Your local guide to family days out and places to visit this Summer. Including:
PLUS... Suffolk Libraries new Summer Reading Quest.
CONTACT US:
EDITOR:
Stacey Phillips
T: 07951 946736
E: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk
Design: Stacey Phillips
Printed by: Buxton Press
Next Issue: Sept/Oct 2024
Welcome
Welcome to our new summer issue.
It doesn't seem possible that the summer holidays are upon us already. To help you and your family prepare we have put together a brilliant What's On guide - full of great days out and ideas for places to visit this summer. I for one cannot wait to visit the new Quentin Blake Exhibition at Moyse's Hall Museum. It wouldn't be a Summer Edition without the wonderful content Suffolk Museums provide for us, and this year does not disappoint. Please head to pages 11 - 13 to see the fantastic range of activities, events and workshops museums in Suffolk are hosting during the summer holidays.
Please also take a look at the new Summer Reading Quest that Suffolk Libraries are organising this year on pages 16-17.
I hope you have a great summer.
Best Wishes Stacey Phillips
Could this be your dream job?
Work flexible hours from home around your family
Families Suffolk is a premium free magazine for parents of children aged 0 to 12 in Suffolk and is now looking for a new owner!
Families Suffolk magazine is part of the brand-leading Families Magazine franchise group, which was established in 1990 and has 40 local titles around the UK.
If you are interested in:
∞ Running your own business, during hours that suit you
∞ learning the skills of print, publishing, copy writing, design, sales, social media and business management
Then call us today for more information: 07951 946736
Email: stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk
WHAT'S ON
QUENTIN BLAKE: THE ILLUSTRATED HOSPITAL EXHIBITION
WHERE: Moyse’s Hall Museum, IP33 1DX
WHEN: Running until Sun 6 October www.moyseshall.org
EXHIBITION: BRICK WONDERS - AROUND THE WORLD IN LEGO® BRICKS
WHERE: The Hold, Ipswich, IP4 1LR
WHEN: Fri 12 July - Sun 29 September www.suffolkarchives.co.uk/whats-on/
THEATRE IN THE PARKS
SEE PAGES 5 & 7 FOR MORE INFORMATION www.whatsonwestsuffolk.co.uk
WOOLLY'S SUMMER HOLIDAY TRAIL
WHERE: Christchurch Mansion, IP4 2BE
WHEN: Sat 20 July - Sun 1 September www.cimuseums.org.uk/visit/ christchurch-mansion/
MEGA BOUNCE PLAY PARK
WHERE: Sudbury Rugby Club, CO10 0GB
WHEN: Sat 6 - Sun 7 July www.megabouncepark.com
LONG MELFORD VILLAGE FUN DAY
WHERE: Long Melford Primary School, CO10 9ED
WHEN: Saturday 13 July www.facebook.com/FriendsLuMPS
SUMMER OF PLAY
SEE PAGE 10 FOR MORE INFORMATION www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ickworth-estate
KIDZFEST
WHERE: Trinity Park, Ipswich, IP3 9UH
WHEN: Sat 20 - Sun 21 July www.facebook.com/ FamilyFunFestUK
www.ipswichentertains.co.uk/ family-fun-days/
at Christchurch Mansion
Meet and handle live animals at our interactive shows, get creative at craft workshops, embark on a trail around the Mansion, and more!
Your local guide to family days out and places to visit this Summer. Including:
PLUS... Suffolk Libraries new Summer Reading Quest.
Quentin Blake exhibition coming to Moyse’s Hall Museum, this summer
Following the hugely successful Moments exhibition in summer 2021 and the Urban Frame:
Mutiny in Colour exhibition in 2023, which attracted over 50,000 people, this summer Moyse’s Hall will present a display of work by one of the nation’s favourite illustrators, Quentin Blake.
Since 2005, Quentin Blake’s drawings for hospitals and healthcare settings have become a significant part of his work. Because of their clinical function, many of the spaces are not easily accessible to visitors, so relatively few people - only patients and hospital staff - may get the chance to see them.
Created in Quentin Blake’s instantly recognisable style, the drawings provide something for everyone. With swimming babies, helpful dragons, treetop adventures, and poignant landscapes, there are plenty of unexpected delights to discover in Quentin Blake’s Illustrated Hospital.
Blake’s books have won numerous prizes and awards. In 1999 he was appointed the first ever Children's Laureate, was created a CBE in 2005 and has numerous honorary degrees from universities throughout the UK. He received a knighthood for 'services to illustration' in the New Year's Honours for 2013, became an Honorary Freeman of the City of London in 2015 and was appointed 'Companion of Honour' in The Queen's Birthday Honours List in 2022.
The exhibition runs between Tuesday 4 June and Sunday 6 October.
Your local guide to family days out and places to visit this Summer. Including:
Theatre in the Parks
West Suffolk Council’s Theatre in the Parks season has become one of the highlights of the summer for family entertainment.
The Unusual Adventures of Robin Hood Abbey Gardens, Bury St Edmunds Monday 29 July 12noon and 3.30pm
A classic tale of Robin and his Merry Men outwitting the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham with more than a little help from Maid Marian. The outdoor setting will instantly transport you to the world of Sherwood Forest.
The Secret Garden Abbey Gardens, Bury St Edmunds Thursday 1 August 2pm and 6.30pm
A brand new re-imagining of the classic Frances Hodgson Burnett book brought to you by The Plandits. Suitable for anyone aged 6+ who loves literature and the great outdoors, this heartfelt, energetic show is full of original music, puppetry, interaction and laughs.
The Tale of Jemima Puddleduck West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village Tuesday 6 August 12noon and 3.30pm
Jemima goes in search of a nesting place in the forest and soon she meets a charming ‘gentleman’ who offers her the perfect nesting place in his woodshed. But is his woodshed full of feathers and why is he asking her to collect the herbs for roast duck?
Beowulf West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village Wednesday 7 August 12noon and 3.30pm
One of the earliest and most famous examples of Anglo-Saxon poetry, the tale of Beowulf has enthralled readers for centuries. Utilising movement, poetry and puppetry, as well as action packed fight sequences.
Angelica Sprocket’s Pockets
West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village
Friday 9 August 12noon
Mon-Sat 10am-5pm (last entry 3.30pm), Sun 12pm-4pm (last entry 2.30pm)
PLUS... Suffolk Libraries new Summer Reading Quest.
Prepare to be surprised, thrilled and tickled pink by Angelica Sprocket's neverending pockets, and the marvellous things she keeps in them. This is a show filled with live music, puppetry, audience interaction and chaos!
For more information or to book tickets, visit: www.whatsonwestsuffolk.co.uk
WHAT'S ON
WHAT'S ON CONTINUED
STAY & PLAY SESSIONS
WHERE: Framlingham College Prep School, IP13 7AH
WHEN: Tue 23 & Tue 30 July
Tue 6, Tue 13 & Tue 20 August www.framlinghamcollege.co.uk/ join/stayandplay
FARMLYMPICS
WHERE: Easton Farm Park, IP13 0EQ
WHEN: Mon 22 July - Fri 23 August www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk
FESTIVAL OF WHEELS
WHERE: Trinity Park, Ipswich, IP3 9UH
WHEN: Sat 3 - Sun 4 August www.motorshowevents.com/festivalof-wheels-car-show-ipswich-suffolk/
Hop through the summer holidays at Jump In Adventure and Trampoline Park Ipswich. The perfect day out for the whole family, come rain or shine!
KITE FESTIVAL
WHERE: The Naze Education and Visitor Centre, Walton on the Naze, CO14 8LE
WHEN: Sat 27 - Sun 28 July www.eastangliankiteflyers.org.uk
FELIXSTOWE CARNIVAL
WHERE: Felixstowe
WHEN: Friday 26 – Sunday 28 July www.felixstowecarnival.org
ACTION ARENA
WHERE: Christchurch Park, Ipswich, IP4 2BX
WHEN: Sat 3 - Sun 4 August www.actionarena.co.uk/ipswich
Bouncers of all ages can defy gravity on the wall-to-wall trampolines, practice their tricks into the giant airbag, or challenge their friends on the battle beam and wipeout zone.
For the little ones, our Toddler Takeover sessions provide a safe and enjoyable environment for ages 1-6. Kids aged 4+ can jump to their hearts’ content during Open Jump sessions or enjoy a cool nightclub atmosphere at our weekend Sunset Sessions. Jump In and save with a Jump In Summer Pass! Five 60 minute Open
WELLY WALK 2024
WHERE: Jimmy's Farm, Ipswich IP9 2AR
WHEN: Saturday 13 July
www.colchesteripswichcharity.org. uk/wellywalk
The Welly Walk is back for 2024! This year Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity’s fun-filled event is on Saturday 13 July. It's going to be the biggest Welly Walk yet! The 5km stomp will take you on an interactive walk inside Jimmy’s Farm, guiding you through the Wildlife Park for an activity packed family day out.
After the walk you can enjoy free entry to Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park and also have exclusive access to our Family Fun Day. From bouncy castles, a magician, local craft stalls, food, games, and over 100 animal species, there is something for everyone. Not only does each ticket give you all the above, but it also gets you 10% off all onsite catering outlets for the day! Jimmy’s Farm are one of only two Wildlife Parks in the country where you can bring your dog so the whole family can come. Join them for a big celebration and meet Puddles the adorable Children’s Appeal mascot.
Get your ticket today for a great day out!
Jump sessions for the bargain Early Bird price of £39 (£45 RRP). Plus, the birthday child of any party booked in June, July, or August will get a Summer Pass completely free!
Join the bounciest Holiday Club around! Our Holiday Clubs are packed with fun and exciting activities, the chance to make new friends, and ultimate bouncing fun.
gojumpin.com/adventurepark-ipswich/
JUMPIN, IPSWICH
Don’t miss the ‘Brick Wonders’ exhibition at The Hold on Ipswich Waterfront. Brick Wonders, created by Warren Elsmore, showcases wonders from around the world including the seven wonders of the ancient world and historic, modern, and natural wonders.
Marvel at this breathtaking display of structures and sights - all built using half a million LEGO® bricks!
Fri 12 July - Sun 29 September
Adults: £5 Children over 4: £4
Group ticket (2 adults, 2 children): £14
To book tickets, please scan the QR code or visit: www.suffolkarchives.co.uk/whatson
Head to Ickworth Estate for a summer of play. We once again invite you transform the Walled Garden and reclaim it as a hub for families and friends to connect with nature and each other. With many different activities in this ‘Play Garden’, you can lose track of time weaving through wild mazes, performing on our Summer House stage, cooking at our mud kitchen or immersing yourself in the sensory garden among so much more. With covered areas available for sunnier days, there will also be a refreshments trailer for drinks, snacks and ice creams. There’s also a handy toilet next to the walled garden meaning you can base yourself with family and friends for much of the day if you wish. Open every day from 19 July until 2 September between 10am and 3:30pm. Entry is included in our normal admission charges which are free for National Trust members.
Bring your bike (or hire one of ours), explore the parkland on two wheels and discover the far-flung corners with spectacular views of the Rotunda and surrounding estate. We have balance bikes for the smallest of legs, or you can hire one of our trailers so the little person can admire the views safely whilst you peddle around the parkland. We also have larger bikes to suit bigger kids and helmets are available too.
Prices start from £3 and out cycle hire hub is open everyday during the school holidays between 10am and 4pm with last hire at 2pm.
For the days where the weather is a little iffy and you don’t fancy dressing up for it, the servant’s quarter in the basement is child-friendly allowing
children to freely explore, touch and experience what life was like living and working at Ickworth. There are even traditional games to play in the servants hall. Open daily 11am – 3pm. Make sure you bring a picnic to enjoy in one of our many picnic spots or treat yourself to lunch at one of our cafes then grab an ice cream before visiting our adventure playground. Spend the evening at Ickworth Estate enjoying the family classic Wind in the Willows performed against the backdrop of the beautiful Rotunda setting. Taking place on Thursday 25 July between 6pm and 8pm, tickets start from £13. Booking advisable.
For all this and more, visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth-estate
CHOOSE ANY OF THE SUGGESTED CHALLENGES BELOW OR THINK OF YOUR OWN AND HAVE FUN!
Read with a family member
Take a book on a picnic somewhere new in Suffolk
Make something yummy from a recipe book
Choose a book with an animal on the front cover
Read a book that makes you laugh
Build a cosy den to read in
Visit a different library in Suffolk
Read under the covers with a torch
Read a comic or graphic novel
Read at the beach
Read a book at breakfast
Listen to an audiobook
Ask for a book recommendation from library staff or a volunteer
Choose a book with no words and tell your own story
Draw a picture inspired by a book
Read a book that teaches you something new
Visit your local library and take part in one of the fun weekend activities
Read while travelling
Discover more about Suffolk myths and legends
Borrow a book about stars and go stargazing
Download the 50 Things to Do Before You’re Five app and get exploring
Create your own book ‘zine’
SuffolkOwl Sanctuary
Summer in the Alps
The Alps may be an obvious destination for the ski season, but how about a summer visit? Summer offers enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year - and plenty of fresh air to fill your families’ lungs.
With reasonably priced flights from London airports to Geneva then a short drive to Morzine, there is a warm welcome waiting from Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly Powder. With the main chalet - Au Coin du Feu - plus two chalets next door, you can organise your own meals, or join the party at ‘Au Coin du Feu’ for dinners that you usually only dream of. Family friendly early evening meals for the children and a daytime crèche for little ones not quite as active as you, with drinks in the bar for the grown ups – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – Paul and Francesca will make you wish that this was home!
For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and more about summer in Morzine visit: www.morzine-avoriaz.com/ activites-de-plein-air-ete.html
PQA
Performing arts skills that boost confidence and creativity
When Pauline Quirke MBE and her husband Steve opened the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in 2007, they aimed to help young people realise their full potential through a diverse spectrum of performing arts . With over 200 academies today, this ethos remains central at PQA every weekend.
All our students have something unique to offer, and we aim to bring out the best in each of them. From the moment your child steps through our doors, we teach performing arts skills that boost confidence and creativity in a warm, welcoming environment.
CONFIDENCE BOOSTING
Building confidence and developing performance skills are key reasons children join PQA. Learning and practicing performing arts in a safe, encouraging environment helps young people build self-belief. Whether it’s practicing routines or performing in front of peers, family, and friends, our students learn to try new things.
We support and nurture them, allowing their confidence to blossom naturally.
During their time with PQA, students have opportunities to perform in showcases, local performances, and even in London’s West End. It’s amazing to see our students experience the thrill of performing, knowing they’ve built the skills to achieve great things on and off the stage.
aspects of filmmaking, from casting and script work to directing and operating cameras and sound equipment, as well as acting for the screen.
CONNECTING WITH OTHERS
AN OUTLET FOR CREATIVITY
Creativity positively impacts mental health in many ways. It can help refocus thoughts away from worries, express oneself, release endorphins, boost self-esteem, and connect with others. Whether learning a dance routine, acting in a play, or pitching a film idea, our students use their imaginations and express themselves, fostering faith in their capabilities.
Our Film & Television module uniquely nurtures creativity. Students learn all
Few industries rely on teamwork as much as the performing arts. Students learn to work within a group and interact respectfully. Sharing a common goal and working collectively provides a beneficial experience. Rehearsing, performing, or filming allows young people to connect with peers who share the same passions. By working together, students form strong bonds, deepen empathy, and develop compassion for the world around them.
www.pqacademy.com
Is your child fully vaccinated?
Catching up is easy, at any age
Over recent months, you may have read or heard that cases of measles are increasing in England. While cases in Suffolk are currently low, it's still important to prepare for and protect against the potential for increased cases.
If your child is starting school in September, and has not been fully vaccinated with the MMR vaccine, now is a good time to get it done.
If you are pregnant, the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination is available, ideally between 16 and 32 weeks, and is important to protect your baby for the first few weeks of their life.
You can look in the ‘immunisation’ section in your child’s red book (Personal Child Health Record) to see if they have received their MMR vaccinations.
If your child is missing ANY vaccination, book an appointment to get them up to date. This can be done at a vaccination clinic or your GP. If you would like to book a place on a clinic, please call 0300 555 5055 or for more information visit; www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/ ChildhoodVaccinations.
Getting your child vaccinated is free and the best way to protect them.
Keeping your family active this summer
For kids, summer means freedom, fun and a break from their daily term-time routines. While it’s much easier to encourage your kids to be physically active in the summer months,
it can still be challenging. Work schedules, the heat and video games can all play a role in a potentially sedentary summer lifestyle.
However, encouraging kids to be active AND getting active as a family is a great way to spend the summer months. Not only will it improve your family’s health and wellbeing, it’s a great way to bond and spend quality time together.
Ways to help your family stay physically active this Summer
1. FIND A LOCAL PARK
Parks can appeal to kids of all ages making them great for family activities. Whether it's frisbee, jumpers for goalposts, rounders, a picnic, or a good walk.
2. GET IN THE WATER
We have a beautiful coastline in Suffolk which can be easily accessed wherever you live - so take it to the beach and supervise your kids swimming at all times. But the pool may be your first choice, so visit your local Abbeycroft pool and dive right in!
3. TAKE IT OUTSIDE
This seems like an obvious tip, but it’s important to reiterate. Kids tend to be more active when they have more space. Take advantage of the nice days and get outside! Go for a family walk, walk the dog, or ride bikes together. Keep it simple and throw a ball or frisbee in the garden. Or, challenge your kids to a game of dodgeball.
4. PARKRUN
We are lucky enough to have 22 weekly Parkrun events in Suffolk. They are free, weekly events for the whole family - 2k or 5k and you can walk, run, jog, volunteer or wheel your way around. Find out more at: parkrun.org.uk
5. FAMILY GYM MEMBERSHIPS
Using your local Abbeycroft centre for a range of activities such as lessons, swimming, soft-play, badminton, fitness classes and more is great value for money and there is something for you all. Find out more by scanning the QR code in our advert. Parental and family support plays a key role in kids’ abilities to achieve the recommended levels of physical activity. Incorporating these activities into your kids’ summer will help them develop a healthy lifestyle that will hopefully stick with them beyond their summer break.
ASK THE EXPERTS
at Abbeycroft
Claire Turnbull from Abbeycroft says:
We meet a lot of families who aren’t sure where to start with getting into sport or exercise. And the honest answer is, keep it simple!
It doesn’t matter what you do as long as you just get active and it’s important to find something you like doing, otherwise you won’t stick with it.
More and more families are finding that taking part in activities together is so positive for them in so many ways. Parkrun is a great example of this and you can just turn up any weekend to see what a family affair it is.
We see families in our centres trying a bit of everything, even Dads and brothers having a go at Yoga…how great is that? But just get in the habit of moving more, it doesn’t have to cost you anything, walking and running are free!
And don’t set yourself unachievable goals that you won’t keep to as a family - start with small steps but try getting active together this Summer…you won’t regret it!
Are you dealing with the loss of someone you love whilst being responsible for ensuring that their wishes are carried out, even if that means you may be personally out of pocket because of current delays?
but currently because of chronic delays in the probate system, it is positively frightening. This is especially the case for dependents of the deceased who relied on them for financial support. After a death, the deceased’s bank accounts and assets are frozen. Their home, if not jointly owned, cannot be sold. To access these assets, a grant of probate is required which means going through the probate process
Let us start with what is “probate”?
Probate is the legal right to deal with someone's property, money and possessions (their 'estate') when they die. It is sometimes needed to access bank accounts, sell assets and settle debts after someone has died. If there is a will, you may need the document known as grant of probate in order to prove that you have the right to deal with assets like bank accounts, property, shares, pensions and life insurance policies.
When is probate required?
Probate is usually not required on estates of less than £10,000 or if all assets are jointly owned. Current statistics suggest that this covers about 50% of deaths.
What is currently happening with the probate process?
You may have read in the media that there are currently significant delays to the probate service caused by a number of factors which include moving the process online, replacing regional offices with a single central office and the impact on the retention of skilled staff because of COVID and the trend of working from home. Whatever the reason, these significant delays are putting added pressure on those nominated by the deceased to execute their final wishes.
Back in 2016 it was recorded that probate applications took on average seven to 10 working days to process. Most recent data show delays of more than 13 weeks and perhaps most alarming is the fact that cases taking more than six months for an application to be approved has doubled in the past three years. The problem with this last statistic is that Inheritance tax (IHT) has to be paid within six months of a death or relatives are charged interest. Not receiving a grant of probate within a reasonable timeframe means that a significant number of families are faced with paying IHT out of their own pockets. And these are not necessarily wealthy families; anyone who is a homeowner these days without joint ownership will probably be subject to IHT. There are also costs such as insuring an unoccupied property and ongoing utility bills. The Government is aware of the situation and there is a Justice Committee’s inquiry into the delays faced by users of the Probate Courts (HMCTS); however, all has been halted by the General Election.
What can you do to avoid being caught up in the probate process?
Probate Service has cited that the main causes for delay have been missing inheritance tax information or miscalculations, incorrectly completed application documents and case handlers needing more information about the signing of the will. It has also been noted that damaged wills or issues around handwritten amendments have contributed to delays. There is help online for those going through the process on their own but it may be worth recognising that experience can help reduce the risk of administrative errors and avoid costly holdups such as failed property sales and higher inheritance tax bills.
If I and my team can help you to navigate the probate process, call: 01473 219282 or email: zoe.southgate@bates-wells.co.uk
Where every pupil
explores
Summer Stay and Play Sessions
Running through July and August 2024 • 9.30am – 11.00am From our purpose built Early Years Building at Framlingham College Prep School, IP13 7AH. Free of charge. Suitable for 2 – 5 year olds. Siblings welcome.
An opportunity to play together, get busy with arts & crafts and enjoy outdoor adventures.
July 2024: Tuesday 23 and Tuesday 30 July
August 2024: Tuesday 06, Tuesday 13 and Tuesday 20 August
Book via framlinghamcollege.co.uk/stayandplay
There’s never been a more exciting time to join us at St Jo’s. Find out more about our Sport, Academic and Performing Arts initiatives at our Open Morning on Saturday 21 September.
