Brantham Bugle Dec/Jan 2019 Edition by Joanne King

ISSUE 142 // DEC/JAN 2019 // FREE

Also in this issue

Santa Visiting Sat 15th & Sun 16th Dec

Carols by Candlelight Thurs 20th Dec - 6.30pm St Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church

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The Brantham Bugle

Contents 5 From the Editor 8 News & Letters 9 Scout & Guides 11 Santa’s coming to town (well the village) 12 Parish Council News 16 BGNS Community Cafe 17 Over 60’s Club 19 Brantham Box Office 20 Brantham Post Office 22 Brantham Good Neighbours Scheme 23 BATS The Editor: Joanne King 37 Cedar Close, Brantham, Manningtree, Essex. CO11 1TQ Telephone: 07526 118 663 Email: editor@branthambugle.co.uk The Printer:

25 Women’s Institute 27 Report to Parishes 30 It’s All About Us 33 RSPB

Juniper House of Print Telephone: 01206 230884 Email: richard@jhprint.co.uk

35 Constable Country Patient Particpation Group

Cover picture courtesy of Michael Kemp

38 Probus, Rant at the Rector & Friendship Lunch

Disclaimer

39 Holy Family Catholic Church

This publication was produced by the Brantham Bugle. The production costs were met in full by the advertising the publication contains. The Brantham Bugle do not make any recommendations as to the fitness of the advertisers appearing in this publication to carry out their services and no recommendations should be deemed to have been made. This edition of the Brantham Bugle has been produced in good faith and we regret any errors, omissions/ misinterpretations that may have crept in.

36 St Michael’s Church

41 Brantham Methodist Church 42 Constable Country Medical Practice 46 Community Information 48 Football 49 Transport 52 Poetry Corner 54 Advertising Rates & Copy Guidelines

Artwork and or Plates originated for use in this publication remain the property of the Brantham Bugle and must not be reproduced without their written permission.

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Tel: 01206 322763 Conveyancing, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate See website for full range of services www.mathersolicitors.co.uk Hill House, Grove Hill, Langham, Colchester, CO4 5PJ - Free parking on site

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Editorial

editor from the

I think I may be cursed when it comes to getting the Bugle off to print. Last edition technology let me down, this time it was my left arm! I’ve had tendonitis and it has made drafting this edition very tricky - I do not like typing with one hand!! So this edition brings us to the end of another year hopefully you will have some time off over the festive season and maybe enjoy being with family or friends? If you can spare it maybe consider donating to the local foodbanks, seasonal goods would be most appreciated - more

details from Rev Steph in her piece on page 38. Don’t forget that Santa will be visiting the kids (young and old) in the village on 15th & 16th Dec, do give them a wave and donation. Also some good news for the village - a temporary post office service is being run from the village hall every Wednesday 1-3pm. Lets all try and use this service, hopefully by showing need we can get a more permenant service in place with longer opening hours. Whilst I always want snow to appear, I’m hoping it holds off for a

while as my poorly arm doesn’t like cold at the moment. But once it’s recovered, bring it on! And thank you once again to all our volunteer deliverers without them this and every other edition of the Bugle wouldn’t get to you. If you see them, please thank them (and if you could get involved please see page 8 for details of a new deliverer needed)

Joanne King Volunteer Editor

The Brantham

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Bugle News & Letters

BUGLE NEWS & LETTERS Dear Editor. I am sick and tired of plastic charity bags being posted through my door. For two years I had a polite notice on my door asking that no bags be left and this was totally ignored. I throw these bags away in the black bin. I do donate to charity but like to do so in my own way, please local organisations, will you take note of my address and ask your people that deliver these bags, not to do so at my house. Is this also not helping our planet to pollute with yet more plastic?. Yours in frustration

Susan Grant Highfield, Brantham hill Thank you so very much to everyone who has supported my fundraising efforts for 1st Brantham Scout & Guide Group. On 5th October I had my very long hair shaved off after not having a haircut for 24 years. As well as raising over ÂŁ5,000 for our new HQ fund I have donated my hair to the Little Princess Trust.

Ruth Clark 8

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Bugle Deliverer/s Needed Can you help out and deliver the Bugle 6 times a year? Palfrey Heights and Pattern Bush Close no longer have a regular deliverer. The round is 120 houses and takes about an hour to do. Bugles need to be delivered end of Nov, Jan, Mar, May, July & Sept If you can help please email editor@branthambugle.co.uk or call 07526 118663

Scout & Guide Group

Project 2017 It is one year since we launched the appeal and project for a replacement hut in Factory Lane. Thanks to individual efforts of countless young people, parents, carers and the wider community we have already raised over £20,000 towards our target. We are immensely grateful for all those who have supported us so far, particular thanks should go to Jackamans solicitors for a very generous donation. We are now starting work

Remembrance Day Service We were pleased to support the Sunday Act of Remembrance service with many of our sections and units well represented. Wreaths were laid and the good behaviour of the young people was noted by many.

1 Brantham Scout & Guide Group Beavers

Scouts

01255 487252

Sue:

Debbie:

Cubs Ruth:

Charlie:

01255 871059

01206 393076

Beverley: branthamrainbows@outlook.com

1st Brownies

Ruth: 1stbranthambrownies@gmail.com

2nd Brownies

Guides

01206 395101

We are setting up a fundraising committee to organize future events, if you would like to get involved please get in touch. Group Treasurer After 5yrs our current Treasurer is standing down and we must find a replacement soon. Are you or do you know an accountant or bookkeeper who can manage our simple finances? You do not need to have a young person in the Group, anyone from the community can perform this important role for us. Please do consider if you can help the Group. Contact Julie Price, Chair for an informal discussion 01206 298341.

01206 299586

District Explorers and Senior Sections

Wolsey District Explorers Cattawade ES Unit

Babergh Samford Senior Flatford Senior Section

Roger: 01206 395285 catt-‐explorers@outlook.com

Heather : 07709 526993 flatfordseniorsection@hotmail.com

Rainbows

Lin:

on grant applications and approaches to major sponsors which will be needed to reach our goal.

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I will be coming down your way with all my little helpers Saturday 15th December

leaving The Crown PH at approx. 3.45pm I will be

visiting Bergholt Road, continuing to New Village, Mallards, Brooklands Road, Palfrey Heights and finishing on Brantham Hill and New Village Top Row

Sunday 16th December starting at The Pippins at approx. 4pm travelling to Poppyfields, Valley Close, the Church area, Ipswich Road, Street Farm as far as the Bull PH, then finishing at the Royal Oak PH (The Dicky) via Gravel Pit Lane, Slough Road, East End and Broom Knoll My little helpers will be doing a door to door collection and all proceeds will be donated to Charity.

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Parish Council News

PARISH COUNCIL NEWS DECEMBER/JANUARY 2019

Christmas is fast approaching! Don’t forget that the December Parish Council meeting will include a festive celebration – it would be lovely to celebrate the work that has gone on in the last year with you and to start thinking about plans for 2019. Please do come along to join us for a glass of wine and a mince pie!

Brantham is Suffolk’s Most Active Large Village!

Following submission of a successful bid Brantham has won the title of Suffolk’s Most Active Large Village for the second time! The awards, now in their fifth year, are organised by Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Association of Local Councils. Their purpose is to recognise and celebrate communities in Suffolk that are going the extra mile to encourage their residents to be active. When making the award the judges recognised the extensive range and 12

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selection of opportunities available in Brantham, from Zumba, a new trim trail and an annual 5-mile run, to regular local walking groups, a social cycling group and formal cricket, bowls and football clubs.

and effort to use this service so that we don’t lose it!

Parish Council Contributions

Thanks go to Councillor Phillips for submitting the bid on behalf of Brantham Parish Council, and well done to all those of you are involved in making Brantham such a vibrant and healthy place to live!

Since the last edition of the Bugle the Parish Council has made a contribution of £23.38 to the local cub pack for the cost of bulbs for them to plant in the village. I am sure that you all enjoy the bright daffodils that pop up every spring and will join me in thanking the local cubs for planting these.

Post Office service in Brantham:

Brantham Regeneration Area

Hopefully you will have now seen that since the last edition of the Bugle the Post Office have put in place a Hosted Outreach Post Office service whilst they continue to seek a permanent solution to the loss of our Post Office. The part time service is currently provided from Brantham Village Hall every Wednesday between 1pm and 3pm. Please do make the time

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It was great to see lots of you at the recent consultation event held by Taylor Wimpey at Brantham Leisure Centre looking at their proposals for the development of the Greenfield site at the end of Factory Lane. Hopefully your feedback will be taken away from the event and fed into the plans that they have for the site. Some of you may have

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seen that work has commenced by UKPN on Factory Lane, Cinder Path and the Lower Playing field to bury the overhead cables in this location. It is anticipated that these works will be completed by midDecember, and should hopefully mean that these unsightly cables are concealed from view in future.

Brantham Box Office film nights:

The Brantham Film nights are continuing to run on the third Wednesday of every month and many of you have been along to enjoy the cinema experience on your doorstep! Doors open at 7pm, and the film starts at 7.30pm. Tickets can be purchased in advance for £5 from Bakes and Blossoms Café, or on the door for £5.50 (£3 for under 16s). Our next showing will be on Wednesday 19 December 2018 showing “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” and will include a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. In January we will be showing “Book Club” on Wednesday 16 January 14

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Parish Clerk Surgeries:

I am continuing to hold my Parish Clerk Surgeries in Bakes and Blossoms Café at Acacia Court. This is your opportunity to meet me, ask questions or raise any concerns, it has been great to meet some of you and I look forward to meeting more of you in the future. The next surgery will be on Tuesday 04 December 2018 at 11am. There will be no surgery in January 2019.

Planning and Finance Committee meetings:

The Planning and Finance Committees usually meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month. However, to accommodate the Christmas period and some changes to the Parish Council meeting schedule (detailed below) the next Planning and Finance Committee meeting will actually take place on Wednesday 16 January 2019, 7.30pm at Brantham Methodist Church.

Parish Council Meetings:

Parish Council meetings are normally held on the

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1st Wednesday of every month starting at 7.30pm at Brantham Village Hall. The date of the next meeting is Wednesday 05 December 2018 and will include a festive celebration at the end. PLEASE NOTE: there will be no Parish Council meeting at the beginning of January or February 2019, instead the PARISH COUNCIL MEETING will take place on Wednesday 23 January 2019, 7.30pm at Brantham Village Hall. Finally, please remember that there is lots of information about Brantham and the Parish Council on the village website at www.onesuffolk. brantham.net and on our facebook page www. facebook.com/BranthamParishCouncil. If you would like to get in touch with me directly you can do so by emailing me on clerk@branthamparishcouncil.co.uk, write to me at 34 Sycamore Way, Brantham, CO11 1TL or you can telephone me on 07702 490212. Regards

Sarah Keys Parish Clerk

Susan Morrison Registered Osteopath

Dedham Parish mag

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Thursday 31st January Thursday 28th February 10.00am Brantham Leisure Centre Meet up with friends for coffee, cake and a chat! For transport 0754 135 9036 16

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Brantham Over 60’s Club On 25th September David Whittle form the Harwich Society, with appropriate music and attire (straw boater and swagger cane), commenced his talk “I do like to be beside the seaside”; about how day trips and holidays started in Victorian times; showing on film the original paddle steamers from London – packed with passengers – alongside the piers built over the years at the various coastal resorts in the East Anglia – the first and longest being at Southend. Train and motor transport was appearing. Interesting views of Harwich and Dovercourt in the 1920s/30s including being a travelling fair (with elephant!) the Electric Palace and other impressive buildings, some still in use today, mention being made of the Kindertransport (1938/39) when 10,000 Jewish children found refuge in the area. An early holiday camp, of course, later to be known as Maplins on TV, and the talk ended with the recorded voice of the Stars and strain of the Hi Di Hi theme tune. “A Supermarket Bunch” was presented

by Mrs Lesley Cooper on 9th October with four attractive arrangements and several grouped posy table centres being created from two (purchased) flower varieties – pink roses, white/mauve alstroemeria (Peruvian lily) and lots of unusual foliage from her garden, with many useful tips being given to would be flower arrangers during the demonstration. Being a 5 Tuesday month a medley of games afternoon was held on 16th October with Bingo (preceded by a fish and chips lunch at 1.00pm) on 23rd October, and a talk “The True Cost of Fish” by Andy Malcolm on the 30th about the Royal National Mission for Deep Sea Fishermen (founded 1881), for which he is the longstanding England East Organiser of Fundraising. Commencing with singing a 6 verse shanty he briefly outlined the aim of the charity which is to maintain the provision of emergency financial and spiritual support throughout the year to not only today’s working fishermen and their families, but to the many early retired or disabled through

Dates for your Diary January 8th Was Christmas a cracker? (members participation) or bingo 15th A Bird in the Hand – Barbara Faulkner 22nd Quiz (fish and chips lunch at 1.00pm) 29th A year in a Suffolk Field – Chris Parfitt February 12th Jennie & Chrissie entertain 19th Games afternoon (roast lunch at 1.00pm) 26th Harwich Train Ferry Story 1917-1987 – David Whittle Please mention the

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Over 60’s Contd.... injury at sea, relating particulars of some recent happenings that had required this. Then on a lighter note (interspersed with a few saucy jokes) “How to Catch Fish Fingers” and a quiz “Is it or is it not a fish?”, concluding with a reading of Sea Fever. A small but interesting sales stall and Albert

the collection box was well supported. Being the last issue of the year it’s time to thank the Bugle team for their effort and co-operation and wish the Season’s Greetings to everyone. If new to the village do pay us a visit.

Visitors are always welcome at our weekly Tuesday afternoon meetings in the Brantham Leisure Centre (bar 1st in each moth – committee) at 2.304.30pm and despite the title you do not have to be over 60 to join (either gender). For club details please telephone 01206 396242 Jean Lace, Hon Secretary

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Brantham Box Office Presents

Film night Wednesdays

At Brantham Village Hall (doors open at 7pm, film starts at 7.30pm)

Wednesday 19 December 2018

“White Christmas”(U)

Irving Berlin’s famous film about a successful song-and-dance team who become romantically involved with a sister act and team up to save the failing Vermont inn of their former commanding general.

Wednesday 16 January 2019

“Book Club” (12)

Starring Diane Keaton and Jane Fonda four lifelong friends have their lives forever changed after reading 50 Shades of Grey in their monthly book club.

NO FILM SHOWING IN FEBRUARY Wednesday 20 March 2019

“Crazy Rich Asians” (12A)

This contemporary romantic comedy, based on a global bestseller, follows native New Yorker Rachel Chu to Singapore to meet her boyfriend's family.

Wednesday 17 April 2019

“Lady Bird” (15)

An American coming-of-age story about a high-school senior and her turbulent relationship with her mother.

Wednesday 15 May 2019

“The Children Act” (12)

As her marriage crumbles, a judge must decide a case involving a teenage boy who is refusing a blood transfusion on religious principle. Starring Emma Thompson

Tickets cost £5 in advance from Bakes and Blossoms café, £5.50 on the door, £3 for under 16s Refreshments available on the night

Find out more about us on Facebook.com/BranthamBoxOffice

Photo by Sharon Auton The Brantham

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Good Neighbour Scheme

Brantham Good Neighbour Scheme Another successful couple of months with the Good Neighbours we helped 173 people with Doctors visits, Hospital appointments, shopping and odd jobs ie changing light bulbs etc. The bus trips always go well. In September we went to Hadleigh, some spent time in the high street,the rest went to Morrisons. On the way home we called into the Plant Centre Cafe as the weather was still fine it was a lovely way to end a lovely day out. November was our next trip with the ladies to Perry Woods their Christmas displays are always beautiful. This year was just as beautiful, if not better. We had good shopping and a good lunch. From there we finished our shopping in Tesco in Tiptree high street. Another good day out was had by all. The xmas meal this year is Friday 14th December at the George at Hindlesham

where all our regular Coffee Morning Residents will no doubt pull a few crackers, so to speak! The coffee mornings for the new year of 2019 are as follows: Thursday January 31st Thursday Feb 28th Thursday March 28th Again all are welcome to come along and have a natter and a chatter. Have a good xmas and Happy New Year to all our residents.

Kay Eastwood Transport Coordinator Vic Saunders, Secretary

Call: 07541 359036

Tree Felling - Canopy Reduction Hedge Cutting - Tree Shaping & Pruning - Stump Grinding - Pollarding Emergency Storm Damage

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A ‘swashbuckling adventure’ by

Lisa Butler

20th – 23rd February 2019

Brantham Village Hall 7.30pm (Sat Matinee 2.30 pm)

Tickets £9 & £6 children in advance Available from Bakes and Blossoms & www.ticketsource.co.uk Please mention the

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BRANTHAM FIREWORKS 2018 THANKS FOR COMING Once again we have held our annual firework event at Brantham Leisure Centre on Saturday 3rd November 2018. Well what an event, the southerly wind caused us and Dynamic Fireworks headaches all week, even resulting in test fireworks being sent up during the day to check the wind speed. At the time of lighting the fireworks the wind subsided enough to allow the 24

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big shells to be included in the spectacular. The event was as always very well supported by the village and surrounding areas close to 3000 people attended and we thank you all. Thanks to Dynamics and their team led by Doug and including local guy Rob Pleasance (Mickyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boy as he said frequently on the PA). Our fire of 1200 pallets from Longdens and Jewsons burnt well, it looked at one point that it was a raging inferno, but everything was under the expert control of Trevor, Richard, Darren and Ed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no trees or floodlights were hurt in the setting of this fire . A huge thank you to the helpers on Friday and Saturday and especial thanks to Rose Builders for the loan of the Telehandler expertly driven by Joe Riley who using his skill saved us 3-4 hours of build time. Thanks to St John

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Ambulance, Brantham Scouts, VIP Security, Dunninghams Plant Hire who are fantastic in providing our power and lights, The DARC music band for the post event music, Brantham Leisure Centre and Staff, Brooklands Reception Class for the brilliant Guy Fawkes that was placed on the fire. The Brantham mums on the gates, the catering concessions and fun fare rides and finally to the amazing committee, Trevor, Ali, Richard, Adele, Darren, Terry, Kim, Micky, Danny, Phil, James, Louise and Craig without these dedicated volunteers this event would not be possible and whom I am honoured to be their chairman. Finally thanks to our regular sponsors who were all mentioned throughout the night. See you all next year 2nd November 2018.

Darren Smith Chairman Brantham Fireworks

The Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Institute

INSPIRING WOMEN

MEETING EACH MONTH ON THE SECOND WEDNESDAY AT 7.30PM AT THE VILLAGE HALL - ALL ARE WELCOME

At our October meeting we welcomed Moira Hammond from Associated Country Women Worldwide. ACWW was founded in 1929 and is now in 74 countries with 9 million members. It is through these local connections that projects are identified and that all money raised goes directly to those who need it and is not spent on huge overhead or lost to corruption. ACWWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to improve the lives of women and children in rural areas worldwide by providing training and giving practical support in areas such as literacy, health and income generation. Moira told us many inspirational stories including about a group of women in Africa who walked for 3

days in each direction to open a bank account at the nearest bank! There were photos of ladies sitting at sewing machines supplied by ACWW making clothes for their families and ultimately to sell. Students sitting at antiquated typewriters learning the layout of the keyboard to transfer to computers and hopefully find employment. The amount of money involved is often quite small but the benefits it provides are huge. On the 12th October members of the Constable Group of W.I.s attended our autumn social evening which this year was hosted by Copdock W.I. We were all invited to attend wearing a wedding hat and there was some impressive millinery on show. After a parade around the room there was a prize for the wearer of the best hat. There was Please mention the

Should you wish to join us please ring Sheila Clark on 01206 393780 for further details. Transport can be provided On-line - www.sefwi. org.uk - then click on WIs - Brantham

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also a royal wedding quiz with 18 questions pinned around the walls of the hall. During October our walking group enjoyed a blustery walk in Shotley. Although we deviated from our original route in doing so we found a couple of quiet spots with stunning views which we will be visiting again next summer for a picnic or two. Our craft group project was Christmas rag wreaths. There was a lovely selection of fabric in Christmas colours and design along with help and advice. The finished products were beautiful. when replying to advertisers

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Report to Parishes, Alton Ward December 2018 Barbergh District Counsillor Alastair McCraw TAYLOR WIMPEY EXHIBITION IN BRANTHAM

By now we’ve had the opportunity to see proposals for Housing here. The event was very well attended with a constant stream of people. Questions were asked and useful information obtained. Much was about the general intentions, time frame, access, the effect on individual properties. I hope that some of you were, at least slightly, reassured that we can talk to the developers. Keeping lines of communication open is going to be vital. Suggestions were listened to, as they have a vested interest in making things work. Now a formal application will be being prepared and submitted. That application will contain a LOT of detail, but the Parish Council and myself are well placed to examine it fully. You should be kept fully informed at each stage. I’m currently trying to get hold of the exhibition material for those unable to make the event. The public consultation can be expected around

the new year. It might come to a committee as soon as early spring. I was told that in 2019 we’ll see enabling works, to get ready. The access points both north and south, Amy’s Roundabout and the Route to the Station all require work to be done as an existing condition. Attention is needed in the woods between Merriam Close and Decoy Pond. I’ll be looking to minimise adverse impacts in all this. Again, it is in the owners’ interest to co-operate with the community. Taylor Wimpey are looking at September as a possible start point.

HOMES AND HOMELESSNESS STRATEGY

Babergh are carrying out a consultation on these, closing at 12 noon, 7th December. They’re not really very complicated. The four areas of focus are • Increasing new homes delivery, (but the right homes in the right places) • Increasing housing options for older households and those requiring accessible homes • Ensuring current housing stock is fit for 21st century living Please mention the

• Supporting the most vulnerable households to find and sustain a home This is our ‘wish list’. It’s what we will use to guide the council in what it encourages developers and any partners to provide. As I’ll explain, the actual delivery of homes is not much within our control. The Homelessness Strategy summarises what we’re already doing under the Homelessness Reduction Act. A council’s responsibilities in this area have been raised. Six months in and expecting a doubling of workload, we’ve found an even larger amount to do. I’m glad to say that we seem to be rising to the challenge, but it’s never going to be easy.

THE BINS THE BINS

I sometimes joke that Parish Councils deal with Dog Bins and Districts with the Waste Bins. There have been some recent delays in collection. A shortage of Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) drivers has seen a knock-on effect in staffing. Babergh’s waste contractor Serco has now increased the hourly rate when replying to advertisers

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paid. That’s produced an immediate increase in applicants. We should see an improvement in the service, but it may take some time to fully materialise. The cost of overtime and the increased costs are not being borne by the Council. Serco’s contract is due for review soon, but they’ve been responsive in working with Babergh to resolve this. My advice would be to leave your bin out for the next day. They always try to catch up, working weekends if needed. I usually post about these problems on Facebook.

A WARD OF AWARDS

There’s been some recognition for Alton recently. Stutton Community Shop won the Babergh Community Group of the Year Award, a deserved accolade for all the volunteers involved. Brantham is the 2018 Most Active Large Village in Suffolk (again: also won in 2014), succeeding Shotley. And the Tattingstone Wheatsheaf is still the current Ipswich & East Suffolk CAMRA Pub of the Year. I like to be able to keep you in touch as much as possible, so please con-

sider joining the Facebook group. It has the huge advantage of being immediate. It is likely there will be a relaunch of the group shortly. Meanwhile, have a Merry Christmas and a great New Year.

I can always be contacted as below. Alastair McCraw. 07812 564188 alastair. mccraw@babergh. gov.uk Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer

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John Gamlin

IT’S ALL ABOUT US

I guess most of us will be aware of the recent statement from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which said the world community must act to limit the rise in temperature of the earth’s climate to no more than 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels if we are to avoid serious social, ecological and environmental consequences. Various measures were suggested to accomplish this target such as reforestation, reduction in fossil fuel use and technologies to remove CO2 from the atmosphere. What it failed to mention was the level of human numbers. In those pre-industrial days there were about 1.0 billion of us; now it stands at nearly 7.7 billion and still rising, projected to stabilize at about 10.0 billion in 2050. Why is this important? Because as human numbers rise other forms of life decline and in many cases, becoming extinct. Air and sea pollution increases, vital non-renewable resources decline, soil fertility is lost and fresh water demands becomes more difficult to 30

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meet. More people and increasing standards of living raise demands on the planet which cannot be sustained in the long term.

Why did the IPCC fail to mention population? They may say it’s not part or their brief, but a more likely reason is that it is not something they wished to address. We do not hesitate to ‘cull’ animal species when their numbers exceed a sustainable level, but taking measures to reduce our own species is a different matter entirely. Indeed, from an economic point of view increasing population is seen as a good thing; more people generate more consumers whereas a decline would lead to smaller markets and less competition. If you quietly speak to others who think about such things they may admit that where sustainability is concerned, there are far too many of us already. Public figures such as David Attenborough, Stephen Hawking and James Lovelock (of Gaia Hypothesis fame) have been prepared to nail their colours to the mast, but politicians and other decision

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makers far less so. What then can be done? In broad terms reduce the birthrate: this means encourage smaller families, ensure world-wide availability of contraceptive devices, promote women’s rights and reduce teenage motherhood. Some would argue for the right to end the life of those with incurable or agonizing illness, although this would make little difference. Of course, it would also help if we ate less meat, gave up long distance holidays and reduced our consumption of non-essential goods and services. In short we need a global, educationally based policy aimed at the reduction of human numbers until a sustainable level is reached. Less people will also help to solve all other environmental concerns, such as fewer houses on agricultural land and the number of vehicles on the road. One thing is clear - if we do not act Lovelock’s Gaia will come into action and complete the job by starvation, disease or conflict. Not a happy thought.

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St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Preschool The Institute Rectory Lane Brantham CO11 1PZ Tel: 01206 391472 Ofsted Reg: EY449792

Brooklands Young Explorers Brooklands School Palfrey Heights Brantham CO11 1RX Tel: 07892 877743 Ofsted Reg: EY368548

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Caring for children from 3 months to 11 years across 4 sites

Green Christmas Weekends at the RSPB Flatford Wildlife Garden at East Bergholt, Suffolk. Over the weekends of November 24th/25th and December 1st/2nd and in conjunction with the National Trusts ‘Victorian Christmas’ program, the RSPB will be running some seasonal family activities and volunteer crafts to bring seasonal cheer and celebrate all things natural this Christmas! Activities such as toasting mashmallows over an open brazier, and a volunteer run cake and craft stall including

some simple decorations for sale are proposed. As last year, we will have a Green Mother Christmas to thrill the children who will have an opportunity to make festive bird feeders whilst you warm yourself with home made hot chocolate courtesy of our splendid volunteers. New this year will be a Pledge Tree, a festive garden trail for old and young alike to explore, and our small retail shop selling RSPB Christmas themed items.

Flight for Life Lottery Email LotteryAdmin@EHAAT.uk.com or more details.

We hope this event will serve as a good introduction to the sort of activities we offer and might inspire you to join as a volunteer! The Garden will be open each day between 10:30am and 3:30pm and entry is free, but there will be a nominal charge of £1.00 per child to help cover costs and enable us to continue our vital work to Give Nature a Home. Parking is in the National Trust car park at Flatford, East Bergholt for £4.00 a day. For more information please see www.rspb. org.uk/reserves-andevents and search for Flatford Wildlife Garden, or call 01206 391153 for an update of events and attractions nearer the time.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2019 to all our friends in Brantham and surrounding area. This year we are donating £20 to the Air Ambulance instead of our usual cards that are hand delivered. Marian and Roger Dann

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SOLICITORS fOR IndIvIduaLS and buSIneSS T 01206 574431 tsplegal.com

Lasting Power of Attorney – Preventing Abuse of Power

Sharon Auton

A Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Financial Affairs is a legally binding document which you (the Donor) can use to give authority to someone (your Attorney) to make decisions on your behalf about your property and financial affairs at some point in the future. There have, however, been a number of reports in the media recently where Attorneys have abused the power given to them by the Donor, and, at Thompson Smith and Puxon (TSP) Solicitors, we have also seen a rise in the number of cases where an abuse of power has occurred. Sharon Auton, Director and Dispute Resolution team leader at TSP, details some examples of the types of abuse she has come across and what to look out for. Excessive gifts - Attorneys are able to make gifts to people on behalf of the Donor, but these should only be on customary occasions and should not be excessively large. If the Donor has lost capacity, the gifts should not be disproportionate to the pattern of giving the Donor had when they had capacity. In a recent case on which the team acted, a Donor’s son, acting as her Attorney, sold her property and retained the proceeds, initially refusing to return the money, claiming it was his inheritance. Following our instruction the son returned the money to his mother. Loan applications or credit cards - A loan or credit card taken out in the Donor’s name should raise concerns about potential misuse of the Attorney’s powers, particularly if the Donor does not benefit from the loans or credit cards. To be effective all LPAs must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. By visiting their website you can find out if someone has an Attorney acting for them or you can report a concern if you have one. If the Donor has sufficient capacity they can cancel the Lasting Power of Attorney by signing a Deed of Revocation and notifying the Attorney. It may also be possible to recover money in civil proceedings. The Dispute Resolution team at TSP can assist with this. If you have concerns that a Lasting Power of Attorney is being abused please contact Sharon for more information and advice on 01206 574431 or by email at sharon.auton@tsplegal.com.

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Constable Country Patient Participation Group Flu vaccinations

Members of the Patient Participation Group (PPG) have provided help with flu days for the third year running. This year has been more complicated, with 5 different vaccines, including a separate one for the 65s and over. This year the practice was concerned that there may well be problems with the supply of vaccines for each session. A brand new supplier had been awarded the contract by NHS England and there were worries about having enough of each vaccine to meet demand. Unfortunately vaccines ran out for certain groups at the second flu day in East Bergholt. Many patients were understandably upset by this, but it was beyond the control of the practice.

Missed appointments

In October there were 133 missed appointments, which equates to 22 hours of wasted clinical time. Most of these are blood tests and appointments with the practice nurse or doctors. Now that repeat

text reminders can be sent to patients closer to the appointment date, hopefully the number of missed appointments will reduce.

Getting an appointment

PPG members are currently monitoring the availability of appointments by ringing the surgery at set times during the day, Monday to Friday, from early morning to late afternoon. We are keeping a record and will discuss the results at our regular monthly meetings.

Regular blood tests

We know that there are still issues with getting appointments for blood tests at both surgeries. Please let us know if you are experiencing difficulties and we will take this up with the practice.

Christmas and New Year

The run up to Christmas is often very busy. As the weather turns colder and the coughs and colds start, you can, in the first instance, ask pharmacists for advice. Please also remember that the recepPlease mention the

tionists will do their very best to get an appointment for you, but they may need to offer alternative appointments with the GP+ service if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very busy. Also donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget that there is a volunteer driver service to take you to appointments at either of the two surgeries in Capel St. Mary and East Bergholt. Just ask the receptionist when you book your appointment.

New development in the area

We are frequently asked what plans are in place to accommodate additional patients from new housing. In the longer term the practice will need to review the facilities available at both surgeries, to plan for the future of health care. Kathy Pollard Chair Constable Country Patient Participation Group 01473 311384 constablecountryppg@ gmail.com

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St Michael’s Church

FOLLOW THE STAR Speaking at an assembly recently I reminded the children that walking along a crowded area with your mobile jammed on the end of your nose is no way to show respect for other pedestrians. Coco and I have often been forced to stop completely because the person approaching us is as unaware of us as I am of them but with less excuse. It amazes me that we can’t manage without our phones even while walking quickly along a busy street, and more worryingly while we are driving (which is an offence if it is a handheld gadget). My own need to check my emails 50 times a day if I am out and about must be confessed here. Does make you wonder how those wise men long ago travelled so far over field and fountain, moor and mountain without the assistance of Google Maps, leaving frank comments on the service they received at the Wayside Inn: “Delicious bean stew last night, pity about the 36

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Rambling Rector

Benefice Website: www.eastbergholtchurch.co.uk or www.ConstableCountryChurches.co.uk

bed bugs!” Whatever the star was that they followed (and the debate is still open on this), it certainly brought them to their destination. A baby in a manger who would change people’s lives forever, if they let him. Not a megalomaniac with a hugely inflated opinion of himself with a need to call others names to make himself feel better, not someone wanting to get to the top no matter what the cost to others, not one who told the truth only when forced to do so. He was born in a stable, called us his beloved brothers and sisters, humbled himself even to death and embodied and lived the truth. Following this star is a good idea, even today!

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DECEMBER Sunday 2 Advent Sunday

11:00 Benefice Communion 16:00 Family@Church, East Bergholt

Sunday 9 Advent 2

11:00 Communion

Monday 10

10:30

St Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and BYE Nativity

Sunday 16 Advent 3