In Touch
™© ™©
with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham Volume 7 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2017
March Accounting & Taxation Services Ian Coombes FCCA MBA
• FREE initial consultation to discuss any tax, accounting and general business issues • Payroll, Auto Enrolment,VAT, Self Assessment, and full accounting service • Personable and professional tailored support • Fees agreed in advance • Out of office hours service available Individuals, self employed and limited companies
Please call Ian on: 01449 740285 / 07939 837939 E: ian@marchconsultingltd.co.uk
Image by Caroline Wolton
BRAMFORD ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Entertainment for April
www.bramfordrblclub.co.uk Tel: (01473) 745198 or join us on Facebook
Sat 1 Thurs 6 Fri 7 Sat 8 Thurs 13
SHANE AND THE KORRADOS QUIZ DARTS TOURNAMENT - 8PM INFARED CABARET NIGHT! - 8PM
DOUBLE BILL featuring jazz singer GINA BROWN & JOCK DAVIS performing his JOE COCKER TRIBUTE ACT. Pay on the door.
Sat 15 Thurs 20 Sat 22 Sun 23
KENNY LEE & HUSTLER R/R BAND QUIZ TRICKS OF THE TRADE Back by popular demand ROYS JAM SESSION - 1PM BINGO - 8PM Wed 26 KARAOKE Thurs 27 BINGO Sat 29 CHELSEA FRANCIS presents HER MISS 60’S TRIBUTE ACT Every Sunday night Bingo at 8pm As well as a snooker room and pretty outside seating area we now have hot drinks available at the bar, so come and join us for coffee or beer.
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In Touch online:
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR On a number of recent occasions I’ve been surprised by how people have reacted to fairly typical situations which would normally go relatively unnoticed or produce no more than a raised eyebrow. Just this morning I struggled to make room on a narrow road for a rather large car coming in the opposite direction. I pulled in as far as I could, trying not to go into the brook running alongside, but the other driver was incensed, waving his arms at me, his face ugly with anger. Thank goodness I couldn’t hear what he was saying. He got by a little slower than he obviously wanted, but I sat there for a moment in stunned silence. At the weekend I found myself queuing behind a man who gave a shop assistant a right telling off because she had given him the wrong change. He practically accused her of trying to steal 10p from him. I asked her if she was OK after he’d left and she shrugged it off as if it was a common occurrence, which I fear it might very well be. We may all be feeling pressure just now not knowing how things will turn out (even the weather is disagreeable), but if we lose all self-restraint and can’t even treat those we meet in everyday life with respect I dread to think of the long-term impact. Thankfully we’re not there yet and I’ve had many more instances of people being helpful, kind, thoughtful and understanding in recent weeks (clearly evidenced in the pages of this magazine) than I’ve had of people being rude, judgemental and arrogant. Admittedly a little selfanalysis may be necessary now and then, but I’m determined to offset rude drivers and hateful behaviour by doing the exact opposite. By making a little extra effort to be kind to each other, I’m convinced we can make the world a little bit more pleasant for everyone. A smile, a polite ‘good morning’, a wave when another driver makes way (and especially when they don’t!), may initially have little impact on how others behave, but it can’t hurt. Happy Easter from everyone at Mansion House Publishing
In Touch
with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: bramford@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
ADVERTISING Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 DISTRIBUTION Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 PRINTING Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk
01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints.
We also publish In Touch with... • NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge
HELPING ADULTS TO BECOME CONFIDENT READERS Do you know anyone who might like some one-to-one support to help them become a confident reader? As many as one in six adults may feel that way - it’s much more common than you might think. Whether you know someone who’d like to start right back at the beginning with reading, or who just wants some time to ask questions and brush up on skills to build confidence, it may be that a Got to Read volunteer can help. Got to Read volunteers and students meet one-toone at least weekly, in welcoming, confidential spaces. There aren’t any exams. Every student gets to say what it is that they need. Their volunteer guides them and helps to find ways to get there, using whatever methods and resources suit the student best. Examples of what we can help to build confidence with include: • Learning or re-learning the alphabet and sounds to make words and then build sentences (phonics) • Everyday reading and writing tasks like shopping lists, recipes, understanding bills and medical records • Supporting children and being involved with their reading and learning • Getting ready to try something new – a job, a hobby, being a parent or grandparent, formal learning • Reading for pleasure, getting to the stage where you can relax, understand and enjoy what you read • Asking all those questions about punctuation and grammar that you think everyone but you knows about We can offer support in the Woodbridge and Ipswich areas. If you would like to know more, please contact 07528 147654 / info@gottoread.org.uk or visit: www.gottoread.org.uk It’s likely that someone who would enjoy trying this support might not be able to read many of these details, so please do pass the message along if you can.
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 Here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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© Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
NEWS
7 APRIL 2017
is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE SITE – GREAT BLAKENHAM
BRAMFORD FLOWER SHOW This year it will be 40 years since I started doing Bramford Flower Show and I have only had to cancel one in all that time due to the weather. Let’s hope it doesn’t happen this year! We want lots of nice sunny weather and some rain to make the flowers and vegetables grow. Schedules for this year’s show are nearly ready and can be collected from the Green Cross Chemists, the Co-op in the street or 7 Packard Place.
The Peel People’s Cup The Peel People’s Cup, part of the Chartered Institution of Waste Management Sustainability and Resource Awards, is awarded annually to the best operating team of a permitted waste facility. The cup was introduced to recognise the vital role an operating team plays in the successful running of a waste facility and on November 3 the team at Suffolk energy-from-waste facility won the cup. Some of the key criteria the judges were looking for were how the site is supervised, the way the operating team works and local acceptability. The site feels it is a huge honour to be recognised as an exceptional operating team and we are thrilled to have won the award.
Don’t forget the arts and crafts and your photograph of a cobweb, limited to 6x4” this year so every photo is the same size. Good Luck! Maureen Renton A NOTE FROM YOUR EDITOR I can’t ignore that fact that it’s Maureen’s 40th year to organise this event. I applaud anyone who organises a community event, but to do it for 40 years takes someone rather special. The operations manager and one of the shift managers accepted the award on behalf of the team at a ceremony held in London. Kitten rescue As part of the normal operations at site, bulky items are shredded before going through the energy from waste process. During one shredding session on an evening in January, a kitten was discovered among the waste. The operations staff came to her rescue! The animal was taken to the vet to be checked and subsequently has a home with SUEZ’s process engineer.
Saturday, May 20 from 10am on the playing field Since our last report we have been working hard to schedule activities for the day. Progress has been made on all the main fronts including show vehicles, stalls, games, food and music. More content is needed and if you can help with the following or anything else that occurs to you please get in touch: • Run a stall which can be anything from jumble to homemade produce to car parts • Show a cherished vehicle or can loan a fete game • Perform on our stage – open mic during the day • Help on the day Contacts: • Vehicle bookings contact Andy: wheeliebookings@aol.com / 07833 089148 • General enquiries contact Terry: wheelieenquiries@btinternet.com / 01473 831529 We have two local bands booked for the evening, The Torsion Field and Clamjamfrys. Looking forward to a wheelie fun day? Visit our Facebook page: Wheelie Fun Day
Recruitment As part of the excellent succession planning put in place at the facility a number of employees have been successful in securing promotion at site. This has resulted in a couple of new recruits starting at the facility in the past few months. We welcomed a new operations technician and a senior operations technician, both of whom live locally and are currently undergoing a comprehensive induction. USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
QUIZ NIGHT IN AID OF PROSTATE CANCER UK Saturday, April 19 at Bramford Church Room at 7.30pm Teams of four at £12 per table includes a soft drink and nibbles. To book your table please contact Corinne: 07776 000405 / corinnebeaumont@hotmail.co.uk Quizmaster Joe and family look forward to seeing you there. Raffle prizes very welcome.
All proceeds go to help maintain the playing field. 4
In Touch online:
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NEWS THE DUKE IS SAVED Message from James Batchelor-Wylam, chair Save the Duke “The Duke of Marlborough is, after over two years of campaigning, fundraising and hard work, a community-owned pub! Over £300,000 was raised, and the keys of this historic oak-beamed village pub are now in our hands. “An enormous thank you to everyone who has contributed, whether by investing or fundraising or attending campaign events. It is a massive achievement, all down to our fantastic supporters. Between us we have stopped this beautiful pub, which has been offering hospitality for over 500 years, from being turned into a private house. “Now begins the hard work, as we turn it into a warm, welcoming, happening pub that is good enough to attract people from afar while also serving communities from nearby villages and towns. “Our 230 shareholders – and rising – will no doubt be among the many customers keen to come back on a regular basis, but hundreds more people have expressed enthusiasm and told us they’ll be visiting just as soon as we get the place up and running. We are looking for an experienced, ambitious manager-chef duo to run the pub with a great food offer. For further information contact: marlboroughsomersham@ gmail.com “In the meantime, we are likely to be opening up on a couple of nights a week for drinks only – keep your eye open for further info!”
PLANNED ENVIRONMENT AGENCY WORKS AT BRAMFORD Environment Agency contractors will be operating their gate structure to its raised/open position at Bramford Lock on Monday, April 3. This will result in a lowering of the water level from Monday, April 3 to Thursday, April 6 on a stretch of the River Gipping from Rushbrook Mill down to Bramford Lock. Their contractors will be working in the river from Tuesday through to Thursday, surveying the structure and mechanisms of the gate to identify future works that may be required. The water level will be restored on Thursday, April 6. They need to complete this surveying work in early April in order to avoid the fish spawning season. For any queries please contact Rebecca Bromley at the Environment Agency on 02030 258474.
BRAMFORD PARISH COUNCIL MONTHLY UPDATE After a favourable response from Bramford residents, we’re back for another update on goings-on in the village. Our annual parish council meeting will be on Monday, April 24 this year and is effectively an ‘open house’ for everyone to have their say on how the council can best serve the village. Mind you, we have our limits. We can’t fix the pot-holes, that has to go through Suffolk County Council. Nor can we put a stop to planning matters, that’s the responsibility of Mid Suffolk District Council. But we can pass on these types of concerns to the right people on your behalf, so don’t be afraid to ask if there’s an issue bugging you now, or in the future. One of the things we can deal with is dog poop! We supply poop bins around the village, as well as paying for them to be emptied through public funds. So it’s amazing to think that in this modern age dog owners still think it’s appropriate to leave ‘canine deposits’ on streets, paths and public spaces. It’s quite disappointing to think that some of our residents have such little regard for their own actions let alone respecting others who are constantly forced to watch their step. Just be warned though, our clerk is a committed dog-lover and gets really grumpy at such behaviour. You wouldn’t want her catching you not clearing up after your dog, believe me. Another inconsiderate behaviour that’s come to the attention of the council in recent weeks is parking outside the primary school, mornings and afternoons. While we understand it’s often difficult to find a space at busy times, this does not excuse drivers from wilfully ignoring parking restrictions. They are there for the safety of your children, not as a decorative feature. Additional signs have recently been added and it will be at the discretion of local police units and the district council to issue tickets should they think appropriate, which could result in some very expensive parking costs. While we’re on the subject of cars! Parts of Bramford date back to The Doomsday Book and it’s probably a reasonable assumption to suggest no one envisaged the modern motorcar racing through the village when they constructed the roads way back then, although they probably still had a problem with pot-holes. Ah well, somethings never change.
JUMBLE SALE 24th Ipswich Scouts are holding their monthly Jumble Sale on Saturday, April 15 from 1-3pm at 24th Scout HQ, 330A Bramford Road (next to the Railway line). Come and bag a bargain. 6
What would be nice though is if motorists could give a little consideration to the many hazards that now make driving more of a challenge, in particular along The Street and Ship Lane. Sure, no one sets out to cause an accident, but why increase your chances of being involved in one through inconsiderate driving? That’s all for now! Don’t forget the parish council meeting on April 24. In Touch online:
ADVERTORIAL
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Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number
of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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NEWS SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA) In the autumn of last year, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no. 4494/16. Full details can be found on the Mid Suffolk District Council website at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning/snoasis It is important to be aware that this is not a renewal of the original planning approval for SnOasis, which remains in place. Reserved Matters cover the detail of such topics as design, appearance, transport, drainage, ecological mitigation and so forth. This means that your local council and residents are not being asked whether they want the development to go ahead. Instead, the developer will put forward their plans regarding, for example, the external appearance of the ski slope, and we will be asked for comments on that and similar matters. Claydon and Whitton, Barham, Bramford, Great Blakenham, Somersham and Little Blakenham Parish Councils and Needham Market Town Council, along with Nettlestead and Baylham Parish Meetings have now formally joined the Snoasis Parish Alliance, a group to work together to consider the details of the Snoasis Reserved Matters and to exert more influence than we can as individual organisations. Of course, individual councils will still be consulting with their residents and making their own responses to Mid Suffolk District Council, but we believe that sharing both expertise and the workload will benefit both councils and residents. We had been informed that further information on Reserved Matters was due be supplied by the developer at the end of February. The SPA contacted MSDC Planning at the beginning of March to see if this had happened and were informed that an update would be posted on MSDC’s website “in due course”. By the time you are reading this article, the update may have appeared, but if it hasn’t, please keep checking the SnOasis section on the MSDC website. The SPA is committed to working with Mid Suffolk District Council to obtain the information that is necessary for councils to be able to make informed and constructive comments, so as soon as the details arrive, the SPA will begin work to scrutinise them. It is also intended that existing expertise amongst the councils will be used to analyse and comment on the vast amount of very detailed (and sometimes very technical) information that we are expecting the developer to provide. Work has already begun to plan for this. However, the continuing lack of the required information means that this process cannot begin, a situation which the SPA is finding very frustrating. A delay in receiving information means that, yet again, there isn’t much new to report this month. When more detail on Reserved Matters is received and the SPA begins to work on its response, our webpage (hosted on the Great Blakenham Parish Council website) will be regularly updated: www.greatblakenham.onesuffolk.net/snoasis-parish-alliance/ For further information, please email Janet Gobey, the clerk to the SPA: snoasispa@icloud.com Chairman Snoasis Parish Alliance Steve Plume
BRAMFORD WI JUMBLE SALE Saturday, April 22 at the Loraine Village Hall, 12.30-3pm Jumble, bric-a-brac, books and much more Please drop in for an interesting hunt though the garments. You might just find something that you have been looking for and then enjoy a cup of tea to celebrate. 8
SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP
A Community Shop for the local community, run by the local community The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm Saturdays: 8am-1pm During the winter the community shop has been happy to host the Tea and Chat afternoons when it has been a pleasure to meet up with everybody. With the warmer weather these have now finished and the Coffee Caravan will be continuing its summer service with tea, coffee, cake and information once a month on the green at Brook Way. Petrolheads will continue to meet in the shop through the summer. We’re looking forward to some nice warm weather in the coming months and our ice-cream cabinet is ready and waiting. As always, we aim to source produce locally and to this end we have the freshest local eggs, vegetables, bread, cakes, pies, and meats. Not only are locally produced foods delicious, they also save on travel miles, and we know all the producers personally and by name, not something that can be said for the larger shops and supermarkets. However it’s not always easy to anticipate customer needs when ordering fresh stock and we recommend using our regular ordering service to make sure you are not disappointed. Orders can be taken for bread, meat, cakes, et al so if you are want something regularly or for a special occasion please place an order. We also promote reuse and recycling and are always happy to receive reusable plastic carrier bags and egg boxes. Our best wishes go to the new community pub, the Duke of Marlborough, which will be open for all in the near future. Many congratulations to all who have worked so hard to achieve this magnificent outcome. Our community enterprises take a lot of work to start up and even more to keep going, but the benefit to the whole community outweighs every effort we’ve made along the way. We have a great community to live in, long may it continue. Remember also our share purchase option scheme which enables local people to buy £5 ordinary shares in Somersham & District Shop Community Interest Company (CIC) as a gesture of goodwill and support for the shop and to make it a truly community project. Unlike conventional shares there is not an annual dividend paid to shareholders as a CIC means that any profits generated will either be applied to develop the services of the shop or used for the benefit of the local community. Shares will only be transferred at par or £5 value, so there will be no tax liability and a proper share certificate will be issued for safe keeping. Contact Terry for details – it’s the support of the local community that sustains our community enterprises for the benefit of all. New volunteers are always welcome in the shop – even a couple of hours a month can make all the difference – and we would be very happy to see any students on holiday who might wish to gain a bit of work experience by volunteering. Our services include: orders taken for regular or one-off meat, bread, cakes, et al; the coffee corner with a chance for a relaxing chat; finding something new to read in the book exchange; dry-cleaning service, at present collected on Tuesday mornings; newspapers and magazines can be ordered for collection at the shop; delivery service for those with mobility problems The community shop is not only a good place to shop and find local produce or ot meet up with people you haven’t seen in ages, but also gives real heart to the local community. We look forward to seeing you. Management Team: Lucy Barrett, 831890; Terry Fordham, 831529; Jenny Hitchcock, 832060; Peter Jousiffe, Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080 In Touch online:
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Fri 7th - Thurs 13th April
THE BOSS BABY (U)
NEWS
Fri 7th - 13th: 12.00 & 5.00
BEAUTY & THE BEAST (PG) Fri 24th - Thurs 30th March
KONG: SKULL ISLAND (12A)
Fri 7th - Thurs 13th: 2.15 & 7.15
Fri 14th - Thurs 20th April
THE TIME OF THEIR LIVES (12A)
Fri 14th & Sat 15th: 5.00 Sun 16th & Mon 17th: 7.30 Tue 18th & Wed 19th: 2.30 & 7.30 JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 2 (15) Fri 24th & Sat 25th: 5.00, Thurs 30th: 11.30am Thurs 20th: 2.15 Fri 24th & Sat 25th: 11.30am & 7.45 Sun 26th: 4.45, Mon 27th - Thurs 30th: 7.45
MOONLIGHT (15)
GET OUT (15)
HACKSAW RIDGE (15)
THE BOSS BABY (U)
Mon 27th - Thurs 30th: 5.00
Tue 28th & Thurs 30th: 2.30
Fri 14th & Sat 15th: 7.30 Thurs 20th: 11.45am
Fri 24th - Mon 27th: 2.30
Fri 14th & Sat 15th: 12.00 Sun 16th & Mon 17th: 12.00 & 5.15 Tue 18th & Wed 19th: 5.15, Thurs 20th: 4.45
Sun 26th: 12.15
Fri 14th - Mon 17th: 2.15
I, DANIEL BLAKE (15) THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE (U) THE KING & I (1956) (U) Wed 29th: 11.30am
Fri 31st March - Thurs 6th April
BEAUTY & THE BEAST (PG) Fri 31st - Wed 5th: 11.45am & 5.00 Thurs 6th: 1.15 & 4.00
BEAUTY & THE BEAST (PG)
POCKET MONEY MOVIES
GREAT FAMILY FILMS, KIDS £2.50, ADULTS FREE!*
BALLERINA (U)
THE BOSS BABY (U)
Sat 25th & Sun 26th March: 9.30am Sat 1st & Sun 2nd: 9.30am, Wed 5th: 9.30am
LOGAN (15)
Fri 7th - Sun 9th: 9.30am, Wed 12th: 9.30am
Sat 1st - Wed 5th: 2.30, Thurs 6th: 10.45am
Fri 31st - Wed 5th: 7.45 NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE - EVENT CINEMA World Class Theatre - Beamed to Stowmarket Thursday 6th April at 7.00pm - Tickets £12.50 Tasmin Greig stars in
TWELFTH NIGHT
MONSTER TRUCKS (PG) MOANA (U)
Fri 14th - Sun 16th: 9.45am
*1x free adult per paying child. Under 10’s must be accompanied.
LIVE ON STAGE Monday 24th April - Tickets £15.00
Thursday 20th April at 7.00pm - Tickets £12.50
Country Music with SHAUN LOUGHREY
ROSENCRANTZ & GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD
www.regalstowmarket.co.uk / 01449 612825 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1AY
Daniel Radcliffe stars in
See website for show information & to buy tickets
FRENCH CONNECTION: SOMERSHAM/ CHALLAIN-LA-POTHERIE VILLAGE LINK Somersham is linked with Challain-la-Potherie, a village similar to our own in the Loire Valley area of France. This year we welcome guests from Challain-la-Potherie over the weekend of May 25-28. Visitors stay with host families, giving us a great opportunity to get to know each other, to appreciate each other’s way of life and to pick up a bit of the language. We also spend lots of time together as a group when both English and French are spoken. Interested? Would you like to be a host? Or perhaps you’d like to be involved in other ways? Just want to know more? If so please contact one of the following: Gill Fordham, 831529; David Haughton, 831511; Janet Hodge, 832296; Pat Woolhouse, 831080
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5 MIP/5A MIP/5B MIP/5C MIP/5D MIP/5E MIP/5F MIP/5G MIP/5H MIP/5I MIP/5J MIP/5K
Town/village Location Sproughton Church Lane Sproughton Wild Man Bramford St Mary’s Close Bramford Paper Mill Lane Great Blakenham, Chequers Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park Baylham Post Box Claydon Crown Claydon Edinburgh Gardens Barham Bacon Road Bramford Packard Place
Time 9.10-9.25am 9.30-9.45am 9.50-10.05am 10.10-10.25am 10.35-1055am 11-11.15am 11.25-11.45am 11.55am-1pm 2.05-2.20pm 2.25-3.50pm 4-4.30pm
2017 DATES: April 11, May 9, June 6, July 4, August 1, August 29, September 26, October 24, November 21, December 19
A CELEBRATION OF A COUNTRY CHURCHYARD – BURSTALL Saturday, May 13, 10.30am-3pm Come and explore the history, wildflowers and ecology of the churchyard at St Mary’s Church, Burstall, together with the history of the church and village. Churchyard surveys and registers will be available to peruse. There will also be a plant sale, cake stall, books, bric-a-brac and quizzes for children (and adults!). Refreshments all day, parking.
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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: MARCH 2017 Lake Lothing and Upper Orwell Bridges We scrutinised the two major bridge projects in Suffolk: a third crossing of Lake Lothing in Lowestoft and the crossing of the Upper Orwell in Ipswich are underway. They are each worth around £90 million so are substantial undertakings. The county is doing the initial planning and studies until they can appoint a construction firm for each on a design and build basis. Two strong teams are in place with project managers who have the right capabilities and experience. The management structure appears able to exercise firm control and respond speedily to issues as they arise. So, all looks well. We were told that funding is committed, some £73m from the government and £18m from local sources for each project. Critical milestones for Ipswich are the appointment of architects, the determining of the ground conditions, submission of the application to the Planning Inspectorate (this is a strategic infrastructure item / summer 2018), the examination by the inspector to a strict six month schedule, then a decision from the Secretary of State (winter 2019). Construction should start in spring 2020 and be complete by 2023. The objectives are to enable the re-development of the wet dock island, to be a catalyst for the regeneration of South Ipswich and to relieve congestion on the A14 Orwell Bridge. Highways: Roads in Ipswich Area County Highways are analysing transport issues in the Ipswich area. They are looking at the radial routes from the A14 to the town simulating the gains from route improvement and the upper Orwell crossing. Predictions cover the next 20 years. Plans for changes to the A14 junctions that feed the radial routes all show very good benefits for the costs involved, at least £6 yield from each £1 spent. This should see the Copdock, Whersted, Nacton and Seven Hills junctions improved by Highways England, but Whitehouse and Claydon might wait for the Northern Bypass proposals. If the proposed housing developments proceed in Gipping Valley improvements are necessary on a much shorter timescale. The developments must support a range of smaller but effective important improvements to limit congestion in Gipping Valley. 2016/17 Forecast Revenue and Capital Spending The forecast based on data at end December shows two substantial overspends: £2.5m in Corporate Resources due to a failure to find a home for some savings on contracts that was budgeted last year
and £6.8m in Corporate Parenting. This involves older children with increasingly complex needs and the increasing use of special guardianship orders. Lack of success in several attempts to provide additional in county capacity has finally come home to roost, but this is a service that must be done well. Special Educational Needs and Disabilities You will have seen press comments on the Ofsted and Care Quality Commission report on the service that provides support for those with special educational needs and disabilities. It does not make good reading, finding that the needs of many children in Suffolk were not effectively met. The complaints reported from parents unable to obtain the help their children need match the stories I get from Suffolk residents. The cabinet member responsible reports: “Prior to the inspection, we identified with the CCGs that significant improvements needed to be made, and a number of changes were introduced. We are beginning to see the positive impact of these changes and the report recognises the early steps to make improvements. That said, it is clear that there is still much more work to be done to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities can access the support they need, when they need it.” The county needs to see problems in its services and respond without waiting for external inspectors. Old Ipswich Road A plan for yellow lining to allow the parking issues in Old Ipswich Road to be controlled has been agreed with residents most effected and will be out for consultation shortly. It includes action to discourage parking that prevents buses getting to the raised disabled access curbs. Reed Lane I have agreed to finance edge marking to show drivers the margins of the road clearly and hopefully discourage the overrunning that causes the edge of the road to disintegrate. There is no certainty of success, but I think this is a technique worth a try. SnOasis May is now the likely date for submission of final details and a decision in August after a consultation period extended to recognise the complexity of the development and the demands that puts on parish councils. If you have queries please phone me on 01473 831306 (you will need to say your name and press #) or 07545 423808. You can also email me at: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk
As we walked through the bluebell woods, I thought he’d like this It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day
01473 858517
for your nearest funeral director visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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OUT & ABOUT
Somersham WI
JUMBLE SALE & SOMERSHAM WI EASTER BAZAAR JUMBLE SALE & EASTER BAZAAR
BRAMFORD RAINBOWS Spud Lunch on Saturday, March 18 We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported and helped with our spud lunch. Thank you to the businesses who gave generously to our raffle: Riverhills, The Produce Hut, Janice Forbes (chiropody) and Merry Mice Garden Care Services. A successful and fun time was had by all.
Saturday, April 8, 1-4pm
Saturday 8 April Somersham Village Hall 1 – 4pm Donations of clothes or bric-a-brac can be left at Somersham Village the Community Shop, or with Hilary BridgerHall or Terrie Goad
BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB In April, owing to school holidays and Easter, the club will be closed for the first three weeks. It will re-open on April 24 (Monday group 7.30-9.30pm) and April 26 (Wednesday group 10am-noon). Membership for the academic year is £1, plus £2 per session. Broadband and refreshments available. No set programme, but we are here to help you to get the most out of your computer.
from Saturday, March 25.
Donations of clothes or bric-a-brac Collections can be made Collections can beShop, made on the on the can be left at the Community or around Somersham around Somersham with Hilary Bridger or Terrie Goad morning of 8 April, contact morning of April 8; contact Hilary Bridger (831552). from Saturday 25 March. Hilary Bridger (831552).
Jumble sale
Bric-a-brac
Tombola & raffle
Refreshments
Cakes & goodies
EASTER EGG HUNT BRAMFORD TREFOIL GUILD At our March meeting we invited other guilds and friends to a fashion show by Edinburgh Woollen Mill. Five of our members were models and all enjoyed it very much, even though some were nervous to start with. Our April meeting will be a talk on Turkey by Jenny. This is on Monday, April 3 at 2pm in Bramford Scout and Guide Headquarters.
SATURDAY, APRIL 8 2-4pm at Tudor Grange, Nettlestead Please come for tea and Hot Cross Buns £2 per child for the Easter Egg Hunt and a drink IN SUPPORT OF ST MARY’S CHURCH, NETTLESTEAD
BRAMFORD LOCAL HISTORY GROUP One of our most popular speakers, Mark Mitchels, returns in April to tell us about Oliver Cromwell, a man who does not have a good history, but has he been wronged and where is his head? We should find out on the night. The meeting will be in the Church Room starting at 7.30pm as usual on Thursday, April 20. Visitors welcome – £3. After the talk we will hold our annual meeting with reports from the committee.
BRAMFORD CRAFT AND CHATTER GROUP Our meetings this month are on Tuesdays, April 11 and 25 in the Parish Room from 9.30am to noon. Anyone interested in craft or Scrabble is welcome to attend. We just ask for £2 to help pay for the hire of the room.
BRAMFORD WI On Monday, April 10 we are having a One Pot Cookery demonstration by David Ryan, starting at 7.30pm at the Loraine Village Hall. The competition is a bygone kitchen utensil; find your old utensils and we can have a stirring evening! There will be a group meeting at Burstall on Thursday, April 27. The evening will have a nautical theme and it would be great if some members were to dress accordingly. The competition requires photos of harbours. Can you please bring any that you may have to the next meeting? Up to three per person and three of the best will be chosen.
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB The Great Blakenham Over 50s Club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House with its own parking area at the rear. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. At our first meeting in March we were pleased to welcome Ruth Fox and Robert Shepherd from Bramford. We hope they will become members in due course. At this meeting we had a visit from Annette Ellis from Stowmarket Tourist Office to give us an insight into the varied work they do. She tested our local knowledge with a quiz about Suffolk. We had a social afternoon led by Brenda for our second meeting of the month FUTURE DATES April 12: Social afternoon April 26: A return visit from Peter Banham with more sayings and the history of their meaning May 10: Social afternoon May 24: Behind the Bathroom Door by Liza Jones, looking at the history of items such a the toothbrush, toilet paper and deodorants June 14: Social afternoon with Brenda June 28: A visit by Hannah Barton from the Citizens Advice Bureau explaining the work they do and the services they provide to the community July 12: Social afternoon with Sandra July 26: Summer tea party with entertainment by one of our members, Dot Chapman, on her accordion As you can see we have quite a varied programme. New members are always welcome, but if you would just like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
ST MARY’S CHURCH GATHERING Every third Tuesday in the month, 2.30-4pm, in the Church Room. Do come and join us; we will be very pleased to see you. If transport is required please contact Janet: 741331
SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB The latest spell of warmer weather and the sudden appearance of daffodils has certainly signalled the coming of spring. By the time you read these notes Brexit should have been initiated, we will be on British Summer Time and postage stamps will cost you a penny extra. However, there are a few items we can look forward to, including Easter Weekend April 14-17 and the Early Spring Bank Holiday on May 1. From the club point of view there’s the Annual General Meeting in the Church Hall at 2pm on Wednesday, April 19, following lunch at the Wild Man in Sproughton at noon. John Bates
SOMERSHAM & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Our next meeting is on Monday, April 10 at 7.30pm when David Hack will present a talk titled How to Make Your Garden Count. The meeting will be held in Offton & Willisham Village Hall and anyone is welcome. For any further information please contact: 01473 830600/254941 www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
SOMERSHAM WI This spring is a busy time for Somersham WI as we will be holding our first Easter Bazaar and Jumble Sale in Somersham Village Hall on Saturday, April 8 from 1-4pm. Jumble, bric-a-brac, refreshments, tombola and a raffle will all be available as well as the required WI cake stall and some Easter games. We look forward to seeing you there. If you wish to donate jumble or bric-a-brac, items can be left at the community shop or let Hilary Bridger or Terrie Goad know (see page 12). A police helicopter pilot is the speaker at this month’s meeting and our 2017 programme is now almost fully booked. Somersham WI is also having a garden outing in July to the Beth Chatto Garden so there is a lot to look forward to. Our members get a quarterly newsletter with all our activities detailed just so we can remember everything. All of our forthcoming events and speakers can be found at www.facebook.com/SomershamWI or on our noticeboard in the village hall. If you’re interested in coming along, you can come as a guest for only £3 before joining. We always meet in the village hall on the second Monday of the month at 7.30pm.
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL What a fun filled spring term all of our pre-school children have had. There were lots of activities going on, including making Valentine’s Day cards, Mother’s Day cards, dressing up for World Book Day and Easter crafts. The children really enjoyed their Easter Eggstravaganza at the end of term, and the Easter bonnets the children had made were very creative. At the end of the term the children were all very excited about their Easter break and the fact that the Easter Bunny may have brought them some chocolate to eat. We are hoping that everyone will be fully rested and ready to greet the summer term when we open again on Wednesday, April 19. We are also very excited as some of the pre-school children will be going on our organised coach trip to Easton Farm Park on Thursday, April 27. Let’s hope it’s a sunny day. We are really sorry to say goodbye to our fantastic deputy manager and SENCo, Emma Cummings. We wish her well for the future and look forward to welcoming a new deputy in the near future. Don’t forget to get your applications in now for places in September 2017. The pre-school is open Monday to Friday from 9am-3.30pm during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to reception. Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a lunch club (noon12.30pm) for £1.60. We are happy to accept Childcare Vouchers and we offer two-year funded places for any eligible children. We also run a holiday club in the Easter and summer holidays for ages two to eight – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator. If you would like any more information regarding any of the above events or just to find out more about Claydon Pre-school please contact administrator Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk 13
SCHOOLS / SPORT CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL
ski lessons with friendly instructors who soon had students traversing the slopes with confidence. Evenings were spent relaxing and taking part in activities, including bowling, a quiz night, a disco and a night skiing session. My thanks go to the staff for giving up their time and the students for their impeccable behaviour. On February 24 and 25, 100 Year 11 students travelled to the Mersea Outdoor Centre in Essex to take part in a GCSE Bootcamp. This overnight stay included intense revision in English and mathematics, mixed in with some outdoor activities before learning revision strategies and how to prepare for exams. We were pleased that Storm Doris had departed a few days before and despite some windy weather, it was good fun. The revision process should now start in earnest as the countdown to their exams begin.
I would like to start by congratulating the talented group of 36 students who performed in Celebration of Schools’ Music 2017 at the world famous concert hall at Snape Maltings on Tuesday, March 7. This event is the result of a long-standing partnership between Snape Maltings Learning and Inclusion (Aldeburgh Music) and Suffolk County Music Service and gives students of all ages an opportunity to come together to enjoy and participate in music. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of this event. Our school choir performed three songs composed by Claydon GCSE music students Matt, Eleanor and Ben, as well as taking part in a collective group piece with other schools. All our students, including those who accompanied the choir, worked fantastically hard to give an amazing performance on the night and were an absolute credit to the school.
We were delighted to welcome TV presenter and journalist Bill Turnbull to the school on Wednesday, March 1. As part of the Speakers for Schools initiative, Bill spoke to Year 10 students about his life and career, giving them an insight into his own personal journey. He was a very engaging speaker and students really responded to him, with one commenting: “He was absolutely inspiring, interesting and hilarious.” Another student said: “It was interesting to hear about his life story and to see a side of him that we don’t see on the news.” As I write this article, we still have so much to look forward to including our annual fun run, an art exhibition featuring work from our feeder primary school students alongside Years 7-9, a music recital by Year 10 students, giving them an opportunity to perform their GCSE pieces to an audience, and BBC School Report Day. On March 16, our school reporters from Years 7-10 will be joined by guest visitors from NCS (National Citizens Service), Future Female Society, Volunteering Matters and The Teapot Project for the annual BBC School Report Day. This year takes on the theme of mental health with our own focus on ‘making a difference in your local community’. Students will give up timetabled lessons to interview our guests and produce articles that will shed more light on these important issues and provide information that can be shared around school and beyond.
During the February half-term holiday, a group of students travelled to Austria for our bi-annual ski trip. Students travelled by coach and ferry to the beautiful town of Obertauern. The seven-day trip included daily
If you would like to visit the school to see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Thursday, April 25. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen, to book a place: 01473 836110 Headteacher Mrs S Skinner
BRAMFORD UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB The First Team’s up and down season continues, but to date (early March) we remain well placed in fourth position in the league. Since my last notes, we had a long trip to Leiston on February 11, where in the snow, wind and whatever was thrown at us we came away with a comprehensive 6-0 victory to make for a pleasing long journey home. On the back of this win we looked to gain another victory a week later against Felixstowe Harpers, but what a difference a week makes! We did not turn up on the day suffering a 4-0 defeat.
pulled two quick goals back. We then scored a fourth, but Haughley once again scored to make it 4-3 in our favour, which set up a final nail-biting last 15 minutes, but we scored two more goals in that period to run out 6-3 victors.
The next home match on February 25 against East Bergholt (pictured) saw us run out 4-0 winners in this competitive match. This was following by a short trip to Haughley on Saturday, March 4. We were 2-0 up at half time, scoring a third early in the second half before Haughley
The Reserves continue to have a superb season and currently sit at the top of their league on 43 points, eight points clear of the second and third placed teams on 35 points but they both have three games in hand. The last four matches have seen them win by the odd goal against Claydon, Stowupland and Benhall, with a draw against Coplestonians, so the run in to see who finishes in top spot is going to be a hard call (fingers crossed it’s us).
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This sees the First Team in a fourth place position with a 13 point gap between us and fifth place, but eight points adrift of the third spot. However, there are several matches left so things could change by the end of the season.
The winner of the February 100 Club (winning £100) was Mr P Waspe. Brammie In Touch online:
SPORT BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB
SOMERSHAM TENNIS CLUB
Greetings guff lovers, I am still reeling from the news of the rise in beer duty in the recent budget, meaning that I will have to hastily revise my training regime and attempt the almost impossible task of getting Graham to buy a beer.
CHILDREN’S TENNIS RESTARTS APRIL 20 We are again being supported by the Lawn Tennis Association for our children’s clubs with Toby as our coach. Ages four-five up eight years old will play from 5.30-6.15pm and over eights from 6.15-7pm. These ages are only a rough guide as it depends on the individual child’s ability as to which group they belong in.
The last time I managed this feat he was shocked to discover that the Groat has not been legal tender since the 1500s (which is the last time he bought a round), but even he had to concede that times change. To underline this fact, Graham’s sons Matt and Adam are still hoping to garner enough points to finish above Nick and Graham in the Winter League table. I suspect that the old guard may have the last word though, as they will finish third providing they win their final two matches of the season. The floodlit team seem to be mid table but as no up-to-date tables are to hand I can’t confirm this until next month. By the time this is sitting at the bottom of the budgie’s cage the AGM will have been and gone and a new committee will (hopefully) be in place (with luck no coercion will be required). The club will be participating in the Great British Tennis Weekend on May 14 from 10.30-3pm. This is an opportunity for the club to show prospective members the facilities, which we hope will include some exciting news about a new coaching facility. For more news visit: www. clubspark.lta.org.uk/OpenDays (search under Bramford) Talking of coaches reminds me that Nick got himself a new coach the other week after hearing that all the top players have their own personal coach. However he had to sell it when it failed the MOT. Joke of the Month A man goes to doctor to try and lose some weight. The doc tells him to eat normally for two days and then skip a day, eat normally for two days and skip a day and so on and come back in a week when he should have lost five pounds. A week later he returns and the doctor is astonished to discover the man has lost 20 pounds. “That’s great,” said the man, “but I’ll never keep this up.” The doctor asks if it is the hunger that is getting to him and the man replies: “No, not the hunger – it’s all that skipping!” More guff next month, Mick Russ
SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB Unfortunately our final indoor friendly match against Sole Bay was cancelled due to problems at the Southwold club. A great disappointment to all as it’s always a very enjoyable afternoon topped off with excellent fish and chips. We hope to get this game back on track for next year. Turning to the fast approaching 2017 outdoor season, our website has now been updated with the full season’s fixtures, all of which start at the beginning of May, and everyone is raring to go. As a build up to this we have a welcome evening for our new members on Wednesday, April 19 from 7pm. If anyone else is thinking of taking up this great game, please come along on the night and we will make sure you are looked after. Our green opening day is on Saturday, April 22. This will incorporate a drive for the Sheila Herring Trophy. Following this on Sunday, April 23 will be the Club Blocks Competition. We would ask that all members intending to compete on the Sunday notify Anne Jones as soon as possible. We have two friendlies this month, the first on Wednesday, April 26 (Home v Woodbridge) and the second on Thursday, April 27 (Away v East Bergholt) before our traditional early season match against local rivals Bramford (home at 2pm) for the Peter Taylor Cup. www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
The tennis courts are in the far corner of the playing field, opposite the phone box on the main road. A car park is available at the Princes Gardens entrance. The cost is £2.50 per child per session. New children welcome. For further details contact Mrs PA Pearson: 16 Princes Gardens, Lower Somersham IP8 4PF / 01473 831436
CLAYDON FC Presentation Day 2017 This season’s presentation day will be on Sunday, May 7 from 11am at Blue Circle and the executive committee will shortly be sending the start time for each age group to managers and posting them onto social media. We look forward to another superb day of activities for both players and parents. There will be a bar and barbecue along with numerous football related games for the players. Groundsman of the Year – Tony Adams
In the competition open to clubs in the county who play at Step 7 and below, Tony Adams was voted the winner by the panel of judges who visited the grounds during February. Tony, who has been groundsman at Touchline SIL Division One leaders Claydon for the past 18 months, said: “I am shocked. It is a great honour for the club and everyone associated with it. I am totally amazed and it just proves that something you enjoy doing and work hard at is very fulfilling.” Tony’s prize is £200 for Claydon to spend on ground care equipment courtesy of sponsors Ransomes Jacobsen. Ipswich-based Ransomes Jacobsen, one of the world’s largest suppliers of grounds care equipment, sponsored the competition for this first time this season, doubling the prize money on offer. Under 7s introduction session As with previous years, Claydon FC will be running an Under 7s introduction session at Blue Circle, and this year it will be on Sunday, May 7 from 9.30-10.30am. If you are under seven years of age on September 6, 2017 and want to learn to play football in a superb environment with award winning facilities, please get in touch. While players have a free coaching session parents can have a tour of the club’s facilities and ask any questions of the team. For more information or to pre-book a place please contact: events@claydon-fc.co.uk / 07903 398460 U11 Tigers sponsorship deal The U11 Tigers are pleased to welcome COMTEC Direct as our sponsor for the next two years and the players, parents, managers and club officials would like to express their gratitude at your support for the players. COMTEC stocks a comprehensive range of networking products from structured and fibre optic cabling through to data racks and servers which are available for next day delivery. 15
SPORT / CHURCH NEWS SPROUGHTON TENNIS CLUB
BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH
The junior coaching programme begins on Thursday, April 20. Every week until the summer holidays (except Whitsun half-term), three sessions of coaching will be available. The sessions are as follows: 3.45-4.15pm for U8s; 4.15-5pm for 8-11 years; 5-6pm for 11-16 years. John, our popular coach, will have lots of games and drills to improve your tennis.
Minister: The Rev Derek Grimshaw 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msn.com
For adults, our club night program starts on Easter Monday, April 17 and Thursday, April 20 from 7pm along with a new daytime session starting on Friday, April 21 at 10am. New members are half-price. For more information, please contact tennis@sproughtontennis.co.uk / 01473 402307 or visit: www.sproughtontennis.co.uk
WATCHNIGHT SERVICE So Holy Week is over, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday have happened and we wait as the friends of Jesus waited. We wait, feeling the loss that the early disciples felt and we wait as they did. The difference is that we know what happened sometime early in the morning on that first Easter Day. Come and wait with us and experience a profound silence punctuated very occasionally with some Taize chants and pithy, short readings. We begin the ‘Watch’ at 9pm and we finish when the last person has left, whenever that may be. You are invited to drop in and out to suit your other plans that evening. We will be in St Michael’s Church, Woolverstone on Saturday, April 15 from 9pm. For more information email Jane Gould: jane.gould@btinternet.com
You’re invited to make an appointment at our Wherstead Park office to discuss:
Powers of Attorney Wills
Probate Court of Protection * We also offer a range of other services
Our out of town Ipswich location is very convinient for parking and has Contact us for an appointment at your convenience: excellent disabled access. www.ellisonssolicitors.com enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ 01473 556 900 Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336
Steward: Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Please feel free to contact either of us with any queries. Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement with the minister, who will also arrange Holy Communion for the housebound. Sunday • Morning Worship with Holy Communion every second Sunday of month, 10.30-11.30am* • Lighthouse Club for children – term time only, 10.30-11.30am Monday • Bible Study, an informal look at issues that those present wish to discuss, every third Monday of month, 2-3pm • Computer Club – term time only, 7.30-9.30pm Tuesday • Network/MWiB, our ladies meeting, although gentlemen are always welcome – second and fourth Tuesdays of month from October-April and second Tuesday from May-September, 2-3pm* Wednesday • Computer Club – term time only, 10am-noon • Prayers and Laying of Hands for Healing – second Wednesday of month, 7.30-8.30pm Thursday • United Service (very informal) at Cherryfields – first Thursday of month, 3-3.30pm* Saturday • Coffee Morning – either at the Methodist Church or at Cherryfields (see diary below for location) on the third Saturday of month, 10-11am Sunday • Families@4, an informal get-together with tea provided, come and go as you please – not a service but our minister usually joins us, 4-6pm (once a month – please check diary) *Tea and coffee served afterwards APRIL DIARY Sunday 2: Morning Worship, The Rev C Jowett, 10.30am Thursday 6: United Service at Cherryfields, 3pm Sunday 9: Morning Worship, Major M Smith, Palm Sunday, 10.30am Monday 10: Holy Week Service at the Methodist Church, 7.30pm Tuesday 11: Network/MWiB, Mrs Jackie Howes – Thoughts for Holy Week, 2-3pm Holy Week Service at St Mary’s, 7.30pm Wednesday 12: Holy Week Service at the Methodist Church including Prayers for Healing, 7.30pm Thursday 13: Holy Week Service at St Mary’s, 7.30pm Friday, 14: Holy Week Service. This year our Good Friday Walk of Witness will be from St Mary’s to the Methodist Church, 10am Sunday 16: Morning Worship, The Rev D Grimshaw, Easter Sunday Holy Communion, 10.30am Saturday 22: Coffee Morning at Cherryfields, 10-11am Sunday 23: Morning Worship, Mrs R Logan, 10.30am Tuesday 25: Network/MWiB, The Friends of the Deaf – Mrs Pearl Kerridge and Friend, 2-3pm Sunday 30: Morning Worship, Mr R Theobald, 10.30am Families@4, 4-6pm
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CHURCH NEWS
ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD, ST MARY NETTLESTEAD, ST MARY THE VIRGIN LITTLE BLAKENHAM, ST PETER BAYLHAM Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Jenny Seggar 01473 748914 / stmarybramford@aol.com
needed, but the fact is that it happened away from observers, in the quiet of the tomb.
Assistant Curate: The Rev Julian Fennel, 01473 833250
The witness accounts we have are from those who were considered to be unreliable. In fact all we can say is that whatever it was that happened was so stunning that it sparked off a wave of faith which is still rolling around the world and inspiring people today.
www.stmarybramford.co.uk Wednesday, 9.30am: Quiet Reflective Communion Service SERVICES IN APRIL April 2 / Lent 5 10am Holy Communion with Prayer for Healing 6pm Evening Prayer April 5 9.30am 1pm 7.30pm
Communion Wedding Lent Group – Week 5
April 6 3pm
United Service at Cherryfields
Bramford Baylham Vicarage Bramford Vicarage
April 9 / Palm Sunday 8am Holy Communion 10am Parish Communion 5pm Five o’clock Service
Bramford Nettlestead Bramford
April 10 7pm
Evening Service
Methodist Church
April 11 7pm
Evening Service
St Mary’s Bramford
April 12 9.30am 7pm
Communion Evening Service
Vicarage Methodist Church
April 13 / Maundy Thursday 7pm Communion for Maundy Thursday including stripping of the altars and vigil at St Mary’s, Bramford April 14 / Good Friday 10am Procession of Witness and Meditation with the Methodist Church starting at St Mary’s, Bramford 2pm Last Hour at the Cross St Mary’s, Bramford
You will see from our service schedule that we have a full week of events as we follow the story pretty much in real time. It’s worth dipping in and out of the week, the highlights will be the lovely Maundy Thursday Communion Service with its vigil afterwards, the Walk of Witness and reflection on Good Friday, and of course Easter Sunday. Little Blakenham church is also holding a spring flower festival in the church, with a New Fire Service on Holy Saturday evening. In the week after Easter, we will be celebrating Easter with the school, who will have been on holiday for the two weeks before the festival, do come and join us. Blessings, Jenny EVENTS FOR YOUR DIARY Here is a list of some events that we are planning during the year. April 22: Coffee Morning May 13: Plant Sale and Lunches July 1: Village Fete PARISH REGISTERS Funerals March 13: Janet Jackaman March 14: Mick Buttery We extend to their families our sympathy and prayers. Cleaning Rota: V Mather and K Orvis Flower Rota: Lent Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church April 7: In memory of Jim Thacker on his birthday April 15: In memory of Hazel Gibson on her birthday April 19: In memory of Margaret Heasley on her birthday
April 16 / Easter Sunday 10am Holy Communion 10am Holy Communion
Bramford Baylham
If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week.
April 18 2.30pm
Church Room
L ectionary Bible Readings for our Sunday Worship are taken from the Revised Common Lectionary. It is good to share the reading of scripture with Christians, both Catholic and Protestant, across the world.
The Gathering
April 22 10am-noon Coffee Morning
Church Room
April 23 / Easter 2 8am Holy Communion 10am Fourth Sunday Service 10am Morning Prayer
Bramford Church Room Nettlestead
April 30 / Easter 3 10am Joint Parish Communion Please check porch notices for any changes.
Bramford
Dear friends Easter is the major Christian festival of the year, celebrating the stunning events surrounding Passover something like 2,000 years ago. I am often asked what actual proof we have of the resurrection, but in fact, all we have is the wonderful accounts in the gospels. It would be tempting to think that if it happened today then we would have all the proof we www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
April 2 Ezek 37:1-14
Fifth Sunday of Lent Rom 8:6-11
Purple John 11:1-45
April 9 Isaiah 50:4-9a
Palm Sunday Phil 2:5-11
Red Matt 26:14-27
April 14 Isaiah 52:13-53
Good Friday Heb 4:14-16 John 18:1-19
April 16 Acts 10:34-43
Easter Day Col 3:1-4
White or Gold John 20:1-18
April 23 Acts 2:14a, 22-32
Easter 1 Exod 14:10-end
White 1 Pet 1:1-9
April 30 Acts 2: 14a, 36-41
Easter 2 1 Peter1: 17-23
White Luke 24: 13-35 17
ON THE GRAPEVINE AN INVITATION TO ALL MEN On Tuesday, May 2 the Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir is inviting all men who love to sing to its open rehearsal at Stowupland Village Hall, 3 Church Road, Stowupland, Stowmarket IP14 4BG commencing at 7pm. Formed in April 1968, the Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir has built a reputation and tradition for music to entertain a wide variety of audiences. One of its main purposes is helping local communities and charitable organisations by assisting them in their fundraising while representing the constabulary. The choir, who normally rehearse at Martlesham Police Headquarters, is pleased to recruit and welcome members from all walks of life, with or without a connection to the constabulary, to continue its social function and charitable work. There are no auditions and the ability to read music is not essential. On average the choir performs one concert per month in aid of local good causes. For more details contact the choir secretary Stephen Wade: 01449 672600 / scmvc@scwade.eclipse.co.uk
CHECK YOUR BOUNDARIES Now we are into April it’s a good time to go into our gardens and look at ways we can protect our property. Front boundaries Low boundaries at the front give maximum visibility. Burglars will feel safer if they can hide behind high fences/hedges as they will be obstructed from view of passers-by from the road. Rear and side boundaries The height of rear and side fences should be 1.8 meters. If your boundary is particularly vulnerable the height can be increased with a trellis. This can be attractive and also act as a deterrent as it’s difficult to climb over without breaking the fence or making a noise. Gates All gates should be fitted with lockable slide bolts and have a padlock to stop someone reaching over to gain entry. Good news story Myself and PCSO Georgi Hawkes from Hadleigh SNT worked with PCSO Teresa England, Sgt Darren Oxbrow and the Youth Offending Team in a litter pick with some young people in the local area. PCSO Denise FORD, Hadleigh SNT Police: 999 emergencies only or 101 for non-emergencies Your local police: Hadleigh SNT, Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD / hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk
ASK FIONA – HERE TO HELP As someone who has been a mother, a wife and a divorcee I would like to answer your questions about any sort of problems you have, believing that a problem shared is a problem halved. Email me at: fionaleaclarke@outlook.com 18
CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE MID SUFFOLK LINK Once again we are collecting clothes and medicines for the group who will arrive this year. If you can help with donations of good quality second hand clothing for ages six-13 we would be very grateful. All contributions are great appreciated and can be dropped into our charity shop in Needham Market or I am happy to arrange collection. Also required are basic medicines and for each child we try to collect the following items: Lemsip, decongestant capsules or drops, vapour rub, menthol nasal sticks, Immodium (or similar), menthol crystals, Sudacrem cream, oil of cloves or similar, digital thermometer, lip chap sticks, cold sore cream, Iglue mouth ulcer cream, paracetamol or ibuprofen tablets. On April 2 I will go to Belarus to visit the 18 children who will arrive on July 2 in our summer group. The fact that parents are willing to send their children to a strange country, to people they have never met, for a whole month demonstrates how vital these health recuperation visits are for the children and how grateful the parents are if their child is selected. At Christmas, many people joined our program to send a Christmas present to a disadvantaged child in Belarus. The following excerpts from two of the letters received shows just how much this meant to those who got a present: Dear Friends We got your parcel today (Feb 5). We were told it was coming for Christmas and we thought it had got lost! Thank you to everyone who took part in organising these parcels. Thank you for your attention and care. So long there are people like you out there in the world who are not indifferent to the problems of other people we keep our hope and faith! Let everything be good in your lives, we wish you all the luck, success and welfare you need. Be healthy and live long! With great respect, Natalia Kozhukhar Hello! Thank you so much for your wonderful Christmas presents! It was our first time of receiving a parcel. My children were very happy. They were playing, painting and trying on socks and a scarf the whole evening. The youngest even slept with the presents for a couple of days. Now with a pleasure and gratefulness I do my daughter’s ponytails with beautiful hair bands you gave her. We like everything you gave us! My son and daughter wear beautiful socks and use the nice stickers. We received the parcel on December 23, it was the birthday of my son Stepan, turned 6. My daughter Margarita is 8, but she is very ill. She is not able to walk, talk and eat by herself. She got paralysed when she was 2.5 years old. After 2 months of coma she lost many of her functions. But now she is getting a little better. With my very big thanks. Natasha So little can mean so very much. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / 07771 550868
ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, April 8, 9am-12.30pm. Fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items which helps present buying. East End Butchers are pleased to be the market’s resident meat supplier. If you would like to place on order with them it can be collected at the market each month. Their number for orders is 01206 392190 Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue. New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777 In Touch online:
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GROUNDS & GARDEN MAINTENANCE We offer the following services all year round: Grass cutting • Garden clearance Fences & Gates • Patios & Paths Hedge Cutting • Tree Cutting Sheds • Summer Houses Digger & Dumper work
F.A.O - Club Secretaries:
CLUB-NIGHT ESSENTIALS Bingo Flyers: £2.80 per book Bingo 10 page: £25.50 per pack Pub/Football Cards: 20p each Prices ex-VAT - collect from Reception:
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