Leiston & Framlingham Community News - November 2024
TREATMENTS OFFERED INCLUDE:
patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)
UBBESTON LODGE SWIMMING POOL
patient exam £80 (Denplan £40) exam £50 (Denplan - included) for 30 minutes (Denplan - included) fillings from £125 (Denplan £100) dentures from £495 (Denplan £396) dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
exam £50 (Denplan - included) for 30 minutes (Denplan - included) fillings from £125 (Denplan £100) dentures from £495 (Denplan £396) dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
TREATMENTS OFFERED INCLUDE:
Looking to keep fit or have some fun family time?
• Indoor poolHeated all year round
• Indoor Pool heated all year round
• Exclusive use for groups of up to 8
• Exclusive use for groups of up to 6
• Private Changing Rooms - equipped with loos, showers and hair dryers
New patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)
Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)
Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)
Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)
crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)
implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)
Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
treatment from £350 (Denplan £280) whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
LEISTON DENTAL CARE
LEISTON DENTAL CARE
Dentists
Dr. Chris Kelly
BDS (Sheffield, 2003) GDC: 82366
Dr. Emma Grant
BDS (Birmingham, 2010) GDC: 192122
Dr. Muneezeh Shahid
BDS (Lahore, 2011) ORE (UK, 2016) GDC: 263776
Dental Hygienists
Miss. Aurea Bond FdSc (Essex, 2024) GDC: 208959
Mrs. Louise Easen FdSc (Essex, 2023) GDC: 135778
Miss. Mel Bastani FdSc (Essex, 2018) GDC: 273169
Miss. Victoria Hough FdSc (Essex, 2021) GDC: 200727
• Underfloor heating throughout
• Private changing rooms equipped with toilets and showers
• Playpen UBBESTON LODGE SWIMMING POOL
Looking to keep fit or have some fun family time? Please email or call for availability and further details: pool@ubbestonlodge.co.uk or 01986 799 007 (off the B1117 in Ubbeston, near Laxfield)
• Underfloor heating throughout
Please view the website for availability, booking, and further details: pool@ubbestonlodge.co.uk www.ubbestonlodge.co.uk 01986 799 007
If you have any unwanted gifts, food (boxes of chocolates, biscuits, tins etc.) or anything suitable for a tombola, we'd be very pleased for any gifts to be taken along to Fishers in the Market Square, who have very kindly said they will receive items up to December 2nd.
We will be holding our tombola/craft stall at
Saxmundham Christmas Fayre on the High Street on December 7th.
Money raised at our fundraising events is used to maintain and buy new equipment for the playground. We very much hope that the community will support this fundraising event. Many thanks in anticipation.
Saxmundham Adventure Playground Committee
Made in Benhall Makers' Market
December 1st, 10:30am-2:30pm
The annual Made in Benhall Makers' Market has rapidly become a firmly established must-visit event in many people's pre-Christmas calendars.
very talented people living in our small village, with such a diverse range of eclectic skills.
Charity Christmas Card shop opens in Woodbridge
The traditional Charity Christmas Card Shop in Woodbridge opens at St. Mary's Church Centre, 11 Market Hill, Woodbridge, IP12 4LP, on Monday 21st October. The shop is organised by Woodbridge 41Club, and proceeds are used to support local
charities and other good causes.
The 41 Club organiser, Roger Parker commented: "We're looking forward to a great season selling cards and supporting many very worthwhile causes. Sending a Christmas card is a great way to keep in touch with friends and family. I'm very grateful to all the volunteers and customers who support the shop."
The shop stocks the largest selection of charity cards in Suffolk from over 20 different charities. This includes favourites such as: the RNLI, Marie Curie Cancer, Barnardos, Blue Cross and Amnesty. As well as additional local charities, including: St. Elizabeth Hospice, East Anglian Children's Hospices, Somersham Ward, East Anglian Air Ambulance and Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
The shop is open Monday to Saturday from 10am-4pm (9:30am-5pm on Saturdays). Please do visit, you won't find a better selection!
For those who have never been, it's a golden opportunity to meet a wide range of local artists, crafters and makers, viewing their high quality products all under one roof.
Traditionally held on the first Sunday in December, it provides the perfect chance to purchase unique and locallymade Christmas gifts at very affordable prices. It's always amazing that there are so many
On display, you'll find practical items, decorative pieces and works of fine art. The wares coming from the makers' workshops and studios are likely to range from wood to ceramic, wax to silver, photography to paintings, and fabric to natural materials all reflecting their distinct personalities and passions. Giving this year's event even greater appeal will be the launch of renowned and wellrespected local author Reggie Oliver's new book 'This Haunted Heaven'.
Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group
All of the makers will be donating to Manette Baillie's charity fund, benefitting the Motor Neurone Disease Association, the East Anglian Air Ambulance and the Benhall & Sternfield Ex-Servicemen's Club. Manette recently completed a sky dive to celebrate her 102nd birthday!
Whether you're a regular visitor to this event, or coming for the first time, the Made in Benhall makers are looking forward to welcoming you on December 1st (10:30am-2:30pm) at Benhall Club, where you will also be able to purchase seasonal refreshments from the bar. Entry is free.
'The Trinity Pilots of Aldeburgh' an upcoming talk by Chris Broom
The fascinating story of a cadre of courageous mariners who provided merchant ships with safe passage from dangerous onshore waters to coastal and inland ports. The talk also touches upon the origins of pilotage, the history of the UK lighthouse authority, Trinity House, and offers a unique perspective on the town of Aldeburgh.
Chris is a graduate of the Institute of Heraldic &
Genealogical Studies who gained his Higher Certificate in 2016 and the Diploma in Genealogy the following year. He now runs a family history business specialising in East Anglian research and Heraldry. He's also Chairman of the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group! This hybrid talk takes place on Monday, November 18th at 2:30pm, in-person at the Fromus Centre, Street Farm Road, Saxmundham, IP17 1AL (behind the library), and on Zoom (for members only). In-person attendees can just turn up, no need to book, at £1 for members, £3 for visitors, including tea/ coffee/biscuits. Only members
can take part in our meetings on Zoom, but it only costs £8 for a year's membership. See: www.avsfhg.org.uk/membership Zoom talks are free for members.
Woodbridge 41 Club
Libby Purves.
Company present another of their much-loved festive comedy mysteries! 'Father Brown & The Curse of the Christmas Fairy' will be touring East Anglia from December 11th, through to January 19th, 2025.
The Suffolk village of Dangleford is hanging by a thread! As Christmas approaches, its veneer of civility is cracking, like last year's Yule Log.
A series of poison pen letters, signed 'The Christmas Fairy', threaten to expose corruption at the heart of village life. As the mulled wine simmers, old grudges reach boiling point. Even Father Brown's renowned frosted plums may fail to get the party going! He must use all his wits to stop the midwinter madness snowballing into a snowball of terror!
The show runs for two hours (including interval).
"Hilarious! A highly talented group of players who clearly enjoy what they do"
Common Ground Theatre Company have been touring the Eastern region for many years now with their unique brand of music theatre.
"One of the best things on the road in East Anglia right now, the ever-inventive Common Ground... Pathos, humanity and dry humour. A proper treat." -
Pat Whymark and Julian Harries (Directors) are the team behind many genre-spoof Christmas shows in the East of England, both for Common Ground (most recently, last year's Miss. Mimple Meets The Ice Wolf) and for Eastern Angles (including Dial M For Murgatroyd and The Mystery of St. Finnegan's Elbow). Tour Schedule: Tickets available by calling 07807 341364 or visiting: www.commongroundtc.co.uk (unless otherwise stated)
Harkstead Village Hall
December 11th at 7:30pm £13/£10 (U21s) Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge
December 13th & 14th at 4:30pm & 8pm £10-£16
Hadleigh Old School
December 17th at 7:30pm and 18th at 4pm & 7:30pm £10-£14
John Peel Centre, Stowmarket
December 19th at 7.30pm 20th at 4pm & 7:30pm 21st at 4pm & 7:30pm 22nd at 4pm
Tickets (£10-£15): 01449 774678 or www.johnpeelcentre.com
St. Mary's Hall, Walton, Felixstowe
December 27th at 7:30pm 28th & 29th at 4pm & 7:30pm £10-£14
Meet renowned print maker Angela Harding
New book launch at Riverside Cinema
This is your chance to meet the author, artist and print maker, Angela Harding on December 1st at 3pm at The Riverside Cinema in Woodbridge.
The work of Angela Harding is instantly recognisable and much loved. The intricate, stylised linocut designs of wildlife and landscapes were first popular through her greetings cards and magazine illustrations.
Then, she became known for her distinctive book covers. She created the iconic image for 'The Salt Path' by Raynor Winn and has recently worked with the poet laureate Simon Armitage for his book 'Blossomise' and Isabella Tree for the illustrated version of 'Wilding'. Increasingly, Angela's beautiful artwork has been used for other products too, such as calendars, jigsaws, notebooks, bags and homeware.
from her sketchbooks too.
Angela shares so much of her story and her work in this glorious new book, but she's also a warm, generous and hugely entertaining speaker so we're delighted that she's visiting us in Woodbridge to tell us more. And it's a special place for her, too.
Aldeburgh Jubilee Hall
January 1st & 2nd 4pm & 7:30pm Tickets: 01728 454022, aldeburghjubileehall.co.uk or in person at Aldeburgh Jubilee Hall on Tuesdays/ Thursdays from 10am-12pm
Laxfield Village Hall January 3rd at 7:30pm £13/£10 (U21s)
Great Hockham Village Hall
January 4th at 7:30pm
Tickets (£10-£14): 01953 498447 or boxoffice@greathockham.org
Headgate Theatre, Colchester
January 6th at 7:45pm 7th & 8th at 4pm & 7:45pm
Tickets (£10-£15): 01206 366000 or www.headgatetheatre.co.uk
Diss Corn Hall
January 9th at 4pm & 7:30pm
Tickets (£10-£16): 01379 652241 or www.thecornhall.co.uk
Gallery Studio Theatre, St. George's St. Ipswich January 10th-18th at 7:30pm Tickets (£10-£16): 03336 663366 or www.gallerystudiotheatre.co.uk
Zinc Arts, Chipping Ongar
January 19th at 5pm £18. Hosted by Ongar & KHV Rotary Club, in aid of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.
This autumn, Angela has released a new book telling us about this current stage in her life; her exploits watching birds and whales during a residency in Shetland, her time at the Knepp Estate compiling images for the 'Wilding' book, her return to watercolour painting, time on the wooden sailing boat with her husband, and travelling the countryside on her Brompton bike, but above all her love of being by the water.
The book is called 'Still Waters and Wild Waves' and features over 50 original illustrations of dramatic seascapes and reflective rivers in both her stunning linoprint but also some striking watercolour images. There's also beautiful photography of Angela at work and viewing the scenery which inspires her, and images
Angela and Mark moor their boat near Woodbridge and, each summer, sail the rivers and coastline of East Anglia. Scenes of Suffolk regularly feature in Angela's work. This is sure to be a tremendously uplifting and inspiring event, to cheer us as we anticipate the approach of winter and mark the first day of advent! There will be the opportunity to buy Christmas gifts as well as getting your copy of 'Still Waters and Wild Waves' personally signed. Tickets are £25 including a signed copy of 'Still Water and Wild Waves' (RRP £25) presented at the event. One additional ticket may be purchased for £12 without the book. Available from The Riverside Box Office by calling 01394 382174or visiting: www.theriverside.co.uk
Leiston RBL Band raises over £1,100 this summer
The Band of the Royal British Legion (RBL), 17 Victory Road, Leiston, IP16 4DQ is licensed under the banner of the RBL, it is however reliant financially through fundraising and feepaying engagements.
We're pleased to share the details of the street collections we have made this summer:
• Aldeburgh Promenade, Sunday May 19th: £268.23
• Southwold Promenade, Sundays June 23rd: £167.70 and September 15th: £672.97.
Total raised: £1,108.90.
our band room, the upkeep of instruments, purchasing new music and updating uniform items. Our main band practices are held on Mondays and Thursdays from 8pm-9:30pm. We currently have our training band practice on Thursday evenings from 7pm7:45pm.
On October 5th, over 100 people from as far afield as Beccles, Ipswich, Bishops Stortford and even Portsmouth attended the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group's Annual Open Day at the Fromus Centre in Saxmundham.
Following last year's success, eight organisations who had displays at last year's event came back for more this year and were joined by groups from Friston, Knodishall, Worlingworth, Felixstowe, the Long Shop Museum in Leiston, and Suffolk Family History Society.
Angela Skelcher presented her research into the life stories of ex-pupils of Leiston Grammar School who fell in the world wars, and visitors could consult a representative sample of the many resources kept at the Family History Archive in Leiston, see a
list of what we have here: www.avsfhg.org.uk/idx
Experienced family historians were on hand to give free help and advice to members of the public who wished to research their ancestors.
Although entry was free, visitors kindly gave donations
that covered the cost of putting on this event: A day of great interest and satisfaction for visitors and exhibitors alike, and we are grateful to our members and exhibitors for all their contributions and hard work that made the day such a great success, thank you all!
The band would again like to thank those who kindly donated.
10% of these collections will be donated to the RBL Poppy Appeal 2024: £110.89.
The remainder of these collections will be used by the band to train and support new/ existing players and be able to provide them with suitable instruments, music and uniforms.
We also fund the rental fee of
Whether you're a brass player or a drummer looking for a band, an ex-player looking to rekindle your hobby or even if you've never played before, but you're interested in learning, please contact me or visit our website for more information.
Nikki Glennon-Bird Band Secretary secretary@leistonband.org www.leistonband.co.uk
Woodbridge Tide Mill awarded Gold Level Suffolk Carbon Charter for third time
The Suffolk Carbon Charter panel has awarded Woodbridge Tide Mill a Gold Level Award of the Suffolk Carbon Charter. The Tide Mill previously received the award in 2020 and 2022.
The Carbon Charter is awarded to companies that monitor and reduce their carbon emissions; it provides public recognition of those involved in making Suffolk the greenest county. To achieve the Gold Charter, the Mill demonstrated that it had a working energy/carbon reduction policy with clear reduction targets and planned actions in place to measure and monitor progress.
It showed that it's making significant and measurable progress on carbon reduction and demonstrated a clear and credible plan for achieving net zero.
John Carrington (Chair of the Woodbridge Tide Mill
Charitable Trust) said: "The Mill has been a low energy, low mileage, local food producer for over 850 years, well before climate change became an issue. Now that carbon reduction is a world target, the Mill trustees are immensely grateful for the work our team has done to use the Mill to demonstrate energy efficiency and justify this Gold Charter Mark."
He went on to thank the East of England Coop, one of only two Pathfinder Partners of Suffolk Carbon Charter, who sponsored the Tide Mill for the award, some of whose local stores stock Tide Mill flour.
Friston History Group at our Open Day
Knodishall Local History Group at our Open Day
Worlingworth Local History Group Help with family tree research
Image credit: Simon Ballard
NICK THE PLUMBER
Illuminated Garden Trail lights up Helmingham Hall Gardens
The spectacular Grade I listed gardens at Helmingham Hall, Suffolk, will be on show in a whole new light from November 15th, through to December 18th, when the annual Illuminated Garden Trail opens for 2024. Featuring innovative lighting and sound, entirely devised and created by the in-house team, the trail covers around one mile of pathways in and around the gardens. In keeping with the estate's sustainable approach to horticulture, new elements include creative uses for fallen trees from elsewhere in the park, as well as illumination of key areas like the moat, the Coach House garden and the walled garden.
Younger guests will love a Rio-themed carnival walkthrough and unlike many other light trails, dogs on leads are more than welcome to join in for festive
walkies along the Illuminated Light Trail. Gates open at 4:30pm, with timed sessions every 15 minutes. All tickets must be booked online in advance.
Additional fun for families includes a vintage 1920s galloper carousel and toasting s'mores around the firepit. Suffolk Wildflower Pizza will be on hand for hot food along with Wright's Café and the Stable Shops will also be open for festive treats and gifts.
The trail is open every evening through to December 18th, with tickets split into peak and offpeak pricing to make the event affordable to all. Tickets are available now from: www.helmingham.com priced at £20/£24 for adults, £10/£12 for children aged 3-15 years or £50/£60 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). Under 3s go free but must still have a ticket. www.helmingham.com
Update from Leiston Good Neighbour Scheme
How quickly this year is racing by! Halloween and fireworks already, and dark nights. Still, beautiful autumn colours and smells.
The allotment project is going well and we've had a successful year, with the group meeting weekly and people going up at other times to tend to their plots.
The group are currently putting the allotment to bed for the winter, but will continue to meet weekly through the winter.
We took several people to the Garden Party at The Red House in Aldeburgh in the summer, and they all enjoyed afternoon tea and music.
Just to remind you all that the Leiston Good Neighbour Scheme covers 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
• Helping people who are temporarily having difficulties getting out. For example, collecting a prescription, or a small amount of emergency shopping.
Our hours are Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. We don't cover weekends, although we do have an answerphone, so you can ring out of hours and we'll get back to you on the next working day.
If you'd like any help, or you know someone who might benefit, please call: 07724 777465
Very impressive artichokes grown this year!
or email: leistongoodneighbour@ gmail.com. We're always looking for volunteers, so if you'd like more information on how you could help, again, please contact us.
suggests that given the choice, birds prefer to nest in native shrubs rather than non-native.
The top five native shrubs for wildlife are: hawthorn, holly, pussy willow, dogwood and dog rose.
them a light prune now to stop wind rock over winter.
Additional top jobs for gardeners this month include:
scarce - so make sure that they have plenty of food and water. By feeding a variety of seeds/fruits, you can cater for many different species. Finches, house sparrows, blue tits, great tits and coal tits like a mix of seeds including sunflower hearts. Goldfinches are particularly fond of nyjer seeds, woodpeckers love peanuts and thrushes and blackbirds will take raisins and other fruit like windfall apples. It's also a great time to plant bare-rooted trees and shrubs, which are dormant when planted but then have the full season to grow as soon as temperatures increase in spring. If you want to attract birds to nest in your garden, then think about planting a native shrub. Research by the British Trust for Ornithology
Dog Rose Rosa canina is a vigorous, fast growing shrub that's often grown as a hedge, with pretty pink flowers in summer.
Although it tends to reach around a height of two metres as a hedge, if given enough support, it will climb up other shrubs or trees. Wild roses flower just once, rather than repeat flowering throughout summer and into autumn. Their summer flowers are followed by a prolific display of vibrant rose hips, which are eaten by birds such as blackbirds and redwings as well as small mammals like squirrels. Dog Roses thrive in full sun, and well drained soils. They also flower on the previous year's stems, so don't prune too heavily or you won't have many flowers in the summer.
If you have other roses in the garden then don't forget to give
• Clear fallen leaves, especially from lawns, ponds and beds. You can leave some amongst your shrubs and herbaceous plants to break down and enrich the soil. This will ensure earthworms and other soil organisms have plenty of food. Cleared leaves can be composted or made into leaf mould.
• Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent them from waterlogging and keep the bottom of the pot out of water. This will also stop the compost from freezing. For added protection against frost, wrap pots in biodegradable fleece or put them under temporary cover. • Perfect time for planting new fruit trees and bushes, but only if the ground is not frosted or too wet. You can also dig over and weed vacant areas of the vegetable plot or garden incorporating well-rotted organic matter.
The summer flowers of the Dog Rose shrub are followed by a prolific display of vibrant rose hips, which are eaten by birds as well as small mammals
Image credit: Beckie Egan Photography
Festive Dining
News from Framlingham Fellowship
For our August meeting, we welcomed Will from Majestic Hare who was able to tell us a little about our items we'd brought along. Will was able to let us know how much they may be worth if we decided to sell them. A very informative afternoon our thanks to Will and we will be popping into his shop at Bridge House, Bridge Street, Framlingham.
Our September meeting included Jemma Wood (Head of Volunteering & Ambassador at St. Elizabeth Hospice), talking about St. Elizabeth Hospice, its services both in the community
and within the Ipswich and Great Yarmouth and Waveney sites. We were amazed at the services they provide in the community and at the hospice. The coffee shops are certainly proving popular, fundraising plays a very important part in the running of these hospices. Our thanks to Jemma and hope all the fundraising events planned are very successful.
The November meeting on November 21st will include a demonstration from Sheila at Callender's Florist and on our January 16th, 2025 meeting, we welcome Imogen Hayward and Chair Yoga. Our meetings are
open to all, include refreshments and we look forward to seeing new faces in 2024/2025. Meetings are on a Thursday and start at 2:30pm at The Crown Hotel. For further information, please email: framlingham-suffolk@sja.org.uk
Our very grateful thanks to Gabriela at The Crown Hotel for providing us with such a lovely venue for 2024 and 2025 for our monthly meetings.
Framlingham Fellowship would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support over the last year and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
N O - B A K E R E I N D E E R
N O - B A K E R E I N D E E R
C H R I S TM A S C H E E S EC A K E
C H R I S TM A S C H E E S EC A K E
Recipe by Amy Treasure
www.amytreasure.com
Looking for a simple alternative to the traditional Christmas Pudding for dessert this Christmas?
Here's a beautiful no-bake vanilla cheesecake with festive reindeer decoration that will bring Christmas cheer to all! Seriously cute and so quick and easy to make. I kept the recipe for the base and filling very simple because who doesn't love a perfectly smooth vanilla cheesecake with a buttery biscuit base? You can absolutely jazz this cheesecake up and turn it into any flavour you fancy.
Ingredients:
Method:
- Blitz the biscuits into crumbs in a food processor, then add the melted butter and mix well.
- Tip the mixture into a 23cm (8") springform tin and press down until smooth and level. Put in the fridge to chill while you make the filling.
- Add the cream cheese to a large mixing bowl and beat until smooth. Add the icing sugar, vanilla extract and lemon juice and beat until completely smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the double cream until it reaches stiff peaks. Gently fold the double cream into the cream
cheese mixture until fully combined.
- Transfer the cheesecake filling on top of the biscuit base and use a spatula to smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight.
- When the cheesecake has set, remove it from the tin and slice it into 8 equal slices. Use 2 chocolate pretzels for ears, add two edible eyes and a Smartie for a nose.
- Enjoy!
Storage: Leftovers in the fridge will keep for 3-4 days. Vanilla Cheesecake freezes well (without decoration) for up to 3 months.
Open Days
Alternatively, contact us to arrange a visit to our school for in-year admissions 01728 648251
Follow us on socials to keep up-to-date with everything we do as well as local news and events: /yourcommunitynews @yourcommunitynews_
Beccles Choral Society
The Beccles Choral Society choir has been singing in Beccles since at least 1851, and meets on Tuesday evenings (during term time) in Hungate Church Hall. We would be delighted to hear from anyone who wishes to join. There are no auditions, and you can come along for a taster session or two before you join. Further details can be obtained from the secretary by emailing: beccleschoralsecretary@gmail. com or calling: 01502 464475 or 07851 019952.
Some new and returning members have joined us at rehearsals for our next concerts
which are Rossini's Petite Messe Solennelle on November 23rd (7pm) and not long after that, our famous Christmas Cracker with the Waveney Concert Band on December 15th (4:30pm). Looking further ahead, we'll be singing Mozart's Requiem in May 2005, Brahm's Requiem and Christmas Cracker in December 2005, Elgar's Dream of Gerontius at Snape Maltings in May 2006 and Haydn's Creation in November 2026. Look out in Beccles for our bookmarks with our forthcoming concert dates or visit: www.beccleschoralsociety.co.uk
ABC Radio wants to hear your voice!
A local lockdown project community radio station plans to extend its broadcasting hours in 2025.
Alde and Blyth Community (ABC) Radio launched in April 2021, initially as a weekend service, but is gradually extending into weekday evenings and is looking to recruit new members to help drive the station forward next year. Based in Saxmundham and staffed entirely by enthusiastic volunteers, the station provides a varied mix of programmes and the response from their growing listening audience has been extremely positive.
Throughout 2023, the ABC Radio team undertook a task to refurbish part of a neglected building into their new home, which included the introduction of a second studio and this summer, the station presented its first live outside broadcast from Aldeburgh Carnival and plan to cover more local events throughout 2025.
The station is funded by their own fundraising events, affordable on-air advertising for local businesses and from occasional and greatly appreciated grant funding.
Wayne Burns (ABC Radio
East Suffolk Gov.
"I made a claim for Pension Credit and got money off my new glasses"
You might be eligible for Pension Credit if you've reached State Pension age. Pension Credit doesn't just top up your income, it comes with extra advantages:
• Free NHS dental treatment
• Help towards the cost of glasses
• Transport to hospital
• Help with housing costs (rent or mortgage interest)
• Free TV licence if you're 75 or over
• Winter Fuel Payment of up to £300
• Warm Home Discount of £150
• A Cold Weather Payment of £25 per day in periods of very cold weather
• Extra money if you care for someone (up to £45.60 per week), or if you have a disability (up to £81.50 per week) You can apply if you own your own home and may be eligible even if you have some savings. You have nothing to lose by applying. If you've previously been turned down, you can still make a new claim each year. For more information, or to apply, call 0800 99 1234 or visit: www.gov. uk/pension-credit For more
10am-2pm), visit www.caes. org.uk or visit your local office or outreach venue.
East Suffolk Council's Community Help Hub offers help with money, including Pension Credit and other benefits. We can do telephone or face-to-face appointments, including home visits. Call 0333 016 2000 and ask for 'help with money' or fill in our referral form: www.eastsuffolk. gov.uk/cost-of-living
The Birbeck Singers to perform with local orchestra
The Community Light Orchestra is pleased to welcome the Birbeck Singers to its next concert at Woodridge Community Centre on November 23rd.
The group sing for fun and enjoy learning together, offering programmes of songs from a wide variety of styles and genres. They are directed by Lindsay Gowers (soprano) and accompanied by Sabine Sutton (pianist).
Formed in January 2011 following study classes at the Ipswich Institute, the Birbeck
Leiston Film Theatre
Presenter & Programming Officer) is very excited about the station's future. "From a passing comment that our coastal communities deserve their own radio station, to what we've achieved over the past three years, the station is definitely heading in the right direction. When creating the station, the greatest piece of advice we received was to start small, establish and grow gradually and that's exactly what we're doing" he said.
If you'd like to get involved in something new, that's exciting and rewarding, ABC Radio would be pleased to hear from you. Perhaps you'd like to be considered as a potential presenter, or part of their studio support? Whether you have experience, or simply wish to learn something new, please contact the station by emailing: aldeandblythcommunity radio.co.uk
You can find ABC Radio on Facebook and listen via the internet, by using the free ABC Radio app (available to download from your app store) and on Alexa and smart speakers. For their current programme schedule, to listen to previous programmes and for full details, please visit the station's website at: www.abcradio.co.uk
Singers grew from an initial group of 15 people. Numbers increased, a Musical Director was appointed and the group started to undertake public performances for small audiences. Their name originates from the name of their regular place of practice at the Institute, 'the Birkbeck Room'.
The concert programme includes light classical music and songs from films and the shows and will commence at 7:30pm on Saturday, November 23rd.
Admission is free with a retiring collection in aid of St. Elizabeth Hospice.
St. Elizabeth Hospice is an independent charity and hospice, which improves life for people in the East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney areas living with a progressive or life-limiting illness. Established in 1989, the hospice has built a reputation for delivering high-level care to patients and the community it serves. Through medicine and therapy, they ease pain; give life purpose and make life liveable. Last year the charity supported over 4,000 patients and their families.
Cecilia Metherell
Your carriage awaits!
Join the panto fun this January
Team B Productions invites you to have a ball at the Fairy Godmother of all Pantomimes, Cinderella, appearing LIVE at the splendid Leiston Film Theatre between 17th-19th
January 2025.
With one less performance this year, tickets are already in big demand, with seats for some performances already limited.
Join Cinderella on her quest to win the heart of the dashing Prince Charming, with a little help from her best friend, Buttons, and the enchanting Fairy Godmother. But with her wicked stepmother and evil ugly sisters determined to ruin her chances, and with the clock about to strike midnight, will Cinderella manage to win the Prince's love, before the spell is broken?
The pantomime has been written by Wayne Burns and is being brought to the stage under his 'Team B Productions' title, a group of experienced am-dram performers, whose previous sell-out successes have included shows at Leiston Film Theatre and at the Spa Pavilion Theatre in Felixstowe.
Cinderella promises another
fabulous family pantomime, packed to the panto brim with family fun, sing-along songs and enormous effects, plus a huge helping of audience participation, and plenty of laugh-out-loud slapstick nonsense.
Work is also underway on a brand-new comedy-drama, to be staged at Leiston Film Theatre in September 2025. Inspired by the iconic sit-com, Hi-de-Hi and set in a Suffolk holiday camp in the 1980s, 'Mourning Campers' follows the drama on stage and behind the scenes at Archer's Holiday Camp. Tickets are scheduled to be available from January 20th.
Wayne Burns (Film Theatre Manager and Pantomime Director) is looking forward to bringing Cinderella to the stage. "Cinders is probably the most beloved rags-to-riches Pantomimes of all time but is also a logistical nightmare to stage!
The entire cast and crew work as a team and everyone cannot wait to bring our brilliant script to life on stage and perform for such appreciative crowds. Our audiences will have a ball" he said.
Staff entertaining and incentives: Avoiding the hidden tax traps
Retaining good staff is a vital element in the success of many businesses, and ensuring they feel rewarded and appreciated will be part of ensuring this.
At this time of year, often plans for a Christmas party or other end-of-year celebrations are well under way. Its key Employers understand the tax implications of such events, both to avoid any unexpected costs and to make good use of the available exemptions. The first important exemption covers annual staff events where the cost per head is under £150. The event must be open to all employees. The £150 threshold is an annual one so this could incorporate, say a Christmas meal and a summer barbecue. It's important to remember that it's a threshold not an allowance, so inadvertently spend £155 per head on an event, and the whole amount becomes taxable.
Trivial Benefits is the next useful exemption and is designed to cover small perks provided to employees, typically things like flowers, a bottle of wine, or a team lunch. There are some conditions to be aware of, to be covered the cost must be below £50 per employee, it cannot be cash or a cash voucher, cannot be specific recognition for services under an employment contract, and must not be a contractual entitlement.
The Pantomime sees renowned Suffolk musician Tom Horton returning as the Musical Director and the energetic students from the Chloe Kinrade School of Dance will be making a welcome return to the stage, as part of the Pantomime extravaganza. So, grab your silver slippers and make sure you book early to avoid missing the ball!
Cinderella will be appearing live at the Leiston Film Theatre on Friday 17th (7:30pm), Saturday 18th (3pm and 7:30pm) and Sunday 19th (3pm) January.
Limited tickets are now available, priced £18.95, £17.95 and £15.95.
Book your seats today on 01728 830549 or online at: www.leistonfilmtheatre.co.uk
For any staff entertaining or incentives outside of these exemptions, the default position is that the costs become taxable benefits for the employees,
reportable on forms P11D each year. The employee will be charged to income tax on the values as well, and in some cases both employee and employer could have National Insurance liabilities. This is something most employers wish to avoid, and so the alternative is a PAYE Settlement Agreement; the employer makes an agreement with HMRC to settle the tax and national insurance costs on behalf of their employees. Another tax to come into play is VAT, the good news is that an input VAT incurred in the provision of staff entertaining is generally recoverable. A common pitfall here is the distinction between staff, and other contractors or suppliers who may be included in company events. Its important to recognise these are not employees, and the element of VAT relating to their attendance is not recoverable. Underpinning all of this, keeping records of exactly who attended what events in the year, and for whom any minor gifts are purchased is crucial, to support the tax treatment should HMRC make any enquiries.
This information is given by way of general guidance only, and no action should be taken based solely on the information contained herein. No liability is accepted by the firm for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.
Castleton Brass Band hits high note with upcoming Christmas Concert series
Castleton Brass Band is thrilled to announce its upcoming Christmas Concert series, set to captivate audiences with a diverse repertoire of Christmas hits. Kicking off on November 17th at Sandringham Estate Christmas Fair, this series promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages. 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. Also, join us as we spread festive cheer with traditional carols and beloved seasonal favourites in Morrisons, Diss on December 19th: 6pm-8pm and December 24th: 8am-12pm. Our upcoming Christmas concerts:
Liz Lockwood, Director, Ensors Accountants LLP
J C WOODPRODUCTS
Painters and Decorators
BAKEWEtarts
As featured in Places & Faces Magazine. To subscribe to Places&Faces (THE luxury lifestyle magazine for Norfolk & Suffolk) delivered straight to your door, visit their website: www.placesandfaces.co.uk
Recipe by Alice Talbot, Owner of ART's - Craft Kitchen.
www.artscraftkitchen.co.uk
Lunch boxes can be lifted to a whole new level of awesome with a little bit of home baking. Try these delicious treats and get the bambinos involved in the mixing, making and baking for a sweet treat on the go.
Ingredients: Makes 12
For the pastry
• 175g plain flour
• 75g butter
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water
The sponge
• 100g softened butter
• 100g caster sugar
• 175g self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon almond extract For the filling and icing
• 4 tablespoons of ART's Jolly Jam
• 150-200g icing sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons water
• Fresh or glacé cherries
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/ Gas mark 4.
- To make the pastry, measure the flour into a bowl and rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add the water gradually, mixing to form a soft dough.
- Roll out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Cut 12 circles from your pastry and then gently fit into a greased 12 hole bun-tin.
- Measure all the sponge ingredients into a bowl and beat until well combined.
- Add a little jam to each of the 12 tarts and then top with the sponge mixture.
- Bake the tarts in a pre-heated oven for about 25 minutes or until the pastry has shrunk from the sides of the tin and the sponge springs back when pressed in centre with your fingertips.
- Leave to cool in the tin.
- When the tarts have cooled, make the icing by gradually combining the water with icing sugar until it comes together to make a smooth pouring consistency that you can gently drizzle over the top of the tarts.
- Place your cherries, fresh or glacé, on the top of each tart to finish.
- Serve the tart as a scrumptious treat for the whole family or add to a packup for a homemade sweet treat.
New Thomas Churchyard Exhibition
Suffolk's impressionist painter
A special exhibition of paintings by Thomas Churchyard will be held at The East Anglian Traditional Art Centre in Wickham Market, near Woodbridge during November.
Thomas trained as a lawyer, but the artist spent much of his time painting in Woodbridge and recording his trademark small views in Suffolk until his death in 1865. His best works in oil are inspired mini masterpieces and he is mentioned in the same breath as John Constable and John Crome.
The exhibition will have a range of framed oil and watercolours for sale, predominately by Thomas Churchyard plus other works from his contemporaries, including John Moore and the Smythe brothers, who worked in Ipswich. The pictures, priced from under £100 to several thousand pounds will be on show from November 16th-30th.
The East Anglian Traditional Art Centre at 48 High Street, Wickham Market, IP13 0QS will be open from Tuesday through to Saturday, 11am4pm; pay and display parking is available next door. For further information visit www.eatac.co.uk or email John Day at john@eatac.co.uk or call 01728 747050.
Leiston Town Bowls Club AGM
20 old and new members attended the Leiston Town Bowls Club Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 9th.
The meeting was opened by Brian Short (Chairman) who congratulated the club on a successful season.
Following his report, the Secretary and Treasurer followed; The secretary echoing the Chairman's opening comments about the improved status of the club, winning by a margin the second division of Saxmundham and promotion back to Division One.
In the Woodbridge and Fynn leagues, midtable honourable finishes, in Bob Wright results didn't match the their true position, better luck next year.
The treasurer stated whilst finances were satisfactory, the need to fundraise is still needed to ensure cover for emergency repairs etc. The need to increase subscriptions next year reflects this, having said that, this is the first increase for over 10 years.
Other fundraising, match fees of £2 home and away was being introduced, he stressed the need for PUB cards to be used every home game.
We have ended our turn of hosting the Suffolk County games. These have been a good source of income in the last three years. To counter this, we will be
bringing back our popular Open Triples Tournament, but please note that next year, it will be on a Sunday and not Saturday, so as not to clash with other clubs tournaments or county games.
Note the date of Sunday, June 29th.
The Secretary proposed entering the same leagues again for 2025, notably Saxmundham One, Woodbridge, Fynn and the Bob Wright Leagues, this was agreed by the floor. He also proposed that the club return to competing in the Suffolk Senior Cup, as he felt this was more attuned to the level of the Leiston Town Club than the junior cup, the membership accepted this with a show of hands.
The Green Keeper was thanked for his hard work throughout the season, as was the hospitality team who have helped create a reputation widely commented on
by all who visit our club.
The 2025 season will see Leiston Town Bowls Club host the county under 25s matches, thus keeping our county relationship.
The Treasurer announced the need to increase subscriptions, proposing, £40 full membership and £30 concessions (still lower than many other clubs), with a positive show of hands, the membership agreed.
The committee elections were then taken; Chairman Brian Short, Secretary Richard Battle, Treasurer Bing Boast and Lee Newson was a welcome "youngster" to be voted on to the committee.
The Chairman closed the meeting saying he was looking forward to 2025 with fresh enthusiasm because of the way the club is growing.
Ditcher
'Hasketon Lane' by Thomas Churchyard. Oil on panel 8"x7". Inscribed with artist's daughter's name Emma
NOVEMBER 1ST
Halloween Party
Leiston Town Athletic Association, Victory Rd
7:30pm-midnight. 80s, 90s & 00s fancy dress.
Tickets £5pp, on sale now from Molly's Trading Post Leiston, Victory Car Sales Leiston, The Bearded Stag Saxmundham or DM Roan direct. Get ready to get dressed up & join us as Roland Promotions & Cosmix events join forces once again!
NOVEMBER 2ND, 9TH, 16TH, 23RD & 30TH
Saturday Market
Market Hill, Framlingham
Probably the best little market in Suffolk! A warm welcome awaits. A good selection of local & home produced goods whenever possible.
NOVEMBER 2ND
Craft Fair
St. Margaret's Church, Leiston
10am-2pm. Make a start on your Christmas shopping! Church will be filled with stalls selling a wide variety of handmade goods & unique gifts. There'll be a raffle for church funds & delicious homemade refreshments. Free admission, plenty of parking. We look forward to seeing you there!
NOVEMBER 2ND
Coffee Morning
The Church, Aldringham, IP16 4QT
10am-12pm. Stalls will include books, hats, cakes, bric-a-brac, jewellery, tombola, new/nearly new rail & refreshments. In aid of the Church Fabric Fund All welcome.
NOVEMBER 5TH
Confessions of a Serial Litter Picker
Woodbridge Quay Church
7pm-9:30pm. Find out from master litter picker Jason Alexander about how litter & plastic impacts our environment. The River Deben Association is really pleased to have Jason come to talk about his vision & achievements. Free for RDA members (only £6pp/yr individual, £10 couple) or £5pp for guests. "Don't worry about how other people make the world worse... Just worry about how YOU can make it better."
NOVEMBER 5TH, 12ND, 19TH & 26TH
Tuesday Market
Market Hill, Framlingham
Probably the best little market in Suffolk! A warm welcome awaits. A good selection of local & home produced goods whenever possible.
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NOVEMBER 8TH
Big Prize Bingo!
Sizewell Sports & Social Club
Doors open 7pm, eyes down 7:30pm. Terrific prizes up for grabs! Tickets: £3.50pp in adv. & £4.50pp, available from Leiston Film Theatre Box Office & Sizewell Sports & Social Club. Game sheets available on the evening & are subject to an additional charge. Early booking advised, seats are limited! In aid of Friends of Leiston Film Theatre.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Saxmundham Market
Fromus Square & Market Hall
9am-3pm. Saxmundham's bustling monthly artisan market welcomes a wide range of traders, crafters & foodie stalls.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Greener Fram Meeting - Fram Visioning Unitarian Meeting House, Framlingham
9:30am-11:30am. Imagining what 2054 may be like together. Then working backwards to the present. Working out what needs to be in place to make it happen.
7pm-11pm. Charity disco in aid of Break. Admission is £4 for club members or £5 for non-members.
NOVEMBER 13TH
Vindication Swim, 2024 (PG)
Castle Community Rooms, Framlingham
7:30pm. Film@Fram. Runtime 98mins. The inspirational story of Mercedes Gleitze, the first British woman to swim the English Channel & her battle against both the cold Channel waters & the oppressive society of 1920s England. Tickets: £4 (members), £6 (non-members).
NOVEMBER 14TH
The Funky Easel Sip & Paint Party
Honey + Harvey, 56 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge
7pm-9pm. Join a fun night of painting & sipping!
Led by a professional artist, leading you step-bystep, unleash your creativity & enjoy a relaxing evening with friends. Create a masterpiece together while enjoying drinks & good company. No painting experience needed. All artistic abilities welcome. All materials provided. Food & drinks to be purchased separately, ticket price does not include food/drink. Tickets: £30pp. 07868 899676.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Christmas Market
High Lodge Leisure, Saxmundham
10am-3pm. Unique & handmade gifts. Free entry.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Friday Street Farm Food & Drink Tasting Event
Friday Street Farm Shop & Kitchen, Farnham
10am-4pm. Lots of our fantastic suppliers will be in store, sampling their products, Big Green Egg BBQ cooking with locally-sourced meat from our butcher counter & samples from our deli, cheese room & kitchen restaurant. Free to attend. Farm Shop & Restaurant open as usual all day.
NOVEMBER 18TH
'The Trinity Pilots of Aldeburgh' talk by Chris Broom Fromus Centre, Saxmundham
2:30pm. The fascinating story of courageous mariners who provided merchant ships with safe passage from dangerous onshore waters to coastal & inland ports. The talk also touches on the origins of pilotage, history of the UK Lighthouse Authority, Trinity House & offers a unique perspective on the town of Aldeburgh. In-person at the Fromus Centre & (for members only) on Zoom. In-person attendees, just turn up, no need to book, £1 for members, £3 for visitors, incl. tea/coffee/biscuits. Zoom is free & is for members only, but it's only £8 for a year's membership. www.avsfhg.org.uk/membership
NOVEMBER 20TH
'Birds for Beginners' Guided Walk
RSPB Minsmere
10am-12:30pm. New to birdwatching? Minsmere is the perfect place to discover the wonder of birds. For more info, visit: tinyurl.com/BirdForBeginners2024
NOVEMBER 21ST
Callendar's Florist Demonstration
The Crown Hotel
2:30pm. Framlingham Fellowship meeting. Demonstration by Sheila from Callendar's Florist. Refreshments. For more info, email: framlingham-suffolk@sja.org.uk
NOVEMBER 23RD
Sutton Christmas Market
Memorial Hall, Sutton, IP12 3JQ 10am-12:30pm. The hall will be packed with Christmas goodies. Local crafts people will be selling their homemade crafts incl. cards, jewellery, fudge, toys, jams/pickles, succulents, knitted hats/ gloves & more! Cake & bake stall, tombola, refreshments & hamper raffle. A great opportunity to do some Christmas shopping. In aid of Memorial Hall funds.
NOVEMBER 23RD
Christmas Fair & Social Event
Saxmundham Market Hall 10am-12pm. Framlingham & Saxmundham Cats Protection Christmas Fair & Social Event.
NOVEMBER 23RD
Birbeck Singers & Community Light Orchestra Concert
Woodbridge Community Centre
7:30pm. The concert programme includes light classical music & songs from films & shows. Admission is free with a retiring collection in aid of St. Elizabeth Hospice.
NOVEMBER 23RD & 24TH
Christmas Fair
Houghgate House Care Home, Woodbridge 10am-5pm. Small businesses selling food, crafts, art, gifts & more. Fun for the whole family! Music performances, dance group, choir, Santa visits, facepainting, miniature trains
NOVEMBER 26TH
The Funky Easel Sip & Paint Party
The Alex Café Bar & Brasserie, 123 Undercliff Road West, Felixstowe 7pm-9pm. A fun & creative evening of painting. Let your inner artist shine as you sip on your favourite drink & create your very own masterpiece inspired by the majestic blue whale. Grab your friends & reserve your spot now for a night of painting, sipping, & good vibes! No experience necessary. All artistic abilities welcome. All materials are also provided. £30pp. 07868 899676. Food & drinks are to be purchased separately, ticket price does not include this.
NOVEMBER 29TH
Christmas Party
Sizewell Sports & Social Club
7pm. Are you planning a Christmas work party with your colleagues/friends? Book with S.A.F.E Charity & have an amazing night. 2 course meal: £40pp or 3 course meal: £45pp. Disco too! Please email: safecharity24@gmail.com to book your table. Don't delay, places are limited.
DECEMBER 1ST
Made in Benhall Makers Market Benhall Club
10:30am-2:30pm. Are you looking for a unique & locally-made Christmas gift? If so, come along to Made in Benhall to meet a wide range of local artists, crafters & makers. There's always a hugely diverse range of high quality products on sale at very affordable prices. Entry is free.
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 & passion for brass band music.
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: £4 (members), £6 (non-members).
DECEMBER 20TH
'Birds for Beginners' Guided Walk RSPB Minsmere 10am-12:30pm. New to birdwatching? Minsmere is the perfect place to discover the wonder of birds. For more info, visit: tinyurl.com/BirdForBeginners2024
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.
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News from Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection
events
that we face
we
See all events on: www.cats. org.uk/framandsax#events-all
• November 9th: Fram & Sax Cats
Protection Christmas Fair, Reydon Village Hall, 10am-2pm
the generosity of our supporters to help keep the branch functioning. We look forward to meeting supporters, old and new, at our forthcoming special Christmas fundraising events in Reydon and Saxmundham (see details below). The Saxmundham event will be a chance to meet our volunteers. If you have adopted cats from the branch, are a member or would just like to say hello and find out what we do, we hope to see you there. Dates for your diary
• November 23rd: Fram Sax Cats
Protection Christmas Fair & Social Event, Saxmundham Market Hall, 10am-12pm Cats looking for a home 'The Sweet Treats' (pictured above): Oreo, Cookie, Choco and their sisters Jaffa and Florentine are a family of adorable kittens who are now needing homes. They're cheeky, playful and very sweet-natured and are looking for their new start in life in loving homes where they can grow and enjoy life. Please see more about them on our website. Visit: 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.
