Ipswich24 Magazine - February 2023

entertainment on the coast

A fun-filled February is in store at Felixstowe’s award-winning Spa Pavilion Theatre!

First up, on Friday 3rd, it’s ‘Better than the 90s’ – Starring genuine UK global megastars (Dario G, Baby D, Rozalla), alongside interactive 90s character actors, for an incredible chart-topping show! The very next night, ‘A Beautiful Noise’ brings to life the legendary music of Neil Diamond. This internationally acclaimed production is fronted by Fisher Stevens.

On Saturday 11th February, prepared to be enthralled by ‘An Evening of Burlesque’! This glamourous show blends stylish cabaret, comedy, music, circus and burlesque. Then the Little Mermaid swims into Felixstowe on Sunday 12th, with a family-friendly matinee performance (2.30pm), and also a much naughtier show at 8pm! The Adult Panto features Divina De Campo, and other stars from Ru Paul’s Drag Race, bringing you plenty of comedy, camp songs and innuendo.

For a fast-paced fun family matinee on Thursday 16th February, it’s ‘High Jinx’Direct from the Blackpool Tower Circus and The Sooty Show Live! This show is filled with amazing tricks, grand illusions and crazy circus thrills.

The Ricky Nelson Rock n Roll Show will be at The Spa on Friday 17th. Join Dave B and his band, for a good old singsong to songs you may have forgotten you knew! On Saturday 18th, ‘Mercury’ will rock The Spa. This astounding Queen Tribute always brings the house down, so you’d be ‘GaGa’ to miss out! Completing the run of four consecutive shows, it’s ‘Pop Princesses’, on Sunday 19th February. Four fairytale

princesses will sing top pop hits from artists such as Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor and Miley Cyrus.

Finally: ‘Spirit of the Dance’, on Saturday 25th, will have you reeling, quite literally, with an evening of “the world’s greatest Irish Dance”. But it’s not just traditional jigs and reels – This show delivers the powerful rhythms of Irish Dance combined with the passionate Latino rhythms of Tango, Flamenco and Red-Hot Salsa!

Tickets for all shows are available from the Spa Box Office: Tuesday to Sunday, 11am-4pm in person or by calling 01394 284962. You can also select and book seats online, 24/7, at www.fxspa.co.uk

For another way to support the Spa and enjoy the panoramic sea views, their café, bars & restaurant are now open from 10am to 5pm every day. Ice creams, homemade cakes and a wide-ranging menu are all available to eat in or take away, plus a fabulous Sunday roast. Food is always served for two hours before every performance, with reservation advised on 01394 336336.

You can follow the Spa Pavilion on Facebook/Instagram, for all the latest news and show updates. Alternatively, you can sign up to their email newsletter at www.fxspa.co.uk

INSIDE THIS MONTH FEBRUARY

Weddings: Our

In Later Life:

As

Events Diary

Your

At Home:

11-15

Local Services:

From an electrician to a decorator, TV and audio solutions to a plaster, paving and windscreen repairs....

There’s a wide selection of trades people in our Local Services pages.

30-31

the New Wolsey, live music and details on the brilliant Commitments coming to the Regent.

Community raise over £128,000

St Elizabeth Hospice is thanking the local community for helping its Christmas campaign, Be a Star, raise more than £128,000 for the independent Suffolk charity.

From the Be a Star Matched Giving Week and the hospice’s popular Light up a Life remembrance event through to the annual Christmas Day Dip and individual fundraisers taking on challenges in aid of the hospice, supporters across East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, joined with St Elizabeth Hospice to raise this fantastic amount.

With donations still coming in, this year’s Be a Star appeal has already surpassed the £100,000 raised by 2021’s Be a Star appeal, with the 2022 Matched Giving Week alone raising over £27,000 as local businesses matched every £1 raised by the local community for Be a Star between 5th and 11th December.

Pauline Donkin, Head of Individual Giving and Supporter Care at St Elizabeth Hospice, said, “A big thank you to everyone who supported our Be a Star appeal this year, with the current, difficult

economic climate we really appreciate people generously donating towards the hospice.

“Whether you fundraised as part of our Christmas Day Dip, made a donation, purchased an item from one of our shops or your business supported the appeal, you all made a difference to St Elizabeth Hospice this Christmas.

“A special hospice thank you goes to Jess Kelly and her family, who kindly shared their hospice Christmas story as part of our appeal, which highlighted how every year Be a Star enables the hospice to help patients and their families to be together over the festive period.”

As well as local businesses and individuals supporting the appeal, local schools and youth groups also showed their love for their local hospice this Christmas.

Including Bildeston Primary School who raised £745 by taking part in the Be a Star Selection Box Challenge, Christmas Jumper Day and by designing Christmas jumpers for the hospice’s mascot Woolly Pully, who will be paying the pupils a visit in the New Year to thank them for their support.

Brandon Orton, Community Fundraiser at the hospice, added: “Well done to Bildeston Primary School and all the schools who supported our Be a Star this appeal. It was brilliant to see the creative and fun ways you supported the Be a Star appeal and we wish you all a very Happy New Year.”

On average every Christmas, the hospice provides vital care to more than 1,150 people living with progressive and life-limiting illnesses and their families across East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney, for many of whom it will be their last Christmas spent together.

The funds raised by the Be a Star appeal will support the hospice’s vital work in providing free services to improve life for people living with a progressive or life limiting illness throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney For more information about the Be a Star appeal visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/be-a-star/ be-a-star-appeal.

• To find out more about St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 723600 or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk.

Stonham Barns Park February at

Set in over 140 acres of beautiful Suffolk countryside Stonham Barns Park offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, along with a retail village filled with over 40 unique shops and businesses. Take a walk round the Owl Sanctuary, see over 90 different birds of prey, meerkats and red squirrels. Pop into the Teapot Pottery, watch the teapots being made or spend a few hours painting your own. Then play a round of golf at the Golf Park, choose from eight different golfing activities

including adventure golf and footgolf or spend a few hours fishing in one of the fully stocked lakes. The retail village has a range of shops and businesses selling gifts, crafts, books, pictures & frames, paddle boards, crystals, clothes, toys, furniture, hair & beauty treatments, homewares, holidays, hot tubs, antiques, dog food and accessories, sweets, and lots more. You will also find a post office, convenience store and garden centre.

For the younger ones in your family take a visit to Tumbledown Soft Play Barn with Sensory room, where they can run, jump, climb, and explore to their hearts content or you could let them jump and play on the FREE bouncy pillow, enjoy a train ride or visit the seasonal fairground. If you are feeling hungry during your visit there are two great places to eat, Café 24 with its fabulous home cooked food and the Teapot Tea Room with speciality tea and coffee and delicious homemade cakes and pastries. There are many events and shows hosted throughout the year. The first event for 2023 will be live music in the theatre from Billy Hunt and The Modern Classix on 10th February, then in March the ‘The Big Weekend’ which is a free to enter event that showcases all that is great at Stonham Barns Park featuring music, dance and comedy alongside previews of the 2023 show calendar, plus a new Model Railway Show. More information in the next issue.

Jam star in Forest gig

Paul Weller has announced dates as part of Forest Live 2023, the summer concert series presented by Forestry England.

Paul Weller has enjoyed an incredible 50 years making music. From his era-defining breakthrough with The Jam, reinvention via The Style Council, and formidable career as a solo artist, Paul has scored a string of Number 1 albums and singles. Constantly creating forward-thinking music, the everchanging Weller has connected with fans across the generations and is regarded as a cultural icon of British music. A Forest Live stalwart, Paul has made a record-breaking 25 appearances as part of the concert series since his debut in 2004, the most by any artist and all to sold-out crowds.

Forest Live is a major outdoor live music series that introduces forests to new audiences in unique, natural woodland arenas around the country. Over 2 million people have attended a Forest Live gig in the last twenty-two years, enjoying great music and supporting the nation’s forests when buying a ticket. Going to a concert helps Forestry England create beautiful places for people to enjoy, run important conservation projects and keep growing trees. Last year they planted some 6.8 million trees, caring for the nation’s 1,500 woods and forests sustainably and welcoming 363 million visits annually. Commenting on the dates, Paul Weller said, “I am very happy to be playing the Forest Live gigs again as they are always such great shows with such a great audience! See you there.”

Paul Weller + special guests will be at Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk on Saturday 17th June. Tickets on sale at www.forestryengland.uk/music.

With so much to do why not stay for a long or short stay in the holiday park and you can choose to take your own tent, caravan, or motorhome or you can hire a fully furnished luxury bell tent, a cosy cabin made for two or a fully furnished holiday home. The holiday park has full camping facilities along with a bar and clubhouse which is open for anyone to use. If you want to stay at Stonham Barns Park again and again, why not purchase your very own holiday home to use 11 months of the year.

This is a ‘dog friendly’ site and open seven days a week. Whether you stay in the holiday park or visit for the day, Stonham Barns Park always has lots to keep you busy.

For more information visit their website: www. stonhambarns.co.uk or their social media pages.

Social enterprise puts autistic Suffolk artist in the spotlight

something that draws people into looking and seeing things how I do.”

Neptune’s Quay, Needham Market and other local landmarks are the subjects of many of Tom’s paintings.

Artist Tom Coomber, aged 25, from Needham Market is autistic, dyspraxic and dyslexic. Needless to say he, and his family, have faced a few challenges over the years. However, despite not always being plain sailing, Tom has one great passion that has sustained him throughout challenging times. Tom is an artist. His style is vibrant and alive, full of movement and bluster. “My paintings are a way of showing beautiful or quirky things that I see as I move around our shared world. It’s really a great feeling to make

Last year also saw Tom’s “Cedar Trees of Needham” short-listed for the Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition. This was an enormous boost to Tom’s confidence. It has taken Tom some time to find his place in the world, to recognise his own skills and the contribution he can make. He has gained enormously from helping at local exhibitions and talking to other local artists. Many have taken the time to encourage Tom to keep painting and trying new things.

A timely new start-up called Art Rabble has given Tom a new

opportunity to share his work on an even wider scale. The social enterprise sells fine art giclee prints by disabled artists. It showcases work by artists with Fibromyalgia, Parkinson’s disease, Down’s syndrome and Autism.

Founder, Lisa Lim is determined that the site will be a force for good, “Art Rabble is about recognising the skills of disabled artists and giving them a way to share their artwork which doesn’t require the physical upheaval and demands of a bricks and mortar exhibitions. Each artist tells their own story, giving you a real

connection to the artwork.”To hear more about Tom and see more of his work visit art-rabble.org.

Find a Firmer Footing this winter

The first few months of the year are generally cold, wet and a bit miserable, with a higher chance of ice and snow on the ground and on pavements.

It is precisely these kinds of weather conditions that tend to give rise at this time of year to more people slipping, tripping or falling when out and about, often in a public place or even in the workplace.

These types of accident also, unfortunately, often result in people sustaining more serious injuries, such as broken bones and spinal and head injuries, that, in the worst cases, can prove fatal.

However, bringing a claim for personal injury as a result of a slip, trip or fall can be tricky. Pinpointing the correct person to bring a claim against can be difficult, if, for example, there are a number of potential owners of the accident site. Gathering the evidence needed to prove such a claim against whoever is responsible can then sometimes seem to be a mammoth task. Depending upon where you fall - on publicly or privately owned land - also makes a difference to the chances of successfully bringing a claim for compensation for personal injury and loss because the courts apply different tests to determine whether responsibility can be attached.

For example, while you may not be able to claim compensation if you tripped or slipped on a public highway or pavement, if the same accident occurred on privately owned land, you may be more successful.

So, what should you do, if you have an accident as a result of a slip, trip or fall either out and about or at work?

- Seek medical attention / get help.

- Report the accident to whoever is responsible for the site of the accident, whether that is the local council or a privately owned individual or company – ensure that the accident is logged in the accident book.

- If the incident takes place at work, notify your workplace health and safety representative.

- Take photographs of the scene of the accident on the day - or as near to the day of the accident as possible.

- Take details of exactly where you fell, what caused you to fall and what your direction of travel was.

- If you are aware that remedial action is taken after the accident has occurred to rectify any defect that caused you to slip, trip or fall, or any steps are taken after the event (such as putting up warning signs), if possible, get pictures of them and record the dates on which the remedial steps were taken.

- If available, get witness evidence from anyone who saw the accident or who can provide information as to how long the defect that caused you to fall was present before the incident took place.

- Keep records of your injuries and details of any out of pocket expenses you may have incurred as a result of your injuries, such as loss of earnings, medications, travel expenses and details of any care that you may have received.

Bringing these types of claim for compensation for personal injury can be a minefield. So, if you require assistance or advice on whether you can claim following an accident where you have slipped, tripped or fallen, please contact Louise Plant on 01473 298293 or by email at lplant@prettys.co.uk.

Talk on Benjamin Britten

A rescheduled Woodbridge Society talk on Benjamin Britten will now take place on February 1st.

Benjamin Britten, the composer with strong roots in East Suffolk, once said he wanted music to be “useful”.

This is also the aim of Britten Pears Arts, the charity that emerged from the Aldeburgh Festival, which he and his partner the singer Peter Pears founded in 1948. Its work, and the legacy Britten and Pears left behind them, is the subject of a rescheduled lecture put on by The Woodbridge Society.

Roger Wright CBE, the current chief executive of Britten Pears Arts and a former Controller of BBC3 and The Proms, was due to address The Woodbridge Society in October but the talk had to be postponed.

It will now take place at the start of February, and Mr Wright will look at the charity’s work in continuing the duo’s legacy to develop musical talent by offering learning and training in music.

The talk is entitled “Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears – a living heritage and a vision for the future.”

Mr Wright said, “We use music to transform people’s lives, to bring communities together and enhance daily life.”

Britten Pears Arts is based, appropriately enough, at The Red House, Aldeburgh, which the two moved into in 1957. Mr Wright’s talk will look at how his organisation allows students to experience world-class performances and work with freelance musicians and artists to improve their skills.

“In many ways we are one of a kind.” Mr Wright said. “We are one of only a very few musical organisations worldwide with such a rich heritage and history.”

The talk will now be at Quay Church, Quay Street, Woodbridge on Wednesday February 1st at 7.30 pm. Free to Woodbridge Society members, £5 entry for non-members.

Contact Martin Waller, publicity officer, The Woodbridge Society. 01394 246184/07768 701199. Pictures of Roger Wright are available at the charity’s website, www.brittenpearsarts.org.

Knightzzz at the Museum

Colchester Castle, Europe’s largest Norman Keep, will once again be throwing open its historic doors at night for you to enjoy the ultimate in sleepover experiences. If you’ve ever wondered what Colchester Castle is like after dark, now you can find out! Suitable for the whole family (5+), Knightzzz at the Museum offers plenty of fun, laughter and memory-making experiences. Meet historical characters, enjoy a tour of the Castle (with some spooky tales thrown in, exploring parts of the Castle not usually open to the public), and take part in fun activities before settling down for the night with a hot chocolate treat. All you need do is bring your sleeping bag, along with family and friends, and get ready for the most amazing night in one of the country’s most historic venues.

Councillor Pam Cox, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Heritage, said, “There is no doubt that Knightzzz at the Museum provides the ultimate sleepover experience. You can choose where you sleep – from the atmospheric Lucas Vault, historic prisons, calm chapel, or on the main galleries – you just need to ask yourself if you are brave enough to spend the night! The friendly team can’t wait to welcome you, so all you need to do is get your overnight bag ready and head to the Castle for an unforgettable evening and take your place in the Castle’s rich history!”

Knightzzz at the Castle returns on the 11th February 2023 and prices start at £35 per person. Head to the website for further information and floor plans.

Photo ID to vote at elections in May

Residents in East Suffolk are being urged to make sure they are ready to vote in May by checking they have an accepted form of ID. For the first time, voters will need to show photographic identification if they want to cast their ballot at this year’s local elections. However, anyone currently without the correct ID can apply for free ID to ensure they don’t miss out.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card.

Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

The full list of accepted ID is available at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/ voterID, with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for free ID.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for free ID online at www. electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID or by completing a paper form.

Discover your Crafty side

As mentioned last month, Craftability’s new workshop schedule is now out. This can be found on their website or you can pick up a paper copy in store.

At Craftability they have revealed the projects for the next two felting projects… both are great fun to make and include all tuition, materials and equipment as well as refreshments. February 7th and March 7th, you can book over the phone or call in and see them. For the flower project, you can choose your own colours. They still carry a wide variety of fabrics designed for both dressmaking and crafting. An abundance of interfacings, threads and notions are available to complete most projects. And, a large selection of 12 x 12 scrapbooking paper and cardstock as well as some themed paper pads. Not sure what scrapbooking involves? Sign up for the last Saturday of the month where you will have a couple of kits to help you on your way and lots of inspiration to complete more pages.

Don’t forget it’s not just paper and fabric that Craftability sell, but plaster of paris, clay, paint, wood, metal, wood, floristry items, decoupage, all types of glue, varnish, and far more items that we have room for here.

At Craftability they pride themselves on their customer service and knowledge of their products so do pop in and see them!

A reminder that the opening times remain at 9.30 – 4.00 Monday to Saturday.

Mercury line-up announced

The Mercury Theatre in Colchester have announced their programming for 2023.

The season opens with Run Rebel in a co-production between Mercury and Pilot Theatre, the award-winning company that brought Noughts and Crosses and The Bone Sparrow to the Colchester stage. Tessa Walker directs the world première adaption of Manjeet Mann’s Carnegie Medal-winning young adult novel, combining physical theatre and visual effects, and opening 2nd March, with previews from 25 February, running until 4th March.

Opening next is a new Mercury Production of They Don’t Pay? We Won’t Pay!, Deborah McAndrew’s adaptation of Dario Fo’s Sotto paga? Non si paga!. A ferociously funny political farce asks what lengths people will go to when they’re desperate to survive. The production opens on 22nd March, with previews from 17th March, and runs until 31st March.

Next, Mercury Creatives alumni Mia Jerome brings a new Mercury Original to the stage in her uplifting children’s show The Instrumentals. As part of a UK tour, the show features soulful music, seventies grooves and innovative puppetry. Drawing on inspiration from the African-Caribbean diaspora, The Instrumentals celebrates the way people hold memories, running in Mercury’s Studio Theatre from 30th May to 3rd June.

Derren Brown’s astounding new production Unbelievable is the theatre’s summer spectacle, directly ahead of the show’s West End run. Unbelievable begins previews from 28th July and runs until 26th August. Theatre Creative Director Ryan McBryde said, “At the Mercury, our aim is to provide exhilarating, shared experiences for our community and our 2023 Spring season is a programme of new shows that promise great nights out like no other. We’re tackling the cost-of-living crisis head on with Dario Fo’s side-splitting satire, They Don’t Pay? We Won’t Pay! as we work with Deborah McAndrew to bring the show right up to date with current events. Colchester audiences will be the first to exclusively access a new work from master illusionist Derren Brown, Unbelievable. And finally, our Studio continues to provide a platform for ground-breaking new work including The Instrumentals, a new Mercury Original family musical. I can’t wait to share all this work with our audiences, along with a few more surprises up our sleeves in 2023.”

• Box Office: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk / 01206 573948

the pages of Roddy Doyle’s best-selling novel. The world’s hardest working and most explosive soul band are set to visit Ipswich as part of a return in an all new stage production.

This major UK and Ireland tour of the smash-hit musical will star Coronation Street legend Nigel Pivaro, who appeared in the hugely popular ITV soap between 1983 – 2012 as the lovable rogue Terry Duckworth. He will be swapping the cobbles for the stage and performing the role of ‘Da’ in this all-new production.

Nigel Pivaro says, “I am thrilled to be marking my return to the stage in this production of The Commitments. It’s an iconic story that resonates across the years, about people who though distant from the music’s origins find communion and expression in the Motown style. A musical genre which was borne out of oppression and which the characters embrace as their own. The Motown Sound is as vibrant today as it was when it first burst through in the Sixties.”

Roddy Doyle added, “I’m delighted that The Commitments are coming back in 2022 & 2023 and I’m particularly looking forward to seeing how Nigel Pivaro tackles the part of Jimmy Rabbitte’s Da.”

This new tour for 2022/23 is directed by Andrew Linnie. Andrew made his West End debut in the original production in 2013, playing the role of Dean, the band’s sax player. He then went on to star in the lead role of Jimmy Rabitte in the 2016/2017 UK tour.

Joining the cast as Deco is Olivier Award nominee Ian McIntosh. Ian is no stranger to this role, having previously played Alternate Deco during the original West End run. Previous credits include Galileo in the UK tour of We Will Rock You, Sid Worley in An Officer and a Gentleman and he was Olivier nominated for ‘Best Supporting Actor in a Musical’ for his role as Barry in Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. His extensive musical career has also seen him perform in Hair and Can’t Buy Me Love.

In 2013 The Commitments musical opened in London’s West End to universal critical acclaim and enjoyed a record-breaking two-year residency at the Palace Theatre. After which, it hit the road for a major tour, invigorating audiences up and down the country throughout 2016 and 2017.

The Commitments musical has been adapted from the novel by Booker prize-winning author Roddy Doyle. Featuring an electric playlist, The Commitments showcases more than 20 soul classics performed live on stage, including Night Train, Try A Little Tenderness, River Deep, Mountain High, In The Midnight Hour, Papa Was A Rolling Stone, Save Me, Mustang Sally, I Heard It Through The Grapevine, Thin Line Between Love and Hate, Reach Out, Uptight, Knock On Wood, I Can’t Turn You Loose and many more!

The Commitments tells the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young workingclass music fan, who transforms an unlikely bunch of amateur musicians into an amazing live act, which becomes the finest soul band Dublin has ever produced. Placing a classified advert in a music paper, Jimmy auditions a number of wannabes before finalising the members of his new band, which he names ‘The Commitments’.

Humour kicks in as the band get to know each other and their instruments, grappling with inter-group differences as they muddle their way through early rehearsals for the band’s first gig. Just as they improve and begin to get a name for themselves, they combust. The backing singers are more interested in the middle-aged horn playing legend, the singer has entered Eurovision, the drummer has walked out mid-gig and the saxophone player has dangerous leanings towards a jazz career.

The Commitments is a guaranteed “fabulously-fun night” (Daily Mail) that you will simply never forget.

• The Commitments will be at the Ipswich Regent Theatre from 27th February until 4th March. To book tickets visit www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/

Music in the Library

You are invited to two musical events at Woodbridge Library. On Thursday 23rd February an evening of folk music, poems and songs will be led by Claudia Myatt and Julia Dansie who play guitar and harp. They have invited some friends to join them, adding in whistle, ukulele and bass. Interspersed in the music will be a sprinkling of poems, making for a varied and entertaining evening. The performance begins at 7.30pm; tickets are £8 and you can book in person at the Library or by phoning 01394 330855.

Five days later, one of Woodbridge’s favourite buskers will play a free lunchtime concert. Saxophonist Tim Sadler returns to the Library on Tuesday 28th February at 12.45pm. Tim has been playing in bands, groups and solo for over 50 years and nowadays entertains at weddings and parties and is booked regularly by a national hotel chain. We are really pleased to welcome back his easy-listening style for a relaxing lunchtime so please join us for this free event.

DNA team announced

The New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich has announced the full cast and creative team for their upcoming new production of Dennis Kelly’s acclaimed play DNA, which will run at the venue from 2nd until 9th February 2023.

The modern-day comedy with bite, which was first performed in the Cottesloe Theatre of the National Theatre, will be directed by the theatre’s Chief Executive/Artistic Director Douglas Rintoul and, after an extensive call-out and audition process aimed at performers living in Suffolk and East Anglia, will showcase a predominantly local cast that includes the professional debuts of four rising local performers. The production marks the beginning of a new phase of talent development for New Wolsey Theatre.

A group of teenagers do something bad, something they can’t undo. Panicking, they concoct an elaborate cover-up, unleashing a series of events that twist and turn their young lives into a terrifying game of survival, putting not only their friendship, but their morality to the test. The cast will consist of Ntabiso J Bhebhe, Eireann Devlin, Brayden Emmanuel (You & Me - ITV), Tom Houlton (Paranorman: Live Action Remake - Laika Studios/ Ridder Films), Shaun Jenkinson (The Kneebone Cadillac - Theatre Royal Plymouth), Jessica Laitt (Cinderella - Out Of The Box Productions), Gabriella Manning (professional debut), Mae Munuo (The Nutcracker–Bristol Old Vic), Charlie Shephard

and Emily Tang (Claus the Musical – The Lowry). Ntabiso Bhebhe, Gabriella Manning, Mae Munuo and Charlie Shephard were all previously members of the New Wolsey’s Young Company.

Joining Rintoul on the creative and production team will be David Phillips as Lighting Designer and Production Manager, Kira Tisbury as Costume Supervisor, Peter Hazelwood as Technical Manager, Sally Jones as Company Stage Manager, Joseph Newport as Deputy Stage Manager and Jodie Hicks as Assistant Stage Manager.

Alongside the production the theatre will be running an extensive range of masterclasses and workshops with Rintoul and the cast that will support learning and help students, teachers and audience members gain an insight into the production and a deeper understanding of the text.

• Tickets are now on sale at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk. Teachers can request more information on school offerings as well as register interest via Rebecca Hall – rhall@wolseytheatre.co.uk – or by calling 01473 295930 or heading to the theatre’s website at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk.

National Award Winning CTC presents the family favourite Disney’s MOANA JR this February half term with an epic cast of 73 local young performers!

This thrilling and heart-warming story follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Moana and the legendary demigod Maui embark on an epic journey of self-discovery and camaraderie as both learn to harness the power that lies within. With empowering messages of bravery and selflessness, Moana Jr. is sure to bring out the hero within each of us.

Featuring all the beloved songs from the film, written by Tony®, GRAMMY, Emmy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’I and Mark Mancina, including “How Far I’ll Go,” “Shiny,” and “You’re Welcome.”

PLEASE NOTE: The New Wolsey Theatre is acting as a ticketing agency for this event. Please check the venue and event details carefully below.

Disney’s MOANA JR will be at the Seckford Theatre in Woodbridge on 17th and 18th February 2023. To book tickets contact the Box Office at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk or call 01473 295900.

Suitable for ages 3+ years

Youngsters are an inspiration

Inspirational youngsters from across the East of England played essential roles, delivering healthcare and supporting local communities with St John Ambulance, in 2022.

Of the 9,000 five to 17-year-olds in the first aid and health response charity’s Badger and Cadet programmes, 1,633 dedicated individuals gave over 45,700 hours of their time providing lifesaving first aid and care alongside adult St John volunteers – 8,366 of which were given by young people in the East of England.

Whilst all of the first aid trained young people are given opportunities to put their skills into practice, the majority who do so are St John Cadets aged 14 and over, and they are involved with some of the charity’s key community projects including its night time economy support, providing medical treatment at pop-up centres in towns and busy cities across the country.

The young volunteers also gave first aid at local, regional and national events, and volunteered in hospitals where they cared for people by working with clinical staff, triaging patients and completing medical observations.

In addition to supporting people’s health needs, young St John volunteers get involved with thousands more hours of activities including fundraising and sharing

their first aid skills with their peers.

As a youth movement, St John Ambulance’s longest established programmes for young people are Cadets (for ages 11-17) which celebrated its centenary in 2022, and Badgers (5-10).

The charity is helping develop the next generations of health professionals, volunteers and lifesavers.

Most recently the charity’s young volunteers answered the huge call to arms to support the thousands of members of the public who descended on the capital during both Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in London and just three months later those queueing to pay their respects at her funeral.

390 volunteer hours were given by St John Cadet, Sophie Coker, from the Southend and Rochford unit –one of the highest of all St John’s young volunteers.

17-year-old Sophie said, “I’ve been a St John Cadet for seven years and have learnt so many new skills from first aid, leadership, and communications to how to care for someone in need. Supporting my local community gives me an

enormous sense of pride - knowing I’ve made a difference to someone’s life. Everyone needs help at some point and I’m glad I can be for them alongside my fellow Cadet and healthcare professionals to support them when they do.” National Youth Operations Lead for St John, Matthew Atkinson, said, “We continue to be in awe of the kindness, strength, skill and resilience our younger volunteers show within their communities every single day. Whether it’s helping someone in need, teaching first aid or applying their St John skills to their educational work, our young people are there and will continue to be there in the moments that matter. “We’re so proud of our young people

and can’t thank them enough for the time and efforts helping to build stronger and safer communities.”

Each year, St John Cadets are put through their paces as part of the charity’s National Cadet of the Year competition, which sees the young volunteers showcase their character and clinical skills in a bid to represent young people at St John Ambulance at a national level.

This year’s competition takes place in Nottinghamshire in mid-February. For more information about how St John Ambulance is inspiring the next generation of lifesavers and how you can join St John’s youth programmes go to www.sja.org.uk/ youth

New ramp for seafront

Work began in autumn to install a replacement ramp at the South Seafront, linking the pavement along Sea Road and Orford Road to the beachfront, over the sea defence wall. Located within Flood Zone 2, to the northern extent of Martello Park, the ramp will also provide a safe escape route in the event of the sea wall gates being closed in bad weather.

Cllr Craig Rivett, East Suffolk Council’s Deputy Leader and cabinet member for Economic Development, said, “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to improve access to this part of the beach at Felixstowe. It’s important that we do all we can to ensure that our beaches are accessible to all residents and visitors.”

Wider by about one-and-a-half metres and longer by about five-and-a-half metres, the ramp also features the addition of steps from the beach on the southern elevation and a landing area within the mid-section along the Martello Park side, as well as slip resistant material and railings.

Local residents and visitors to Felixstowe can enjoy improved access to the seafront following completion of a new ramp.

inlaterlife

Age no barrier for 70-year-old nurse

Scrub nurse Rheza Rivas may have turned 70 but retiring is the last thing on her mind.

A popular figure on the Ipswich Hospital Raedwald Day Surgery Unit and, before, in South Theatres, Rheza has no intention of leaving Suffolk and returning to her birthplace in the Philippines. She arrived at Ipswich Hospital in 2001 – her husband and three children remaining in southeast Asia.

Rheza said, “I cannot imagine myself in another job in the Philippines, because in my country there is a mandatory retirement age at 65, even if you are still strong and have a desire to work. It’s nice here because you are still allowed to work even if you are

70. I don’t want to stay at home idle. Even though I am alone in this country, I love the place, I love the work, I love the weather, now! My colleagues are all good to me, they respect me.”

Rheza is one of 146 staff aged between 66 and 70 at ESNEFT, while 49 colleagues over the age of 71 still work for the Trust.

Rheza’s team leader Jonathan King said, “I don’t know what we would do without her. She has got so much skill and is so well liked by everyone. Rheza has a wealth of experience, she is great with students. We all learn from her. She says to me, ‘can I please carry on? And I say you can carry on for as long as you want.”

Life-saving defib in Christchurch Park

A new public defibrillator has been installed in the town’s Christchurch Park, following funding by the Ipswich Branch of the Oddfellows and the support of Ipswich Borough Council. According to the British Heart Foundation, in some instances, every minute that passes without CPR or defibrillation reduces the chances of surviving a cardiac arrest by up to 10 per cent, but immediate CPR and defibrillation can more than double the chances of survival.

“The statistics speak for themselves. Being able to get hold of a defibrillator quickly can make all the difference to survival,” said Wendy Atkins from the local friendship society Ipswich Oddfellows.

“Our greatest wish is that it’ll never be used but on the other hand if it is needed in an emergency then we hope it’ll be the life saver it’s intended to be.

“We’d like to say thank you to Saskia Stent in neighbouring Ipswich Museum, for her unstinting efforts in finding a suitable home for the device. And also to Ipswich Borough Council for agreeing to install it in the park.”

Lisa Stannard (Operations Manager of Parks and Cemeteries Dept) said, “We are very pleased to have received the defibrillator and it’s been installed in the Arboretum”

The device can be found on the wall of the toilet block in the Upper Arboretum, close to the band stand and the entrance directly opposite Ipswich School.

The money to buy the defibrillator was raised by members during Wendy’s time as Chairman of the Ipswich Oddfellows.

Wendy added, “This year, we’re raising money for Suffolk Wildlife Trust, as chosen by the present Chairman Teresa Marrable. Last year members donated to the St Elizabeth’s Hospice by having a “Little Hoot” in our High St window.

To find out more about Ipswich Oddfellows’ social events, local activities and fundraising for the community, get in touch with Lynne Wyatt on 01473 251867, email ipswich.branch@oddfellows.co.uk or visit www.oddfellows.co.uk.

Worried about the cost of living crisis? ‘The Willows’ addresses the financial impact

Sohal Healthcare fully appreciates the dire current financial climate and the severe impact it is having on everyone, and an obvious consideration is when contemplating placing a loved one into private residential care. So this is why

Sohal Healthcare The Willows

Sohal Healthcare is a family-owned group of care homes established for over 20 years. We provide support to older people including those with the onset of acute dementia.

• 66 Large fully furnished bedrooms, all offering en-suite facilities

• 24 - hour care for the elderly and those living with the onset of acute dementia

• Our vision is for residents to treat the home as there own, where family and friends are always welcome

• Hair Salon, Cinema, Coffee shop, Library, Communal Lounges with Grounds and a Courtyard

• Nutritious, healthy, freshly prepared meals, catering for specific dietary requirements

• Dedicated team of care assistants and activity coordinators

• We support our residents to pursue personal goals and interests as independently as possible

we have decided to do our part by offering a 12-month placement for the price of 11 – a huge financial saving.

Sohal Healthcare are a family-owned company, that have been providing care for the elderly and for those living with dementia for over 20 years. Their cultural values are very much based upon the concept of offering a ‘home from home’ environment, to minimise the stress and anxiety that comes from having to place a loved one into the hands of a care home and the obvious levels of uncertainty that this can have upon family members.

Their vision is for residents to treat the home just as their own, where friends and

Book

family can visit anytime, and always made to feel welcome. To decide for themselves daily what they would like to do and to be supported to do so in all aspects from care to social activities. In every way they are looked after by a dedicated team, from care assistants to a skilled creative activities coordinator.

Sohal Healthcare exists to be recognised as being “The Care Home of Choice” when having to make that agonising placement decision, from being warm, welcoming, and approachable, to regularly communicating with family members as to the wellbeing of their loved ones.

“At Sohal, we listen, we learn, and we evolve, we are a family that cares for and supports the elderly members of your family”

For all enquiries or further information, please contact us:

T: 01473 372166

E: thewillows@sohal.healthcare

www.sohal.healthcare

Registered address: 57 Crabbe Street, Ipswich, IP4 5HS

n The survey of 1,500 adults who have reached their seventh decade found 39 per cent feel they are anything but ‘tech savvy’.

And 18 per cent find it difficult to get to grips with the online tasks they now have to do day-to-day. But six in 10 think there’s more pressure on older generations to adapt to using technology as they’ve been familiar with life without it, compared to the younger generations.

As a result, almost half (49 per cent) want to learn more digital skills, as 46 per cent feel they have to rely on gadgets and technology on a daily basis. It also emerged the typical over-60 has learnt 12 new tech related skills in the last 10 years, including making video calls (47 per cent), online shopping (42 per cent) and how to use QR codes (32 per cent). Ordering prescriptions (29 per

Victoria Johnson, social impact director at BT Group, said, “It’s brilliant to see through this research just how much over-60s have learnt in a short space of time and that they’re keen to keep learning. To date, we’ve helped more than 14.7 million people across the UK make the most of life in the digital world thanks to our resources.”

The study also found seven in 10 of those polled had to use technology in their most recent job, including emails (69 per cent), spreadsheets (41 per cent) and group chats (19 per cent). But many felt they needed to adapt to an online world in order to complete life admin (37 per cent) and stay connected with others (34

While 58 per cent of those, polled via OnePoll, taught themselves how to use various devices, 17 per cent took an in-person class and 29 per cent learnt via their child.

40 tech skills

over

Sending

cent), selling things online (22 per cent) and streaming films and TV shows (18 per cent) also featured in the list of modern skills older adults have grown used to.

The research, commissioned by BT Group, found one in 10 use these skills to feel less lonely. And 65 per cent believe you are never too old to learn new things.

per cent). For 37 per cent, doing so has made their life easier, while 18 per cent said using technology has helped them feel less isolated and lonely.

The typical day sees the older age group spend an average of four hours online, by online shopping, paying bills and keeping up to date with news.

Connecting

60s

insurance quotes

Editing

Using Bluetooth

content on social media

Setting

Setting

Making

Selling things online

a covid ‘pass’

Listening to the radio

Filming a video on a mobile phone

Streaming films/TV shows

Using a smart speaker

Using spreadsheets

Ordering food by app

Setting up hands free in the car

Listening to a podcast

Applying for jobs online

Setting up /using a fitness tracker

Setting up a VPN

Creating a reel

Using hashtags on social media

Using a games console

Setting up a YouTube channel

Free DBS No experience needed

Our Services: We offer Care in the Community. This means providing care at the Service Users home.

Our care services include: • Personal Care • Meal Preparation • Medication Support • Domestic assistance For You: As a Care Assistant working for Westminster Homecare, you will benefit from: • 3-day induction training paid at £9.50 ph. • Competitive pay rate • Mileage paid at 30p per mile

and one of the ways we do this is by helping older people boost their confidence and understanding of digital tools and technology. To work towards an inclusive digital future for the UK, we need to ensure that everyone is getting the benefits that technology offers.” For more info call our team on 01376 440348

• £250 Refer a Friend Bonus • Fully funded training and development - NVQ 2, NVQ 3 and more specialist training

– the forgotten generation

Grandparents are becoming the forgotten generation, with youngsters now too busy to listen to their stories from the olden days.

A study of 1,000 five to 18 year-olds reveals just 21 per cent will visit their older relatives to hear about how their lives were different in the past; such as where they worked, how it was living in the war, and how they met the love of their life. More than half of youths have no idea what job their grandparent did before retirement – admitting they’d never thought to ask. Sadly, one in 10 admitted they are simply not interested in their grandmother’s or grandad’s previous job or talents and interests, and a quarter only turn up to see them for pocket money. But 23 per cent claim the reason they don’t know anything about their older relatives is because they don’t really get the chance to talk properly.

A spokesman for McCarthy & Stone’s Inspirational Generation campaign, said, “We know this generation have lived full lives with heroic tales to tell and so much to offer, but how many of us have actually thought to ask these questions of our older family members?

“We want to shout about the amazing feats retirees have achieved in their lifetime and put the spotlight on the wonderfully colourful lives of today’s older people.

“We are calling on parents and children to talk to their grandparents, to find out what they have done in their lives – and continue to do, and tell us all about it so we can give them the credit they deserve.”

Researchers found that although 65 per cent of youngsters do see their grandparents every single week, 37 per cent claim this is only because their parents want them to. And while 39 per cent talk to their grandparents on the phone, Facebook or Skype at least once a week – 16 per cent once a day – conversation is rarely focussed on what they are doing or have done in the past.

Four in 10 kids have no idea what their grandparents proudest achievements are, while 30 per cent don’t know if they have any special skills or talents. And 42 per cent don’t spend any time talking about their grandparent’s history –and are therefore clueless about what their grandmother or grandad was like when they were younger.

Perhaps due to this lack of communication and respect, just six per cent of children say they look up to their grandparents as a role model and inspiration.

However, grandchildren are agreed their grandparents are both loving and friendly, while 43 per cent think they’re funny – with 23 per cent admitting they often have more fun with their elderly relatives than their parents.

TV and radio personality Gloria Hunniford, who has 10 grandchildren and is lending her support to McCarthy & Stone’s campaign to find the unsung heroes of the baby boomer generation, said, “I absolutely love being a grandparent, but I am incredibly lucky to have a family who are forever asking lots of questions – both about my past and things I’m up to now. “I love watching their reactions when I tell them stories going back to my youth. It is really lovely to taken them with me down memory lane from time to time. I would urge people of all generations to get talking. Next time you see your grandparents, ask them about their past and what they got up to in their younger days. I’m pretty sure they will have a fascinating and inspiring story to tell, and they will be thrilled to be able to share it with you.”

Why Sixty Is The New Middle Age: 10 Ways to Determine if you’re getting old

A recent scientific study claims that

was

We asked 2,000 people over the age of 40 a series of questions, and here is what we found:

• 93 per cent believe ‘you are only as old as you feel’

• 82 per cent admitted they feel younger than their actual age, by an average of 11 years

• 61 per cent feel like old age is a long way off for them.

regarded as elderly should now be seen as middle-aged. The study suggests that, as we’re all living alot longer, categorising someone as old when they turn 65 no longer makes sense, and that people in their 60s are middle-aged rather than elderly. We thought this was quite interesting, so we decided to conduct our own study to find out how people felt about their age and their perceptions of getting old.

The changing role of women

This year, as the Hunnaball Family Funeral Group celebrates its 40th anniversary, we are very aware of the increasing and positive role that women play in our business. Over those years we’ve witnessed a hugely positive shift towards equality in the funeral industry, and we’re proud to have played a part in it for the whole of our history.

From our very foundation, Melanie Hunnaball, who started the business with Trevor, has helped shape our business, as an employee and a director, and continues do so. She helped to set a culture of compassion and professionalism, never settling for less than the best.

Melanie herself became one of the first women in the UK to gain official qualifications as a funeral director and has conducted countless funerals. At the same time, seeing that the majority of our funeral arrangers in branches were women, Melanie and the other directors encouraged them to step up, with suitable training, and into the role of funeral director.

When Hunnaball of Ipswich opened in 1996, we traded as ‘Ladies in Hats’. At that time, we were the only funeral director in Ipswich to be entirely run by women and our team was welcomed with open arms. Our lady funeral directors brought something different to their role and thousands of families in Ipswich, and all-over East Anglia, have benefitted from their hard work and expertise. We’re delighted that almost every funeral director now has women working in almost every area of their business. Of course, we remain sensitive to the fact that, in some cultures, only a male funeral director or conductor is appropriate, but the vast majority of our clients greatly appreciate and value the feminine approach. There’s still a long way to go, in all of society, but Hunnaball of Ipswich, and all of the Hunnaball Family Funeral Group, continue to offer what we believe to be the very best funeral services in the region, to everyone.

www.hunnaball.co.uk

• You’re not considered old and past it until you have finished celebrating your 80th birthday

The cost of living longer

This all sounds great, but the trouble is that our perception of youth, and denial of old age can lead to poor financial decision making. The study showed that four in ten people admit they are putting off important decisions such as life insurance or pensions because they just don’t feel old enough.

The fact we are all living longer means we have to give even greater thought to how we manage our finances. Why? Well, because we need to ensure we have enough money to survive retirement, and we also need to take into account the fact that our families may need support for longer. This could mean funding higher education fees, helping them onto the property ladder, or just making sure you have enough life cover to ensure they are not left high and dry if you were to suddenly die tomorrow.

What is your life expectancy?

The M.D. of PayingTooMuch.com said, “The fact we are all living longer is great, but financial planning doesn’t seem to have kept pace.

It’s actually very hard to make an accurate judgement on how long you might live, and what that means for your finances.

“We can give you a personalised life report, which will give you an idea of your life expectancy based on some simple questions. You can use this report to select the right type of life insurance product for you, with the most appropriate length of term, as well as to help you with other financial decisions.”

But if this is not for you, don’t worry. There are other ways to determine if you’re getting old:

1. You fall asleep watching TV or reading the paper

2. You become forgetful

3. You groan when getting up from a chair or out of bed

4. Choose clothes for comfort rather than style

5. You repeat yourself

6. You have no idea what is in the music charts

7. You insist ‘things aren’t as they used to be’

8. People offer you a seat on public transport

what

once

Have your Event or Gig Listed Free!!*

Post: 12A Britannia Road, Ipswich IP4 4PE

Every Monday

Suffolk Carers Natter: A chance for family carers aged 55+ to come along and enjoy some “you” time, share experiences, make new friends and enjoy a cuppa and cake. At The Unity Centre, Meredith Road, Ipswich, 10am12noon. Further info Tel: 01449 707030

Bridge Tuition Improvers, Every Monday from 6th June onwards for 10 weeks - 2pm-4pm. Woodbridge Library.

Info or register 07778 639407

Group Exercise Classes: Stretch & Strengthen 5.15pm-6.15pm and JazzFit

6.15pm-7.15pm. Copdock & Washbrook Village Hall. Contact dancefituk@mail. com / www.dancefituk.com

Badminton, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, 7.30-10pm, £2.50, over 18s only. Tel: 07711 811748

Line Dance Class: Improver to Intermediate, 7.00pm, Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Rd, Ipswich. Bookings or more information contact Louise, 07941 069881

Woodbridge Citizen’s Advice, Woodbridge Library, 10am-noon. Independent and provides free, confidential and impartial advice

Tea Dance with Teresa. 2-4 pm, at Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, IP4 4HZ. With refreshments. £3.00pp members. 01473 422427.

Every Tuesday

Craft Group. The Salvation Army, Queensway 10-12noon. £1.50 per session. Refreshments and lunch available at extra cost. Everyone welcome. For more details please call 01473 710721

Carpet Bowls at Martlesham Community Hall, Felixstowe Road, IP12 4PB, 1.304pm. £2 per session (first 2 free) inc. tea and biscuits. Contact Sheila 01473 636608 – or just turn up!!!

Memory Lane Cafe, The Meeting Place, Limerick Close Ipswich IP1 5LR 11-2pm. For people living with dementia and their carers. Contact Tina on 07742 300293

Charity Bingo Night, Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Rd, Woodbridge. 7.45pm-9.45pm. More information call 01728 660766

Co-op Senior Singers, friendly group singing a wide variety of songs for pleasure. No audition required. 10.0011.30am at the West Suffolk College, formerly the Co-op Education Centre, Fore Street, Ipswich, IP4 1JW. Contact Vera on 01473 879817.

Arts & Crafts Group, Castlehill Community Centre, 1.30-3.30pm. Everyone welcome, £2 per session. Call Lois on 07951 779271

Short Mat Bowls in a friendly and local location at the Pinewood Community Centre, Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP8 3SL, 10am-12pm £4.00 members and guests. Contact 07785 236726 or 07808

628945

Tea Dance at Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, IP4 4HZ, 2-4pm, £3.00pp members. 01473 422427.

Every Wednesday

Lunch Club, The Salvation Army, Queens Way 12.30. Main course, dessert and cup of tea £5. Everyone welcome. Please call 01473 710721 to book in advance.

Anyone for Bridge? Woodbridge Library 3.45-5.15pm, £2 per person to cover room hire

Community Cuppa. Social group for over 65’s. enjoy a cuppa and chat and find out how the Later Life Community Team can help you or your community. The Meeting Place, Limerick Close, Ipswich, 2-4pm, info 01284 334516

Zumba Gold (Easier Level), 10.30pm; Seated Zumba Gold, 1.30pm. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Rd, Ipswich. Bookings via “Bookwhen.com/ Bumba” or 07450 730962

New Beginner’s Dance Classes at Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, IP4 4HZ, 7-8pm. First session free to try. Tel 01473 422427 / 01473 723070, sidegatelanecc@gmail.com.

Followed by Advanced Class 8-9.45pm

Every Thursday

Kurling and Boccia. Ipswich

Oddfellows, 37 High St Ipswich, 10m, £2.50 members. 01473 251867

Co op Senior Singers. Come and join a friendly group who sing a wide variety of songs for pleasure and friendship. No auditions required. All welcome aged 55 plus. We meet from 10-11.30am, during term time, at the West Suffolk College, formerly known as the Co-op Education Centre, Fore Street, Ipswich. Parking at the rear. For info call Vera Manning on 01473 879817.

Line Dance Class: Improver to Intermediate, 7pm. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich. Bookings or more information contact Louise07941 069881

Bingo Club, Dumbarton Road Hall, 2-4pm, entrance fee £1. Tea & coffee served. Info: Chris on 01473 404190

Every Friday

Reading Round - a book group with a difference! Ipswich County Library, Northgate St, Ipswich, 1.45pm till 3.15pm. FREE. Book a place, contact louise.millar@rlfeducation.org.uk

Ipswich Juggling Workshop, Handford Hall School Dome, Gatacre Rd, Ipswich, 7pm. £3 a session. Over 15s and up to any age. Beginners welcome

Carpet Bowls at Martlesham Community Hall, Felixstowe Road. 1.30-4pm. £2 per session (first 2 free) inc. tea and biscuits.

Contact Sheila 01473 636608

Art for fun, The Salvation Army, Queensway 10-12noon. £2.50. Refreshments and lunch available at extra cost. Everyone welcome. Call 01473 710721

Baby Boppers: Movement & Music for ages 1-4, every Friday 9.15am10am, Copdock Village Hall. Contact dancefituk@mail.com / 07516 332915.

Chess Club at Woodbridge Library, 4.30pm. Contact library for further info

Dance & Fitness: Fridays at Copdock Village Hall. JazzFit 10am-11am. Adult Ballet (all abilities) 11.15am-12.15pm. Stretch & Strengthen 12.15pm-1.15pm. Contact dancefituk@mail.com

Knitting Group, Woodbridge Library, 2pm - 4pm. For all types of knitters from expert to beginners, sewing to crochet, come and share your knowledge or pick up some tips.

Short Mat Bowls at Pinewood Community Centre, Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP8 3SL, 10am-12pm £4 members and guests. Tel 07785 236726 or 07808 628945

Carpet Bowls in a friendly atmosphere at Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich IP4 4HZ, 2.30-5pm. £2.50 per session . More details 01473 410 740. Sequence Dancing at Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich. IP4 4HZ. 7.30-9.30pm. Members £3 each

Every Saturday

Mannings Weekend Market, Mannings, Felixstowe Seafront, 10-4pm.

Every Sunday

Parham Airfield Museum, 11am5pm, free admission & parking, WW2 artefacts, unique museum about Britain’s secret resistance army with replica, underground bunker, new exhibition hall, tea room and picnic area. www. parhamairfieldmuseum.co.uk Car Boot, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Rd, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Wed 1st Feb

Talk: The Real Richard III at 2.15pm. Orwell DFAS, Tower Hall, Broadlands Way IP4 5SU. Guests £6. Talk: 1953 Floods, Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Rd, Ipswich. Ipswich, 7.30pm. Suffolk Family History Soc members £2, guests £3.

Fri 3rd Feb

Live Music: Johnny Marks, C&W. Licensed bar, cooked food 7-9pm, £5 Members, £6 Non-members. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich, IP1 4AB, 8-11pm. Monthly Meeting, Martlesham Heath Aviation Soc. Talk on WW2 North Sea Air Sea Rescue. Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath, 7.30-10pm. More info 01473 274300

Sat 4th Feb

Live Country Music with Bobby Graham, Rickinghall Village Hall, Hinderclay Rd, Rickinghall IP22 1HD. Doors 6.45pm, starts 7.30pm. Tickets £7 from 01473 912626 or 07591 099519

Sun 5th Feb

Ipswich RSPB Local Group Field Meeting to Hazlewood Marshes Aldeburgh for winter waders. 9am, Suffolk Wildlife Trust car park. 3-4 hours. 3-4 miles. Contact 07887 770942.

Tues 7th Feb

Scrabble and other games at the Oddfellows Hall 37 High St Ipswich, 1.30pm. Please contact Lynne 01473 251867 or email ipswich.branch@ oddfellows.co.uk Guests £3

Thurs 9th Feb

Ipswich RSPB Group Indoor Meeting. ‘Hot and Cold European Breaks - Cyprus and Estonia’ illustrated talk. Rushmere St Andrew Church Hall, The Street, Rushmere, Ipswich, 7.30pm. Local

Group members £3 (cons apply). NonMembers £5. U18s free. Tel: 07887 770942. All welcome.

Fri 10th Feb

Music: Billy Hunt & the Modern Classix, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Sat 11th Feb

Live Music: Tricks of the Trade. £3 Members, £6 Non-members. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich, IP1 4AB, 8-11pm.

Tues 14th Feb

Felixstowe Garden Club, Neville Stein from Otley College - Weird & Wacky Veg, 7pm, Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road, Felixstowe.

Deben Flower Club Meeting, Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton, 7.30pm. Demonstration Doreen Robinson - Embracing colour. Visitors welcome £6. 07910 463158 for info

Fri 17th Feb

Live Music: Dave Anderson, Country & Western. Licensed bar, cooked food 7-9pm, £5 Members, £6 Non-members. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich, IP1 4AB, 8-11pm.

Tues 21st Feb

Ipswich RSPB Group Midweek Walk round Bourne Park, Ipswich. Meet 10.30am Stoke Park Drive car park. Free, all welcome. Contact 01473 258791.

Thurs 23rd Feb

Music Duo, Claudia Myatt and Julia Dancy. An evening folk music, poems and songs, Woodbridge Library, 7.309.30pm. Tickets are £8, payable in cash at Woodbridge Library.

Fri 24th Feb

Coffee Morning, 37 High St Ipswich, 10.30am. All welcome. Please contact Lynne 01473 251867 or email ipswich. branch@oddfellows.co.uk Guests £2

Sat 25th Feb

Coffee Morning, 10am-12 noon St Mary’s Church Room, Bramford. Bacon rolls, hot dogs, scones, sausage rolls etc. Sale of books, jigsaws, DVDs and more. iao church maintenance

Sun 26th Feb

Woodbridge Collectables Fair and Flea Market, Wopodbridge Community Hall, tation Rd, Woodbridge, 9.30am-4pm, admission £1. Food and refreshments all day

Tues 28th Feb

Music at Lunchtime with Tim Sadler, Woodbridge Library, 12.45-1.30pm. One of Woodbridge’s favourite buskers. Admission free, donations accepted Talk: The Green Issue, it’s not all about recycling. At The Oddfellows Hall 37 High St Ipswich, 1.30pm. £2 members £4 guests. Refreshments served. All welcome. Please contact Lynne 01473 251867 or email ipswich.branch@oddfellows.co.uk

Shopping for that perfect dress

Shopping for your once in a lifetime wedding gown and ultimately saying ‘Yes to The Dress’ is one of the most exciting shopping experiences a Girl could ever have! … Abi Neill Bridal industry influencer and owner of Colchester based, multi award winning wedding dress and menswear boutique shares a few insights: What are the key trends for 2023?

Fabric wise lace and tulle is still a really popular and beautiful choice for the ethereal and whimsical look but we’ve also seen a return to plainer fabrics including crepe and silk. Satin is really strong this year with sharply cut gowns

and simple, clean statement shapes especially fabulous for the vintage glamour look. Dresses with sleeves (straight, puff or bell) are still big as are additional overskirts for a ‘two looks in one’ option plus bridal trouser suits will be more readily available too.

When to start shopping for a dress?

As soon as the venue is booked a bride can start shopping for her gorgeous gown! The choice of venue and the time of year is always a consideration. It’s never really too early to start once date and venue is set! We suggest brides do some research before stepping foot in their chosen wedding shops; wishlists and saved pics of fave dresses on the phone really helps Bridal Stylists who will guide you each step of the way. Be assured that many gowns can be bought off the peg (where time is limited and for last minute weddings) and ex sample sale dresses are also a quick turnaround from bridal shops too but generally

speaking circa 8-10 months before the big day is enough time to allow for a gown to be produced, delivered and altered.

How does a bride know when it’s the one?

I think that a bride, in her heart, deep down usually knows! We find that brides react in different ways when it’s the one. Sometimes there’s quite an emotional reaction but also on the flip side, it can be a simple process of elimination to find the gown that ticks every single bridal box! Finding ‘the one’ is a quest to find a dress that makes a bride feel utterly amazing - often she doesn’t want to take it off, sometimes she’ll swish and sway, some brides will literally jump for joy and often there’s hugs, cheers and whoops of

an absolute privilege for us at Abigail’s Collection to be a part of.

Top Wedding Dress Shopping Tip?

Lots of brides find wedding dress shopping daunting so please know that if you’re feeling anxious that is quite common and perfectly understandable. Minimise overwhelm and maximise on your chance of a gorgeous appointment by inviting 1,2 or 3 VIP guests instead of a huge group. We see that it’s really hard for Brides when there are so many varied opinions.

• Check out www.abigailscollection.co.uk for wedding dress inspo and to book your very special wedding dress shopping experience and follow us over on insta accounts @abineill @abigailscollection and @thegroomsroomessex.co.uk

Choosing a Wedding Dress to suit your body shape

For any bride, their wedding dress is perhaps the most important part of their wedding day. The dress has to be elegant, sophisticated and utterly unforgettable. So it’s no surprise that choosing the right outfit can be an incredibly stressful experience.

As a colour, white can be tricky to pull off. That’s why choosing a dress that suits your body shape is essential. You need to know how to show off your best bits on your special day. But how does a bride identify what shape their body is? And once armed with this knowledge, how should they dress for the occasion?

Apple Shaped

If you carry your weight around the waist, but are blessed with great legs and/or boobs, you are the owner of an apple shaped body. Fortunately, there are lots of options to get you looking and feeling great on your wedding day.

Look for a dress that draws attention to your best features. For bigger bust sizes, a plunging neckline will accentuate the cleavage, whilst lengthening the neck. Choosing a plunging neckline is an even more effective tactic if you decide to go strapless. An a-line skirt can look great if you’ve got the legs for it, but you should avoid high neck lines, and any boxy jackets.

Pear Shaped

If you’re skinny on top and heavier on the bottom, with a J-Lo bum and larger thighs, you are the proud owner of a pear shaped body. Most women consider this shape undesirable, and the most difficult to dress. However, many men would beg to differ.

As with Apple shaped bodies, v-necks and strapless styles tend to flatter. An empirestyle dress that pinches in at the hips before flowing outwards in an A-line shape is a good choice, as long as the skirt isn’t overly long. Examples of things to avoid are; halternecks, straight cut dresses and also gathered or pleated skirts, as you should avoid adding any unneeded excess around the hips.

Triangle Shaped

This shape is typical amongst taller women, with their shoulders wider than the hips and a fairly flat chest. Although some triangle shaped women fear their broader shoulders somehow lack femininity, this is actually an incredibly desirable shape. The majority of supermodels are this shape, meaning almost any catwalk or high street fashion is suited to this body type.

Straight cut dresses can give a very sophisticated look, and extravagant ball gown styles can look spectacular. A higher cut neckline balances shoulders and hips, flattering a smaller chest. Details around the hips can add shapeliness, but do avoid overly intricate sleeves, and wide or low cut necklines can broaden the shoulders too much

Hourglass Figure

If your shoulders and hips are roughly the same width, but you benefit from a defined waist, you have the fabled hourglass figure. According to convention, this is often considered the most desirable body shape, and one of the most easy to dress. But it can be very easy to get wrong when choosing a dress.

Choose any type of low, wide or plunging neckline, as this will show off a defined waist well. If you’ve got any wobbly bits your not comfortable having on show, look for a dress that will disguise any insecurities you may have. Don’t waste your curves with a straight cut dress, and an empire style in particular will waste your best features, choose something that nips in at the waist to show off your smallest part.

Square/Rectangular

A rectangular shape is defined by shoulders and hips being roughly the same width, but without much waist definition. There is a surprising amount of scope for different styles with this body shape, as the only real issue is with adding hip definition. A v-shape leading down to the waist is useful in that it creates the illusion of a smaller waist. A fairly full skirt with a structured bodice can also add extra definition. Empire line styles can work particularly well. Keep necklines wide and use detailing either above or below the waist, not both. There are some rules that are pretty much set in stone when choosing a flattering dress. But on the whole, these are guidelines, not gospel. It is possible to find a dress that breaks convention and still looks fantastic. But using the above rules of thumb should speed up the process of finding the perfect dress for your big day.

Gemma Halliwell

Picture: Alex Rose Photography

Picture: Alex Rose Photography

Picture: Awaken Images

Picture: Sally Rawlins

Cliff-top venue

Harvest House is truly a magical place, a real gem in the heart of Felixstowe.

Built in 1903, this grade 11 listed building is part of Felixstowe’s rich coastal history. Having once been the famous Felix Hotel, where it was rumoured Mrs Simpson stayed while awaiting her divorce and later home to Fison’s headquarters.

Harvest House is now home to over 60 privately owned apartments and still maintains its two large function rooms. The impressive architecture lends itself brilliantly to, once again, open its doors to the public to host events, specialising in weddings.

Palm Court is the perfect setting to say I Do, beneath the unique glass domed ceiling, against the backdrop of grand Edwardian fireplaces, and original marble floor, your guests will receive a warm welcome from the dedicated events team. While the Grand Dining Hall offers a vast, ornate space for a wedding reception, with a large expanse of windows leading out to the conservatory, giving beautiful sea views.

Guests can be treated to welcome drinks and canapes on the Courtyard, while enjoying the ambiance of the beautifully cared for rose gardens. It really is a photographer’s dream.

All aspects of your special day are planned with you in mind. Harvest House Weddings prides itself on its quality and professional service at all times, while still ensuring the personal touch is given.

Harvest House Weddings invites you to their first Wedding Exhibition on Sunday 30th April 2023, where you will get a chance to meet with their wedding co-ordinator and events team, along many local suppliers.

Management Team: CMA Events Limited, contact Claire on 07908 780437 info@harvesthouseweddings.com www.harvesthouseweddings.com

Bridal lingerie

Bridal lingerie is something that is often overlooked or not thought about when planning a wedding but is just as important a consideration as the actual wedding dress. What’s the point in spending several hundred or even a couple of thousand pounds on a wedding dress and then wear some old everyday lingerie you have had for years to go along with it?

Bridal lingerie is made particularly to enhance you figure and to make your wedding dress look as beautiful as it should. If you purchase the correct bridal lingerie it will also be very supportive. You can get bridal lingerie in a variety of colours and styles so once you have decided on a wedding gown you can begin the process of shopping for coordinating lingerie. The type of lingerie you get for wearing under your wedding dress will depend upon what type of wedding dress you have chosen. If you have chosen a dress with a very low cut back certain types of bridal corsets simply will not work because they will be seen. This is why it is crucial to plan this all out in advance. Choose a bustier if you are wearing a dress that is strapless or one that bares the shoulders instead of just wearing a strapless bra. The bustier will be much more supportive, hugging your torso and enhancing your breasts with an upward push. Almost everyone could use that! A bustier is definitely recommended if you are a plus size or if you are wearing a dress with a very low cut back.

It is also advisable to buy special panties to go along with the rest of your bridal lingerie ensemble. Choose a panty that will fit very close and not show any lines especially if you are wearing a tight fitting wedding gown that forms to your figure. The last thing you want while you are walking down the aisle to your Groom is panty lines!

It is also a very good idea to wear your chosen bridal lingerie when you go for your wedding dress fittings. Good underwear can change the shape of your body and can even take inches off your figure and you want to make sure that your wedding gown fits perfectly.

It’s your day so don’t let anyone else tell you what you should or shouldn’t wear. You want to feel as beautiful as you look and investing in quality bridal lingerie will go a long way to boosting your confidence on that long walk down the aisle.

Gregg Hall

Essential Wedding Tips

Weddings can be a stressful event as things may happen on the day that are completely out of your control but with enough preparation and support from your friends and relatives it can be the most memorable and joyous event you’ll remember for a long time to come. Here are some handy tips to bear in mind to ensure that your special day goes as smoothly as possible:

1. Be aware of time: at the start of your day time moves slower than normal (“It’s only 10am, I’ve been up hours”), but once you’re an hour away from the start of proceedings time goes into overdrive; and make sure you take time out to be together during the day – it will be over before you realise.

2. Allow plenty of time for marks from bra straps and socks to fade before your big day.

3. If you’re getting ready in a hotel, make sure you have a pair of scissors for cutting the tags off new items.

4. Leave plenty of time for doing up the dress if it has lacing at the back. It looks easy in the shop when they show you how to do it, but on the day it can add to the stress levels if you’re short of time!

5. Have an emergency kit: (sewing kit for the groom to repair his trousers?), scissors, hair grips, rubber bands, plasters etc. Make sure that the groom has cuff links if his shirt needs them.

6. Plan the day and then hand over the detail to someone else. If necessary, hire a professional wedding coordinator for the day so that you don’t have to worry about anything. And if things don’t go to plan, don’t worry, your guests will probably not even notice.

7. Don’t ask your photographer for too many posed family shots as you will get tired/bored/fidgety and miss the chance to be with your guests – and prevent your photographer from getting those special informal images.

8. Ladies hats: make sure that there is an understanding that hats will or won’t be worn during the wedding breakfast; and if not that there is somewhere for them to be kept; photographers, incidentally, prefer it without hats!

9. Timing: a one and a half hour interval between the start of the reception and the wedding breakfast is usually good; this will allow plenty of time to mingle with guests as well as for photographing the couple and the family shots. But see next point.

10. Receiving lines: the irony here is that if you have a lot of guests and want to make sure that you meet all of them, then a receiving line will do that

for you, but will also take a considerable time (an hour for 125 guests at a recent wedding). It may be better to wander around the tables between courses.

11. If you have guests joining you later in the day, designate someone to meet and greet – nothing worse than turning up to a party in full swing and not knowing where to go, or what to do if the speeches are still going on because things are running late.

12. Confetti: if there’s going to be confetti thrown, get the ushers to organise a couple of lines. If it is just handed out to the guests without a plan, they will eventually wander up to you and throw some – usually against the wind!

13. The weather: a nice day is a great bonus –but if it rains, just smile and enjoy. And as far as photographs are concerned, if you want to go outside, make sure that it’s the photographer that gets wet, not you!

14. A lipstick tip from makeup artists: to avoid leaving some of it on your glass, wet the lip of the glass before bringing it to your lips – how you do this is up to you!

n Remember, this checklist is only a guide. It’s you who will be living out the day with your friends and family. Do your best to prepare as much as you can beforehand and when the big day finally arrives relax in the knowledge that you’ve done everything possible to make it a success. After all the hard work is done, your job is now to have fun and enjoy each memorable moment that happens on your wedding day.

with Richard Galloway

Weddings at Woolverstone Hall

Michaels church on site, known as the ‘Church in the Park’ it is the perfect setting to say ‘I do’. For those wanting a civil ceremony Woolverstone Hall have the Leggett room overlooking the lawns, the amazing Orangerie giving a panoramic view of the grounds and outside space on the River lawns. At Woolverstone Hall they can cater for the most intimate weddings

Welcome to 2023 and congratulations to all of you who got engaged over the Christmas period! With so much to do it can be overwhelming but don’t fear, the team from Woolverstone Hall Weddings are here! Booking your venue is one of THE biggest decisions you’ll make for your big day. At Woolverstone Hall they have the most beautiful setting and everything you need to enable you to have your wedding your way. With the magnificent 15th Century St

up to the largest with the option of having marquees on our grounds. Better still, they also have on site accommodation available at this exclusive hire venue so you can really make the most of the whole experience of having Woolverstone Hall as your Wedding Venue. Woolverstone Hall have private viewings available the first Wednesday of each month from 6pm-8pm and the first Saturday of each month from 10am-12pm.

Do get in touch to come and see if Woolverstone Hall is the right Wedding venue for you. Also, save the date and reserve your place at Woolverstone Hall’s upcoming Wedding Showcase on Sunday 26th March from 2pm-5pm where you can meet their favourite suppliers to help you plan your special day.

Visit thewebsite to get your tickets www.woolverstonehall.co.uk

Overseas Weddings, Honeymoons & Celebrations

During 2023 it is estimated that over 200 thousand couples will marry overseas. With European hot spots including Cyprus, Italy, Greek Islands and Turkey many couples are looking to have a wedding on the beach, within the grounds of a hotel or several unique venues… castles, chateaus or even the ski slopes!

A large group of friends and family or just the happy couple, Deben Travel work alongside some of the world’s leading wedding operators to tailor your dream wedding. Starting with the initial research on destinations and venues to the legalities you will have a dedicated wedding coordinator to look after every detail, taking any stress away from you. Although further afield may restrict the number of guests attending your wedding the Caribbean still remains the number one destination for UK couples. Luxury adult only resorts such as Sandals even offer a free wedding package.

For some the Honeymoon is just as important as the wedding itself. Deben Travel are finding honeymoon couples wanting more of an experience rather that a lazy couple of weeks on the beach. In recent years Deben Travel have arranged Honeymoons which include African Safari, island hopping in Asia, South Pacific Islands, Orient Express, touring Australia & New Zealand and South American Cruises…

Overseas Wedding Checklist

- Set your budget

- Is it legal

- Choose the date

- Destination, accommodation and venue

- Who’s invited

- Travel arrangements

- Wedding and reception

- What to pack

- Use an expert

Award winning Deben Travel are based on Woodbridge Thoroughfare. Now in their 11th year the team of experienced travel consultants are available Monday to Saturday, 9-5.

www.debentravel.co.uk

01394 615620 team@debentravel.co.uk

The top 20 wedding themes adults would like to attend

Themed weddings featuring fancy dress outfits and banquets of McDonald’s and KFC are booming in Britain, according to research.

A study of 2,000 adults found four in 10 have attended a ceremony, with a theme such as Lord of the Rings or Disney, and 21 per cent have been served takeaway food at the reception. Quirky costumes, bizarre cakes and over-the-top dresses are also becoming the latest trends to hit the wedding scene.

It also emerged 29 per cent would like a ‘fantasy wedding’, including the likes Alice in Wonderland, Game of Thrones or Star Trek. While the research, commissioned by Peperami, revealed 23 per cent would opt for a fast-food theme, with KFC, Pizza Hut, Subway, and McDonalds taking centre stage.

But although the idea of a themed wedding appeals to many, 79 per cent wouldn’t actually be brave enough to go through with it, giving into the usual wedding conventions. Despite this, 44 per cent think being invited to a themed wedding would make great memories or be a great laugh and an amusing story to tell their friends. Of those polled who aren’t married, 83 per cent want to get creative with their nuptials should the occasion arise.

Top 20 wedding themes adults would like to attend

1. Fantasy – Lord of the Rings, Twilight, Alice in Wonderland, Game of Thrones, Star Trek etc.

2. Music - Rock ‘n’ Roll, pop, disco etc.

3. Disney – Cinderella, Micky Mouse, Lion King etc.

4. Action heroes – Marvel, comics, Lego characters etc.

5. 80s era

6. Medieval

7. Food branded themed –KFC, Pizza Hut, Subway, McDonalds etc.

8. Sport – Football, tennis, rugby, golf etc.

9. 70s era

10. 90s era

11. Video games – Warcraft, Monopoly, Pac Man etc.

12. 60s era

13. Travel/ countries

14. Books

15. Chocolate

16. Drink branded themecoffee, Aperol etc.

17. Animal themed such as cats, dogs etc.

18. 50s era

19. Western

20. Gothic

• Star Wars and Game of Thrones pictures – www.unconventionalwedding.co.uk

Pavan Chandra, from meat snacking brand Peperami, said, “As the summer months continue to be crowded with weddings, many of us find it a bit dull to attend these formulaic ceremonies, so it’s no wonder a theme would make it a more memorable and an enjoyable day.

“While weddings are centred around the bride and groom; they are also about giving their guests an exciting, unforgettable, and entertaining wedding experience, sharing their big day with their loved ones. The research has shown there’s certainly an appetite for something a bit more unique and expressive of the couple’s personality.”

The ‘most outrageous wedding of the year’

The study, carried out via OnePoll, found 54 per cent of all respondents weren’t keen on attending weddings altogether. Key reasons for their reluctance include dreading socialising with people they don’t know, not looking forward to the long day ahead, or thinking the wedding will be dull and boring.

You don’t have to drink to suffer from alcoholism

Al-Anon Family Groups UK & Eire is a charity that is there for anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else’s drinking.

It provides meetings in all major towns, including Ipswich, and is committed to being there for friends and family of alcoholics when they need help. Whatever their relationship with the drinker, they will find other people who have similar stories to tell. They will realise that they are not alone. Listening to the shared experiences of others may help them find the confidence they need to deal with the effects of someone else’s drinking. They will find it is possible to rediscover happiness, whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not. Members’ anonymity is protected because first names only are used. They will not be asked for any other details about themselves or the drinker. Anything discussed within an Al-Anon meeting is treated as confidential, including their presence at the meeting.

Al-Anon meetings are free. Al-Anon only accepts donations from members towards running costs and buying literature so that it can be self-supporting. Members only give what they can afford.

Al-Anon is not a religious organisation and welcomes those of all faiths and of none, treating everyone as equals. Al-Anon discourages discussion about religion, politics and other outside topics.

The best way to find out what Al-Anon is all about and how it can help is to attend a meeting, where there will be a warm welcome. Visit www.al-anonuk. org.uk/find-a-meeting/or call the Helpline: 0800 0086 811 available every day of the year from 10am to 10pm. Al-Anon’s experienced, friendly helpline volunteers are there to listen, tell callers about Al-Anon and give meeting details. Visit www.al-anonuk.org.uk for information to read or download, including podcasts.

Most common ways to boost immune system

Brits have revealed the lengths they go to to maintain a healthy immune system – including taking ice baths, acupuncture, and colonic irrigation.

A poll of 2,000 adults found 34 per cent employ such tactics in the hope of building up their natural defences – with 37 per cent taking this ‘more seriously’ over the past two years. Other popular immunity hacks include having more sex, listening to uplifting music, taking vitamin D, fasting, and gargling salt water. And nearly one in 20 have even tried colonic irrigation – the practice of injecting water to flush out toxins.

It also emerged 27 per cent are open to trying more ‘extreme’ steps to improve immunity, such as having IV vitamin infusions, but 52 per cent aren’t convinced ‘alternative’ methods like these work. Instead, 70 per cent believe adopting little daily habits could be a more sustainable and effective way to support their immune system.

The research, commissioned by Actimel, found 40 per cent are eager to find tactics to support their immune system that they’re likely to stick to.

Immunologist, Dr Jenna Macciochi, who has teamed-up with the yoghurt drink, said, “Movement and adding more Vitamin D to your diet are two key ways to support the immune system. They are also arguably two of the easiest and most accessible methods for promoting this aspect of our health.

“While it’s encouraging to see such a large proportion of those polled actively wanting to adopt steps to support their immune system, they might be going to greater lengths than they need to.

“I am a firm believer of adopting little daily habits when it comes to sustainable solutions for supporting your immune system.”

The study also found 32 per cent of adults have been so keen to support their immune system, they’ve made a New Year’s resolution to do just that. However, 43 per cent only managed to stick to it for three to four weeks.

The top reasons for ending their pledge early are lack of motivation, it not fitting with existing routines, and it being unsustainable. However, this year, 86 per cent intend to pursue at least one activity or tactic with the aim of promoting a healthy immune system. And 54 per cent believe they will be more successful if they find a method which doesn’t involve overhauling their entire lifestyle and fits within existing routines.

Carried out through OnePoll, the study found 52 per cent of adults consider their immune system to be strong. However, 28 per cent ‘lack knowledge’ when it comes to supporting it, with 50 per cent wanting to learn more about this subject.

Dr Jenna Macciochi, from Actimel, added, “The little things that we do daily can make the biggest difference.”

1. Have more water

2. Taken Vitamin D

3. Exercised regularly

4. Eaten a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables

5. Taken oral vitamin supplements

6. Tried to get more sleep at night

7. Upped their step count

8. Have lemon water

9. Eaten fortified foods

10. Intermittent fasting

11. Gargled salt water

12. Had more sex

13. Taken cold showers

14. Veganuary

15. Gone on wellbeing retreats

16. Purposefully mixed with sick people to build antibodies

17. Taken ice baths

18. Tried acupuncture

19. Wild swimming

20. Tried osteopathy

The topic of ‘Control’

Part of the mental health and wellbeing advice series

Control within our lives

To meet the need for control, we need to feel that we have some say over our lives and personal choices. It can be helpful to recognise what we can take personal responsibility for and what we can influence, and accept that there are some things which we cannot control.

How do you look after your mental health and wellbeing?

That’s the basis for a new campaign for 2023 which focuses on 12 ‘emotional needs’ – one for each month – to bring you practical tips, people’s stories, and support to keep you well.

Be Well, Feel Well: A healthier Suffolk in 2023 is a partnership between Suffolk Mind, Public Health and Communities and a range of community groups teaming up to focus on ways for you to be well throughout the year. Look out for a new article every month with information for how you can keep healthy, get the help you need and even save money.

Jon Neal, Chief Executive, Suffolk Mind

Angela’s story:

3 top tips for control

1. There are plenty of things in the news that may be causes of concern or worry. Remember, you are in control of your exposure to media content, so you can choose to give your attention elsewhere.

2. Some people find getting into a regular routine helps meet the need for control and also the need for security; we feel safer when we feel in control of our day-to-day life.

3. Finally, remind yourself when you need to that it is enough to do the best you can with the information you have.

Practical ways to feel more in control of your finances

“I am a single parent, with two young children. I’m already struggling to stay on top of my household bills, my weekly food shop isn’t stretching as far anymore and my energy bill is going up too.

I don’t know how I’m going to afford these price rises. What can I do to stop my finances getting out of control?“

First of all, you are not alone in this and there’s support to help you.  Here are some useful tips to consider:

1. It’s always worth checking if there are benefits you don’t know about that you’re eligible for, including support with your energy costs and living costs. On the Citizens Advice website there’s a benefits calculator, advice on how to reduce living costs and information on other ways to increase your income. You may be eligible for support to make your home cheaper to heat through Warm Homes Suffolk, or financial support through Local Welfare Assistance. Find out more on Suffolk County Council's website - see below.

2. If you’re struggling to stay on top of bills, it’s really important to understand what money you have coming in and going out each month. Citizens Advice has a budgeting tool on its website that can help with this.

3. If you’re already behind on bills, prioritise paying your rent or mortgage, plus energy bills and Council Tax first. Not paying these bills has the most serious consequences. You should speak to the person or company you owe money to, to see if they can help you repay your bills affordably.

4. Citizens Advice can give you information on emergency support that you may have access to, such as food bank vouchers or fuel vouchers.

5. We know that times are incredibly tough but please remember, you don’t have to face this alone; contact your local Citizens Advice to help you find a way forward.

Visit ‘Suffolk InfoLink’ for more on support with your finances and the cost of living - see below.

Where can I find out more?

suffolk.gov.uk/costofliving

suffolkmind.org.uk

Adviceline (England): 0800 144 8848

citizensadvice.org.uk

A study of 2,000 adults revealed they typically consume 740ml a day of H20 –less than half the recommended daily amount of two litres of fluid.

Instead, 24 per cent stay hydrated using tea, while 20 per cent would rather sip on a cup of coffee. But almost two thirds are aware they should drink more water than they currently do each day, with 49 per cent claiming they often forget.

The research found four in 10 weren’t sure how much they drink in a typical day.

It also emerged that residents of Liverpool drink the least water, followed by Manchester and Leeds.

The research was commissioned by Volvic Touch of Fruit and found 24 per cent are just too busy to fit regular sips into their schedule. Gemma Morgan, a spokesperson from Volvic, said, “We’re seeing a nation struggling to stay hydrated despite knowing how crucial it is to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.”

The research also found for 60 per cent, hydration is important to more than their physical health, as they agree they feel happier and healthier when they’ve drank enough.

In order to spot dehydration, 44 per cent recognise the dark colour of their urine as a tell-tale sign that they need to drink more. This is followed by a dry mouth, headaches, and dry lips as the key signs that another glass of water might be in order. For the new year, 28 per cent of adults have vowed to stay more hydrated in 2023, and 27 per cent are eager to cut back on the number of sugary drinks they consume. Flavoured water is a favourite for 22 per cent, and 41 per cent have tried flavouring their own beverages as a way to convince themselves to drink more.

Those polled are more inclined to lean towards fresh and fruity tastes, followed by zingy and citrussy notes, with lemon and strawberry being the most popular tastes. The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found 26 per cent would drink more water if it tasted better.

Gemma Morgan added, “We want people to know that drinking enough water is not only essential but can be done in a fun and delicious way, and we hope to help people achieve their goals.”

Following the findings, Made in Chelsea star Sophie Habboo has teamed up with Volvic Touch of Fruit to offer hydration hacks to help people drink more water on her Instagram @sophiehabboo

First patients welcomed to new Breast Care Centre

Ipswich Hospital’s brand new state-of-the-art Breast Care Centre has recently welcomed its first patients.

The breast screening team was the first to begin using the multimillion pound facility, with the clinics and imaging department moving in over the next few weeks.

The centre will transform the experience which patients have when they come to hospital by

bringing all elements of breast care under one roof for the first time. As a result, patients will no longer need to walk backwards and forwards between departments, get dressed and undressed several times or spend a long time in waiting rooms.

Nick Hulme, Chief Executive of East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs Ipswich Hospital, said, “This new centre

will transform hospital visits for breast care patients. The care our clinical teams give to patients is outstanding and now we can provide an environment to match.”

The new £5.3 million centre has been made possible thanks to a partnership between NHS funding from ESNEFT and a fundraising appeal called the Blossom Appeal by Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.

Return of Mindful Woman event

Award Winning Holistic Health Business KMT Rising will be back with its Mindful Woman events on Saturday 4th March 2023, and the focus will be all about improving our relationships through Mindfulness and Meditation techniques.

Imani, the CEO of the Company and Mindfulness Trainer commented that, “Stress can really take its toll on our lives in so many ways; it can destroy the quality of life many women want with their families, friends and colleagues.

“Many women are juggling work, caring responsibilities, family and relationships and feel challenged to cope with it all, and as we come out of that very busy Christmas season, the event is dedicated to give women some space and time to breathe.”

The Mindful Woman event will take place at the Hold, in Ipswich, Suffolk, and will give women time and space to try out a range of Mindfulness, Breathwork and Meditative activities to deactivate the stress response which can lead to tension, arguments, conflicts and break ups in relationships, as well as being the trigger for a host of health conditions. One of the participants who attended last year’s Mindful Woman event called it “an oasis in Suffolk!”.

Imani’s Holistic Health Work in Suffolk has also included Holistic Health Checks, Fibroid coaching, Acupressure Massage and Energy Balancing Work at fishface, the Walk, Ipswich, where Imani treats

clients in the cosy treatment room. Her 20 years of research, and work supporting women with fibroids has also culminated into her book available on Amazon titled ‘Nature’s Pathways to Womb-Wellness’ which is a must read! Email kmtrisingltd@gmail.com or visit the website www.kmtrising.com for more information.

Imani’s annual EXHALE for women, will be returning on Saturday 1st July at Belstead Brook Hotel, so watch this space. You can follow Imani @ KMT Rising on her social media platforms at Instagram @kmt_rising. To book a FREE-30 minutes Holistic Health consultation contact Imani on 07909 516 343 or www.kmtrising,com, where you will also be able to view invites to her other Energy Cultivation classes and Mindfulness events. She looks forward to serving you.

Get active with Ipswich Fit

If you’re looking to get more active in 2023, Ipswich Fit have multiple sports centres across Ipswich with pools, gyms and more.

Being active is proven to have significant benefits to both our physical and mental health, both of which are important to look after. Taking part in different activities allows you to keep your workouts exciting and keeps you active for longer.

Ipswich Fit have gyms across Ipswich and no matter what your fitness goals are, staff are on hand to answer questions, provide support and advice and even offer 1-2-1 training sessions.

If you’re looking for water-based fun and activities, Crown Pools and Fore Street Pool are both situated in the centre of Ipswich. Swim laps in the competition pool or enjoy some casual swimming in the leisure pool, there’s something for everyone.

With that in mind, Ipswich Fit are offering savings of over 15% on Gym, Swim and Classes memberships, giving you access to a variety of ways to get active – and stay active! Get 3 months of membership for a one-off cash payment of £96 (Saving £19.50) or sign up to a 6-month Direct Debit membership option for £32 per month, saving £39. That’s a saving of over one month’s full membership!

Join Ipswich Fit’s fantastic fitness class community, full of enthusiastic and supportive members and

instructors! The programme has over 50 weekly classes ranging from Aerobics to Pilates, Yoga to

Zumba and everything in between, plus a fantastic range of Les Mills BodyPump™ BodyAttack™ and BodyCombat™ classes.

With a Gym, Swim and Classes membership you also get access to tennis court hire, athletics track use, the health suite at Crown Pools, and 50% off indoor racquet court hire, so there’s even more ways to stay active and have fun while keeping fit.

Get more active in the New Year and keep your resolutions going with varied activities. Find out more about Ipswich Fit’s facilities and offers at www.ipswichfit.co.uk/ fitnessforyou

GYM, SWIM & CLASSES MEMBERSHIP

at

Failing to deliver!

Delivery firm, Evri has apologised to customers for continued localised delays. The firm said how Royal Mail strikes, poor weather conditions, and staff shortages contributed to the delays over the festive period, which have left some unhappy customers awaiting their deliveries.

Nick Drewe, founder of WeThrift, has shared his top tips on what rights consumers have if their parcels go missing.

Drewe says, “Given the disruption to the postal service and the other factors mentioned in Evri’s apology, parcels can, unfortunately, be delayed or even go missing. With this in mind, it’s important to know your rights when chasing up problems with a missing delivery.” Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Contact the retailer

Many people mistakenly fall into the trap of contacting the courier for delivery issues, when it should be the retailer. As outlined in the Consumer Rights Act 2015, the retailer has full responsibility for the condition of products until they are received by the customer.

It is the retailer’s responsibility to chase the courier to investigate what has happened to your order, in the event of a delay. If it turns out the item is missing, the retailer is legally obliged to either rearrange the delivery or give you a full refund.

2. Check your payment method

If your item has not arrived and you used PayPal to complete the original transaction, you are protected by the Buyer’s Protection guarantee. This will reimburse you the full amount of the product, as well as any postage and packaging fees. Similarly, PayPal will also compensate you if the item does not match the seller’s description.

If you have paid with a credit card, you could claim under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, as long as the item is worth at least £100 and under £30,000. For debit card purchases, you can contact your bank and tell them you want to use the ‘chargeback scheme’ for non-delivered items.

If the bank authorises this, they will request the seller ’s bank to reverse the payment back into your account.

3. The 30 day refund policy

Under the Consumer Rights Act, your delivery must be made without undue delay and within 30 days from the point of purchase, unless you and the retailer have agreed otherwise. If you haven’t received your item after this time period, you are entitled to a full refund.

4. Check your delivery instructions

Parcels are often delivered to an alternative place that you specified in the delivery instructions. Even though it wasn’t delivered to your front door, couriers will specify that your item has been delivered if they’ve left it in your safe place.

So, it’s best to double-check your order details if you have been waiting for your parcel for a while. If you didn’t provide delivery instructions and it turns out the item is in fact missing, the retailer is legally bound to replace or refund your order.

5. Report any incidents

Report all incidents of package theft to the police. This will help them keep an eye out in your neighbourhood for package theft.

Let the retailer know that your package was stolen. Amazon may require the retailer to file a claim. If the retailer doesn’t cooperate, reach out to the shipper about the stolen package.

Sometimes, a stolen package could be covered by homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. If you file a claim, you will likely have to pay a deductible that might be higher than the value of the stolen package.

www.wethrift.com/tag/delivery

When did you last have a declutter?

Research of 2,000 adults revealed 67 per cent confessed they’ve got plenty of clutter but refuse to get rid in case they might need it again one day. And books, old clothes and random cables and cords are among the most common unused items. Thoughts of how to tackle it take place an average of three times a week, yet 18 per cent can’t be bothered to take it on. While 14 per cent don’t have the time to get rid of things. It also emerged the oldest item people have in their possession without using it is an average of

for others in our community and it’s good for the environment too. This New Year, we’re urging Brits to combat the clutter and share what they don’t need with others.”

feel better, while 30 per cent of those polled, via OnePoll, feel more organised. But decluttering is not just a case of throwing things in the bin as 21 per cent said their unused items are in perfectly good condition and could easily be used by others. And 25 per cent said giving away

One woman who knows the pitfalls of too much clutter all too well is 40-year-old Sunita Thind, from Derby. A self-confessed chronic clutterer, Sunita recently decided to take action after years’ worth of items had built up throughout her house.

Sunita said, “I have always been terrible at getting rid of things I no longer need. Whether it’s clothes I think I’ll one day wear, or books I never get around to reading, I’ve accumulated so many things over the years. Recently, I looked at my house and realised so much space was taken up by things I have no real purpose for.

“After suffering from ovarian cancer six years ago, my life became very stressful and it made me realise the importance of having a calm, tidy and organised life at home. The clutter really doesn’t help with this so I decided to do something about it.”

Sunita used the Olio app to help with her decluttering plans - listing a range of her unwanted, but perfectly usable, items on the app so that others in her local community could collect them from her for free. She added, “It’s so tempting to just chuck everything in a bin liner and send it off to the tip, but as I was going through my items, I realised just how many of them are in a perfectly usable condition.

“I listed lots of kitchen utensils which were picked up by a local family who needed it for the Christmas period as they had extra seats around the table. So not only am I making sure my own space is nice and tidy, but I’ve also been able to help out my neighbours too. It’s such a good feeling.”

TOP 5 CLUTTER ITEMS

1. Books

2. Old clothes

3. Old cables and cords

4. Food containers

5. General trinkets

more than five years old. But 19 per cent have clung onto something for more than a decade without using it. The research was commissioned by free-sharing app Olio, which has teamed up with decluttering expert and KonMari master consultant from A Life More Organised, Sue Spencer, who believes bad clutter habits aren’t just putting a strain on our cupboards, it’s potentially putting a strain on wellbeing as well. She said, “Most of us have heard the phrase ‘tidy home, tidy mind’ before - and there is definitely some truth in this. When we’re surrounded by clutter it can have a negative effect on our stress levels, while also increasing the likelihood of becoming anxious, disorganised and irritable. Try not to berate yourself too much though, hanging on to clutter is very common.

“Even if we have no idea what a certain cable’s purpose is or know deep down we’re never going to use that pasta machine again, the thought that one day we might just find a use for those objects means we naturally want to hang onto them.”

It also emerged 29 per cent feel having a clear out makes them

items for free to other people makes them feel good.

Tessa Clarke, co-founder and CEO of Olio, said, “We know that giving things away makes people’s day. As a nation, we have so much stuff in our home that spends the majority of its lifetime unused - so why are we still hanging on to all this clutter when it could so easily be shared with someone else?

“A good declutter has so many benefits - it’s good for us, it’s good

Top tips on preserving clothes

Lipstick, make-up, wine and even deodorant can all cause damage to wardrobe favourites, but according to scientist Martin TerBekke, putting the item in the freezer before popping them in the washing machine can help to get a stain off.

Washing clothes ‘zipped up’ to avoid them causing damage to other items and turning jeans inside out during the wash, which will prevent the seams from turning white, are also among the tips. Other advice included buttoning up blouses to present stretching and leaving a fist-sized gap at the top of the machine to leave room for clothes to be cleaned properly.

Tips and tricks to save money

It comes after research of

2,000 adults who do laundry, commissioned by Ariel, found 35 per cent of people wear their jeans five times before putting them in the wash.

And 43 per cent admit to re-wearing underwear because they’re holding out from using the washing machine. Bedsheets are only changed monthly by 14 per cent of adults, while 32 per cent do their washing on a Saturday. But 62 per cent are cutting back on the amount of washing they do to combat the cost-of-living crisis. And 57 per cent are more inclined to put their laundry on a cold cycle to try and save money and energy, according

Martin, a scientist at laundry and fabric care giant Ariel, said, “It may seem strange, but next time you get your favourite lippy on your jumper, whack it in sub-zero temperatures in your freezer. It clumps the lipstick together meaning you’ll easily be able to scrape it off once it’s hardened. And when it comes to those stubborn stains, don’t be afraid to put your clothes through a cold wash.

“Washing at cooler temperatures can save you up to 60 per cent on your washing machine energy bills and can be better for clothes - even washing at 40 degrees can put up to double the amount of stress on fabrics. Protecting the quality of clothes helps keep them out of landfills and stop us needing to buy more.”

to the OnePoll figures. These respondents believe the main benefits of lowering the temperature for a wash to be saving energy, money and the environment. Martin added, “Putting your clothes through a cold wash is a great way to help protect the fabrics from being discoloured. When it comes to those stubborn stains, don’t automatically think you need to revert to a hotter wash. Other tricks to keep your clothes looking their best includes turning them inside out during the wash.”

Top laundry tips

- Turning your clothes inside out will help protect them during the wash as it stops them rubbing against each other, helping preserve fabrics.

- Zip up all zippers before you put garments in the wash so they don’t catch on your other clothes and damage the fibres.

- Button blouses to prevent stretching and misshapen / mismatched sides.

- For stains like lipstick, first gently scrape off any excess. For particularly waxy makeup stains, place the garment in the freezer for 20 minutes then gently scrape off any excess frozen stain.

- Fill up the machine, but leave a fist sized gap at the top so water can evenly distribute and clean clothes properly.

- Wash on cold to save you up to 60 per cent on your washing machine energy bills.

Conservation areas - new proposals

Property owners and occupiers are being invited to share their views on proposals for the creation and expansion of Conservation Areas in Aldeburgh.

Plans comprise the creation of a new Conservation Area at Aldeburgh Park and three extensions to the existing Aldeburgh Conservation Area. Conservation Area status is granted to help preserve or enhance the unique character of an area with special architectural or historic interest, giving the local planning authority extra controls over demolition, minor development and alteration, and the protection of trees.

Cllr David Ritchie, East Suffolk Council cabinet member for Planning and Coastal Management, said, “Like all local planning authorities, East Suffolk Council is required to periodically review its areas of special architectural or historic interest – the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance – and to designate those areas as Conservation Areas.

“Aldeburgh is one of the most important, attractive and well visited towns in the district, and already has a Conservation Area that includes mainly the High Street and beach. This review is asking if other parts of the town that are also worthy of designation as a Conservation Area, or to be added to the existing one.

“The Conservation Area has done a good job in helping to protect the special character of that part of the town since 1970. These proposals recommend that more of the residential and maritime character of the town now merits designation for its special value.”

Aldeburgh Park is being considered for designation as a new Conservation Area due to the high quality of the area, principally derived from the residential development initiated in the 1870s and continued until the 1930s. It comprises large villas, within generous plots, in a planned layout focused on landscaping and gardens, to evoke the feeling of being in the countryside, rather than the seaside.

The residential area is predominantly leafy and suburban, having been designed with the character of rural country lanes and garden villages, in contrast with the nearby seaside town of Aldeburgh, where the streets are straight, more closely spaced, and frequently enclosed on two sides by narrow plots containing tall buildings.

Meanwhile, extensions are proposed to existing Conservation Areas at Aldeburgh Lodge Gardens, the 19th century suburb to the west of High

Winter takes toll on aging flat roofs

The winter weather can really take it’s toll on your property, and in particular an aging flat roof, where water or snow can sit creating even more issues, including leaks.

If you have this sort of roofing on your home, now might be a good time to get it looked at or even have it replaced. Here is where Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd can help.

Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd is a registered installer of the Sarnafil Roof Assured roofing system. A unique 1 ply membrane with a 40 year plus life expectancy and all installations carry a 15 year manufacturer’s material guarantee.

Sarnafil products were first developed in Switzerland in 1958, primarily for use on commercial and industrial buildings. Designed to cope with temperatures ranging from -30°C to 120°C and to withstand all weather conditions, this system is the perfect addition to your home, meaning you no longer have to worry about your roof, whatever the weather!

Sarnafil flat roofing provides perfect roofing solution for homes and extensions, conservatories, balconies and terraces, dormers, porches and garages. In fact, whatever your flat roofing requirement Sarnafil Roof Assured will provide you with a solution that looks good and provides lasting performance, with minimum maintenance required.

Available in a range of colours, the weather resistant hard-wearing membrane provides value for money and can improve the thermal efficiency of your home. More heat is lost through the roof than any other area of your home, so by increasing the thermal efficiency of your roof you can cut your energy bills too.

Consumer Protection Association (CPA) Insurance Backed Guaranteed member Eastern Counties Home Improvements fully guarantees all their products and services for a minimum of 10 years and in some cases 20 years, so you also have piece of mind when choosing them to undertake work in your home.

For more information about how an Assured roofing system can enhance your home contact Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd for a free no obligation quotation 01473 206299 or 01206 252393.

Street, and the Slaughden to Martello Tower area extending to the south of the historic core of Aldeburgh. The draft Aldeburgh Park Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan can be found at https://eastsuffolk.inconsult.uk/ aldeburghconservationarea2023, along with the draft supplement to the existing Aldeburgh Conservation Area Appraisal. Comments may be submitted until Friday 17th February and will be taken into account before Cabinet members consider the proposals later in the year.

Deben Flower Club’s next meeting will be held on Tuesday 14th February in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP11 0PU at 7.30pm. The demonstrator will be Doreen Robinson and her title is “Embracing colour”.

“As far as I am aware Doreen has not visited us before so we can look forward to some new and exciting ideas. Doreen’s arrangements will be raffled at the end of the evening and there will be a fundraising stall of any unused gifts you may be able to donate.” Wendy from the Deben Flower Club said. Tea coffee and biscuits will be available after the demonstration. Visitors are assured of a warm welcome. £6. email wa@sandlings.co.uk or telephone Sandy on 07910463158 for further information.

Flower arranging tip of the month. This time of year is often expensive for purchasing flower and there are not many available from the garden, so why not try an all-foliage arrangement. Think of texture, colour, size and shape of leaves and scent. For example, adding some Pine and Eucalyptus to the design gives a wonderful scent and different textures.

10 ways to get your finances

Here are 10 tips from personal finance expert, Holly Andrews, on how consumers can get their finances sorted as we go into the new year. Holly has over 15 years’ experience in the finance industry and is currently the Managing Director of finance broker, KIS Finance.

The start of the year is a chance, for many people, to make some changes in their life. For some this may be to change their diet or to take up a new hobby, but it can also be a great time to take a look at your finances.

This guide will go through some of the steps you can take to get your finances in order and start the new year off the right way.

1. Set your main goal(s) for the year

Before you do anything else, it’s important to decide what your main financial goals are for the year ahead. This could be saving money for something specific like a house deposit or family holiday, building up an emergency fund or significantly reducing or paying off your debts. Whatever it is you want to achieve, having this in your mind from the offset will steer you in the right direction.

2. Review the previous year

If the goal is to make significant changes to your financial position, then it’s important to review all of your transactions from the past year, or maybe two years, so you can figure out how you got into your current position in the first place. Collecting up your bank statements, receipts and bills and looking through them thoroughly will allow you to see where you are spending unnecessarily and where you can start to cut back and make some savings. You can also review all of your accounts to see what’s working for you, what’s not and where you can maybe get better interest rates. Once you’ve done this, you can start to make a plan.

3. Create a realistic budget/plan

‘Create a budget’ is something you hear so often, but it really is important to do if this is something you haven’t

done already. A lot of people associate the term ‘budget’ with strict rules on spending and various other restrictions. But actually, a budget can be used to monitor your income and outgoings, regulate and keep track of your spending, help you to pay off debt and help you to save money. Creating a budget is the first step to organising and regaining control over your finances if this is something you’ve been struggling with.

If you already have a budget in place, now’s the time to review it. No budget should ever be set in stone – income changes, bills change, and needs change – so you need to keep your budget up to date.

4. Review your credit report

If this isn’t something you do regularly, now is a great time to have a look over your credit report. You need to check for any discrepancies in personal details or account information as well as make sure that everything is up to date. It’s also a good way of viewing your current financial standing, and credit reference agencies will sometimes even give you advice on what

changes you can make to improve your score.

You can also use your credit report to make sure you haven’t fallen victim to any kind of identity theft

finances fit for 2023

which could be negatively affecting your score, such as someone applying for loans and credit cards in your name.

6. Consolidate your debts

If you have multiple debts – e.g. credit cards, personal loans, and store cards – and you’re struggling to keep track of everything then it may be time to think about a debt consolidation loan.

Debt consolidation is when you clear up all of your debts by transferring them to one loan, so therefore a singular, and hopefully much lower, monthly repayment. You can get debt consolidation personal loans and credit cards, but the best interest rates and terms are available with secured loans.

Secured loans offer loan amounts from £5,000 to £2.5 million with terms of up to 25 years – most personal loans are capped at around 10 years. Longer loan terms and lower interest rates often make secured loans more affordable than personal loans. Secured loan lenders are also more lenient towards applicants with a chequered credit history so you may still be able to get a secured loan even if you have been turned down by other lenders due to poor credit.

5. Automate outgoings

Automating your bills and other outgoings is a great way of keeping everything on track. By having payments leave your account automatically via a direct debit or standing order means you won’t forget to pay a bill, transfer money into your savings account, or add to your investments.

You should especially automate the minimum payment for your credit card or any other debts each month. You can still manually pay off more than just the minimum payment, but having the minimum payment automated will mean that you won’t be adding to your debts by being charged for late or missed payments.

7. Review your bills, direct debits and standing orders

It’s really important to regularly check through your direct debits and standing orders to make sure that you’re not paying for any products or services that you no longer use or need. This could be anything from forgotten subscriptions and gym memberships, to vehicle or home insurances that you no longer need. You should also check whether you’re getting the best rates and prices for all of your bills. It’s a well-known fact that loyalty doesn’t necessarily pay off when it comes to things like gas and electricity, car insurance and broadband providers. Companies like these will often have deals to attract new customers, so

this is definitely something you can take advantage of.

Doing a simple comparison online using a comparison website like Go Compare or Compare the Market will show you if you’re paying too much on any of your bills and where you can get them cheaper.

Even if you can’t switch things over right away because you’re currently on a fixed tariff, you can definitely get organised ahead of the new year by taking down notes of the companies and adding the date you can switch to your diary.

8. Switch your bank account

Another thing you can do is to have a look and see if your main bank account suits your financial needs.

If you’ve been using the same bank forever, it can be easy to forget to look at what other banks are offering. Modern banks offer so many things now, for example, the ability to automate savings and round up your transactions. Some also allow you to earn rewards for your spending.

Most banks also offer incentives for switching over to them. While

bonuses like these shouldn’t be the deciding factor to switching bank accounts, they can certainly sweeten the deal if you’re considering it anyway.

9. Get a better rate on your savings

If you’ve already got some savings, now may be the perfect time to check whether you’re getting the best interest rate and the best return on your money. If you find a bank with much higher interest rates on savings, consider switching over to them ready for the new year. You may get offered incentives to switch accounts too.

10. Review throughout the year

Once you’ve done everything you can to get your finances in order, it’s important to then stay on top of everything – especially in a time like this where interest rates and the cost of living are ever changing. It’s not something that you want to be doing all the time, however, reviewing things every three or four months will make sure that you’re still heading in the right direction.

Understanding Credit Scores

1. Register to vote

4. Limit how much you move around

A recent report discovered that 29% of UK consumers have never checked their credit rating which could impact their ability to get a mortgage, car insurance, or credit card. But why should I improve my credit score, I hear you ask? Having a flourishing credit score will allow you to obtain loans with lower interest rates, which means you will be able to pay smaller sums back at a time.

As well as traditional loans, mortgage providers will be more likely to consider your application when it comes to buying a house, without you having to compromise on an interest rate that could cripple your bank account.

If you discover that your score could be improved, there are several steps you can take to top it back up. With this in mind, Brean Horne, personal finance expert at comparison site NerdWallet, has compiled a list of methods to help you do this.

Registering to vote is a quick and easy way to boost your credit score. This is because being registered makes it easy for banks and mortgage lenders to check your address and personal details which, in turn, raises your credit score. Registering can be done online, over the phone or via post, so don’t put it off any longer!

2. Keep older bank accounts open

Successfully juggling several credit accounts over a long period of time can help to boost your credit score. Credit reference agencies usually reward you for managing long-standing accounts because it demonstrates that you use credit wisely and pay off your debts on time. This could allow you to be considered for loans with lower interest rates, as you have demonstrated you are responsible with your money.

3. Think about getting a credit builder card

Credit builder cards were designed to allow people with a limited credit history or bad credit scores to improve over time. This may improve a borrower’s chances of getting a loan or mortgage in the future. They usually have low spending limits and high-interest rates. Due to this, it’s important to keep up with your repayments to avoid causing any further credit score damage.

While this depends on your circumstances, remaining in the same property for a longer period of time will help to improve your credit score. Staying in the same location makes it easier for credit reference agencies to verify your identity quickly. For some lenders, having the same address for an extended period of time also suggests that you have more financial stability and may impact your chances of taking out credit such as a loan or mortgage.

5. Pay back any borrowed money on time

Paying off your debts on time shows lenders that you are a reliable borrower who manages money well. Due to this, it’s important to keep up with your repayments in order to improve your credit rating. If you think you may miss a repayment or can’t afford to pay off your debt, contact your lender as soon as possible. They may be able to renegotiate the terms of your credit agreement to help you get your finances back on track. This may help limit any long-term damage to your credit score, as it avoids missing payments or defaulting on your debts altogether.

www.nerdwallet.com/uk/loans/

The term ‘credit score’ usually evokes a range of emotions from people, ranging from worry to downright confusion.

Cost of charging electric vehicles increases 50%

The cost of using publicly accessible rapid and ultra-rapid chargers – which a driver taking longer trips beyond their electric car’s range depends on – has risen by 50% since May, new data from RAC Charge Watch shows.

It now costs an average of 70.32p per kilowatt hour to rapid charge on a payas-you-go basis, up from 44.55p last May and from 63.29p last September. The rises, driven by further increases in the wholesale cost of electricity, mean that drivers now pay £36 to charge a typical family-sized electric car with a 64kWh battery to its 80% rapid or ultra-rapid limit – enough to cover around 188 miles. This is more than twice the cost of charging the same car at home, something most EV drivers can do, with the price of such a charge coming in at just £17.87 – despite the record high domestic energy prices. The price of using the fastest ultra-rapid chargers, which have power outputs of over 100kW and can charge many cars in a matter of minutes, now stands at 74.79p per kilowatt hour, up from 50.97p in May 2022 and 63.94p in September. Drivers relying on these chargers pay £38.29 today for an 80% charge, a huge £20.42 more than at home.

The RAC’s analysis shows that drivers who use the rapid public charging network – typically because they need to recharge on a longer journey or are trying to charge up time-efficiently as they can’t do so at home or work – currently pay a huge premium over those using slower chargers. Indeed, it can be more expensive for an EV driver to recharge quickly on a longer journey than it is for a petrol and diesel drivers to refuel. Drivers using rapid chargers now pay 20p per mile for their electricity, only a penny less than those using less common ultra-rapid chargers who pay 21p per mile. These costs are higher than the equivalent per-mile rate for a petrol car that achieves an economy of 40 miles to the gallon (17p per mile) and are on a par with a diesel car achieving the same economy (20p per mile). Despite a record number of new electric car registrations last month, the RAC together with campaign group FairCharge are concerned that the higher costs associated with EVs – including new car list prices as well as public rapid and ultra-rapid charging costs – risks dissuading drivers from opting for them over keeping their existing petrol and diesel vehicles, not least given the current cost-of-living crisis. Both are therefore reiterating their call – which is backed by several EV charge point operators – for the Government to cut the VAT rate charged on electricity bought at public EV chargers from 20% to 5%, mirroring the rate domestic energy users pay. Doing so would see the cost of rapid charging falling by 8.79p per kilowatt hour and ultra-rapid charging by 9.35p.

RAC EV spokesperson Simon Williams said, “For drivers to switch to electric cars en masse, it’s vital that the numbers stack up. In time, the list price of new electric models will come down but charging quickly has also got to be as affordable as possible.

“It continues to be the case that those who can charge at home or at work and who don’t use the public rapid charging network very often get fantastic value – even given the relatively high domestic energy prices right now. Sadly, the same can’t be said for people who either can’t charge at home or at work, or who regularly make longer journeys beyond the range of their cars. There’s no question they have to pay far more, and in some cases more than petrol or diesel drivers do to fill up on a mile-for-mile basis.

“As recent new car registration figures showed, the demand for EVs is clearly there but it’s vital this is sustained. The concern is the extremely high energy prices, which are already making people’s domestic energy bills so high, have the effect of putting people off using public EV chargers of all speeds altogether – something the Government must avoid if it expects charge point operators themselves to do the majority of the heavy lifting when it comes to installing more EV charging infrastructure. Cutting the level of VAT on electricity sold at public chargers to 5% to match what people pay at home would be one way of keeping prices under control and would show the Government remains committed to getting more drivers to go electric.”

Founder of the FairCharge campaign Quentin Willson said, “While affordable home charging remains a real incentive for British drivers to go electric, we remain concerned that the small but significant proportion of drivers without access to private parking are doubly disadvantaged by more expensive charging costs and an added tax burden. This archaic VAT policy means that those without home charging pay four times the rate of tax as those charging at home.”

n Ford's Focus with Daniel Ford

The Six Nations is back baby! The annual tournament returns this month and with it come many questions about all of the teams involved. So, for this month’s article it seems only right for me to delve into some of the stories surrounding this year’s edition.

Let’s start with the team who traditionally are at the bottom and then work our way up. The Italians tend to prop up the table but they shocked the rugby world with a victory over Wales last year. The goal for them this year is to build on this, although personally I would say that a bigger measure of their performance is whether they are able to stay in touch with the other sides. If with 15 minutes to go in all of their games the Italians are within 10 points of their opponents this will indicate marked progress. When watching this Italy side look out for Jake Polledri who is returning after an injury which has seen him out for almost two years.

As Heather Small would say we are now ‘moving on up’ to Scotland and Wales, who I am grouping together. Both had underwhelming campaigns last year and will be looking to improve. Wales, who have recently re-appointed Warren Gatland as coach, seem to be a team in transition whereas Scotland should be a well-oiled machine having been coached by Gregor Townsend since 2017. Look out for Louis Rees-Zammit for the Welsh side who is unbelievably quick, for Scotland look out for fly half Finn Russell who is very creative and has an eye for the extravagant.

Next on to another fascinating couple of teams, the English and the Irish. These in a way are similar to the comparison between Scotland and Wales. England are under a new coach with Steve Borthwick having taken over, whereas Ireland have been coached by Andy Farrell for three years. The main question for these two sides is whether they can challenge the French, currently, you would have to say that Ireland are better placed to do so. For England having made the decision to sack Eddie Jones they need to make vast improvements on last year, fans will hope to see a team with more creativity and with a stronger scrum than we saw in 2022. For Ireland look out for winger Mack Hansen who impressed last year and for England look out for Jack Willis who has overcome a serious injury to return.

Finally, let’s talk about the best team in the world right now. France went unbeaten in 2022 and are undoubtedly the side to beat. With them the questions are simply whether they can be as good as last year, past French sides have been mentally weak and have often had the crowd on their backs, it will be interesting to see how this side respond when the face adversity in this tournament. For them look out for the mercurial talent that is scrum half Antoine Dupont who is probably the best player in the world.

This Six Nations utterly fascinates me and I can’t wait for the action to commence, so sit back relax and enjoy!

We pressure/steam clean, reinstate sunken areas, refill joints, weed treat and apply acrylic sealant if required.

— BLOCK PAVING — MATTHEWS