Woodbridge Community News - April 2023

Darren J Guest

D.C. Patrick

D.C. Patrick NEWSAGENTS

Patrick

D.C. Patrick

4 Market Hill, Framlingham Has taken over Grange News

D.C. Patrick NEWSAGENTS

Specialists in home delivery for all your newspapers in Woodbridge and surrounding villages

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

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

Paper boys & girls

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

4 Market Hill, Framlingham Has taken over Grange News

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

01986 874 305 | 07907 223 715

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tel: 01986 874 305 & 07907 223 715

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

149484

Tel: 01986 874 305 & 07907 223 715

149484

23rd annual Mind Body Spirit Festival

Join

We're celebrating our 25th year at Life Arts and we invite you to join us to find out why we have the best attended Mind Body Spirit Festivals in East Anglia!

include:

• Special fast-track entry pass.

Avoid ticket queues!

• Get in early from 9:50am

• FREE talks, workshops and

demonstrations (excludes only the mediumship demo)

• FREE live music

• FREE healthy lifestyle advice

• FREE meditation

Find our more and book your tickets in advance at: www.lifearts.co.uk.

Tickets also available on the door. Making time to relax and unwind

When we make time to relax and to unwind, we begin to look and feel different. We become more accepting of ourselves and start to see solutions and new ways of being and doing.

When we feel more relaxed, something else also begins to happen. The peace that we feel within ourselves radiates outwards, attracting new opportunities and connections into our lives. New doors begin to open. Synchronistic events increase. We also begin to trust our intuition and to make choices that better support our health and our wellbeing.

Founder of Life Arts and festival organiser, Chris Cozens, (pictured) explains the inspiration behind the Life Arts Mind, Body & Spirit Festivals: "As our lives have become increasingly busy, and pressurised, we're all needing to find new ways to decompress and to unwind. We offer people the space and time to relax and to find peace within their busy and increasingly stressful lives. Be good to yourself this year, join us at the Woodbridge Mind, Body & Spirit Festival."

All of our genuine exhibitors are selected for their integrity, honesty and non-materialistic attitude. Stands include crystals and jewellery, nutrition and body products, gifts and pagan essentials - come and treat yourself or your loved ones! New this time we offer ethically

Deben Yacht Club

sourced CBD products, animal healing and dog massage, books on paganism and mythology and honey bee products. On offer are quality therapists giving taster sessions including Indian head massage, crystal healing and reflexology. Come along and relax and de-stress! Our ever-popular readers room will allow you to choose a favourite or new psychic, tarot, medium or clairvoyant for one-to-one consultation and guidance.

Our free workshops and talks are a chance to learn something new from an expert. Experience a herbal tea ceremony, working with crystals to cleanse and balance the chakras, an introduction to paganism, harmony and wellbeing with crystals, and ensuring our future on this planet - Green Peace UK Youth speaker. There is a mediumship demonstration each day, get there in good time to get your seat - always popular. Finish your day with an amazing sound journey - the ultimate relaxation and meditation experience.

Live stage performers and musicians both days for your enjoyment, hot and cold food and drinks, catering for all diets and preferences.

Event information:

• 22nd and 23rd April, 10am to 5pm both days.

• 40+ stands.

• FREE entry for under 16's.

• Buy advance tickets: www. lifearts.co.uk.

• Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Road, Woodbridge, IP12 4AU.

It's always exciting starting another sailing season! Boats have been repaired, pontoons mended and the slip way jetwashed in readiness by our band of dedicated Winter Working Party volunteers. In March and April training courses are run to equip sailors and rescue boat crews with the necessary skills, by our RYA accredited training team and club racing begins. However, the club is not just about sailing dinghies and yachts these days. If paddling is your thing, we welcome canoes, kayaks or paddle boards. With a large dinghy park to store your craft and direct access to the river, it's the perfect place from which to explore the river. The club welcomes new members, so join our ever-increasing number of paddlers. If interested please contact Dean Chapple Canoe

Fleet Captain, email: canoes@ debenyachtclub.co.uk.

It'd be great to see more youngsters getting out on the water and this year we have linked up with the Woodbridge Sea Scouts to offer more opportunities for training and sailing. If you have sailing skills but no boat, that is not a problem as we have over 30 club boats including Argos, Toppers, RS Fevas and Qubas for members use.

Our popular coffee mornings return on Friday 28th April from 10am to 12pm. This is an opportunity to enjoy coffee and homemade cake in a beautiful setting on the river and to raise money for the local Home Start charity which help so many young families. The club is family friendly and aims to offer something for everyone. Do come along and find out more.

Woodbridge Cruising Club

With the advent of more favourable weather, boats are being launched, and members are looking forward to the summer cruises. An enthusiastic audience packed the cruise meeting, chaired by cruise captain Andy, as members listened to the planned voyages, from Walton Backwaters, Brightlingsea, the continent, and Chatham. The inaugural 'cruise 'of the season is the model boat challenge on Woodbridge boating pond.

The on-shore activities are

providing a chance for members to socialise, and enjoy the tasty Wednesday suppers, local walks, plus the popular fitting out supper, a more formal gathering. The walks are coming to a close now. Peter led a gentle walk around Sutton Heath, across the Sandlings, ending with a lunch at the Sutton Plough. William guided a walk further afield, around Blythburgh, and the ultimate walk is planned to be an intriguing exploration of Felixstowe , with a tour of Felixstowe Hydrocycle. Woodbridge Cruising Club is always pleased to support worthwhile local charities, and Jetsam Ukelele Band are holding a singalong in aid of the Woolverstone Project and EAST. The monthly Sunday talks are always informative and club members heard an edifying talk from the Felixstowe ferry master, about the river Deben and Felixstowe Ferry. A Friday evening talk saw members telling about their cruises to France and the Shetlands. If this sounds intriguing the club website www. woodbridgecruisingclub.org has full details and new members are welcome, whether you are a current or past owner of a motorboat or yacht, or have an interested in all things nautical.

Patrick

Chris Cozens

Walpole Old Chapel looking for Friends and volunteers

Built as a farmhouse in the late 16th century and converted by local people into an independent chapel in the 17th century, Walpole Old Chapel was at the centre of Nonconformist life in the village, and further afield, until it closed for regular worship in 1970. Suffolk has always shown a strong independence of mind. So it's no surprise to find a very early independent (or Congregational) religious body establishing itself in this area - meeting at first in local dwellings and then, 30 years or so later, converting this old farm house into what is now recognised as a unique religious building. Walpole Old Chapel (as it is now known) is one of the oldest Nonconformist chapels in England, recently described by Historic England as a "historic gem" and listed Grade II*. It has a fascinating history, which often reflects major changes or events in broader society.

It's still used for occasional weddings and funerals but also for secular events since it has a beautiful acoustic for both music and the spoken word. It's also remarkably untouched by modern adaptations. You could imagine you are in the 1700s still when you step inside.

The Chapel is currently part of the Historic Chapels Trust but a Friends of Walpole Old Chapel has been registered as a charity to help run the activities and raise funds for repair and running costs. We have known since 2015 that the Chapel's external render is failing, and we have been developing a £300,000 project (Walpole Unwrapped) to repair and conserve the building.

Following a number of specialist surveys, Historic England has now formally recognised the seriousness of the situation by placing the Chapel on the heritage 'at risk' register (and given us a grant of £54,000 to carry out

Quiz night fun with ABC Radio!

exploratory work needed to take the project up to the point of tendering for contractors).

We have our Discovery Project Group who are researching the personal histories of the Chapel's congregation and we're working with the Society of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) to showcase the old techniques used in the original construction of the Chapel. This remarkable building, with its unique internal space, its roof space home to a colony of brown long-eared bats also has an unimproved chapel yard rich in meadow plants, some quite rare. We have something for everyone to celebrate! We have raised £95,000 towards repairs from and are working towards submitting applications to major national grant funders.

We now feel that we need a larger pool of people who will be our 'Friends' who are interested and care about what happens to the Chapel as well as our programme of events. These Friends will have advance notice of events, special opportunities to meet socially in the Chapel as well as see the works in progress and a dedicated newsletter.

We also need volunteers to steward events and our 'Open Chapel' Saturdays and people willing to serve as trustees to swell the small group we have currently. You could help with fundraising, or get involved in the repair and conservation project.

Are you a wiz at IT or a teacher, exhibitor or event organiser who might bring groups to the Chapel? Or a performer? Walpole Old Chapel is already on the map, now we need people to shout about it louder!

You can be local or far away, your subscription to the Friends will help provide a source of regular income for the upkeep of the Chapel; something of which to be proud.

www.walpoleoldchapel.org

Quiz fans will need their thinking caps in June, when Alde and Blyth Community (ABC) Radio celebrates their second anniversary by holding a fun quiz night to help raise funds towards the refurbishment of their new studios.

Many of the station's presenters will be on hand to host 10 rounds and as you would expect, questions will include various music-based rounds, plus a host of other topics too. The aim (as always) is to have fun and there will be prize for the winning team and the obligatory 'booby prize' for the lowest scoring table.

ABC Radio was founded in April 2021, serving the 'coastal corridor' between Orford and Southwold and currently broadcasts every weekend from 5pm on Fridays until midnight on Sundays. You can find ABC

Radio online: www.abcradio. co.uk, via the new ABC Radio app and by asking Alexa to "play ABC Radio". The varied programme schedule is available on the station's website.

The quiz night will be held at the L.T.A.A (Leiston Football Club), Victory Road, Leiston, on Friday 30th June at 7:30pm. Spaces are limited and tickets cost just £3.50 each, with a maximum of six people per team and are now available from the L.T.A.A and also from Leiston Film Theatre.

If you're interested in joining ABC Radio, as a potential presenter, studio support, or simply a contributor, please email: aldeandblythcommunity radio@gmail.com

For full details about the quiz night, please visit the stations website at: www.abcradio.co.uk

News from the Friends of St. Peter's Sibton

The Friends of St. Peter's Sibton celebrated their 25th anniversary in style last year, with the extensive events programme at the church and the splendid medieval pageant in July. So... what's next? This year, our events programme has been finalised with monthly events at the church during the summer, several concerts, our usual popular three day book sale in May and a major weekend event planned for July. Lots to do and enjoy! The Friends would welcome enthusiastic helpers to join our cheerful group; it meets around four times a year. If you're interested in local history, or could help us with IT or advertising, you will be welcomed with open arms. Sunday 29th April at 3pm is the first in our calendar of events organised by the Friends is a concert of baroque music by Zephyr Baroque. Tickets will be on sale from The Weavers Tea Room and Peasenhall General Store before the event. The music involves the use of fascinating musical instruments. The music played often has a light touch, but can be languorous and moving

in turn; well worth hearing in the medieval space of Sibton Church's nave with its beautiful ancient carved roof. Tea will follow the performance.

27th-29th May from 10:30am4:30pm: Annual book sale weekend. Good quality secondhand books, children's books and toys, plants, bric-a-brac, cream teas and refreshments available. Admission is free and there is ample parking.

June 18th at 3:30pm: A concert by Suffolk Strings. Tickets will be on sale from The Weavers Tea Room and Peasenhall General Store before the event. This informal occasion with tea to follow has become a very popular and enjoyable annual event showcasing interesting music in a variety of styles, with music often arranged specially by Peter Bumstead, who is the orchestra's conductor.

The events programme continues through the summer with a large-scale event being organised in July, and more planned events to be publicised later in the year.

Why not find out more? Email: sibtonchurchfriends@gmail.com

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Tribute to former local Auctioneer, David Metherell

A popular Linstead resident and former auctioneer has died, aged 58 years, after a short illness. In excess of 130 mourners overspilled into Linstead churchyard on 16th February to pay tribute to David Metherell (pictured), a dedicated family man and respected friend.

Born in Sydney, Australia, David's family moved to South Africa when he was six years old, where he began his schooling. At the age of 12 years, the family moved back to England where he completed his secondary education.

David initially worked as a trainee land surveyor during which time he was involved in the setting out of a section of the M25 at Swanley, setting out of a footbridge at the Dartford crossing and assisting with a detailed survey of Winston Green Prison, Birmingham. He then joined Suffolk Police with whom he worked for 15 years before studying a Fine Arts Valuation degree at Southampton Institute,

Blyth Road Industrial Estate, Halesworth, IP19 8EN

graduating in 2004.

After working for Bonhams, David and his wife Cecilia started Metherells Auctioneers, based at the Old Printworks, Halesworth. During this time, they were indebted to friends who supported them in this venture.

David was a long-standing member of the drama group, 'Circle 67' and was cast in leading roles regularly, his acting skills enhanced by his striking and powerful voice.

The family would like to thank the Reverend Dominic Doble for conducting the service, Halesworth Co-op Funeralcare, Halesworth Florist, Halesworth Community Transport, Emma Biggs Catering, Torben Merriott for the sound/video production and the many other friends who lent support to the family and helped with erecting the overflow tent and parking on the day. To date, donations in David's memory have raised £307.70 for St. Elizabeth Hospice and £314 for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

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Financial focus on... Jointly held assets

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Where a married couple (or those under a civil partnership) jointly own assets, income arising from those assets is deemed (by default) by HMRC to be taxable on a 50:50 basis no matter what the underlying ownership. The reason for this is simply an old anti-avoidance rule to prevent, primarily, rental income being claimed to be received by the individual with the lower tax rate.

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interest in the property changes. You cannot therefore de-elect (although you can trigger the end of the election by changing the underlying ownership of the property). There can also be other implications in making an election such as Stamp Duty Land Tax, obtaining permission from your mortgage lender, etc.

With the start of the new tax year, however, is it time to review this potential election to see if you as a couple can change the beneficial ownership of any income and, by making a form 17 election, (re)arrange affairs to reduce your future tax exposure as a couple before the 2023/24 rental income starts to be received?

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It is, however, often quite possible to elect to have income arising from jointly held assets taxed in accordance with the underlying beneficial ownership by means of a simple election on "Form 17". This would enable the income arising to be taxed in unequal shares.

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There are, of course, various conditions - the main ones being that the asset(s) in question must be held as "tenants-in-common" and not as "joint tenants" and you will be required to provide evidence of the actual ownership (eg: by deed, or written declaration). Both spouses must elect for the actual basis to apply, and the form must be received by HMRC within 60 days of the date of the declaration (this deadline is strictly adhered to by HMRC).

The election will only apply from the declaration date and therefore cannot be backdated.

You should note that once the election is in place, the election will continue to be in force for future tax years until one spouse dies, the couple permanently separate or the beneficial

Hope this helps. For further information, please contact Robin Beadle (pictured) on: robin. beadle@ensors.co.uk

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

M.DANIELS (Sid)

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

MOBILE: 07788850762

TONY LING

CARPENTRY & JOINERY CONTRACTOR

ALL TYPES OF WOODWORK

Domestic and Commercial Kitchens, Wardrobes

Replacement Doors and Windows

Tel: 01986 873343

Please ring after 6pm

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Friends of Woodbridge

Library - April

Fashion Show

The Woodbridge Fashion Show returns to the Library in April! The specially created catwalk will feature spring and summer wear from four of the town's leading clothes shops and (for the first time) a display of skate and street wear.

From the Thoroughfare, we will welcome Holly Blue, Tilley, Grace and Laura Jane who have recently opened a second shop in Church Street. No. 10 Market Hill joins the group, while Wahoo will bring a distinctive display to the evening. Clothes will be modelled by real customers and

Spring Garden in the Spring Garden in the

Spring is finally here, and it's time to start thinking about your garden! As the weather warms up and the days get longer, your garden can become your own little slice of paradise. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a complete beginner, there are plenty of things you can do to make the most of your garden this spring.

Here are some tips to get you started:

Get your tools in order:

Before you get started on any gardening projects, it's important to make sure you have the right tools for the job. Check your shed or garage for any tools that need to be repaired or replaced. You might need to buy some new tools, like a good pair of gloves, a spade or a fork. You don't need to spend a lot of money on fancy tools, but it's worth investing in a few high-quality items that will last you for years.

debris that has accumulated over the winter. This will help to prepare your garden for new growth and make it look tidier.

Start planting:

Once you've planned your planting and tidied up your garden, it's time to start planting.

If you're planting flowers, make sure you follow the instructions on the seed packets. You might need to plant them indoors first before transferring them outside.

If you're planting vegetables, make sure you plant them in an area that gets plenty of sunlight and is well-drained.

Consider a garden project: Spring is a great time to tackle a garden project. This could be anything from building a raised bed to installing a pond. Whatever project you choose, make sure it's something you're excited about and that you have the time and resources to complete.

for the whole family. Get the kids involved by giving them their own patch of garden to look after. They can plant their own seeds, water their plants, and watch them grow. It's a great way to teach kids about nature and the environment.

Enjoy your garden:

Finally, make sure you take the time to enjoy your garden. Whether you're sitting outside with a cup of tea, reading a book, or entertaining friends, your garden should be a place of relaxation and enjoyment. Make the most of the spring weather by spending time outside and soaking up the beauty of your garden.

there will be something for all!

The date is Thursday 20th April and the time is 7pm for a 7:30pm start. You will be welcomed with a glass of fizz and invited to join in the evening's bumper raffle, with prizes donated by the town's shops. The ticket price is £10 and booking in advance is essential. Previous fashion shows have sold out well before the evening!

All proceeds will go to the Friends of Woodbridge Library (FOWL) fund for the refurbishment of the Children's Library.

Martlesham in Bloom

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about your garden. With a little planning and preparation, you can create a beautiful outdoor space that you can enjoy all year round. So, grab your tools, start planting, and get ready to make the most of your garden this spring! 0

Plan your planting:

Spring is the perfect time to start planning your planting for the year. Think about what you want to grow, and make a list of the plants and flowers you need to buy. Consider the layout of your garden, and plan where you want to put each plant. Think about the amount of sunlight each area gets, and choose plants that will thrive in those conditions.

Tidy up:

Winter can be tough on your garden, so now is the time to tidy up. Remove any dead leaves and branches, and clear away any

Get the family involved: Gardening is a great activity

generally warming up, we can start to think about planting some summer flowering bulbs in the ground or in containers.

Lilies come in lots of different heights and colours, and the unusual Tigridia are wonderfully bright and exotic, attractive not just to us but also to hoverflies.

Dahlias come in a huge variety of fanciful shapes and colours, why not include some single forms in your selection as they are visited by bees and other pollinators.

Dahlias can be started into growth indoors now in a conservatory, greenhouse or windowsill. You can either sow seeds, or plant the tubers in individual pots indoors.

Their shoots will then grow and if you'd like to multiply them, some of these shoots can be taken as cuttings from which to grow new plants.

Once the risk of frost has passed, towards the end of May, the tubers can be planted out

and their head start indoors will help them get going fast. Happy gardening.

A date for your diary:

Wild for Wildlife: Martlesham in Bloom and Suffolk Wildlife Trust are arranging a fun and informative day for families at Martlesham Recreation Ground, The Street, on Sunday 21st May, 10:30am to12 noon. The aim is to learn more about Martlesham's brand new nature reserve, Martlesham Wilds; why we need to protect wildlife, and how we can help our own outdoor spaces become more wildlife friendly, to create natural wildlife corridors for wildlife to thrive.

The event will be free, funded by Suffolk Wildlife Trust and AONB. To find out more about Martlesham Wilds please visit www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/ martlesham-wilds. There will be more details about the above event next month. For further

information please contact: martleshaminbloom@gmail. com or J Maureen Burrows (Secretary) on 01473 625196.

Bealings Bowls Club open days

If you have never tried lawn bowls we would encourage you to come along to our Open Afternoons on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th April between 2pm and 4pm. Members will be on hand to help, you can borrow equipment, enjoy a cup of tea and slice of cake and find out more about the sport and our club. No cost of commitment involved. Visit our website: www. bealingsbowlsclub.webador. co.uk for more information and our exact location.

It's hard to believe that 20 years have already passed since Martin Fuller founded Chapel Road Accounting Services Ltd (CRASL), now based at Carlton Park Industrial Estate, Saxmundham. Martin was joined by Steve Kirk in 2005 and Laura Stubbs a couple of years later, and what started as a small independent accounting firm has grown into a thriving business, offering a full range of services to clients throughout the local community and beyond.

Since its inception in 2003, CRASL has provided first-class bookkeeping, VAT returns, yearend accounts, self-assessment tax returns, and more to individuals and businesses of all sizes. The team is comprised of knowledgeable and experienced professionals who are dedicated to

providing a friendly, professional, and personable service to each and every client.

What sets CRASL apart from the competition is its commitment to staying current with the latest technology and trends in the accounting industry. As the business world evolves and changes, so do the needs of clients. Martin and his team understand that the key to success is to always be one step ahead. By adopting this approach, CRASL is able to offer a more efficient and effective service to clients, saving them time and money in the process.

One of the things that clients appreciate most about CRASL is the personal touch that Martin and his team bring to every interaction. Unlike larger accounting firms, where clients can sometimes feel like just another number, the

team at CRASL takes pride in knowing each client personally. This approach not only helps to build strong relationships with clients, but it also allows Martin and his team to gain a deeper understanding of each client's unique needs and goals.

Over the past 20 years, CRASL has seen its fair share of challenges and successes. From changes in tax legislation to the impact of the Covid pandemic, the team has worked tirelessly to ensure that clients receive the support and guidance they need to navigate even the toughest of times. Throughout it all, Martin has remained committed to his vision of providing a high-quality accounting service, but with a human touch and someone you can always talk to.

Looking to the future, the team are excited about what lies ahead.

They are dedicated to bringing through the next generation and always aim to have at least one apprentice on the team. As the business continues to grow and evolve, they are committed to staying true to their core values of integrity, professionalism,

and a personal touch. They are also eager to embrace new opportunities and challenges, and to continue providing the best possible service to clients throughout Saxmundham and beyond.

In conclusion, the 20th anniversary of CRASL is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and vision of Martin, Steve, Laura and the whole team. They are obviously passionate about what they do and above all, they are real people who understand you and your accounting needs. If you are looking for a local firm to help you with any accountancy requirements, look no further than CRASL. Please call the team on 01728 687000 or email: info@crasl.co.uk for any further information or to make an appointment.

Cheering on team members participating in last year's Aldeburgh Triathlon

The CRASL team at one of their many team building events at Prime Evil for Halloween

When it comes to buying meat, it can be easy to overlook the origin of the product. However, choosing to buy British meat not only supports local producers, but it also ensures that you are consuming meat that is of a high quality and produced with high welfare standards.

Buying British meat supports local producers, who often work tirelessly to provide us with the freshest, tastiest and highest quality meat available.

In addition to supporting local producers, buying British meat also ensures that you are consuming meat that is produced to the highest welfare standards. The UK has some of the strictest animal welfare standards in the world, which means that animals are treated with the respect and care they deserve. This includes providing them with ample space to move around, access to clean water and food,

Support your local butchers and...

Buy British Meat

and ensuring that they are not subjected to unnecessary stress.

When you buy British meat, you are also supporting a sustainable food system. By choosing to buy from local producers, you are reducing the environmental impact of meat production. Furthermore, local producers often use traditional farming methods, which are less damaging to the environment than industrial farming.

It's also a great way to support the local economy. By supporting local producers, you're helping to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. This can have a positive impact on the community, as money is circulated within the local area rather than being sent elsewhere.

Meat from your local farms will be sold in the butchers and delis on your high street and the farm shops that serve local villages. Ask you local butcher and they will be able to trace

any cut of meat back to the farm, herd, and exact animal - this traceability guarantees great produce. Whilst in your local butchers shop, do be sure to take advantage of their expertise, if you're unsure of the best cut of meat for a particular dish, or you fancy trying something new, please do speak with them, they will be more than happy to offer the benefit of their knowledge and experience.

There are many benefits to buying British meat, particularly when you choose to support your local butchers and producers. By doing so, you are supporting high welfare standards, promoting sustainability, and stimulating the local economy.

So, next time you are looking to buy meat, consider buying British and supporting your local butchers - your taste buds and your community will thank you!

Woodbridge Swifts

After two years of planning and preparation, Woodbridge Swifts has installed a row of 15 well-concealed nest boxes under the eaves of St Mary's House in the Market Square. The aim of the project has been to return nesting swifts (a red listed species) to the Market Square after an absence of many years. Woodbridge has in the past, had a thriving swift population which has declined.

Bright Stars

Our work over the past six years has aimed to halt that decline.

We've provided more nest sites by installing over 150 nest boxes, a number of which are already occupied. The Market Square, with its medieval and 18th century buildings will have been home to many swifts in the past.

One of the buildings in a good position for swift nest boxes is St. Mary's House, the shop and offices of St. Mary's Parish

Church. The Rector and the PCC are fully supportive of this project. The boxes have been installed on the north side facing the square.

We're delighted to have completed this project with a grant from the Coast and Heaths Community and Conservation Fund.

The success of the project will be slow to emerge. The only measurements we can take will be the number of years it takes for the boxes to be occupied and

Would you like to receive our activity sheets for pre-school aged children?

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

activity sheets usually include a story, song and a craft

or game about a theme or story from the Bible. During our last session, we heard that after God had made the sun, moon and stars, he wanted people to enjoy the land, rivers and seas so he made men, women, girls and boys to live on the earth. There was an activity sheet with an outline of a person, which could be copied several times, to be coloured in

or decorated to look like you and your family.

If you have or look after a child/children of pre-school age and would like to receive our sheets, please give us a call on the telephone number below. We look forward to hearing from you.

For further information, please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows on 01473 625196.

Swift nest boxes at St. Mary's House

the number boxes occupied. But the presence of the boxes should cause an immediate increase in public awareness resulting in more enquiries about swifts and nest boxes and an increased response to our activities.

Woodbridge residents and visitors who pass through the Market Square during the summer, or sit outside the cafes and pubs on summer evenings will, we hope in years to come, be able to enjoy the sight and sounds of swifts as they swoop and circle around the roofs.

We've printed leaflets about swifts in Woodbridge. These will be available in Woodbridge Library and Tourist Information Point as well as St. Mary's House and shops around the town. Please contact us if you have somewhere that we could display them. They will give information about the project and swifts in general to the people of Woodbridge.

In the wider sense, this is a small piece in a large jigsaw of environmental action. The climate emergency, environmental degradation and loss of species can be mitigated to some extent by small projects such as this. Projects which catch the public eye are important for raising general awareness of these issues. We always welcome volunteers to our team. We have need of more helpers. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute to saving swifts in Woodbridge.

General enquiries: woodbridge.swifts@gmail.com

Nest box enquiries: woodswiftbox@hotmail.com

To report a nest site: woodswiftsites@gmail.com

SOS Swifts - swifts in Suffolk: swifts@suffolkbirdgroup.org

Website: group.rspb.org.uk/ woodbridge/get-involved/

Brian

Animal World

Pets are a beloved addition to many households, bringing joy, companionship and plenty of snuggles. But the benefits of pet ownership go far beyond the furry cuddles - research has shown that pets can have a positive impact on both our physical and mental health.

For starters, owning a pet can improve our mood and reduce stress levels as well as anxiety. Pets can also be great company for those who live alone, providing a source of comfort and friendship.

But, it's important to remember that pets rely on us for their wellbeing, and as such, we need to take their care seriously. This means

providing them with adequate food, water, shelter and exercise, as well as ensuring they receive regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations.

It's also important to educate ourselves on the specific needs of our pets. For example, dogs need regular exercise and socialisation to stay healthy and happy, while cats require regular access to clean litter boxes and scratching posts. Smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs and fish also require specific care. By understanding and meeting these needs, we can help our pets to thrive.

Aside from the physical benefits of pet ownership,

the companionship and love that pets provide can have a profound impact on our mental health. Studies have shown that pet owners are more likely to experience feelings of happiness and contentment. Caring for a pet can also provide a sense of purpose and routine.

Of course, pet ownership isn't for everyone. It's important to consider factors like lifestyle, living arrangements and financial responsibilities before committing to ownership and bringing a pet into your home.

But for those who are able to provide a loving home for a pet, the rewards can be immeasurable.

From the unconditional love they provide to the joy they bring into our lives, pets are truly one of life's greatest blessings. By caring for

them with responsibility and dedication, we can ensure that our furry friends are happy, healthy and loved.

Best Behaviour Dog Training

Puppy & Dog Training Classes in Ipswich, Martlesham, Colchester, Stowupland and Barham

News from Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection

With spring now upon us, we shall be preparing for the inevitable calls about unwanted and abandoned kittens which need to be rescued and homed. Every year, we encounter distressing cases of female cats being dumped because they are pregnant and left to fend for themselves; sometimes they all survive, sometimes the litter is found without the mother and occasionally it's too late to save the litter. Last year among the many we rescued was a heavily pregnant female who was found dumped in a box at the side of the A12, and a family of kittens with their mother abandoned in

Rendlesham forest. There were many more families of feral and domestic kittens brought in from around our area.

It's a timely reminder that if you take on a young cat, it's important that you have it neutered. Ideally, this should be done when the kitten is around four months old. Neutering does not harm the cat and has added advantages: It will be less likely to wander, stray, call (if female), or spray (if male). The chance of contracting some infectious cat diseases will be reduced, as will the likelihood of developing mammary tumours (breast cancers), life threatening womb

infections, testicular cancer, and many other illnesses. Male cats in particular will improve in physical body condition and their urine will smell less pungent!

One final thought: One cat and her litter could be responsible for 20,000 more kittens over five years!

Cats Protection can provide financial support to those on benefits to help with neutering.

Contact us to find out more.

Cats looking for a home: Tomas and Tilly are gorgeous seven-year-old siblings, looking for a quiet new home together. They are very affectionate gentle cats and they would be good

companions. They also love a fuss and a game. They would appreciate a safe sunny garden, ideally they want a quiet peaceful home without children and away from busy roads. See our 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 Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

New rooms at The Crown and Castle in Orford, themed to celebrate local landmarks

The Crown and Castle in Orford, has revamped all seven bedrooms spread across the entire first floor of its main building. Individually styled with great attention to detail, each new room features bold accent colours and decorations, which reflect and acknowledge the local area's heritage.

Deluxe rooms

The largest, deluxe sea view 'Lighthouse' room has been brightly revamped in red and white to mimic Orford's once prevalent lighthouse, which was visible through the bay window prior to its decommissioning in 2013, and demolition in 2020. Red accents include the radiators and even the kettle, as well as two comfy armchairs by the bay window positioned to take in the wide views of the estuary and Suffolk coast. Adding a touch of nostalgia, a small lighthouse lamp sits on a table between the two chairs to commemorate the former landmark.

With views towards Orford village including the magnificent St. Bartholomew's Church, the accent colour in the second deluxe room is an attractive fuchsia pink teamed with grey. The grey chesterfield-style twoseater sofa and its large footstool are complemented by pink cushions, two have an attractive bee motif, which is replicated on the window blinds. Other fuchsia points include the bed headboard and radiator. This room has a wide walkway leading to the bathroom, which now acts as a dressing area with a new fuchsia coloured builtin wardrobe and Hollywood style vanity mirror with three different light settings. Even the bathroom has been restyled with a newly fitted bath alongside the window, complimenting the existing walkin shower.

Superior seaview rooms

Three superior sea view rooms run across the back of The Crown

Parham Airfield Museum Volunteer Vacancies

As a charity, Parham Airfield Museum relies on its team of volunteers to help it run and thrive. We are always looking for new volunteers to undertake a range of tasks including helping our visitors on our open days, helping in the tearoom and working behind the scenes with our maintenance team. We offer full training and continued support.

Easter Egg Hunt

and Castle. 'Florence', features coastal colours of teal contrasted with a neutral cream, while the bright and airy 'Watchtower' room, which has a small view of the Orford Castle keep from its bathroom, features brick tiles to resemble an old building.

The 'Ness' has been styled using a bright floral fabric acknowledging the wild flowers growing freely on the Orford Ness coastal nature reserve (National Trust), a short ferry trip across the estuary. Cream accents include the radiator, prominent against a sage and silver patterned feature wall, cream lamp and parquet dressing table. Guests booking this room are also treated to sea views while soaking in the bath tub.

Standard double rooms

With a nod to the past, the two standard double rooms take their names from buildings dating back to when Orford Ness was an atomic weapons research site. Themed in purple, black and grey, 'Black Beacon' is so called after the unusual rotating black navigation beacon, while 'Pagoda' takes its name from the abandoned explosion testing labs, which can still be seen today. In contrast with the past, the 'Pagoda' room has been styled in bright yellow accents, which include the radiator, headboard and chair and even a yellow framed TV. Teamed with floral cushions and blinds, the décor reflects how the area as a whole has been reinvigorated into one where nature flourishes.

About The Crown and Castle

A few steps from Henry II's 12th century castle keep in the peaceful Suffolk village of Orford, The Crown and Castle is a highly rated restaurant with just 21 delightful rooms. Expect oak beams, stylish décor and interesting artwork adorning the walls. There's a traditional bar with an open fire, which can be found burning in the cooler months, also a large terrace for alfresco dining and drinking on warmer days within sight of the keep.

Good quality, unpretentious food is at the heart of what The Crown and Castle offers in its lively restaurant

with delicious dishes created by the Head Chef, Jake Lawrence and his team. The creative British menu features a wealth of quality Suffolk produce including Orford landed seafood and locally reared meats, plus classic favourites like home battered fish and chips and beef, pork and chicken roasts for Sunday lunch.

Dogs are welcome to stay with their owners in one of the five dog-friendly garden rooms, they are also welcome on the terrace, in the bar and to sit alongside their owners at a bookable dog-friendly table in the restaurant.

There has been a hostelry on the site of The Crown and Castle for eight centuries. The original inn was, apparently, built into the walls of the 12th century Orford Castle but is now separated from it by a little lane. The octagonal tower keep is very much intact and has survived on account of its value to sailors; back in the 19th century when navigation was a hit-and-miss affair, it provided a landmark by which they could orientate themselves. It was built by Henry II between 1165 and 1173 to consolidate royal power in the region, previously dominated by the dissenting Bigod family. Ascending the five floors to the Keep's roof earns you spectacular views over the otherworldly landscape of Orford Ness - part nature reserve, part atomic weapons research site. For opening times check www. english-heritage.org.uk.

The restaurant with rooms offers electric bikes for hire allowing guests to explore the area on two wheels; they also have a selection of suggested walks and boat trips to the Orford Ness nature reserve running from spring to autumn. Venture a little further and spend time exploring the galleries, shops and artist workshops at Snape Maltings or the renowned Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon ship burial site, near Woodbridge. Prices start from around £170 B&B per night for two sharing; dogs charged extra. To discover more about the Crown and Castle visit: www.crownandcastle. co.uk or call 01394 450205. Facebook www.facebook.com/ thecrownandcastle, Twitter: @CrownandCOrford.

On Sunday the 9th April at 3pm Saxmundham Adventure Playground will be holding their Annual Easter Egg Hunt on the playground at Carlton Park. The first Egg Hunt was held in 1992 and has become an annual event ever since, with the same organisers in attendance every year. This year, the Bell Hotel have very kindly sponsored the Egg Hunt.

If you've not attended before, we hide cardboard eggs around the playground (to enable us to do this we will be closing the playground from 2:30pm-3pm on the day). At 3pm, the Egg Hunt begins and once the children have found the cardboard eggs, they can exchange them for chocolate eggs (we provide the eggs).

The weather has always played

an important part in encouraging families to attend but come rain, sunshine or even snow we will be there and hope you will too. There is no charge for this event but there will be a donation bucket.

It seems everybody is looking for volunteers and we are no exception. Our committee started to raise funds to establish the playground in 1989 and ever since the same two committee members (along with other volunteers) have given their time to maintain the playground. Saxmundham Town is growing very fast and we feel sure there must be other younger families who'd like to join our committee to support this much needed venue. We'd be really pleased to hear from you, make our day, ring Pauline 01728 602496 or Sue on 01728 603072.

We are open on Sundays from April to the end of October and Wednesdays over summer. A few hours of your time would make all the difference. If you'd like to join

our friendly team of volunteers, please email: parhamairfield@ yahoo.co.uk and we'll provide further information. We're joining in with 'The Big Help Out' for the Coronation. The aim of the campaign is to get more people volunteering who traditionally don't consider it. On Monday 8th May, you're welcome to come and shadow one of our volunteer's for a shift, ask them questions and see if this is something you would enjoy doing regularly.

www.parhamairfield museum.co.uk

Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group

The Annual General Meeting of the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group (AVSFHG) will be a hybrid meeting, to be held at Fromus Centre (behind Library), Saxmundham Hub, Street Farm Road, IP17 1AL and online via Zoom, on Monday 17th April at 2:30pm.

Only paid-up members may attend this meeting remotely over Zoom - but non-member "visitors" are welcome to attend in person, though are unable to vote. We also hope to have a short celebration of the Group's 15th birthday. If you wish to attend via Zoom, you can register via our website: www.avsfhg.org. uk/book.

Further programme:

• 1st April: Drop-in advice and personal-research sessions, every 1st and 3rd Saturday at the Old Council Offices, Main Street (opp. Long Shop Museum, Leiston, IP16 4ER).

• 4th April: Drop in session on the first Tuesday of the month at Leiston Library 2pm-4pm. Free entry.

• 15th April: Drop-in advice and personal-research sessions, every 1st and 3rd Saturday at the Old Council Offices.

• 17th April AGM: Hybrid, in person and over Zoom. Fromus Centre (behind Library), Saxmundham Hub, Street Farm Road, IP17 1AL.

A rare photo showing a German U-Boat under attack by an RAF Sunderland Flying Boat - Emphasising how low the attacking aircraft had to go to attack surfaced U-Boats.

Martlesham Heath Aviation Society

Martlesham Heath Aviation Society's upcoming monthly meetings will be on Friday 31st March and Friday 2nd June.

Unusually for us (because the First Friday in April is Good Friday), this talk has been shifted to a week earlier than usual.

Friday 31st March meeting:

Mike Pugh Davies with his illustrated talk: "Aircraft versus U-Boats", all about the epic struggle between the RAF and later also with the US Army Air Force against German and Italian submarines - as the enemy tried to starve us into submission... Very nearly succeeding.

Friday 2nd June meeting:

Paul Ross will present the story of Silver City Airlines. An unusual airline, which (rare for the time) was completely independent. It operated across Europe

Project 40 seven

from Britain using some iconic aircraft as the Douglas DC3 and the Bristol Freighter, often from small airfields such a Lympne in Kent to Beauvis near Paris. The sort of airline that belongs to a completely different era of passenger travel - more leisurely, when you often got to meet the Pilot. But also perhaps not as safe!

All our meetings take place at: Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath, Suffolk, IP12 4PB. Entry costs £3 for society members, £4 for non-members, who are also welcomed. Pay on the door on arrival. No need to pre-book, just turn up early!

For more information, contact Howard on 01473 274300 or email: howard.king1@outlook. com. The society website is: www.mhas.org.uk

Mallard Fencing

On 11th February, Aldringham Tea Room held a mysterious afternoon tea and an enjoyable 'Who Dun It' was wonderfully acted out by Bright Sparks. ₤100 was raised and donated to a local charity. It's hoped that the next mystery event will take place mid September 2023. Same time (3pm-5pm), same place.

Reviews:

"My husband, two friends and I spent a lovely afternoon at Aldringham Tea Rooms. Bright Sparks (an amateur dramatic group) put on a Murder Mystery playlet and the audience had to guess who done it! With clues peppered throughout, the mystery unfolded. The eccentric characters were well played with many humorous incidents and interactions between them.

During the interludes, we were served with sandwiches of our choice, cheese or fruit scones and tea, delicious! After much

discussion, we finally had to decide who the dastardly murderer was. I'm afraid I couldn't possibly tell you... But our group of amateur sleuths won two bottles of Prosecco! A great way to spend an afternoon. Thank you to Pippin and her staff at the tearooms for organising it all."Ruth and Alistair.

"An enjoyable murder mystery and afternoon tea. As a first time venture, into the murder mystery genre, by the players it was an excellent experience. The will was being read and all the suspects, in conversation and interaction giving the audience the clues. Whether or not you picked up on the clues or red herrings was down to you. From the entry of the players to the reading of the will and disclosure of the perpetrator your interest was held. I hope there will be a next time, there will be plenty of takers, including me, so book early!" - Marie and Jill.

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

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

Free quotation and professional advice. Tel. 07858 912558

Refurbished Lighthouse Room

Image credit: Matt Finch

Saxmundham Adventure Playground

Ringsfield CofE Primary School

This term, the children have been learning more about and developing the skill of collage.

In KS1, the children looked at the amazing linear artwork of Andy Goldsworthy. They then worked in groups to experiment with a range of natural materials to create a range of linear patterns and visual effects. This art lesson took place outside and we turned the playground into an art gallery for the afternoon!

The children moved on to explore the work of Richard Long and his sculptures and pictures based on spirals and circles. They applied a range of different types of paper to a template of concentric circles to create their own version of a Richard Long picture. The children were

encouraged to take their time to ensure that each circle was clearly defined.

The Year 5 and 6 children have been producing some amazing collages linked to natural forms. They began by researching the artist John Piper and learnt how to create a collage using a range of different materials such as card, tissue, and mixed papers.

The children also explored how positioning materials in a certain way provides depth and cohesion to their work. They explored how materials can be torn, cut, and scrunched to represent parts of the whole piece and were able to use these skills to produce a variety of different effects. Finally, the children used acrylic paints to enhance specific areas of their

collage and developed techniques such as blending and highlighting to create contrasting features in their work.

We are so proud of the finished pieces, and we are very excited that some will be displayed at Halesworth Gallery Young Artists Show on 29th April the 1st May.

Artwork will also be displayed from lots of local primary schools including Brampton and Bramfield CofE Primary Schools.

Life Arts

23rd annual Mind Body Spirit Festival

22-23rd April

We're celebrating our 25th year at Life Arts and we invite you to join us to find out why we have the best attended Mind Body Spirit Festivals in East Anglia!

Join us for the annual Life Arts event in Woodbridge.

Tickets for our Woodbridge Mind Body Spirit Festival are on sale NOW! Advance tickets include:

• Special fast-track entry pass. Avoid ticket queues!

• Get in early from 9:50am

• FREE talks, workshops and demonstrations (excludes only the mediumship demo)

• FREE live music

• FREE healthy lifestyle advice

• FREE meditation

Find our more and book your tickets in advance at: www. lifearts.co.uk. Tickets also available on the door.

Making time to relax and unwind

When we make time to relax and to unwind, we begin to look and feel different. We become more accepting of ourselves and start to see solutions and new ways of being and doing.

When we feel more relaxed, something else also begins to happen. The peace that we feel within ourselves radiates outwards, attracting new opportunities and connections

Bramfield, Ringsfield and Brampton

Primary Schools activities

At Ringsfield, the reception children have been learning about the change in season from winter to spring and discussing how it is the time for new growth as the weather will begin to change to warmer conditions. We have been busy preparing our flower bed and vegetable patch ready for growing our plants and seeds. The children have been preparing the soil by

turning and weeding it and we have added some more compost to help them grow. We have started by planting carrot seeds and the children will be learning about how to look after the plants and observing how they change over time.

The reception children in Oak Class at Bramfield have been thinking about farming this month. As well as learning about

farm animals, we have talked about where our food comes from and how it is grown. We have looked at food packaging to find out how far our food has travelled to get to us and looked at what food we grow in this country. We found out that one of the foods we can grow is our favourite root vegetable, the crunchy carrot, so we have sown some seeds in the hope of getting an early crop

before the summer holidays.

The children made a scarecrow to help keep their crops safe and investigated different materials they could use for her hat so she didn't get her straw wet. We will be visiting a local farm at the end of the month to consolidate all our learning.

At Brampton on March 7th,we were very lucky to have Leanne from the RSPCA visit the school to talk to everyone about what the organisation does to help protect animals in England and Wales. The children in Reception enjoyed learning and categorising the different types of animals into pets, farm animals and wild animals. All of them had a soft toy from one of the above categories and they then learnt how to care for and look after it. We also learnt what all of the letters represented for the RSPCA acronym and learnt some actions to remember them!

R - Royal S - Society

P - Prevention

C - Cruelty

A - Animals

The children really enjoyed the session and Brampton gave some lovely donations to the RSPCA.

into our lives. New doors begin to open. Synchronistic events increase. We also begin to trust our intuition and to make choices that better support our health and our wellbeing.

Founder of Life Arts and festival organiser, Chris Cozens, (pictured) explains the inspiration behind the Life Arts Mind, Body & Spirit Festivals: "As our lives have become increasingly busy, and pressurised, we're all needing to find new ways to decompress and to unwind. We offer people the space and time to relax and to find peace within their busy and increasingly stressful lives. Be good to yourself this year, join us at the Woodbridge Mind, Body & Spirit Festival."

All of our genuine exhibitors are selected for their integrity, honesty and non-materialistic attitude. Stands include crystals and jewellery, nutrition and body products, gifts and pagan essentials - come and treat yourself or your loved ones!

New this time we offer ethically sourced CBD products, animal healing and dog massage, books on paganism and mythology and honey bee products. On offer are quality therapists giving taster sessions including Indian head massage, crystal healing and reflexology. Come along

and relax and de-stress! Our ever-popular readers room will allow you to choose a favourite or new psychic, tarot, medium or clairvoyant for one-to-one consultation and guidance. Our free workshops and talks are a chance to learn something new from an expert. Experience a herbal tea ceremony, working with crystals to cleanse and balance the chakras, an introduction to paganism, harmony and wellbeing with crystals, and ensuring our future on this planet - Green Peace UK Youth speaker. There is a mediumship demonstration each day, get there in good time to get your seat - always popular. Finish your day with an amazing sound journey - the ultimate relaxation and meditation experience. Live stage performers and musicians both days for your enjoyment, hot and cold food and drinks, catering for all diets and preferences.

Event information:

• 22nd and 23rd April, 10am to 5pm both days.

• 40+ stands.

• FREE entry for under 16's.

• Buy advance tickets: www. lifearts.co.uk.

• Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Road, Woodbridge, IP12 4AU.

10th birthday party for the Track on the Green

Everyone deserves a party on their tenth birthday, and the Track which goes all the way through the Millennium Green is going to have a big one. Get ready to dress up your wheels, scooters, bikes, trikes, mobility scooters, monocycles, tandems, wheelbarrows - and we'll gather at the Library and process to the Green for a celebration

there. The birthday event is on Sunday 21st May in the afternoon, after the Coronation and before the summer holidays.

So put that date in your diary and look out in the weeks to come for information online, on the Green and around the Town about exactly what will be happening and how you can be part of the party.

194508

If you're feel cross and sad about White Bridge being fenced off and want to help make sure we soon get a long-term solution, add your voice to ours. Write to Suffolk County Council and tell them why that bridge and access to the different parts of the Green is so important to you whether on foot, in a buggy, with friends or alone, for work or for leisure. Send emails to the local Rights of Way Team: annette. robinson@suffolk.gov.uk and copy them to our local County Councillor: annette.dunning@ suffolk.gov.uk. If we don't keep letting the Council officers and councillors know how important the bridge is, it will get swamped by other things that seem to be more pressing.

The RSPCA visit at Brampton

Ringsfield planting carrot seeds

Bramfield's scarecrow

KS1 outdoor art

KS2 collage

Halesworth Millennium Green

Making

music

The Martlesham Brass Spring concert is on Saturday 13th May at 7pm in St. Michael's Church Centre, Martlesham Heath, IP5 3PL.

Tickets cost £4 each (primary school-age children free), and

Woodbridge Riverside Trust

Grant funding, donations and gifts

The Trust is most grateful for the grants and donations which we receive to enable us to fulfil our obligations as a charity with community engagement at its heart.

We have received contributions from a wide range of organisations, including a grant from Woodbridge Town Council and a gift from the Arts Society Woodbridge. In addition, we're really grateful for all the individual gifts and would like to thank visitors to the Longshed for their generosity in making on-site donations.

Recently, we have used funding to make frames for the tapestries. We aim to match particular panels with the relevant donor e.g. by choosing the panels with the most appropriate themes. The next big outlay will be for the tapestry fixings so we will soon be seeking help in funding those.

Shop

The Trust's shop is situated on the ground floor at the bottom of the staircase leading to the gallery. It's manned most days between 11am and 3pm. You

Melton Bowls Club news

will find a wide selection of gifts and mementoes including replica cards of the tapestry panels completed so far.

The Gallery

The John Gibbins Gallery is on the mezzanine floor of the Longshed, accessible by staircase or lift. With its large windows overlooking the Sutton Hoo replica ship build on the ground floor. It's the perfect spot to watch work in progress on this amazing project.

The Gallery is also used for a variety of events and by exhibitors. It's available for hire during the daytime. Please go to www.woodbridgeriversidetrust. org/book-the-longshed/ for booking enquiries.

Dates for the diary

There will be two major exhibitions open to the public in the Gallery in April:

• Art Exhibition of Oil Paintings by Andrew Hester. A long-term volunteer at the Longshed. On 15th and 16th April from 10am to 4pm.

• Art and Sculpture Exhibition by Margaret and Roger Bacon from the afternoon of Friday 21st April, then everyday from 9am to 5pm until Thursday 27th April.

Despite the challenges of recent years, Melton Bowls Club had some notable successes in 2022 including our members becoming Suffolk County Champions in the Bowls England 4s and Woodbridge League Champions in the Ladies 2 Wood Pairs, Men's 2 Wood Singles and 2 Wood Mixed Rinks.

The club also instigated a program to update some the club facilities which is now complete whilst others are being planned.

The club is now looking forward to getting back to a regular season of playing lawn bowls and as part of that is offering potential new members a chance to come and learn more about the game and the club's facilities by holding two open days in May 2023.

Lawn bowls is a family friendly game for people of all ages and ability and is a great way to participate in a sport that combines strategy and tactics with skill in the outdoors. It is great for improving both physical and mental wellbeing. The game is easy to learn, and beginners can expect to be playing the game competitively within a very short time. Experienced bowlers are also welcome to come and

experience the facilities that the club offers and meet club members.

The open days will be held at the club located in Dock Lane, Melton, Woodbridge, IP12 1PE between 2pm and 4pm on Saturday 14th May and Sunday 27th May, 2023.

Club members will be on hand at the club to introduce the facilities and provide all equipment needed and instruction on the game. No need to book, just turn up on the day. The only requirement is that shoes with a flat sole and no heel are worn while on the green. There is free parking nearby the club for those arriving by car and refreshments will be available from the club kitchen and bar.

The club has a full program of events arranged for the 2023 season, having entered eight teams in six local leagues as well as County and National Cup competitions. Club competitions, friendly games and social events are also being organised for 2023.

Further information on Melton Bowls Club and the open days can be found on our website: www.meltonbowls.onesuffolk. net or alternatively by emailing: meltonbowls@gmail.com.

fun in East Anglia

can be reserved by calling 07544 962205, or purchased on the door.

Looking forward into June, 'Tea & Tunes' (featuring our preliminary and beginner bands) is on Saturday 10th June. There will be more details next month.

If you'd like to learn to play a brass instrument, or if you already play and would be interested in joining us, please email: join@martleshambrass.co.uk

Please note, we operate a waiting list for new members.

Are

Park View is a state of the art, luxurious care home overlooking the magnificent gardens and grounds of Chantry Park near Ipswich.

Our philosophy is quite simple; to provide the very highest standard of care and quality of life to each person at Park View.

We provide residential, nursing and specialist dementia care to elderly ladies and gentlemen, this full complement of services means that elderly residents changing needs can be met throughout their stay with us.

Please

Painting by Andrew Hester

The INK Festival

13th-16th April

The INK Festival 2023 will take place 13th-16th April (and April 17th which is an exclusive free day for students) in Halesworth. We have expanded into the town to create many original performance spaces where we will be performing more than 50 short new plays, selected this year from hundreds of submissions from new as well as experienced writers.

What is unique about INK is that we produce all the plays performed. Chosen from annual submissions and INK workshops, each play is read at least five times before a short list is formed, from which directors select the plays they wish to direct. We cast the plays from auditions in Suffolk and London and each year bring together a team of more than 60 professional theatre practitioners of actors, directors, stage crew and technical staff to enable The INK Festival.

This year, we had several submission categories including: The Environment, Multimedia, Radio Comedy,

What on Earth... is Earth day?

Musicals, Physical Theatre and more, producing a wide variety of relevant and thoughtprovoking plays. As well as more than 50 short plays, there will be an exciting line-up of comedy, radio, art, poetry, music, children's programmes, fascinating talks, workshops, short new films and much more.

As ever, we're delighted to have a number of plays from some very special supporters including Anthony Horowitz, Kate and Greg Mosse, Louis de Bernieres, Richard Francis, and Lise Mayer. There will be special guest appearances from Alexei Sayle, Kevin Clifton, Jan Etherington, David Morrissey, Jan Ravens, Luke Wright and Radio Active in a thrilling lineup of talks and performances. Sunday Funday, on Sunday 16th April will see additional and exciting street performances and activities for everyone - performed along The Thoroughfare and Market Square in the centre of Halesworth. www.inkfestival.org

MELTON CAR BOOT SALE

Dates

The first Earth Day was held in the USA on 22 April, 1970 when a huge number of people (concerned about the damage that was being done to the environment - oil spills, air pollution, raw sewage in rivers, toxic dumps and more) came together to campaign for greater protection for the planet.

See: www.earthday.org. Earth Day is now a global event and those issues are worryingly still with us over 50 years later, including here in the UK. We still need to campaign for a cleaner environment and an urgent response is needed to the challenge of global warming leading to sea level rise and climate change.

Since 2008, Transition Woodbridge has campaigned for a cleaner, healthier and wildlife friendly local environment. We work on a variety of projects... We plant fruit trees around Woodbridge and Melton that benefit insects and birds but will also provide free, fresh fruit close to our homes. We encourage care of our town with our 5 Minute Litter picks, litter picking events and an annual river clean with the Sea Scouts. Our Repair Café helps to reduce waste and save money. We encourage everyone to make a space for wildlife with our Wildlife Corridors Project. We reduce food waste with our harvesting of surplus fruit which

Deben Flower Club

The next flower club meeting will be held on 11th April at 7:30pm in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton, IP10 0PU. Our demonstrator this month will be our very good friend Pat South from Felixstowe. Pat will be demonstrating "This and That" and we know whatever she does it will be a colourful and fun filled evening. So why not join us! You will be made most welcome.

Visitors £6. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available after the demonstration and Pat's beautiful arrangements will be raffled at the end of the evening.

For more information, email Wendy: wa@sandlings.co.uk or phone Sandy on 07910 463158 or just come along on the evening. No prior booking is required.

Flower arranging tip of the month

Your cut flowers will benefit enormously from the addition of some flower food to your vase. To make your own flower food just combine the following:

• 1 litre tepid water

• 1 teaspoon vinegar

• 1 teaspoon bleach

• 1 level tablespoon sugar Stir well to dissolve the sugar and just add your flowers.

we pass on to lunch clubs and food banks. And in 2021, we developed our Local Food Project to promote food and drink producers within 21 miles of Woodbridge. If you buy food produced locally, you support the farmers, growers and processors and this gives a boost to the local economy and jobs and the food you buy will be fresher, healthier, seasonal, will have travelled a shorter distance and need less packaging. It also helps to ensure the security of our food supply which is vital in a time of political instability and disrupted weather patterns. For more information, see our website www.transitionwoodbridge.org. uk/local-food-project.

On Saturday 22 April, we'd like to invite everyone in and around Woodbridge to join us in a Celebration of Earth Day in Whisstocks Place at our Local Food and Environment Fair between 10am and 4pm.

Transition Woodbridge will be sharing the event (which is supported by Woodbridge Town Council and the Woodbridge Riverside Trust) with an Ambient Music festival organised by Jan Pulsford. A range of quality local food and drink producers will set up their stalls and several local groups will show what they are doing to help improve, protect and raise awareness of our environment - Suffolk Wildlife Trust, RSPB, Save the Deben, Woodbridge Climate Action Centre and others. Transition Woodbridge will be there so please come and talk to us if you'd like to join us to help improve our environment here in Woodbridge. We are so fortunate to live in this lovely area but we can all help to protect it and make it even better.

'Smokey Joe's' by John Pollard won second place

First print competition of the year well contested

A field of 31 images was closely judged by Nigel Rea ARPS at Woodbridge's Quay Church Hall.

The 'open subject' competition for members was fairly critiqued and well scored with eight prints being 'held back' for comparison to decide the top scores.

The winning image was 'Early Birds Catching Worms' by Barry Jones. Second place was awarded to John Pollard for 'Smokey Joe's'

and third to Steve Stammers for 'Long-tailed Tit'. Sue Garrod's entry 'Spanish Serenade' was also selected by Nigel as runner up. Members look forward to a programme of interesting talks and challenges including planning and putting together an audiovisual presentation and an Arctic wildlife travelogue. Programme and membership details on: www.woodbridge cameraclub.co.uk

Woodbridge Flower Club

It was lovely to meet up after the long Christmas break. As the committee were still in festive mood, the meeting started with the mini pantomime Aladdin, which was enjoyed by the members. This was followed by a refreshment break allowing time for Lyn and Jenny, from the committee, to change out of their costumes and set up an informal demonstration.

Lyn started by explaining how to prepare and condition flowers before using them.

Lyn and Jenny then completed

several arrangements giving many useful tips, especially for new members. They explained how arrangers are trying to use less oasis and using different materials which are more environmentally friendly. Jenny used a pin holder for one of her arrangements and also spoke about how crumpled chicken wire could also be used inside a container to hold flowers in place. After an interesting and informative meeting, the numerous arrangements were raffled.

Woodbridge Inner Wheel

Inner Wheel is an international organisation with three objectives: to promote true friendship, to encourage the ideals of personal service, and to foster international understanding. Personal service sounds like hard work and, yes, sometimes it can be! But, in coming together to serve others, true friendships are forged.

A lunch of homemade soup and fruit crumble (made by members) was enjoyed at President Sharon's home on 10th January, which was International Inner Wheel Day. A joyful occasion, but better still, £160 was raised for Mary's Meals, a global charity providing life-changing meals to some of the world's poorest children. Even better, this sum received matched funding so £320 in total. £19.15

feeds one child for an entire year!

In February (thanks to member Deirdre Griffin and Rotarian husband, Tom) our annual quiz was reinstated, and the Community Hall was packed! No one is denying the hours of work put into preparing the quiz by Deirdre and Tom, and the raffle by Louise Cheeseman and her team, but what a fun evening everyone enjoyed. The Bookworms were the winners. £1,300 was raised for 4YP, a charity that supports young people in Suffolk. Also, a Literary quiz organised by International Officer, Daphne Rayment, entertained our families and friends over Christmas and raised £159 for the Book Bus, an international charity providing books to children who would otherwise never see one. The

winner was Jenny Ager. The Memory Café (for those with memory problems and their carers, organised by the Woodbridge Deben and Woodbridge Rotary Clubs and Woodbridge IW) is enjoyed by many and continues to meet on the last Wednesday of each month at Woodbridge Football Club. Guests joined us at our February meeting to hear Edward Creasey speak about life as the High Sheriff of Suffolk, and the IW District 8 Chairman, Hilary Farrell, spoke at our March meeting. Woodbridge IW members meet at Ufford Park Hotel at 6:30pm on the first Thursday of each month. If you would like to know more about the club, look for District 8 on the website: www.innerwheel.co.uk

Woodbridge Camera Club

Transition Woodbridge