In Touch news with Capel - July 2018 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

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CAPEL CAPERS

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Volume 8 • Issue No. 8 • JULY 2018

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR You know what it’s like when you have a few precious minutes to catch up on a million tasks. It’s usually a mad dash involving at least one bruise, multiple encounters with people you’d love to chat to at any other time (just not right now) and, almost always, a whole lot of frustration. Well, last Saturday I left home with a mile-long list and 30 minutes to complete them. Parking took at least 10 minutes so the pressure was on from the get-go. First, the library where I grabbed the first Jo Nesbo book I saw (turns out I’d read it before but I’m enjoying it nonetheless). Then I lost precious minutes standing in a queue at the pharmacy. Next the pet shop and then back to the car with a bale of hay. Round two took me first to the gift shop for a baby gift and card, then to the homeware shop for window cleaner and a new squeegee (still unused by the way) and finally to the hairdressers to make an appointment (which I’ll probably have to cancel). I’m exhausted just writing about it, but as I raced from shop to shop and criss-crossed the market square at least four times, I noticed a father and son sitting on a bench under a shady tree. Each time I raced by I was struck by how still they were, dad with his arm draped over his son’s shoulders as they sat close together in silence watching the world go by. I stopped at one point to watch them from behind and in that moment I felt like a complete lunatic. I tried to remember the last time I’d simply sat with my son, doing nothing, just being together, and it had been a while. With one last admiring glance at the relaxed pair on the bench, I headed to the car and home to Jack. After a quick kick around (always his first choice) we snuggled up on the sofa to watch a movie. Of course, I do wonder what the wife/mother was doing while the dad and son relaxed! Perhaps she was tearing about like me, but I hope not. That list of things to do will always be there, but I’m determined to find that happy balance and to spend more time with my nearest and dearest. Now who’s going to clean those windows?

In Touch with Capel St Mary 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: capel@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.

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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. © 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 Capel St Mary is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

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NEWS

WANTED! YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS’ WAR STORIES Have you a story to tell of a family member who fought in the First or Second World Wars or in a conflict since 1945? If so Capel Times would like to hear from you. The fourth and final issue of Capel Times will be a timeline history of the Second World War, the sad stories of the Capel St Mary men who died and the arrangements for the dedication of the War Memorial Monument and other events on November 11. It is proposed that issue four should also include family stories of residents who came to Capel when the village was enlarged and developed in the years after the Second World War. The stories can be of the victims of the First and Second World Wars and later conflicts, and of those who had amazing escapes from death or injury. Within hours of issue three being distributed around Capel on June 9 and 10, several residents told me family stories which need to be recorded as a lasting reminder of the courage, loss and tragedy of those who went to war and of those who were left behind. More residents whose family members joined the Armed Forces from anywhere in the country will have stories to tell. Please let me have your stories, with photographs if possible, by mid-August at the latest. Help can be given in writing stories if that is needed. Your family’s war experiences will also make an archive for the young to study many years ahead. David Thompson: 01473 314185 / davidf.thompson@btinternet.com

A fundraising competition by Capel St Mary War Memorial Trust to guess the First World War cost of a house in the village was won by Sheila Alderton of East Bergholt. Her guess of £127 was the closest to the actual price of £130. The competition was staged at Funday. A Trust £10 garden voucher was won by Kirstie Clarke of Ipswich.

DOVE CLOSE SOCIAL EVENING Friday, July 27, 7-9pm You are welcome to join our Beatle Drive evening plus refreshments £2 entrance fee

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AUGUST DEADLINE 10 JULY 2018

is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

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NEWS R.O.M.E.O. IS FIVE BEST PANTO AWARD FOR ORCHARD PLAYERS The Orchard Players is affiliated to the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) and welcomes the regional representative to review our productions. R.O.M.E.O. will be five this month. Not a dating agency, nor a lad seeking his Juliet, but a sociable group of men who have been meeting monthly for the last five years for food and companionship, and who would love other men to join them. For the first four years, we met at the Harvest Moon Café, but following their sad demise last August we now meet for lunch on the third Thursday of the month at Wenham View in Dove Close. We are very grateful that this was made possible by the offer from Ronnie Hudson to prepare a meal there for us. With a small team of helpers, she voluntarily prepares and serves us a superb meal each time for a fair price and still manages to make a profit which is given to local community groups and charities. Usually, there are around 25 men getting together for a great lunch, but food apart there is the benefit of drawing men together of varied age and background with the opportunity to build friendships which are then continued around the village during the month. In addition to the lunch, we also hold a coffee morning, Coffee Break for Men, on the first Wednesday of each month, again at Wenham View. This is a further opportunity to relax and chat and get to know others over a drink and refreshments. Admission is free, donations welcome to defray expenses. If you would like to meet other men and think you might be interested in joining us, you can be sure of a warm welcome at any of our events. For further information, please contact Peter: 01473 310096 / peterandjanet@mypostoffice.co.uk We look forward to sharing your company.

We are delighted to announce that our 2017 pantomime, Beauty and the Beast, won the Best Pantomime Award for NODA District 11 at the recent awards event. So, many congratulations to Lynn Perera, making her debut as a director, to all the great cast and the many backstage crew who helped to make the panto a winner. So, now to Oliver which we present from July 4-7. Ticketline: 07793 820215

NOTES FROM THE CASE Suffolk’s first co-operative pub OOPS! First a correction: in last month’s copy we said that lunchtime snacks were available from Monday to Wednesday. Well done to the eagleeyed readers who spotted that The Case isn’t open on Mondays and Tuesdays! Lunchtime snacks are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays – and great value with a great range of sandwiches from £4.50, ploughman’s, tapenade and daily specials. No mistake here though… From Sunday, June 17 we are delighted to announce the return of our popular Sunday lunches. We’re very fortunate to have established a partnership with Esther Brunning of Esther’s Best, a well-known local chef with an excellent reputation who will be cooking for us every Sunday. Booking is strongly advised. Vegetarians and children catered for. See Esther’s menus and prices at: www.thecasepubbentley.co.uk/whats-on Our regular events continue through the summer with the next Open Mic Night on Tuesday, July 3, when we will be entertained by the village community choir. The next quiz is on Saturday, July 28, starting 8.30pm.

JOB VACANCY TRUST ADMINISTRATOR Approx. 10 hours per week Responsible for the administration of the community centre, playing field and play areas. For more information contact Sandra: admin@capelcommunitytrust.org

THANK YOU We would like to send our sincere thanks to all of our friends who have sent us cards, flowers, plants and love at this extremely sad time. To my friends at the doctor’s surgery, thank you for your support during what has been a difficult time. Love Mandy and Alan xx

The Village Garden Party is back for its third year on Sunday, July 15, with all the attractions of previous years and maybe a few more. Bentley must surely have the best cake-makers in Suffolk if the spread in previous years is anything to go by. And we’re hoping to match last year’s fantastic effort when sales of cakes made enough money to pay for the professional jazz band who kept us entertained all afternoon, and they’ll be back this year too! We’ll be asking for donations of home-made cakes, so if you would like to showcase your talents, please email me at: gill.redcotts@icloud.com Entry is free, but to help us to gauge numbers, please pick up your free ticket from the pub or from Bentley Stores. It also entitles you to a free cup of tea. The Garden Party starts at 3pm. All are welcome to this community event – see you there! And remember – this is your pub. It’s here for the community and run by the community – and if you want it to be here in the future, please consider volunteering in one of the many roles needed to keep it going. Customerfacing or behind the scenes – there are lots of ways you can help support The Case, even if it’s only for an hour a week. Pop in and pick up a leaflet or talk to one of our volunteers. You all helped to save The Case – let’s keep it thriving! 01473 805575 / www.thecasepubbentley.co.uk/whats-on

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NEWS CONSTABLE COUNTRY MEDICAL PRACTICE Patient Feedback The practice is always eager to receive feedback from patients. We are a busy practice. Our clinicians have hundreds of appointments every week, and we process hundreds of test results, letters from hospitals and other healthcare organisations and referrals in addition to monitoring patients who are on medication and/or have long-term health conditions to ensure they are receiving the best treatment. Inevitably, with such a high volume of work, issues will occasionally arise. When they do we want to hear about them and try to resolve them as soon as possible. However, over the past six months in particular we have received many compliments about our doctors and other staff and the way we operate. This is really encouraging for our staff who work very hard in a challenging environment. We really want to hear from you when things go well, in addition to when issues arise. There are many ways you can provide feedback including our PPG comment cards and Friends and Family comment cards available in the waiting rooms, the NHS Choices website, the Healthwatch Suffolk website, or by a letter or note addressed to the practice manager. You can also leave a comment via our website. We meet with our Patient Participation Group every month and discuss patient feedback. When we can make positive changes to the way we operate, we do. We also monitor social media and are fully aware of comments posted on various Facebook pages. It isn’t appropriate for the practice to respond via Facebook, but we would invite patients to share their comments, both positive and negative, directly with the practice. Training Days A reminder that the practice will be closed from 1pm on the following dates for staff training: Thursday, June 28 and Thursday, September 13. On these afternoons the Capel St Mary building will be open to enable access to the pharmacy, but the practice reception will be closed. East Bergholt reception will be open. Please note that there will be no clinicians at either building after 1pm as they will be attending training off-site. If you phone the practice the recorded message will ask you to ring 111 for medical assistance if your problem cannot wait until the next day.

WE NEED MORE VOLUNTEERS! We are looking to set up a dementia café in Capel once a fortnight, but need people to help drive the café forward. Do you have a passion for helping people with dementia and their loved ones? Would you like to be involved in setting up and running the café with us? Once we have a team together we are going to arrange a ‘working party’ where we have a meeting and brainstorm ideas. Could you be free once a fortnight or once a month to help make cups of tea or coffee for people attending our café? We also need volunteers for smaller tasks. Would you be able to pick up shopping sometimes for people who cannot get out? Could you be available to visit someone for an hour once a week or once a fortnight to give them some company? Could you befriend someone on the telephone and ring them once a week? Would you be able to provide transport to one of our clients to the hospital for an appointment? Could you cut someone’s grass once in a while? Or do an odd job for someone who cannot manage it themselves due to health reasons? Have you got a passion for any other health related projects that you would like to run under the banner of Capel Parish Nurses.? Without our valuable volunteers we would not be able to help all the people we help in all the different ways we help them. If you are interested in becoming one of our volunteers (even for infrequent and short periods of time) please get in touch with us for a volunteer pack. It’s not a requirement for you to be a Christian to be one of our volunteers – you just need to understand our values and honour them. Blessings, Caroline Caroline: 07588 706869 / Caroline@CapelParishNurses.org.uk / Wednesday & Friday 9.30am-2.30pm Margaret: 07588 698284 / Margaret@CapelParishNurses.org.uk / Monday & Wednesday 9am-4pm www.CapelParishNurses.org.uk

Practice Manager Pete Keeble

FORGET-ME-NOT CLUB We meet each Wednesday between 2.15 and 4.15pm at Wenham, Dove Close, Capel St Mary and play a variety of card and board games, together with tea, coffee and biscuits and, of course, chat. We also have a variety of trips out during the year, the cost of which is generally met from our funds. Membership is £5 per year and £1.50 each week.

ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, July 14, 9am-12.30pm. As it’s our third birthday we will have some unusual classic cars and other vehicles on display to mark the occasion, as well as your favourite market stalls: fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items. 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.

Anyone of 60 years of age and above is very welcome to join us. Hope to see you soon.

ST ELIZABETH HOSPICE Many thanks to all those kind people who donated items for this year’s Fun Day Tombola at the Playing Field on June 9. Over 160 prizes were won by those who supported the hospice stall and a grand total of £152.10 was passed on to the hospice which was the most that I have ever raised on the stall so once again thanks for your wonderful support. Linda Morrison, Hospice Rep for Capel St Mary

New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777

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ADVERTORIAL

Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

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!!!

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NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES, MID-SAMFORD WARD: JUNE 2018 BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR SUE CARPENDALE Future of former Hadleigh HQ offices Councillors and the public have been considering the options for the future use of the site in Hadleigh. Consultation events were held in Hadleigh and many observations noted. A decision on the preferred option is due to be made at an extra council in June. Three main options were assessed taking account of cost and viability, community need, how much development the site could take – given the limitations such as being on a flood plain and the listed buildings status – and maintaining the quality of the space. The emerging preference is for housing, keeping and modifying both the listed buildings and some of the 1980’s structures. The next step will be to develop an application for outline planning permission. This could come to council by the autumn. After that, there will be further decisions on how, and who, will take the masterplan forward. On-going planning matters The recent decision to allow a development of 100 homes off a small, quiet close in Capel St Mary has horrified many people. An adverse impact on the amenity of its residents is inevitable and most of us view the access as wholly inadequate. Strong objections were lodged, but the committee’s approval decision was made on the perceived balance of ‘harm’ and ‘benefit’; benefit includes affordable housing. A powerful factor was also the current national planning context in which a five-year land supply – or lack of, in Babergh’s case – becomes a ‘material consideration’.

The five-year housing land supply is a requirement of the National Planning Policy Framework. It aims to boost the supply of housing. There is a presumption in favour of development. Local planning authorities are required to undertake annual monitoring reports which calculate the number of homes completed during the preceding 12 months. Babergh’s built-out delivery of new homes falls well short of the target number, which means that the shortfall is added to the next year’s targets, plus a buffer, so they then require even more sites to be allocated. It doesn’t look as if that will change anytime soon. This is particularly bad news in this area as we lie on the A12 transport corridor. Online payments system A new system allows people who are buying homes in their district and require a local land charge search to pay the fee quickly and easily online with a credit or debit card. Most land charge service customers are solicitors and agents delivering conveyancing services to someone buying a house, although anyone can request this service regarding any property. In addition to the official search requests, there is a new online form and payment system for personal searches. This is available now, making the process simpler and quicker. sue.carpendale@babergh.gov.uk

BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR FENELLA SWAN Annual Council Meeting At the Babergh District Council Annual Council meeting on May 22, members elected Councillor Gaspar to serve as chairman for the next year. Councillor Gaspar, District Councillor for Brook Ward, succeeds Councillor Peter Burgoyne who stepped down following two years as chairman. Council members were also elected to serve on committees for the next year. The annual report of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee was also presented. In the past year the committee has looked at many important topics including homelessness, housing voids, CIL, the calculation of the five-year housing land supply and waste services. The committee requested to scrutinise the five-year housing land supply due to a mixed understanding regarding the way it was calculated, and how the lack of supply could be resolved. These issues impact on the delivery of the Joint Strategic Plan in a number of ways, particularly in terms of housing delivery, community capacity and the effect of ad hoc building in inappropriate areas. At the Overview and Scrutiny Committee officers explained in detail the complicated process for calculating the five-year housing land supply. The committee resolved the five year housing land supply be formally published yearly, but reviewed half yearly and monitored regularly throughout the year. Shared Ownership Housing Babergh District Council has taken on the first new shared ownership housing in the district in over 25 years. The seven new houses – the first of 12 – are at Admirals Quarter, Holbrook, and were handed over by Orbit Housing at a ceremony on Friday, May 11.

Shared Ownership housing allows homeowners to purchase between 25 and 75 per cent of a property, while paying rent on the remaining share. This allows households who may not otherwise be able to afford mortgages to become homeowners. The 12 properties earmarked for shared ownership, as well as an additional 15 properties that Babergh District Council will be acquiring for affordable rent, are part of a 78 home development in Holbrook. Following this first tranche of seven properties, Babergh will take ownership of the remaining 20 homes in two tranches in autumn 2018 and February 2019. Shotley Peninsula New webpages showcasing the best of Shotley Peninsula have been launched, offering visitors top tips, deals and event information for their trip. The new webpages, hosted and designed by All About Ipswich (AAI) and funded by Babergh District Council, aim to make planning a visit to Shotley Peninsula easier than ever, and can be visited at: www.allaboutipswich.com/highlights/theshotleypeninsula The new webpages are part of a drive by Babergh and All About Ipswich to provide marketing support for Shotley Peninsula Tourism Action Group, with an aim of promoting the unique experiences available on the peninsula. Local businesses are being invited to provide details that can be listed on the website, providing visitors with information on all the peninsula has to offer. fenella.swan@babergh.gov.uk

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Presented by The Orchard Players Music, Lyrics and Book by Lionel Bart

Produced for the Broadway stage by David Merrick & Donald Albery

4th - 7th July 2018 7:30 (& 2:30 on 7th)

Capel St Mary Community Centre

Adults £10, Concessions £6 Box Office: 07793820215

By arrangement with MusicScope & Stage Musicals Ltd of New York

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NEWS

Wow, how lucky were we? After watching the weather forecast say it would be cloudy, we were delighted to see the sun shine for us all afternoon! So in came the crowds of people! We once again had lots of attractions on offer including Kidz Kartz, Zorb balls, train rides, donkey rides and many independent stallholders. And new to this year was J&C Party Pets with their fabulous range of animals, which proved very popular with the braver audience! And tearing up the tarmac was Lightning Mcqueen, a big hit with the younger audience! We welcomed back Tendring Dog Agility Group, Andy the Clown, Ipswich Rock Choir, Zumba with Tess and CDC Street Dance who once again entertained everyone with their great displays. We were also treated to a sneak preview of The Orchard Players summer show, Oliver. Admission was, as always, free, with some of the costs being covered by local businesses sponsoring our event. Many thanks go to our all our sponsors: Main Sponsors: Bonfield Brothers, Sally’s Suffolk Dogs, T&L Banks and Upstix Additional Sponsors: Capel Castles, Capel Mushroom Farm, Hadleigh Tyre Group, Ha’Penny Press, Idelo Travel, Require IT, Starling IT Services and Zaynab A big thank you once again goes to Capel Women’s Institute who took care of the tea, coffee and cakes with all the proceeds being generously donated to Capel Community Trust. As always, we are very grateful to the many volunteers who give their time to assist. Their help made such a difference to the smooth running of the whole event and makes it possible for it to actually go ahead! So, I would like to say thank you to all of them. They were: Nicolette Harris, Geordie Darren, Leigh Banks, Bruce Connelly, Dave Abbott, Naomi Kilby, Anna Handel, Sheila Harris, Claire Kilbourn, Sarah Smy, Chloe Matthews, Tabbie Bonfield, Scarlett Harris, Susannah Cocks, Mark Cocks, Janet Lawrence (and Hubby), Alison Hoskings, Hayden Smith, Mark Harman, Catherine Porter, Aimee Nicholls, Nathan Robinson, Sarah Weston, Trevor Weston, Mo Hill, Jim Hill and Allen Harris Jnr, and Association and Trust

Committee Members Trevor Banks, Allen Harris Snr, Ian Love, Iain Bramhill, Mark Browning, Sandra Bumphrey, Julie Gentry, Stuart Harris, Richard Morgan, Steph Bonfield, Nick Smith, Stuart Powell and Dave Busby. If I have forgotten anyone, I do apologise! We were very lucky to have a lot of raffle prizes donated by many businesses in the local area and stall holders! A list of all the raffle prize winners can be found opposite. I must say a big thank you to Jon Bunkell who did an absolutely amazing job producing this year’s programme. If you live in Capel, you should have had a copy delivered through your door, but I hope everyone got to see a copy. It had so much in it including sponsors, advertisers, a map of the event, future events and a list of raffle prizes. A final thank you goes out to everyone who turned out to make the day such a success. Myself, Jon Bunkell and Malcolm Bonfield have already had lots of messages saying what a great day people had, this does make it worthwhile, so we look forward to seeing you next year! The total profit from this year’s event after expenses is in excess of £3,000 (£2,500 in 2017) which is responsible for the upkeep of certain amenities such as the playing field, play areas and the community centre. Without fundraising efforts like this and from Capel Community Association, these costs would need to be met by other means. Almost certainly this would result in an increase in your Council Tax. In addition to this amount, the bar run by the Community Association generated a turnover of £2,500 (£1,700 in 2017) which is a significant increase over last year. So thank you very much for supporting us! Next year’s Fun Day will be on Saturday, June 8. We’re always looking for help and you don’t have to join the committee to be involved. If you can spare a few hours or have any ideas about what you would like to see, please email: events@capelcommunityassociation.org If you took any photos on the day that you’re happy to share, please email them to the address above or post them on our Facebook page – Capel Funday – where you will find a selection on there already. Ruth Rawthorn, Fun Day Committee

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NEWS CAPEL FUN DAY PRIZE WINNERS Prize

Donated by

Winner

1tb Portable Hard Drive

Starling IT Services

Iain Bramhill

£100 Cash

Capel Mushroom Farm

Sarah Miller

2A Mid-Week Fitness Pass

Stoke By Nayland Hotel

Jan Head

Audi TT for the Day

Ipswich Audi

Glen Yellop

Fun Sand

Suffolk Sand Lady

Nicky Powell

Coffee Machine

Porterhouse Building

Malcolm Bonfield

Sweets

Sweetie King

Abi Cracknell

Photo Voucher

Barrett & Coe

Mary Nuttall

Bayliss & Harding Gift Set

Tesco

Di Bishop

Riding Voucher

Bentley Riding School

Zoe Bryant

2 Course Meal for 4

The Marlborough Head

Jodie Williams

£50 Manns Butchers Voucher

Bonfield Brothers

Paul Donoghue

2 X Medium Pizzas

The Mobile Pizza Co

Dave Schindler

Dashcam

Buildbase

Nigel Bradford

2 X Medium Pizzas

The Mobile Pizza Co

John Williams

Bottle of Wine

Capel Allotments

Annette Wilshaw

Bottle Of Wine

The Orchard Players

Tracy Chappell

Bottle of Wine

Capel Allotments

Andy Bonfield

4 X Pay & Play Passes

The Playground

Gary Parkins

1Lt of Teachers Whiskey

Friends of St Mary’s

Sheila Ward

Case Of Wine

The White Horse

John Mellish

Hamper Village Items

Capel Parish Council

Di Barker

Tropic Products

Tropic By Tracy

Mrs A Porter

Pie Hamper

Country Pies

Norman Ward

Book Package

Usborne Books

Phil Harris

241 Entry to Aqua Springs

Colchester Leisure

Sarah Weston

Bottle

Utility Warehouse

Lynne Halton

2A & 3C Swim

Crown Pools

Tracy

Colouring Pack & Inflatable

Velvet Art Emporium

C Tinker

Entry for 2A & 2C

Easton Farm Park

P Holton

2 X Tickets

New Wolsey Theatre

Mel Sutcliffe

Soft Toy

Ellen

Philip Mayhew

£20 Voucher

Ye Flying Friar

Sandra Bumphrey

Soft Toy

Ellen

Jenny Barker

Case of IPA

Greene King

Kirsty Nicholls

2 X Community Cinema Tks

Friends Of Capel Library

Iain Bramhill

Bombay Sapphire

Greene King

Lilian Fuller

Class Voucher

Fun Dancing

Lisa Gibbs

Smirnoff Vodka

Greene King

V Cobner

£10 Voucher

Gladwells

C Kilbourn

£15 Voucher

Magnificent Wok

Phil Harris

£10 Voucher

Gladwells

C Ryan

£15 Voucher

Magnificent Wok

Brenda Green

2 X Entry

Go Bananas

S Rodgers

3 X £5 Voucher

Rollerworld Colchester

Sandra Canning

Case of Abbot Ale

Greene King

Bob Morrison

2 X Robbie & Kylie Tickets

KW Entertainment

Mark Rawthorn

£30 Voucher

Hair Ministry

R Fisher

£25 Voucher

Mother Indian TA

Andrew Harris

£50 Holiday Voucher

Idelo Travel

Shirley Ward

Space Hopper

Morrisons Superstore

Adele Revell

£5 Voucher

Ipswich Regent

Sue Mumford

Toaster

Porterhouse

Allen Harris

Framed Photo

Liz Huxley

Dot Clifford

Boat Hire & Meal

The Boathouse

Sue Elford

Taster Class Voucher

Mind Body Moment

Cara Fox

Crisp Hamper

Fairfield Farms

Malcolm

2 X Bowling Vouchers for 4

Namco Funscape

Jo Curtis

Crisp Hamper

Fairfield Farms

Linda Morrison

£10 Voucher

BJ’s Altered Image

Jordan Chandler

Family Ticket

Hollow Tree Farm

Gemma Alderton

Microwave

Porterhouse Building

Chris Dean

Fruit Hamper

Slimming World

Alicia & James

Holiday Club Voucher

Robin’s Childcare

Leah Scutcher

Smart Watch

Buildbase

Duncan Knight

Holiday Club Voucher

Robin’s Childcare

Peff

Wine

My Soul Food

Trevor Banks

90 Min Dog Training & Hamper

Sally’s Suffolk Dogs

Graham

Scarf & Door Signs

Cara Fox

£25 Curtain / Blind Voucher

Sew Soft Furnishings

Angie Armitage

Home Wine Tasting Kit

Buildbase

G Bunkell

2 X Mid Price Tickets

Snape Maltings

Helen Goldberg

Gin

War Memorial Committee Sheila Ward

2 X Pickleball Sessions

South Suffolk Pickleball

Jennings

Ladies Hamper

CCT

M Pizzey

Bottle of Champagne

St Elizabeth Hospice

Wendy Harris

Art Hamper

CCT

Rumsey

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OUT & ABOUT FRIENDS OF CAPEL LIBRARY

CAPEL LIBRARY

Most people think of a library as a place where you can borrow books, but it is far more than just that. The library is a place where old friends meet for a chat, come to use, learn how to use or borrow a computer/tablet or to attend one of the various clubs or activities which are run on a regular basis such as Community Cinema, Scrabble, Minecraft, Capel Creators and more. It is an important part of the community and I would urge you to make full use of this wonderful facility. Full details of planned activities and events can be found on either the Capel Library or Friends of Capel Library Facebook pages. Why not like both pages and keep up-to-date with forthcoming events and lots of other useful information about Capel and the surrounding villages.

Advanced Notice: To enable our friends The Orchard Players to get ready for their summer show the library will be closing early at 5pm on Friday, July 6 and at 12.30pm on Saturday, July 7. Any books for returning may be posted in the letterbox in the wall and they will be dealt with upon next opening time.

It was good to see so many of you at Capel Funday. Thank you for dropping by our stall to say hello. I hope that while you were there, we were able to answer your questions about the Friends Group and that you were able to find plenty of books to enjoy reading over the summer. The 100 Club continues to attract new members and as a result we have been able to increase the monthly prizes, which from June are one £20 and three of £10. It’s not too late if you want to join, just pick up an application form in the library. What a fantastic night was had by all on June 19 when we screened The Greatest Showman. It’s a hard act to follow but we will try on Tuesday, July 17, when we will be showing the romantic comedy Finding Your Feet starring Imelda Staunton, John Sessions, Josie Lawrence, Timothy Spall, Joanna Lumley and David Hayman. Tickets are available from the library and are discounted if you are a member of the Friends Group or if purchased in advance. See you there! Trevor Stevenson

COPDOCK AND WASHBROOK CHARITY CHILDREN’S FAIR The first Copdock and Washbrook Charity Children’s Fair will be hosted at Copdock and Washbrook Village Hall on Sunday, July 8 in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

Childrens Fair

May we kindly remind borrowers who have recently moved house or changed email addresses to update their details. For change of address could you bring in a letter addressed to you as confirmation? Library cards can easily be at the bottom of the list when there are so many other people to inform. Could borrowers please ensure they bring in their card upon each visit as the member of staff may be busy in which case you can use the self checking machine to both return and issue books. Many thanks for your assistance. You may renew online at: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk CLUBS MEETING THIS MONTH Minecraft: Sunday, July 1, 10.30am-12.30pm. Under eights to be accompanied by an adult. Capel Creators: Saturday, July 1, 10.30am-12.30pm. A charge of 50p per child which covers refreshments of a drink and a biscuit. Under eights to be accompanied by an adult. Baby Bounce: Meeting on Tuesdays, July 3, 10 and 17 at 2pm. Open to all children under five and their parents and carers. Library Book Group: Friday, July 20 at 2.30pm to discuss the latest book chosen. More members are welcome to join in this group. Much of the summer is taken over by the Reading Challenge, this year entitled Mischief Makers. Our volunteers will be in the library at the following times to hear the children talk about the books that they have read. Once again we will allow one book per visit during busy times and up to two if the volunteers have no one else waiting. We do encourage all children to take part reading six books throughout the summer break from school, but please be patient if there is a queue ahead of you. Children can come in from Saturday, July 21 to choose their first books for the challenge. Volunteer hours for The Reading Challenge: Tuesday: 10am-noon and 2-4pm Wednesday: 10am-noon Thursday: 10am-noon

The event, which runs from 11am-4pm, is aimed at children of all ages with lots for them to see, do and try and we’d love to see you there! We have bouncy castles, a penalty shoot-out from Goals, a huge Nerf battlefield, craft and science activities, face painting, a balloon modeller, soft play, baby massage, baby signing, messy play, a photographer, music, pampering, karate, theatre and lots more!

Friday: 2-4pm and 5.30-6.30pm

Lots of local businesses, groups and organisations will be joining us to showcase what they do and give you an opportunity to try out with some free taster sessions.

We sell books of first and second class stamps and book tokens.

Come along and bring the family for a day of fun! Entrance is £1 (including a raffle ticket). Find us on Old London Road (the old A12), Copdock IP8 3JN. More information, including timings for the taster sessions, can be found on our Facebook page – Copdock and Washbrook Charity Children’s Fair – or contact Genna (07545 002478) or Jo (07729 863223).

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Saturday: 10am-noon and 1.30-2.30pm Sunday: 10.30am-12.30pm and 1-2.30pm Going on holiday and don’t want to take a library book with you? Browse the sales trolleys and make a donation for books from the Friends of Capel Library. See the price list for books from withdrawn library stock.

OPENING TIMES Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9.30am-12.30pm and 2-5.30pm Wednesday: 9.30am-12.30pm Thursday: 9.30am-12.30pm Friday: 2-5pm and 5.30-7.30pm Saturday: 9am-3pm Sunday: 10am-3pm Contact: 01473 311699

NEWS CAPEL ST MARY PARISH COUNCIL Report from the meeting held on Monday, June 11. Present were Councillors Bishop, Fenn, Handel, Harris, Hole, Kilby, Matthews (Chair), Rogers, Thomas, Thompson, Weaver, White, County Councillor Jones, District Councillor Swan, Julie Lawes (Clerk) and four members of the public. The following planning applications were recommended for approval to Babergh District Council: Churchford Hall, Mill Hill – Erection of a single storey Orangery on the east elevation; Springhill, Pound Lane – Erection of cart lodge and store; 124 The Street – Erection of first floor extension over existing garage; Erection of part two storey and part single storey rear extension; The Old School House, 94 The Street – Erection of rear single storey extension. The Persimmon Homes Planning Application for land off Little Tufts for 100 new dwellings was approved by Babergh Planning Committee. Scott Properties are planning to submit an application between July and September. See below. Following much debate it was agreed that under the terms of the Neighbourhood Plan, the parish council, together with any interested parties the council deems necessary, shall now agree to undertake discussions with developers. Any meeting or discussion that takes place will be made widely available to all residents of the village through

DEVELOPMENT IN CAPEL ST MARY The application by Persimmon Homes for 100 houses off Longfield Road was in fact heard by the Planning Committee on May 30 and approved by eight votes to six. Members of the public were asked to leave the meeting while the committee were given legal advice which took 30 minutes. In my view the decision had little basis in planning criteria, or thought for residents and the village, but was based on the fact that Persimmon Homes had lodged an appeal on the previous application for 150 houses, which would be expensive to BDC, and another factor was Babergh not having a five-year land supply. It is not clear if Persimmon has withdrawn the appeal, but I suspect that they will. Scott Properties are still progressing their scheme for now 521 houses and light industrial units on land off Red Lane. They have been awaiting further information from SCC Highways, and Highways England, and will be submitting an application sometime between July and September we are told. On April 4 an Extraordinary Planning Committee recommended refusal for a new Methodist Church situated on the same site as the present church. The reason for refusal was parking as no parking provision was provided on the site. This application was heard by the Planning Committee on May 16, but as more information was needed it was deferred. The earliest date that it will be heard again will be June 27. Chris Matthews, Chair Capel St Mary Parish Council

various publications. These meetings will not be a pre-determination of an application, but to express the needs and wants of the village as demonstrated within our Parish Plan, Housing Need Survey and Community Infrastructure Levy responses. The Neighbourhood Planning Working Group is now up and running and would be pleased to welcome any new members who would be able to volunteer some time toward the creation of a plan for the future of our village. Clerk Julie Lawes The next meeting of Capel St Mary Parish Council will be on Monday, July 9 in the library. There is an open session at each meeting when members of the public may speak. The actual minutes of the meeting are available for viewing at the parish council office at 27a The Street, Capel St Mary, which is open on Tuesdays from 10am-noon and on Fridays from 1-3pm. The parish clerk can be contacted on 01473 314103 during these times. An answer phone operates outside these hours and messages are picked up every day. Alternatively contact can be made by email at: capel.parishclerk@btinternet.com

CAPEL ST MARY PARISH COUNCIL FLORAL DISPLAY 2018 ONLY THREE REMAINING TROUGHS AVAILABLE At a cost of £35, Capel St Mary Parish Council will provide a plaque advertising your business or group and provide a beautiful floral display at the shopping precinct. This display is only achievable through the generous sponsorships of local businesses and groups and we would like to thank the following who have made this possible. We hope you all enjoy this wonderful display over the coming months. Capel Ladies Club, Robins Childcare, St Mary’s Church, PLC Business, Bypass Nurseries, Capel Community Trust, Orwell Housing, Upstixs Sales, Upstixs Rental, Capel Mushrooms, Capel Carpet Bowls, The Orchard Players, Roland Tremaine Plumbing & Heating, Vellacott Farms, East of England Co-operative Society, Drayton Insurance, CDC Dance, Beacon Coffee Shop, Ausco Builders, Capel Community Church, Capel Allotments Association, Capel Garden Club, AT Physio, Capel & Lt Wenham Bowls Club, Capel R.O.M.E.O., Dean & Co, Capel Methodist Church, Capel WI, The White Horse Inn, Capel Station Garage and Joan’s Coffee Morning. If you are interested in sponsoring this event at £35 please contact the clerk on 01473 314103.

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CAPEL ST MARY & LITTLE WENHAM COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

IN THE COMMUNITY CENTRE

BT SPORT Available on the Big Screen in the Vine Lounge!

“ROBBIE & KYLIE THE ULTIMATE DOUBLE TRIBUTE ACT” SATURDAY 14th July In the Village Hall Tickets £10.00 In aid of “EACH” Unfortunately there will be no Bingo in July due to the bar refurbishment

FREE WI-FI In both Bars!

CARD PAYMENT SERVICE now available!

FREE TABLE TENNIS Subject to Hall availability! The Member’s Draw takes place every Friday night in the Vine Lounge. BIG CASH PRIZES The winning member must be present in the Village Hall Complex to win or have had a go on the FRIDAY NIGHT DRAW!

“BINGO” THURSDAY 16th August DOORS OPEN AT 7.30pm In the Vine Lounge Books £1 Or 6 Books £5 EYES DOWN 8.30pm “KARAOKE” SATURDAY 25th August DOORS OPEN AT 7.30pm In the Vine Lounge FREE ENTRY! “BAR OLYMPICS” SUNDAY 26th AUGUST - FROM 5pm In the Family Bar Over 35’s V Under 35’s Pool, Darts, Table Tennis! To buy Tickets or book Quiz Teams, call in the Village Bar or ring Ruth - 07548130293 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE EVENTS MENTIONED ON THIS PAGE VISIT CAPEL VILLAGE BAR FACEBOOK PAGE OR THE WEBSITE

2018 Association Membership Membership renewal is due in January each year. Application forms are available from Capel Village Bar In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT VILLAGE HALL DIARY, JULY 2018 Monday 2 Orchard Players Summer Show Week

Saturday 21 Dog Training, 9.30-11.30am, hall

Tuesday 3 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge

Sunday 22 Trampoline Club, 9.30am-noon, hall

Friday 6 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, library

Monday 21 Community Trust Meeting, 7.30-10pm, library

Monday 9 Parish Council Meeting, 7.30-10pm, library

Tuesday 24 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Ballroom (private lessons), 6.15-8.15pm, hall Ballroom (all levels), 8.15-9.15pm, hall Bereavement Counselling, 6-8pm, library

Tuesday 10 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Ballroom (private lessons), 6.15-8.15pm, hall Ballroom (all levels), 8.15-9.15pm, hall Bereavement Counselling, 6-8pm, library Wednesday 11 Carpet Bowls, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Flower Arranging, 6.30-10.30pm, library Thursday 12 Coffee Shop, 10am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Women’s Institute, 7-10.30pm, library Friday 13 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, hall Saturday 14 Dog Training, 9.30-11.30am, hall Sunday 15 Trampoline Club, 9.30am-noon, hall Monday 16 Association Meeting, 8-10.30pm, library Blood Donating, all day, hall Tuesday 17 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Ballroom (private lessons), 6.15-8.15pm, hall Ballroom (all levels), 8.15-9.15pm, hall Community Cinema, 7.30-10.30pm, library Wednesday 18 Carpet Bowls, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Thursday 19 Coffee Shop, 10am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Capel Ladies, 7.30-10.30pm, library Friday 20 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, hall

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Wednesday 25 Carpet Bowls, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Thursday 26 Coffee Shop, 10am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Friday 27 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, hall Saturday 28 Dog Training, 9.30-11.30am, hall Tuesday 31 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Ballroom (private lessons), 6.15-8.15pm, hall Ballroom (all levels), 8.15-9.15pm, hall A CELEBRATION OF LIFE If you would like to celebrate the life of someone you loved who has passed away, you can hire the Vine Lounge in the village hall complex most weekdays for just £75. All enquiries to Mandy. FUNCTION ROOMS FOR HIRE If you are organising a party, social event or business meeting, or just want a get together with family and friends, why not book the village hall, Vine Lounge, library or stage? We can cater for parties between 20 and 200 people at very competitive rates. Rooms are available during the daytime or evenings. Facilities include a fully licensed bar and a kitchen preparation area with prices starting from as little as £10 an hour for the library, £15 an hour for the hall and the Vine Lounge is £88 for an evening. All enquires to Mandy. CONTACTS Village Bar: 01473 311766 Mandy Marshall (events and hiring): 01473 312026 / bookings@capelcommunitytrust.org

OUT & ABOUT CAPEL LADIES CLUB

CAPEL ST MARY GARDEN CLUB

Visit to Otley Hall Gardens: May 23 Otley Hall is a Tudor-built moated Manor House, and family home, set in 10 acres of beautiful gardens in peaceful Suffolk countryside eight miles north of Ipswich. Although the house is open at certain times to the public, it was the gardens that Capel Ladies came to visit in mid-May. Otley’s gardener Simon took us on a tour of the extensive gardens pointing out features and telling anecdotes about their origins and history.

Programme secretary Penny Thompson reports on our May meeting.

The gardens include a large area of water which was once part of the moat, looking very tranquil with yellow flag iris, cow parsley and ox-eye daisies along the banks, and plenty of shade-giving trees. There was a grass labyrinth, a herbarium and a knot-garden, all of historical significance but each added comparatively recently by Tudor garden design experts. Also a long, green, arbour-like tunnel covered in honeysuckle and climbing roses amongst other greenery. The only sounds were birdsong and the occasional screech of peacocks (both white and blue) which live in the gardens. After our pleasant walk around we visited the tea room for cake and refreshments. What a nice way to spend a May afternoon! Golden Summer Social: June 7 As 2018 is our 50th anniversary year it was appropriate for those members who had any gold-coloured items of clothing to wear them at our summer social. Keeping the same theme, we had two quizzes organised by Shirley Ward; one included the word ‘Gold’ in either the question or the answer, and the other was a ‘Guess their Identities’ quiz from photos of present members – Golden Girls – taken 50 years ago! Both quizzes were challenging and the winners certainly deserved their prizes. Mary Butters was the expert when it came to identifying those glamorous young ladies (she managed to guess 28 out of 31 correctly) and the gold quiz champions were Colette, Averil and Trisha. As usual there was a mouth-watering buffet consisting of a delicious selection of savoury and sweet treats provided by each of us, plus a complimentary glass of something to wash it down with. There was lots of chatter and laughter throughout the evening, and a chance to win even more prizes from our raffle. A jolly time was had by all. For more jolly times why not join us at our regular meetings in Capel Library at 7.45pm on the first Thursday of the month? If you want to know more, please give Di Barker a ring on 01473 311870, or visit: www.capelladies.com

CRAFTERS UNLIMITED A craft club which meets on the first Monday of the month (except for bank holidays when it’s the following Monday). Saturday workshops (10am-4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) are held in Wherstead Village Hall Meeting Rooms. Monday, July 2: Henry will bring his potter’s wheel for a demonstration with an opportunity to try, also making a pinch pot or tile Coming Up: Ribbon Dragon Fly in August and Block Printing in September

Unusual Fruit Trees and Shrubs was the title of Matt Tanton-Brown’s talk to Capel St Mary Garden Club on May 24. He explained ‘unusual’ as slightly different or odd trees and shrubs which may also require specific soils. Matt, from the Place for Plants, East Bergholt, demonstrated his talk to 14 members and four guests with 23 different plants which members could buy at the end of his talk. The following is a taster of the information he shared. Of the 23 varieties we learned that certain fruit trees such as the elder have edible fruits, elderberries, which can be made into jam or wine. The flowers make wonderful fritters if cooked in batter and served straightaway sprinkled with sugar. It is also a plant that is good for hay-fever sufferers. The Sambucus Niger Elder has a natural preservative which is also an astringent. An edible shrub is lemon verbena which needs a well-sheltered spot. The leaves make a refreshing tea which is good for one’s wellbeing. It is also a diuretic – so beware. The tiny white starry flowers look lovely in potpourri. An unusual shrub is Indegofera Pendular, which is drought resistant and hardy. It needs very little pruning. At night, the flowers close down. It attracts bees and Matt, who has had a plant in a pot for 15 years, said that when in bloom it is a stunning shrub. The olerea-daisy bush is also drought tolerant and its tiny leaves are heat retentive and wind resistant. It has the look of heather, is slow growing and ideal for a pot or container. A slow-growing evergreen is the Antarctic beech, which grows in tiers. It is pretty and elegant but requires dappled shade. Grow it in a pot. Pines are much maligned plants and there are some lovely dwarf ones. Pinus paviflora bonnie bergman loves full sun and well-drained soil. It has yellowybrown cones, shiny bright green leaves and grows to 1.4 metres. Holly blue angel has lovely red berries and is a good alternative to box. It is drought tolerant but it does have a huge tap root. Net it as blackbirds go after the berries. Matt was unable to bring a medlar as he had sold the last one that morning but he described it as a wonderful tree with odd-shaped fruit that once ripened can be turned into jelly as can the fruit of the crab apple tree John Downie. Matt said that it had been a fantastic years for trees because of the cold winter. The hawthorn bush, for example, thought it had better produce plenty of foliage and many looked as if they were covered in snow. He concluded by saying that if using mushroom compost it must be well composted. Use soft soap solution, not chemicals, on edible trees. After a short break we resume our meetings on September 27 when Pip Wright will give a talk on The Watery Gardens of Suffolk. We are always happy to welcome new members (£8 a year or £2.50 to attend a meeting as a visitor). Any queries, please let me know. Chairman Edwina Cox: 01473 311121

MANNINGTREE POETRY GROUP The next meeting of Poetry Plus will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, July 10 at the Red Lion, South Street, Manningtree.

Samples of each project are displayed the month before and other projects are available.

All those interested in poetry are invited to attend either to listen to the spoken word or to read poetry themselves. Some people will be reading their own poetry and some will choose to read the work of other poets. There is no admission charge.

Contacts: Ann 01473 780298 / Jill 01473 713534

To keep up-to-date please visit: www.poetryplus.org.uk

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09/05/2018 16:33

Tuesday 10th July 9.30 am to 12 noon Vine Lounge Capel Community Centre

All welcome Organised by the Constable Country Patient Participation Group and the Beacon coffee shop

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OUT & ABOUT 1st CAPEL ST MARY SCOUT GROUP The month of June saw our group camp at Vauxhall Farm to celebrate our 50th birthday, and we were pleased to welcome many friends and past members to share their memories of the first 50 years of Capel Scout Group. Now as we move forward to the next 50 years, we are in need of volunteers to fill some key positions. The role of treasurer is currently vacant and we urgently need someone to fill this position; there would be help given to anyone who feels that they could take this on for us. We are also looking for new Leaders to help keep our Beaver colony running from September; again full training and help would be given. Beavers meet on a Monday evenings; they are boys and girls in the age range six-eight years and they enjoy having lots of fun! If you are interested in either of these roles or would like to find out more information, please contact Gill Williams: scouts.enquiry@gmail.com 07837 154947 Please help 1st Capel St Mary Scout Group continue to provide the fun, challenge and adventure of Scouting to future generations of village children. Thank you.

VILLAGE LINK CLUB Our next meeting will be on July 11 when our talk will be Nature through the Seasons by Tony Brown. Future talks will include Special Music Box Eggs on Display, Collecting Hobbies – Or Obsession, Fused Glass Demonstrations & Sales, Remnants of War, Life as a Tudor Housekeeper, Acorn Village – History to Present Day, The Mystery of Going Underground, My Life as a Live Drawing Cartoonist Comedy Impressionist and Life as a Thames Waterman/Lighterman. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall at 10am. Following the speaker we have refreshments (when there is time for a chat with other members) and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us. Roger Felgate: 01473 311684

CLASH AVOIDER This diary has been introduced to help avoid date clashes in the village. Every effort will made to keep this list up-to-date, but please be aware that sometimes dates may be cancelled, postponed or re-arranged at short notice. This diary is not intended to be an all-inclusive what’s on and will only highlight significant dates. If you want to add an event please submit in the following format (date, event, venue and contact) to sharon@intouchnews.co.uk with Capel Event Diary in the subject line. Wednesday-Saturday, July 4-7: The Orchard Players present Oliver, Capel Village Hall Saturday, July 14: Messy Church, 10am-12.30pm. Contact Maggie Boswell: 01473 310766 / maggie3@btinternet.com Saturday, July 28: Allotments Summer BBQ from 5.30pm Saturday, September 1 & Sunday, September 2: Capel St Mary Allotments Association Annual Flower & Produce Show, Capel Village Hall. Contact: show.secretary@capelallotments.co.uk Saturday, September 15: Messy Church, 3.30-5.30pm. Contact Maggie Boswell: 01473 310766 / maggie3@btinternet.com Saturday, September 29: Scout Jumble Sale. Contact Sandra: 01473 312114 Sunday, October 14: Allotments Autumn Work-in, 9am-noon Saturday, November 3: Firework Night at the Playing Field

STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB In a talk entitled The Man & His Poetry, Dr John Knight spoke about John Betjeman on June 6, and on June 20 Chris Parfitt presented A Portrait of a Suffolk River. Both talks were much enjoyed by members. John Field will introduce us to The Treasures of Ipswich on July 4 and we hold our summer buffet at the popular Haywain on July 18 when our spouses and Probus widows join us for what is sure to be an enjoyable event and a tasty meal. We don’t meet in August and return on Wednesday, September 5 when Tracey Mackneww of the Giggly Pie Co will present her life story. Then on Wednesday, September 19, David Ablewhite will return to tell us about The Other Prince William. Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202

STOUR VALLEY U3A Tony Diamond’s subject on Wednesday, June 13 was Chocolate. He presented the history of the colourful discovery of chocolate and the spread of the hot drink in Europe, its astonishing aspects and an overview of its financial importance to the UK. Around the World in a Container Ship is the interesting talk by Peter Hesketh, a former police officer and merchant navy purser, on Wednesday, July 11. As a lone passenger for around four months it positively was not a cruise. He explains the attraction of and comments on, life at sea when the ship spends so little time in port. As suggested by members we are introducing our first August meeting on Wednesday, August 8, when Tania Harrington MA, artist, art lover and researcher will talk on Art Attack – A History of Vandalism In Art. She will look at works of art that have been vandalised over the years and the reasons behind these criminal attacks, divided into political motivations, mad attacks and artist attacks. It will be a serious, at times disturbing, but also humorous illustrated talk. On September 12 historian Taff Gillingham will present a very British view on Remembrance and The Great War. Taff advises filmmakers, emphasising the need for historical accuracy on the 1914/18 War. Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. We have a wide range of groups including language study, country walking and computer studies and groups that visit gardens, churches and historic buildings. In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust, have over 260 members and 21 groups. For further information please visit www.stourvalleyu3a.org. uk where membership secretary Gillian Gibbs may be contacted. We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except August and December.

Saturday, December 8: St Mary’s Christmas Coffee Morning, 10am-noon

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OUT & ABOUT CAPEL IRISH SET DANCE GROUP Capel Irish Set Dance Group meets at St Mary’s Church Hall on the third Sunday of every month (except August and the second Sunday in December) from 2-5.30pm. We are a friendly group and it’s not necessary to have a partner. In fact you’re welcome to come along just to enjoy the music.

CAPEL ALLOTMENTS ASSOCIATION

2018 Dates: July 15, September 16, October 21, November 18 and December 9

2018 Barbecue

Hille and Trevor Peartree: 01473 310146

KENNY’S SESAW NEWS Just a few lines to let you know the annual SESAW Open Day will be held on Sunday, July 29 at the sanctuary in Leavenheath. There will be lots to see, do and eat during the afternoon for you and your family with stalls, games, a raffle, wildlife corner, spinning demonstration and entertainment from Hadleigh Ukulele Group. Also snacks, BBQ, lots of homemade cakes and an ice cream van for the humans and a fun dog show and scurry for all their pooches. Gate opens at noon and don’t forget to meet the animals awaiting new homes and the residents including me, Kenny (the Boss) Chihuahua! Suffolk and Essex Small Animal Welfare, Stoke Road, Leavenheath CO6 4PP / 01787 210888 / www.sesaw.co.uk

EBONY’S BLOG: LIFE AT THE SHELLEY CENTRE Who hasn’t been inundated with data protection notices recently? Needless to say, my lovely trustees have been addressing the new law and seeing that we are compliant. There is no limit to their skill in and dedication to keeping us all safe and happy here. The AGM takes place on July 3, when all the hard work comes to a head. All who attend the AGM enjoy a great BBQ afterwards to celebrate the passing of another year here. I know the instructors (now called coaches) have to keep progress reports on their own riders and hopefully show improvement. Some of the improvements we generate can’t actually be quantified so I thought I’d steal some information off the RDA national website. At national level they like unpicking data and coming up with verifiable statistics. Enjoy! Tracking The Results of RDA Therapy • 80% of riders experience physical improvement in 12 weeks or less • 90% of riders demonstrated improved confidence • 70% of riders demonstrated an improvement in their riding skills. The key therapeutic factor in RDA is the movement of the horse. Riding provides physiotherapy on the move; the warmth and three dimensional movement of the horse is transmitted through the body of the rider helping you to relax, and strengthen your core muscles, enabling you to become stronger and more supple. Many riders also find that riding helps improve their posture, balance and coordination. RDA research shows that our riders experience significant positive change in their capacities for communication, confidence, enjoyment, socialising, physical improvement and learning horsemanship. So that’s it, folks! Not to mention what our volunteers get out of it, and I guess the herd has a pretty good time as well thanks to the skills and knowledge of our stable manager, Lyn Bensusan. Next month the therapeutic work comes to a grinding halt while the schools are out, but the live herd will not be stranded. Their holiday time is carefully managed so they remain fit and healthy without getting too fat. Babs and I won’t be giving anyone any trouble while we rest up; the grass is not our concern! www.shelleyrda.com / 01473 824172

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Summer barbecue for members and their guests. Join us from 5.30pm at the Pound Lane Allotments Site on Saturday, July 28. Join in the games, quiz and treasure hunt and ‘best dressed table’ competition or just sit back and relax. A three course meal (plus cheese board) will be served from around 7.30pm. Tickets at £9 each are available from The Hut or from Graham: 01473 311059 / 07709 263335 / info@capelallotments.co.uk Use the bar or bring your own drinks. Free teas and coffee available all night from our pop-up kitchen. Limited seating will be available so please bring your own. Sample menu on our website which is subject to change. Tickets are going fast so book now if you would like to join us.

GUIDE TO GARDENING IN JULY Hoe weekly to stop weed seeds germinating. Cut down and spray uncultivated areas. Scatter slug pellets. Water plants. Top-dress containers and feed weekly. If going on holiday arrange for a friend to water plants. Tell them to pick all sweet peas, courgettes, French and runner beans as these will stop producing if left on the plant. Stock up with charcoal for those impromptu barbecues. VEG PLOT Plant brassicas and leeks and second early potatoes for Christmas, earth up when frosts kill tops. Sow salad crops, parsley, French beans and carrots. Pinch out shoots on tomatoes, tie in plants. Feed weekly. Spray potatoes and outdoor tomatoes to protect against potato blight. Lift shallots when foliage dies back. Thin seeds sown in June. FRUIT Check for insects and spray. Protect fruit and plants from bird or butterfly attacks with netting. Pick soft fruit and tie in new shoots. Tidy strawberries by removing and burning old leaves, runners and straw. Apply feed at 2oz. sq. yd. Dig up three year old stock and destroy. Create a new bed on well-mannered ground now for a good crop next year. GREENHOUSE Ventilate, provide shade and maintain humidity. Water daily. Take softwood and semi-ripe cuttings. Insert into sandy compost. Control insects. Tie tomato, cucumber, pepper and aubergine plants to their supports. Feed weekly when fruits begin to swell with tomato feed. Hand pollinate female flower on melons. Keep main stem dry. Sow mangetout and sugar snap peas in guttering, water and slide into a shallow trench outside when 3cm tall. FLOWERS Remove old heads to keep them flowering. Tie in sweet peas. Feed roses after first flush of flowers. Stake tall herbaceous plants. Mulch borders. LAWNS Mow weekly. Apply a granular feed or lawn weed killer. ALLOTMENT NEWS The Photography Trophy: The subjects are: a bridge, garden wildlife, woodland scene, a picture to portray a song (name of song to be stated) and a picture of your choice. The Bonfire: Now closed until August 6. Please keep materials on your plot. For a more extensive version of this report and exclusive bar prices visit: www.capelallotments.co.uk

ĂƉĞů WƌĂǇĞƌ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ >ŝŶĞ Whatever you’re facing – don’t face life’s ĐŚĂůůĞŶŐĞƐ ĂůŽŶĞ͊ tĞ ďĞůŝĞǀĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƉŽǁĞƌ ŽĨ ƉƌĂǇĞƌ ĂŶĚ ŝŶ Ă ůŽǀŝŶŐ 'ŽĚ ǁŚŽ ĂŶƐǁĞƌƐ ƵƐ͕ ǁŚĞŶ ǁĞ ĐĂůů ŽŶ ,ŝŵ͘ /Ĩ ǇŽƵ ŶĞĞĚ ƉƌĂǇĞƌ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ ŽƵƌ ĐŽŶĨŝĚĞŶƚŝĂů ĂŶƐǁĞƌ ƉŚŽŶĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚŽ ůĞĂǀĞ ǇŽƵƌ ƉƌĂǇĞƌ ƌĞƋƵĞƐƚ͘ ĂƉĞů WƌĂǇĞƌ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ >ŝŶĞ – Ϭϳϱϲϴ ϯϴϰϰϰϮ ĂƉĞů WƌĂǇĞƌ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ >ŝŶĞ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ƵƐĞĚ ďǇ ĂŶǇŽŶĞ ƌĞŐĂƌĚůĞƐƐ ŽĨ ƌĞůŝŐŝŽƵƐ ǀŝĞǁƐ Žƌ ďĞůŝĞĨƐ͘ ^Ž ǁŚĞƌĞǀĞƌ ǇŽƵ ĂƌĞ ŽŶ ǇŽƵƌ ƐƉŝƌŝƚƵĂů ũŽƵƌŶĞǇ͕ ŚƌŝƐƚŝĂŶ Žƌ ŶŽƚ͕ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĨĞĞů ĨƌĞĞ ƚŽ ƵƐĞ ƚŚŝƐ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ͘ ZĞĐĞŝǀĞ ƉƌĂǇĞƌ ƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ͗  tŚĞŶ ĨĂĐŝŶŐ Ă ƉĞƌƐŽŶĂů ĐƌŝƐŝƐ  &Žƌ ƉŚǇƐŝĐĂů Žƌ ĞŵŽƚŝŽŶĂů ŚĞĂůŝŶŐ  tŚĞŶ ŵĂŬŝŶŐ ďŝŐ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶƐ  tŝƚŚ ĨŝŶĂŶĐŝĂů ǁŽƌƌŝĞƐ  &Žƌ ƌĞůĂƚŝŽŶƐŚŝƉ ŝƐƐƵĞƐ  tŚĞŶ ƚŚĞ ƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞƐ ŽĨ ůŝĨĞ ĂƌĞ ũƵƐƚ ƚŽŽ ŵƵĐŚ ĂƉĞů WƌĂǇĞƌ ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ >ŝŶĞ ŝƐ ĂŶ ŝŶŝƚŝĂƚŝǀĞ ŽĨ͗

ĂƉĞů ŽŵŵƵŶŝƚǇ ŚƵƌĐŚ

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ZĞŐŝƐƚĞƌĞĚ ŚĂƌŝƚǇ ĂŶĚ /K – ŚĂƌŝƚǇ EƵŵďĞƌ͗ ϭϭϲϮϭϵϰ

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SCHOOLS ROBIN’S NEWS Baby Bears We are so happy to welcome our new Baby Bears and have been spending our time getting to know each other over messy sensory play and planting in our garden. Our Bears are a very happy, friendly bunch and they waste no time at all bonding with one another. We have enjoyed a water week and sploshed and splashed in the water trays, and made our own sensory bottles with materials gathered indoors and outside. Some of our Bears are learning to walk with the help of our walkers and love this new method of exploration. Toddling Tigers The Tigers have been exploring lots of natural materials in their role play. Using bricks, shells, logs and wood pieces, they have made wonderful creations, structures and shapes. By introducing weight, size and shape we have been helping to develop their mathematical skills. The Tigers have been very proud of their achievements and shared their successes with one another. Gruffalos What a busy few weeks we have had! We have been preparing for our ‘older Gruffalos’ to fly the nest on their new adventure off to school. Transitions are very significant for children and we take them very seriously. Children cope with different transitions at various times in their lives and by the time they come to us in the Gruffalo Pre-school room they may have already experienced several different transitions, such as a new baby in the family, moving house and starting with us at Robin’s just to name a few. The children are supported by us through all of these different times. We understand the importance of the change for the children and how it can impact on their emotional development. Our ‘leavers’ are only a few weeks away from starting school and of an age where they understand the excitement and nervousness of starting school. To help them we have created our own school classroom. The children have the opportunity to take ownership of their classroom while in familiar surroundings with supportive familiar adults. They can explore what a classroom is like, try on uniforms and role play school. We continue our group times in the classroom, sharing stories about school and doing our phonic sessions too. We have photo books of several local schools and we make contact with the teachers in the schools that the children will be attending. The school transition is very successful and we have already received wonderful feedback from parents about how it is helping their child in this big step. If you would like further information about our transitions or Robin’s Childcare please contact us on 01473 310767 and we will be more than happy to help. www.robinschildcare.co.uk

CAPEL PLAYSCHEME 2018 Book your places for Capel St Mary’s fun Playscheme week – Monday, July 30 to Friday, August 3, 9.30am-12.30pm – for children in Years 1 to 6 as of January 2018 Playscheme has lots of great activities, sports, arts and crafts and many visitors, including the police, fire brigade, CDC Dance and ASM sports activities for all the children to enjoy. We also have a fantastic end of week party entertainer who the children will love. Great value: the daily cost is £7 per child and the weekly cost is £25 per child (your child must attend a minimum of three days). Don’t miss out: get your booking form from Capel St Mary Primary School or Robin’s Daycare Nursery today.

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SPORT BRANTHAM FOOTBALL CLUB

CAPEL ST MARY BOWLS CLUB

Brantham Athletic is a local football club which runs a senior section, junior section, Sunday and Ladies teams. Our home ground is The Leisure Centre, New Village, Brantham.

Our league and social programme continues and full reports of our events, fixtures and results can be found at: www.capelstmarybowls@onesuffolk.net

The 2017/2018 season has now finished and the mighty blue imps ended the season by winning the league cup with a memorable performance in beating Thetford 4-2 in the final. Many congratulations to the team and management for bringing a trophy to Brantham, and a special mention to all the supporters who made the trip to watch them which included a full coach, a full minibus and many private cars which made this a truly memorable occasion. As one season concludes another is already in the planning with pre-season matches already lined up. There have been changes to the Reserve and A Team management so we wish them good luck for the coming season. Forthcoming home matches are will be publicised on the website and on Twitter.

The Grunbaum Trophy event was held on a somewhat damp Saturday, May 12 and was a close-run affair. Eventual winners were a trio comprising John Wright, Phil Hall and Russell Aubin, who won a sudden death deciding end. The winners were presented with bottles of wine by Beryl Grunbaum, who we were delighted to see supporting us yet again despite the weather!

There is also a thriving junior section with ages ranging from Under 7s to Under 16s. Our Sunday teams play their matches on Sunday mornings at the leisure centre while our ladies team play on a Sunday afternoon at the centre,

As always, our ladies put on a grand tea spread afterwards to round off the afternoon. Thanks to Lew and Chris Dyer for organising the day. Our friendly match at home to Boxford on May 19 sadly had to be cancelled due to lack of support. There was just too much else going on that weekend!

The 1st Team play their home matches at the leisure centre, kicking-off at 3pm on Saturday and at 7.45pm on weekday evenings. The Under 18s play on weekday evenings, 7.45pm kick-off, and the A Team play at Raydon. Because of the league the 1st team and Under 18s play in, there is an entrance fee to watch these games. For the 1st team its £7 adults and £3 concessions and children under 16. For Under 18 games it’s £3 and £1. There is a friendly atmosphere at all the matches and there is always a friendly welcome to anyone attending a home match, so if you would like to see a good standard of football come and support your local team. The Centre Bar is open during all senior games and the kitchen during 1st Team and youth football on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Any young or old players wishing to join a friendly, exciting, fun football club should contact the club via the details below or email our football club secretary

Our league matches are now well underway and overall results are very mixed. However, well done to Pat Scott’s Kestrels squad in the Samford League Division E for winning all three games played at the time of writing. It is still early days so there is everything to play for. Important dates July 7: Station Garage Trophy July 15: Ferrari Cup July 28: Annual Barbecue August 11: Pairs Tournament Jack High

HOME FIXTURES FOR JULY 1st Team – Home matches at Brantham Leisure Centre 14: H to Aveley FC 3pm

EAST BERGHOLT UNITED

17: H to Brightlingsea 7.45pm

FOOTBALL CLUB

21: Reserved date

The AGM took place in the Pavilion. The officers for 2018-9 are:

24: H to Holland 7.45pm 26: H to Maldon & Tiptree 7.45pm branthamath@hotmail.com www.branthamathleticfc.co.uk Twitter: @branthamath

Chairman: Martin Peck Secretary: Steve Butcher Treasurer: Ben Bibby First Team Manager: David Goodchild Reserve Team Manager: Richard Moss A Team Manager: TBA Juniors & Ladies: David George, Darren Hogg, Dale Vince Pre-season training will commence in the first week of July We are pleased to announce East Bergholt Utd Junior and Ladies are to join with East Bergholt Utd Men to become one club, East Bergholt United Football Club. This will help the club look forward to a bright and exciting future. We are looking for new teams, boys or girls, of any age group to come and join us as we look for the club to grow. If you are interested please contact David George: davidgeorge5000@hotmail.com We are always looking for people who can help the club as committee members, whether on the playing side or just in the background. EBUFC is a community club with very strong village traditions. The majority of the players either live in, or have links to, the village. Please come along and give us a look sometime. Steve Butcher: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

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CHURCH NEWS

HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB

Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB Parish Priest: Fr Christopher Smith 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ / 01473 684963 www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR JULY Sunday 1 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 3 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 8 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 10 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass Sunday 15 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 17 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 22 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 24 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 29 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 31 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass The weekly newsletter, with weekly mass times, is always displayed in the cabinet alongside the front door. Catholic Commentary Pope Francis recently commented, in a homily in Rome, that Love is not empty words or what is depicted in romantic films – it is action and

service toward others. “Love is not what they say in movies... Love is not the romantic playing of violins. No, love is work. Love shows itself in works, not in words. Sometimes people might think that love is what they see between couples in films, but love is actually found in always working for others.” Referencing the day’s Gospel, he invited Catholics to strive to remain in God’s love, looking into their heart and asking themselves: “Do I remain in the love of the Lord or do I go out to look for other amusements and conduct of life? If you speak badly of others, then you do not have love,” he said inviting Catholics to pray to the Lord for help to remain in his love and to serve others well. He concluded that Catholics should follow the example of Jesus, who gave his life as a servant, “Because the Lord always loves first, “love is always first.” Events and Diary Dates The 100 Club Draw took place at Holy Family on Sunday, June 17 when three lucky winners shared a record £154 prize pot. The next draw takes place on Sunday, July 22. The club, set up to support the life and mission of our parish, has grown from strength to strength since its launch. New members are always very welcome and the newsletter, that includes an application form, can be found at the rear of the church or at: www.stmarksparish.org.uk Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv and Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am-noon. We are raising funds for a new carpet for the Parish Room and all are very welcome to join us. The next coffee morning is on Thursday, July 26. Supporting our local hospice All parishioners are asked to collect used postage stamps, all year, not just at Christmas, and place them in the box at the rear of the church to help support the outstanding work of our local hospice. Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital Father Adrian Gates is the Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital. Please contact him (01473 726701) if you or a Catholic is in or due to go into hospital and requires his services. All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services, it is not necessary to be a Catholic and enquiries about the Catholic faith are always welcome. Please contact the presbytery, as above, or a local person whom you know is a Catholic.

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CHURCH NEWS HALLMARKS OF REAL COMMUNITY As summer is upon us and we start to see village events drawing people out of their homes to be together, it caused me to reflect on the sense of community in Capel St Mary. When we moved to the village some eight years ago, we were struck by the friendliness and community spirit in Capel. We had already started to attend Capel Community Church, but on moving day we arrived to find members of the church clearing our driveway of snow, and once the truck had left someone popped round with a hot meal for our first night! Our neighbours were friendly and organised a street barbecue party in our first summer there. I came across an interesting article recently about the hallmarks of real community. It cites that openness and hospitality, building trust and ‘going the extra mile’, as well as taking ownership by ‘giving something back’, are keys to seeing communities thrive. When we track Jesus’ story in the Biblical accounts, we see that he was a refugee and not welcome in his home town. Even so, He called his followers to love God and love their neighbours as they would love themselves! Jesus goes on to suggest how to show this kind of love to others. To give ourselves and give away our resources and not expect things back in return. To go further than expected, do above and beyond; showing loving in sacrificial ways. When we do these things, we engender trust, hope, love and a sense of belonging. But we must do our part to make it happen. This caused me to do a bit of soul-searching about what I want for Capel into the future. When we are a part of a small rural community, it is easy to become isolated, rather than being involved and actively participating. So I wonder, as the village is very likely to grow in the coming years, do I want to be one who ‘pulls up the drawbridge’ and retreats from being welcoming, neighbourly and hospitable? Or do I want to show I can be open-hearted and dare to be part of creating a community which could go from strength to strength? I conclude that for me, (and I hope for you too) it needs to be the latter. That is a challenge, but one, I believe, we are all well-placed to succeed in, if we have the motivation. Amanda Firmin, Capel Community Church Leadership Team

Saturday, July 14, 10.30am-12.30pm The next Messy Church on Saturday, July 14 is our annual BBQ from 10.30am12.30pm at Capel Methodist Church. It will be a fun time of games and challenges for all the family with a selection of crafts, a short celebration time and plenty of food. Bring your friends even if they have never been to Messy Church before. All are welcome. Just bring the sunshine with you! There is no charge, but a donation tub is available if you would like to contribute. Messy Church is a way of being church particularly suited to families of all ages. There are well over 2,000 Messy Churches running in the UK and many worldwide. To find out more visit: www.messychurch.org.uk Who can come? All age families; all children must come with an adult. No need to book, just turn up. Why not come and join the fun with family and friends? We will then be taking a break for the summer, but Messy Church will be back on September 15. For more information please contact: Maggie Boswell: 01473 310766 / Maggie3@btinternet.com

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH There are three so-called ‘major’ saints observed by the worldwide church in the seventh month of the year, and at least one popular ‘minor’ one. They and all the others are well worth our reflections. Starting with the one still recalled with affection across the country is Saint Swithun, this year falling on Sunday, July 15. He was Bishop of Winchester from his consecration in October 853 until his death on July 2 sometime between 862 and 865. However, he is scarcely mentioned in any document of his own time. Swithun’s name is best known today for a British weather lore proverb, which says that if it rains on St Swithun’s Day, it will rain for 40 days: “St Swithun’s Day if thou dost rain for forty days it will remain, St Swithun’s Day if thou be fair for forty days ‘twill rain nae mare”. A Buckinghamshire variation has “If on St Swithun’s Day it really pours you’re better off to stay indoors”. According to the Guinness Book of Records, the worse prediction has been in 1924 when 13-and-a-half hours of sunshine in London were followed by 30 of the next 40 days being wet, and in 1913 when a 15hour rainstorm was followed by 30 dry days of 40. On Tuesday, July 3, the Apostle St Thomas is commemorated, although many churches continue to celebrate his feast day on December 21, this year on a Friday. He is informally called Doubting Thomas because he doubted Jesus’ resurrection when first told (accounted only in the Gospel of John), followed later by his confession of faith, “My Lord and my God”, on seeing Jesus’ wounded body. Traditionally, he is said to have travelled outside the Roman Empire to preach the Gospel, travelling as far as Tamilakam which are the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in present-day India. Sunday, July 22, is the date for Mary Magdalene, which this year may be ‘transferred’ to the Monday as there is a current practice that Sunday (the Lord’s Day) observances should always take precedence over other commemorations. Sometimes she is called simply the Magdalene. According to the four canonical gospels, Mary was a Jewish woman who travelled with Jesus as one of his followers and was a witness to his crucifixion, burial and resurrection. She is mentioned by name at least 12 times in the canonical gospels, more than most of the apostles. Mary’s epithet Magdalene most likely means that she came from the town of Magdala, a fishing town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. In the last 50 years there has been unfounded speculation as to whether she and Jesus actually married. Wednesday, July 25, is the feast day for St James. He was one of the 12 apostles of Jesus, and traditionally considered the first apostle to be martyred. He was a son of Zebedee and Salome, and brother of John the Apostle. He is also called James the Greater or James the Great to distinguish him from James, son of Alphaeus and James the brother of Jesus (James the Just). St James is the patron saint of Spain and, according to legend his remains are held in Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. The traditional pilgrimage to the grave of the saint, known as the ‘Way of St James’, has been the most popular pilgrimage for Western European Catholics from the Early Middle Ages onwards, although its modern revival and popularity stems from Walter Starkie’s 1957 book, The Road to Santiago; The Pilgrims of St James. Some 237,886 pilgrims registered in 2014 as having completed the final 100 km walk (200 km by bicycle) to Santiago to qualify for a Compostela. When July 25 falls on a Sunday, it is a ‘Jubilee’ year (an Año Santo Jubilar Compostelano or Año Santo Jacobeo) and a special east door is opened for entrance into Santiago Cathedral. My prayer for all readers is that you may enjoy a re-creational summer. As always, this comes with best wishes for God’s blessings to you and yours throughout this lovely time of the year.

Sue France: 01473 310034 / sue.france4@btinternet.com

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CHURCH NEWS CAPEL ST MARY METHODIST CHURCH

CHRISTIANS in Capel

A WEDDING

The members of all the churches foster a closer fellowship and understanding between the respective Christian communities in Capel St Mary. They endeavour to co-ordinate common interests and where practical share common resources to meet specific needs.

At Capel Methodist Church we have just celebrated a wonderful wedding. It all began 16 months ago when a young doctor asked his girlfriend’s father for his daughter’s hand in marriage at 6.15am on a Sunday. Happy consent was given (not that it was required). Before he had had a chance to actually propose to her, his grandfather died and it was several weeks later before the right opportunity came for him to propose. He chose Mount Carmel in Israel. Eight months later they arranged a day together for both sets of parents to spend time together in Cardiff with them. The wedding was planned for Capel. Both of them are doctors working in different hospitals in South Wales, often on different shifts, so time to the plan the wedding together was difficult. The bride’s parents made the local arrangements. There were over 150 invited guests, some camped at Vauxhall Farm and a curry evening was provided for those who arrived in the area on Friday evening. Refreshments in Capel Village Hall were provided for those arriving for the wedding on Saturday morning. The service was held in Capel Methodist Church, with an overflow video link to the coffee lounge. The groom’s family minister from Aberystwyth preached, the bride’s father conducted the service, Capel Methodist Worship Band lead the singing of six songs. One of the bridesmaids sang a classical piece of Mozart. The couple had put the service together reflecting their deep commitment to God, each other and their families and friends. The reception was held in Vauxhall Farm Events Barn. Welcome drinks and ice cream were served in a beautiful garden, then into an amazingly decorated barn. The caterers provided the best quality food. The best man’s speech was humorous and very affirming. A barn dance followed with most dancing. It was a wonderful evening The bride and groom returned on Sunday morning to join their guests for a brunch at the venue. The whole weekend was amazing, no hitches, just joy and a great time. If you have not already guessed the bride was my daughter Deborah, and her husband Tom is now my son-in-law. I have written this to celebrate the institution of marriage. It is what God has ordained, it has the potential for beautiful relationships and bringing much joy. In an age when relationships are entered into without real commitment, it was beautiful to see a couple so deeply committed and bringing joy to all their guests. If anyone would like help in planning a wedding or re-affirmation of marriage vows please get in touch.

For times and details of Sunday services, Alpha and Home/Life Groups, please contact one of the following: The Parish Church, St Mary the Virgin The Rev Canon Jim Pendorf: The Rectory, Days Road, Capel 01473 312225 / 07973 265037 The Catholic Church Father Christopher Smith, St Mark’s Church, 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich 01473 684963 Capel Community Church David Owen, 18 Bushey Close, Capel www.capelcommunitychurch.org.uk 01473 310454 / 07752 921135 The Methodist Church The Rev Andrew Sankey 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary www.capelmethodistchurch.org.uk 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 INTER-CHURCH MIDWEEK ACTIVITIES The following church groups welcome new members. TREKKERS For ages 7-11, meets on Thursdays at the Methodist Church from 3.45 to 5.15pm during school term time. Contact Margaret Sankey: 01473 311178 YOUTH GROUPS AT THE METHODIST CHURCH Life Group: Wednesdays, 7.30-9pm / Year 10+ Junior Life Group: Thursdays 7-8.30pm / Years 7-9 Junction Club: Fridays, 7-9pm for School Years 7-9 Contact Caitlan Mower: 07465 414870 PARENTS AND TODDLERS • Tuesday – 9-11.30am, Capel Community Church, Days Road Contact Margaret Beard: 01473 311219 • Wednesday – 9-11.30am, Busy Bees, Methodist Church Contact Maggie Boswell: 01473 310766 • Wednesday – 10am-noon, Twins & Multiples Group at CCC Contact Chris Matthews: 01473 311368 SENIOR CITIZENS’ LUNCH CLUBS • First Monday, Capel Community Church, 01473 311368 • Third Tuesday, St Mary’s Church Hall, 01473 310583 • Last Thursday, Methodist Church, 01473 310635

The Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Capel Methodist Church 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216

NETWORK FELLOWSHIP Third Tuesday, from 2.30pm, Methodist Church. Anyone welcome to attend. Contact Judy Steward: 01473 310799

JULY SERVICES Home Groups and prayer meetings on various days and times – contact the Minister

BEACON COFFEE SHOP EVERY TUESDAY 9am-12.30pm, in the Vine Lounge, Capel Village Hall AEROBICS AT CAPEL METHODIST CHURCH Fridays from 10.50-11.50am, Young at Heart (slower paced). Contact Jill Sharp, 01473 311546

Sunday 1

10.30am 6.30pm

All Age Worship Prayer

Sunday 8

10.30am 6.30pm

Worship with Mr Ted Jack Worship with Rev Sankey

Saturday 14

10.30am

Messy Church BBQ

PILATES • Tuesdays – 7pm and 8.10pm, Capel Methodist Church • Fridays – 8.30am and 9.40am, Capel Methodist Church

Sunday 15

10.30am

Worship with Rev Julian Pursehouse

Contact Jill Sharp, 01473 311546

Sunday 22

10.30am 7.30pm

Worship and Communion with Rev Sankey United Prayer Time at St Mary’s

Sunday 29

10.30am

Worship with Dr Liz Cope

R.O.M.E.O. Lunch for Men at Wenham View, Dove Close off Days Road: Third Thursday, 12.30pm. Book with Peter Ellis: 01473 310096. Also Coffee Drop-in from 10am on the first Wednesday at Dove Close.

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