades cause interference.
Restore TV reports to the Coexistence Technical Working Group, chaired by Ofcom, which monitors and advises on the programme to ensure free to view TV viewers' interest are properly served. The programme offers additional support for people who are aged 75 or older, are registered blind or partially sighted or receive any of the following benefits: personal independence payments, attendance allowance; constant attendance allowance or War Pensioner's Mobility Support. Ben Roome (CEO of Restore TV) said: "We know just how important TV is to inform, entertain and provide welcome company. Restore TV exists to ensure we all can continue to access free to view TV as mobile services are improved across the country. If you see new TV interference, we're on hand to help you resolve the issue. We can send a Restore TV filter, free of charge, for you to fit between your aerial lead and TV or set-top box to remove mobile signals and allow you to watch free-to-view TV as normal. Full instructions are included, and we can provide further advice online and by phone if needed. In most instances, fitting the filter will resolve any issues, but if this isn't the case, we may also be able to arrange a follow-up visit from
a Restore TV engineer at no cost, depending on eligibility." Cable and satellite TV (such as Sky/Virgin) are not affected. However, viewers with these services, who also watch freeto-view TV through an aerial, can receive a free Restore TV filter. Residents are more likely to be affected if they live in an area with weak digital television reception, have a TV signal booster and whose TV aerial
is close to a mobile mast. For residents in flats or communal buildings, Restore TV provides landlords or property managers with support to resolve the problem. Any viewers who experience new interference to free-to-view TV should contact Restore TV on: 0808 13 13 800 (free from landlines and mobiles) For more information, please visit: www.restoretv.uk
On Tuesday evenings throughout the summer months, you might come across Rumburgh Morris dancers and musicians at a pub near you, performing our repertoire of traditional morris dances originally collected from villages in the Cotswolds in the early 1900s. The money we raise from our audience collections is specifically ring-fenced to support local charities. Last year, thanks to the generosity of our audiences, we were able to help Halesworth Dementia Carers' Fund with a donation of £1,000. This year, we're delighted to support two equally worthy causes, Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney, and Bungay Community Support, with donations of £400 to each.
Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney is a homelessness charity supporting people with a home, meaningful work opportunities and holistic support. This autumn, three residents from the organisation undertook an epic 450-mile fundraising trek to help more people out of homelessness. Chloe, Jagger
and Peter alongside CEO, Cecile Roberts walked the width of the country from St. David's in Wales back to the charity's home of Ditchingham. The 'Walk of Kindness' aimed to increase awareness of homelessness and raise funds to open a new social enterprise bed and breakfast in the former All Hallows Convent.
Rumburgh Morris was formed in 2008 and currently has a strong membership of male and female dancers and musicians ranging in age from 14 to 80 years. New members are welcomed at the beginning of each practice season every September. We practice in St. Margaret South Elmham Village Hall on Tuesday evenings from September through to April, and our dance season commences with our St. George's Day performance at The Rumburgh Buck on April 23rd, and continues through to early September.
To find out more, or to book us to dance at your event next year, contact us by emailing: bag@rumburghmorris.org.uk or visiting:
www.rumburghmorris.org.uk
Find out more about Emmaus Norfolk & Waveney and their 'Walk of Kindness' project on: www.emmaus.org.uk /norfolk-waveney/wok
Harleston & District
U3A
Harleston & District U3A would like to remind our followers that there will be no monthly talk in December, but we wish you all a very happy Christmas and a healthy and peaceful New Year. We look forward to seeing you again when our monthly talks resume on January 15th, 2025, in St. John's Church, Harleston. For further information, visit: www.U3Asites.org.uk/ harleston or contact Kim Poulton on 01986 788149.
Financial focus on...
What now for Furnished Holiday Lets? Ensors Chartered Accountants
The landscape for furnished holiday lettings (FHL) are about to change dramatically.
Broadly, the tax benefits for running an FHL have been severely curtailed with effect from the 2024 Spring Budget and removed entirely from 5th April 2025 for individuals (31st March 2025 for corporate FHLs). So what action can the owners take before FHLs start to be taxed like regular rental income?
• Maximise Capital Allowances: FHLs can claim capital allowances on furniture, fixtures and equipment, whereas rentals are generally restricted to repairs and renewals. Making new purchases before 6th April 2025 will maximise any Capital Allowances still available. New claims after 5th April 2025 will not be allowed but continuing writing down of unexhausted expenditure pools can continue;
• Consider joint ownership: If you currently let your FHL unequally, HMRC will treat rental income jointly owned by spouses 50:50 no matter the underlying ownership. Consider transferring ownership to the spouse with the lower tax exposure (potential additional legal costs to do so) or electing
for precise split of income to the underlying capital ownership by using form 17 for tenants in common (additional evidence would be required such as a deed). Note elections on form 17 cannot be backdated and have effect from date of receipt by HMRC. Unmarried owners can continue to allocate rental income as they wish irrespective of underlying capital;
• Selling the FHL: Qualifying FHL owners have previously benefited from Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) on a sale, thereby reducing capital gains tax. BADR is being withdrawn, however ceasing the FHL business before 6th April 2025 and selling the
property within three years of the cessation may still attract BADR. Separately, anti-forestalling rules prevent BADR when contracts are exchanged before 6th April 2025 but completion is after this date, unless it is a genuine arm's length commercial disposal which is not to a connected person or undertaken to obtain a tax advantage.
• Use Rent-a-Room relief: If you let a room in your main residence, you can claim up to £7,500 exemption (or £3,750 per spouse) but with no expenses deductible. This may be a useful alternative for small scope letting. The cessation of the FHL regime is the end of an era introduced in 1984. By being proactive, the change may not be as severe as it might be with holiday letting activities still potentially being more profitable than long term rental. Hope this helps!
For further information, please contact Robin Beadle (pictured) on: robin.beadle@ensors.co.uk
Disclaimer: Specialist advice should always be sought prior to taking any action on matters discussed in this article.
J C WOODPRODUCTS
Winter garden watch
Simple tips to support wildlife and prep for spring
For many, December is a time to enjoy the garden from the comfort of your home, but there are still jobs you can do to ensure your wildlife survives the winter.
Even in the smallest garden, it's possible to provide food, water and shelter from bad weather for common garden birds. If you have a balcony or small patio, make sure hanging feeders are topped up. Birds will start to venture closer to the house as food supplies run out. In colder weather, cut a branch from a conifer and lay it on the ground to make an 'umbrella' that keeps an area free from frost and allows birds to find insects.
As much as you may like to, it's not a good time to remove or severely prune evergreens or shrubs with berries or hips as these provide more than just food for birds and mammals. Insects, including ladybirds, take cover in dense conifers which are also populated by smaller birds such as wrens for roosting on cold nights. So before you start any
major winter garden activities, take into account the disturbance to wildlife it may cause.
However, if you have evergreens and shrubs in your garden, then you can make natural seasonal decorations for free by gathering your own greenery. Simply cut some berries and foliage to use in arrangements, door wreaths and banister swags. Prepare cut stems by putting them straight into a bucket of room-temperature water for a couple of hours, then cut them all again and crush the ends before giving them another soak in fresh water. Harvest whole cotoneaster branches or springs of berries to wire into wreaths (watch out for thorns if using pyracantha with its prolific berries ranging from pale yellow through to rich red), holly berries with foliage provide the best effect in festive arrangements and can be coupled with shrubby shoots of ivy for a classic display.
Once you've taken your pick for seasonal decorations, you can always increase your stock for the coming years by taking some
hardwood cuttings - one of the top jobs for gardeners this month:
• Hardwood cuttings provide an easy and reliable method of propagating a range of deciduous climbers, trees and shrubs and they can be taken from midautumn until late winter when more time is usually available to gardeners. Some evergreen plants (hollies for example) can also be taken at the same time of year as other hardwood cuttings.
• Check your winter protection structures are still securely in place. Cold, wet, windy winter weather can damage trees, shrubs and garden structures such as trellis. Improving shelter, staking plants, mulching, wrapping pots and careful matching of plants to places will help to prevent this kind of damage.
• Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing. If your pond is stocked with fish and it does freeze over, melt the ice by placing a hot pan on the surface, or install a pond heater or water feature.
Wickham Market Flower Club's October meeting
June (our Chairman) welcomed 35 members and four visitors to the October meeting. After the usual fire doors information, June went on to tell us how successful and interesting our AGM had been.
The unchanged subscription charge of £30 was now due for 2024/25. Tickets for our November Open Meeting on Thursday 28th were now available priced at £5 for members and £10 for visitors.
The demonstrator is David Wright with 'The 12 Days of Christmas'. This is a repeat visit for David as he always gives us an excellent evening. There will also be a table selling handbags, a raffle and non- alcoholic punch with warmed mince pies. Do make sure to book your tickets for this last meeting of the year.
Contact Sue on: 07786 942450.
We heard details of the charity called Blood Runners and a short printout had been prepared for members to look at. All agreed that this was a worthy cause for our next Chairman's Charity.
Several members knew of someone involved, so it should prove very interesting and useful for us to raise as much as possible for them.
We had arranged for our usual Poppy Wreath to be laid, something else our club is happy to support.
One of our honorary members, Val Pizzey celebrated her 80th birthday on October 22nd, and our President Elsie and two members of our club visited her in her nursing home to present her with an orchid and a card. It was lovely to share memories with Val who always made the coffee at committee meetings and her sense of humour was still very apparent. After our visit, we understand a small party had been laid on for her. We hope you had a lovely Birthday Val! Elsie then presented our very special Secretary, Carol Wiseman with her 25 year membership badge. Thanks for all your dedicated service to our club Carol.
The advanced practice piece
competition was won by Mandy, and Jane was second. The novice piece was won by Paula. The specimen plant was won by Sue. We were then introduced to our demonstrator for the evening, Wendy Goodliff whose topic was 'Its all a Game'. She proceeded to set too and demonstrate five beautiful designs depicting the Olympics, Ascot, Wimbledon, conkers and Strictly Come Dancing. Each design was stunning. The colours of flowers and foliage used was particularly suitable for the titles. She had made some ingenious containers and accessories and it really was a brilliant vision on the stage when Wendy had finished. After the vote of thanks by June, members enjoyed refreshments and chat before some very lucky members won these designs in the raffle. Yet another Wickham Market Flower Club successful and enjoyable evening. Why don't you join us for the next meeting? We'd love to see you!
Mandy Pryke
Val Pizzey (one of our honorary members) celebrated her 80th birthday on October 22nd. Our President, Elsie and two club members visited her to present her with an orchid and a card. Happy Birthday Val!
Aldeburgh fun team charity triathlon
Our 9th running of the Aldeburgh Triathlon was another very successful one, raising more than £3,200 for charities, bringing our total to over £30,000 since we started in 2015.
The date for 2025 is September 21st, and entries are now available for the 10th anniversary event. We also run the Boxing Day swim and a new Sprout Sprint 5k on December 22nd, both at Aldeburgh, raising money for charity.
This year, Lapwing were awarded the 'outstanding team' award at the Aldeburgh Fun Team Charity Triathlon where 85 teams
took part on the Suffolk Heritage Coast recently.
Lapwing Education are a specialist therapeutic education provider and charity, working across Suffolk, Norfolk and north Essex. Lapwing enjoyed another awesome Aldeburgh Fun Team Triathlon as part of their many team building and social activities for staff throughout the year.
Lapwing's growing team of 110 staff (predominantly made up of tutors and skills coaches, who work with many of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable young people in the region) are often lone-working out in community-based venues
and therefore take as many opportunities as they can to come together as a team. Lapwing's mission is to deliver outstanding education and support which will positively impact the life chances of the hardest to reach young people across East Anglia. Their ethos is to put a young person's needs, interests and aspirations at the heart of their education programme.
The charity is committed to the holistic development of young people so they can thrive personally and professionally and is renowned for delivering highly personalised learning and securing excellent outcomes for
young people with additional needs.
Lapwing's involvement in the Aldeburgh Team Triathlon fist started in 2021 following the initial involvement of CEO Will Fletcher, as a participant in social teams in previous Aldeburgh team triathlon events.
Lapwing have entered multiple teams every year since 2021. This year, they entered five teams, involving 15 employees winning the 'Outstanding Team' award for their camaraderie and positivity.
Will Fletcher (CEO) said: "The Aldeburgh Team triathlon is something we look forward
to every year! It's a fantastic event which has a fun and inclusive feel, while being very professionally run. Matt and the team of volunteers do a fantastic job to organise it so smoothly. Lapwing will always enter teams, often involving different colleagues who have not participated in something like this before, because we put a large focus on staff wellbeing and connectedness and this is a brilliant opportunity to get out together on a Sunday and do something healthy and fun while knowing we're supporting some other great causes and charities in the county."
Saxmundham Adventure Playground Committee
Leiston Town Bowls Club end of season roundup and report
2024 nears its close and bowls activities become lost, but for Leiston, they're looking forward to 2025.
Mick never stops, up most days to clear the worm casts, scarify, roll and cut, apply winter dressing and generally make sure the green will be fit for season 2025. It's non-stop and a labour of love.
Hidden behind his computer, Richard is busy clarifying next season's county and league rules and condition changes, soon he will be attending meetings and preparing next season's league fixtures.
The treasurer is maintaining the accounts, ensuring Mick has tools and materials he needs to ensure our great green keeps its high standard.
For anyone needing advertising, we have strong
fencing all around the green, which is ideal for advertising boards during the season. We attract a wide range of visitors from a large area of east Suffolk. If you're interested, please contact Bing on: 07889 451703. The ditches, hedges and surrounding gardens all need attention - No rest for the wicked, by Mick and his team. Many hands make light work, so any help members can give will be very welcome. Please contact Richard or Mick. Jobs such as window cleaning, paths clearing and pavilion painting all need attention.
In the mean time, happy Christmas to all bowlers and supporters of Leiston Town Bowls. See you all in a Happy New Year 2025! Remember, new members are welcome! Ditcher
NOVEMBER 28TH
Woodbridge Christmas Lights On Weekend Market Hill & Thoroughfare
4:30pm-8pm. Light switch on by Town Mayor & local MP at 6pm. Mobile projections, all ages art, craft & science activities, rides, music, Christmas sing-a-long, lantern parade, Santa's sleigh, food & drink stalls & late night shopping!
NOVEMBER 29TH
Woodbridge Christmas Lights On Weekend Whisstocks Place & Riverside
4:30pm-8pm. Woodbridge light art advent calendar projections, music, dance performance, all ages art, craft & science activities, food & drink stalls, bars & restaurants.
NOVEMBER 29TH - DECEMBER 1ST
Woodbridge Art Club Exhibition
Framlingham Unitarian Meeting House
Open 11am-5pm on Friday & Saturday & 10am-5pm on Sunday.
A host of wonderful exhibits for sale; Pottery, paintings and artistic photography. All in time for the festive period! Please pop in and take a look, we'd love to see you! www.woodbridgeartclub.org.uk
DECEMBER 1ST
Christmas Street Fair Thoroughfare
Woodbridge's annual Christmas Street Market.
DECEMBER 1ST
Castleton Brass Band Christmas Concert
St. John the Baptist Church, Needham Market
4:30pm. Needham Market Christmas Concert. A diverse repertoire of Christmas hits. Under the direction of newly-appointed conductor Sam Salmon, the band will perform a selection of works that showcase their exceptional talent and passion for brass band music.
DECEMBER 3RD, 10TH, 17TH, 24TH & 31ST
Framlingham Tuesday Market Market Hill, Framlingham
Our smaller weekday market held each Tuesday, where you'll find our friendly, long standing regular traders: fishmongers, artisan breads/ bakery, fruit, vegetables, plants, plastic free (bring own receptacles) for refills of whole foods & household items. We also have one pitch space shared between our casuals so this will vary each week. More info, email: townclerk@framlingham.com
DECEMBER 4TH
Christmas Mini Music Makers
River View Restaurant, Snape Maltings 10am. Join us for a magical, festive Mini Music Makers. Enjoy 45 minutes of Christmas-themed songs, play activities, & fun! Free, but please book. Suitable for ages 0-5. Please meet at the Snape Maltings Visitor Centre.
DECEMBER 6TH
Festive Wreath Making
Butley Priory, Woodbridge, IP12 3NR
7pm-10pm. Evening of festive cheer & merriment in the enchanting setting of Butley Priory with award-winning florist Peony & Peach. Festive drinks/nibbles, good company & expert guidance, the perfect creative escape to kick off your seasonal festivities. Tickets: £65pp (early bird) £70pp (general sale). Ticket incl: All materials you need to make a beautiful bespoke wreath, festive drinks/nibbles & a signature Suffolk Social gift to take home & enjoy.
DECEMBER 7TH
Saxmundham Christmas Fayre
Saxmundham Market Hall
9am-3pm. Visitors come from all over to attend our bustling street market, artisan craft market & enjoy festive activities & performances.
DECEMBER 7TH
Father Christmas' Grotto
St. Mary & St. Peter's Church, Barham, Church Lane, Claydon, IP6 0PT
10am-3pm. Bring your children along to meet the jolly man himself! If they're on Santa's good list, they'll be given a special token which allows them entry to Santa's Workshop. Here, they'll be able to choose their very own Christmas gift from a variety of top-quality options. Don't miss out on this truly wonderful community event! Book at: www.shorturl.at/HENDH.
If you wish to book a slot for more than 3 children, please email: christmasatbarhamchurch@gmail.com
DECEMBER 7TH
Santa's Christmas Grotto Foxburrow Nature Reserve
10:30am-4pm. Enjoy an eco-friendly magical visit to Santa's grotto! If you'd like a quieter, more local experience that's still magical & welcoming, look no further! Every child will have a chance to take a photo, talk to Santa, & receive a gift. Each slot is 10mins, giving you plenty of time to make your special memories. On the day, you can also make a lantern, potato print eco-friendly wrapping paper & make some wildlife-friendly reindeer food. All incl. in the child ticket. Please bring an old tin to make your lantern (battery tealights can be bought for 50p on the day). This event is for children up to age 11yrs. Tickets: £10pp. Book your slot at: www.tinyurl.com/3fdwn4ye
DECEMBER 7TH
'It's a Wonderful Life' (U) Presented by Worly Films Worlingworth Community Center, Woodbridge Doors open: 7pm, movie starts: 7:30pm. When a frustrated businessman becomes suicidal, an angel from heaven is sent to show him what life would have been without his existence. Tickets (cash on door) Adults & 13+: £5. Under 13's: £2.50 (under 13's must be accompanied by an adult, you don't have to sit together though) Bring own refreshments. More info, contact: 07733 244400.
DECEMBER 7TH
A Ceremony of Carols with Anna Lapwood
Snape Maltings Concert Hall
7:30pm. Festive choral treats with The Chapel Choir of Pembroke College, Cambridge, conducted by Anna Lapwood. Tickets from: £10pp. www.brittenpearsarts.org
DECEMBER 7TH, 14TH, 21ST & 28TH
Framlingham Saturday Market Market Hill, Framlingham
Our main market of the week. Held every Saturday. A varied selection of stalls with friendly, long-standing regular & casual traders as well as many casual traders that attend the market occasionally throughout the year. More info, email: townclerk@framlingham.com
DECEMBER 8TH
Breakfast with Father Christmas Snape Maltings
Time slots available from 9am-11am. A delightful selection of breakfast dishes for all ages. Plus, children will have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas, share their wishes, & receive a special early Christmas gift. Tickets: £16.50pp. www.brittenpearsarts.org
DECEMBER 8TH
Festive Family Party & Meet Father Christmas
Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre
2pm-8pm. Festive disco, lively party games & the magical chance to meet Father Christmas & receive a special wrapped gift! (Quiet room available too with festive colouring & activities). Hot drinks, snacks and the bar's open too! Tickets: £8.50pp for children (incl. gift from Father Christmas) & £2.50 for accompanying adults.
A day of festive fun & memories to last a lifetime!
Book at: www.tinyurl.com/247cutbh
DECEMBER 8TH
Leiston Celebrates Christmas
Library Square, Leiston Town Centre
3pm-7pm. Santa's Grotto (3pm-6pm), food & drink, craft stalls, live music, stocks fayre, face painting & more! Get your tickets at: www.longshopmuseum.co.uk
DECEMBER 10TH
Winter Concert with Stradbroke Community Choir
All Saints Church, Stradbroke, IP21 5JD
Join us for a festive evening of song! With Stradbroke Community Choir, performing a range of repertoire celebrating the season. General admission £5pp, under 14's £4pp. Book at: www.shorturl.at/U42nv
DECEMBER 11TH
Tea Dance
Britten Studio, Snape Maltings
2pm. Quickstep back in time to enjoy afternoon tea, alongside the opportunity to waltz & foxtrot to a live band. Festive afternoon of food, dancing & music. Designed for people in later life, the event is wheelchair-accessible & suitable for all abilities. Price: £17.50pp; £10pp for care-giving organisations; carers & companions go free.
DECEMBER 11TH
Wilding, 2023 (PG)
Castle Community Rooms, Framlingham 7:30pm. Film@Fram. Runtime 75mins. Wilding is based on Isabella Tree's 2018 memoir of how she & her husband Burrell completely overhauled the 1400-acre Knepp estate he'd inherited in Sussex. Tickets: £4pp (members), £6pp (non-members).
DECEMBER 11TH
Christmas Quiz
Sizewell Sports & Social Club
8pm start. £8 per team. Teams of 6. Book a table by calling: 01728 830025 or at the bar. Winning team will get a Christmas Hamper!
DECEMBER 14TH
Christmas Yoga, Relaxation & Wreath Making (18+) Peak Hill Farm, Theberton, IP16 4TG 10am-1pm. Yoga & relaxation round the fire, followed by wreath
making, light lunch, mulled wine & mince pies. £25pp. By Engage & Grow Forest School. www.engageandgrowforestschool.com
DECEMBER 14TH
Christmas Wreath-making Workshop (12+)
Imogen Holst Room, The Red House, Aldeburgh 10am & 2pm. A festive favourite, with expert guidance, complete with mince pies & hot drinks. Create your very own wreath inspired by The Red House garden. Warm dress recommended as there will also be the opportunity to explore the garden at this wintry time of year. Price: £35pp; under 30s half price.
DECEMBER 14TH
Father Christmas sails into Snape Quay
Snape Maltings
12pm. Come & join us to greet Father Christmas as he sails around the narrows of the winding River Alde & disembarks at Snape Maltings Quay. Free, no need to book.
DECEMBER 14TH
Phoenix Singers: Christmas Oratorio in English Framlingham College Chapel 7pm. JS Bach's musical retelling of the Christmas story. Conductor: Geoff Levery. Tickets: £15pp (under 18s free), incl. refreshments after the concert, available from: phoenixsingers@outlook.com
DECEMBER 14TH
Christmas Special with Laura Wright Snape Maltings Concert Hall 7pm. A very merry evening of celebratory Christmas classics with a sparking Suffolk line-up: star soprano Laura Wright alongside the Britten Pears Chamber Choir & The Band of the Royal British Legion, Leiston. Tickets from: £5pp. www.brittenpearsarts.org
DECEMBER 14TH & 15TH
'A Christmas Gingerbread Village' Whisstock's Place
11am-4pm. We're having a Yuletide event! Presented by The Woodbridge Historic Riverside Group. Lots of family fun with choirs, gingerbread making, Father Christmas & more! Full programme on: www.woodbridgeriversidetrust.org
DECEMBER 15TH
The Snowman Snape Maltings Concert Hall
Everyone's favourite Christmas film, screened in the beautiful Concert Hall with live choir and orchestra. A must-see of the festive season. Performances at: 12:30pm, 2:30pm & 4:30pm. Tickets: £15pp. www.brittenpearsarts.org
DECEMBER 15TH
Tea with Santa @ Sizewell Sports & Social Club Bookings only. Children £14pp, Adult £13.45pp. Arrive at 3:30pm to be seated for tea, followed by a story from Santa & presents, followed by party games & entertainment. 6:30pm finish.
DECEMBER 16TH
'An Ancestral Christmas' talk by Liz Yule Fromus Centre, Saxmundham 2:30pm. Liz Yule (Director of Research at The Institute of Heraldic & Genealogical Studies) takes a light-hearted look at Christmases past & how the festive season helps with family history research. Why was Christmas day so popular for marriages? What surnames have links to the festive period? Why were Christmases past so much colder than today? & much more. The talk takes place in person & on Zoom for members only. No need to book, just turn up, £1pp members, £3pp for visitors, incl. tea/coffee/biscuits. Good, free car-parking. Only members can take part in Zoom meetings, but it's only £8pp for a year's membership. For more info, visit: www.avsfhg.org.uk/membership.
DECEMBER 17TH
Christmas Carols
The Red House Garden, Aldeburgh 2pm. Get into the Christmas spirit with sing-a-long carols & delicious festive treats. A fun & free session with mince pies, warm spiced drinks & seasonal festive favourites. Song sheets provided. Wrap up warm! Suitable for all ages.
DECEMBER 19TH
'Realm of the Polar Bear' talk Woodbridge Community Hall Starts 7:30pm (doors 7pm). Illustrated talk by Chris Parfitt. Admission: £4pp adults, under 25's free. No need to book. Pay on door with cash/card. More info, call 01473 625630, email: swtwoodbridge@outlook.com. In aid of Suffolk Wildlife Trust. www.shorturl.at/VhnPa
Got an event you'd like to promote to our thousands of monthly readers? If so, please email the details over to: edit@micropress.co.uk to be included in our 'What's on?' section.
The Engineers Arms
from Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection
We're approaching the end of another busy year for our branch. Fosterers have been kept extremely busy caring for a large number of felines, predominantly litters of kittens. Adoptions have been slow at times, but steady and it looks as though we shall be caring for more kittens into the new year.
We've also had an increase in the number of requests for help with neutering owned cats, too. Our fundraisers have been doing sterling work to raise much needed funds to enable us continue the work we do. Volunteer with our branch:
you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Date for your diary: Please come along to support us and stock up on your Christmas cards, calendars and gifts on: Sunday, December 1st at the Woodbridge Christmas Street Fare.
News from Woodbridge Riverside Trust
One of the joys of being involved with The Longshed is knowing and appreciating its pivotal role in the success of the whole project to redevelop the Whisstock's Place area.
woodbridgeriversidetrust.org
In other news:
It all began with a dedicated and determined group of people who (over 25 years ago) got together to ensure our riverside area thrived and kept our maritime heritage alive. Fast forward to 2024, and that original group of people can be proud of what's been achieved, and there's so much more to come.
We're looking for volunteers. We need helpers for events, but more importantly, we want someone who can take on arranging and co-ordinating events. If you could help in any way, please contact us at: enquiries@framandsax.cats.org. uk or call us on 01728 723499.
We'd like to thank everyone who's supported us this year in so many ways; from donating cat food, money, gifts for sales, knitted goods, volunteering and of course grateful thanks go to those who have adopted cats and kittens. From everyone in branch, we wish
Looking for a home: Say hello to Molly and her kitten Clover! Molly is about 18 months old, is very affectionate and enjoys being stroked. Clover is about 20 weeks old and is a very gentle and sweet girl, just like her mum. She likes to sit and be stroked and she loves playing with Molly. These sweet cats will need a quiet home where they can live together and grow in confidence. Find out more on our website. Website: www.cats.org.uk/ framandsax, email: enquiries@ framandsax.cats.org.uk, or call: 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 Facebook and Instagram.
More recently, the 'Woodbridge Historic Riverside Group' has been formed, which is an affiliation of the visitor attractions, shops, cafés, restaurants and other businesses in Whisstock's Place and along and near the town's riverside area.
We're having a Yuletide event! The Woodbridge Historic Riverside Group presents 'A Christmas Gingerbread Village' at Whisstock's Place on December 14th and 15th from 11am-4pm. There will be lots of family fun with choirs, gingerbread making, Father Christmas and more! Full programme on:
We're revamping an area of the ground floor in The Longshed to provide an additional toilet facility for visitors. We thank Woodbridge Town Council and Suffolk and Essex National Landscape for their funding in support of that initiative.
By the time you read this, we'll have had the Tapestry Workshops as the foundation for a project to celebrate the River Deben. We will also have begun the project to 'theme' that celebration in our visitor reception and cloakroom areas. We are very grateful to Charlotte Crofts & Co who have kindly provided the beautiful heavy linen for the Tapestry Project, and to Clle Ruth Leach and Suffolk County Council for their generous grant support enabling us to purchase the materials needed for the artwork project involving a number of schools. We were due to hold a Maritime Film Festival in November in partnership with the Woolverstone Project (Sailing for the Disabled) but at their request, this has been postponed until early next year.
