Craciun Fericit
Feliz Navidad
In Touch
™ ™©©
with Belstead, Bentley, Copdock & Washbrook and Tattingstone
ubarak
uon Natale
Milad Mubara
Skiphire www.collins-skiphire.co.uk
For a fast, efficient & price friendly local service
Nollaig Shona D
Sung Tan Chuk Ha
Volume 10 • Issue No. 1 • DECEMBER 2019
01473 327596
orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk
Merry Christmas
Fröhliche Weihnachten
Glaedelig J Gleðileg jól
Chuc Mung Giang Sinh
ôômsaid Jôule
Boas Festas
Nollaig Shona Joyeux Noël Wesolych Swiat Sretan Bozic Merii Kurisumasu
Zalig Kerstfeest
esimkha
Copdock Mill, Old London Road, Copdock, Nr. Ipswich, Suffolk, IP8 3LA
Open 8-4 Christmas Eve Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day Open 8-4 New Years Eve Closed New Years Day
Gëzuar Krishlindjet www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
Zali
When you spend £25 or more instore. For readers of InTouch Magazine. Offer ends 29/2/20.
1
#26parks
Your New Lifestyle Awaits
Enjoy safe and stress-free senior living at Wixfield Park. A stunning new and exclusive development of eight homes within the picturesque Suffolk village of Great Bricett.
Call 01933 427 813 to book your park visit today.
2
www.tingdene-parks.net
In Touch online:
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
NEWS COPDOCK & WASHBROOK AUTUMN VILLAGE TIDY-UP
I’m going to return to a previous subject this month because it’s constantly on my mind. Every time I drive, every time I walk down a busy street or stand in a queue, and very occasionally at home, I’m struck by how impatient we have become. Almost everyone (and I include myself here) is so terribly busy, we seem to live our lives at a rate of knots. It’s utterly exhausting, but also brings less attractive qualities – such as insensitivity and selfishness – to the fore. This morning I witnessed three incidents of poor behaviour – one by a driver outside my son’s school, the second at the Co-op where a terribly important person huffed and puffed in obvious annoyance behind a lady who was struggling to find the correct coins to pay for her coffee, and the third at a pedestrian crossing when not one but two drivers ignored the couple waiting to cross. Not major incidents I know, and I don’t intend to draw major conclusions based on one bad morning, but am I the only one who thinks we have become a little less caring of others in our day-to-day lives? Often it’s the little things which make the difference, a polite wave when a driver gives way, a smile and a thank-you to a shop assistant, holding a shop or office door open, being a little kinder to a driver who may be unfamiliar with the road or just not as quick to react… My granddad was known to say, “Please and thank you will take you around the world”. It’s not entirely realistic, but the connotation is clear. Christmas can be a hectic time and the extra stress and expense may create additional frustrations when we’re out and about, but let’s resist the urge to snap back. What’s five minutes either way? You’ll get there in the end and do it without getting stressed or upsetting someone along the way.
Thank you to everyone who helped during the Copdock & Washbrook Autumn Village Tidy-Up on a cold but sunny Saturday in November. It was a fantastic effort with 38 volunteers working hard to collect more than 27 sacks of rubbish, cut back overhanging vegetation, clear innumerable slippery leaves from the footways and clean the bus shelters. Our best turn-out ever – a real community event.
Kindness is a quality we all need to embrace a little bit more and it’s entirely free to give. Perhaps my granddad wasn’t so far off the mark after all. And on that note, my colleagues and I here at Mansion House Publishing wish you and yours the very best for the Christmas Season and the New Year.
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
ADVERTISING
T: 01473 400380 E: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk DISTRIBUTION
Tree Martin: 01473 400380 E: tree@intouchnews.co.uk PRINTING
ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 E: steve@colourplan.co.uk 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 Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the In Touch series of magazines.
In Touch Titles • S towmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Needham Market & The Creetings •S hotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone • Martlesham • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead •W esterfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall
We hope to see you all again for our next litter pick in the spring of 2020. Tina & Dave
CHURCH WALL AS GOOD AS NEW You may have noticed the repairs to the west perimeter wall at St Peter’s Copdock. This is thanks to Bob the Builder (Grunberg), who lives in the village, giving up his time to prepare and rebuild the wall. It’s a painstaking, backaching and meticulous piece of work to ensure the correct materials and style is maintained for future generations to enjoy. Thank you Bob
We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe
Wed 4 December is the advertising and editorial deadline for the January edition
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
3
NEWS OAK HOUSE FARM OPENS ON-SITE BUTCHERY
DECORATING AT ST PETER’S The inside of St Peter’s Copdock is being redecorated and the church will be closed for services during January, February and March. St Mary’s Belstead have kindly offered the use of their church for all of our services. These will be: First Sunday Second Sunday Third Sunday Fourth Sunday
Family-run business Oak House Farm has launched an on-site butchery in the village of Sproughton, offering home-grown beef and pork from rare and traditional British breeds. The new butchery’s range of fresh meat includes Gloucestershire Old Spot and Large White pork and Suffolk Red Poll beef. Provenance is at the heart of Oak House Farm, and all the beef and pork is grown on-site and fed predominantly from crops also grown on the farm. Now run by husband and wife team, Ben and Georgina Woolf, Oak House Farm was bought by Ben’s parents, Madeline (who remains involved in the business) and her late husband Stephen, in the 1980s, fulfilling Stephen’s ambitions to run a farm. Stephen and Madeline’s previous retail business, Stuart’s, was well known locally for its ladies’ fashions stores in the centre of Ipswich. Georgina commented: “We are proud to continue Stephen’s legacy with this significant investment in our farm. The butchery provides an ideal opportunity for our customers to enjoy quality products while being mindful of the environmental impact of their food and buying local.. And, because of our field to fork set-up, we can keep prices competitive, meaning people won’t break the bank getting their meat direct from the farm.” As well as popular and traditional cuts, the butchery range includes bacon, sausages, burgers, steaks and mince, as well as lamb and chicken, which is sourced from local suppliers who share Oak House Farm’s strict traceability criteria and high welfare standards. Meat from Oak House Farm is also used to make a range of homemade ready meals such as lasagna, cottage pie, pies and pulled pork, all available in the butchery. With less than 350 Large White and 700 Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs remaining in Britain, Georgina and Ben are committed to keeping these iconic breeds on the British landscape. Georgina commented: “The Old Spot and Large White are pretty well known as far as pigs go, but I think the public would be surprised to learn how few of them remain. It is very important to us to be able to play a small role in keeping these wonderful breeds going. Rearing rare and traditional breeds using techniques honed over many years delivers a product that is second to none. The beef reared on the farm is marbled, sweet and succulent and both Gloucestershire Old Spot and Large White pigs produce excellent pork that is particularly noted for its high quality bacon.” For Ben, the launch of the butchery is a landmark moment in the family history. He said: “I thoroughly enjoyed growing up on our farm. Dad’s passion was for the arable farming – the crops – but livestock make a farm. We started with just a few chickens and then Mum started the cattle with two Red Polls and it grew from there.” The business has evolved over time and stock numbers have continued to grow, with more than 100 cows now living on the farm. Ben added “Like all businesses, we need to continually evolve and we are hopeful that with the new butchery our family farm is in a position to thrive for many years to come.” As well as fresh and frozen meat, Oak House Farm also sells local eggs and honey. The new butchery, which is located on Burstall Lane, Sproughton, is open to the general public on Wednesday, 9am – 3pm, Friday, 9am – 5pm and Saturday, 10am – 4pm, and Monday, Tuesday and Thursday by appointment. Local residents interested in popping in outside of opening hours are invited to ring Georgina ahead on 07768 088095. To find out more information about Oak House Farm, visit oakhousefarm.co.uk or follow the farm on Facebook.
4
8am Holy Communion / 10am Morning Prayer 10am Holy Communion 10am Simply Sunday 10am Joint Service with St Mary’s
We would love to see you there. Churchwardens Adrian and Ruth: 01473 730430
COPDOCK & WASHBROOK PARISH COUNCIL Handyman Required The parish council requires the services of a handyman to help with small jobs around the village. If you are self-employed, have appropriate insurance and would like the opportunity to quote for work, please contact the clerk: copdockparishcouncil@hotmail.co.uk / 07849 055699. Night Shelter Update We received feedback from Suffolk County Council on November 6 but have no real news to report. They have paused work on the old A12 site as the General Election has somewhat dominated the local county agenda. Their discussion with us was in advance of progressing any plans and they didn’t want to do something that doesn’t have local support. It’s back to the drawing board in terms of locations. Gareth, the shelter organiser has given the county a list of asks in terms of a location. Trying to find something suitable and acceptable will be a challenge. Ideally, they would like to find homeless people a permanent solution and ideally not on a bus. We have agreed that it’s good that there is a service providing for those who are not ready for this or falling through the cracks in the system. C&W Chair Terry Corner
SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM Now that we officially in the winter months can we remind everyone to take a few minutes to check their vehicles to ensure all lights are working as well as tyres being correctly inflated with plenty of tread. Also carry a blanket, torch and emergency equipment in case of bad weather. Suffolk continues to experience fraud with members of the public being asked to send money or transfer money from bank accounts. Please remember your bank or police will never phone you and ask you for your full PIN or password, or send someone to your home to collect cash, PINS, cards or cheque books. Please report any fraud to: www.actionfraud.police.uk Suffolk Police are recruiting again at the moment. Do you fancy a job where every day is different? Walk a new path and join Suffolk Police as a constable. Please look at our website for further information. Finally, after 28 years PC Porter is retiring from Suffolk Constabulary. Your point of contact will continue to be PC Sarah George. PC Porter would just like to thank everyone for making her career a happy one. She has enjoyed her latest role at Hadleigh Police Station. If your group or club would like a police visit, please contact PC George to arrange. Perhaps you would like a personal safety talk or an informal chat over a coffee. Please email Sarah at: sarah.george2@suffolk.pnn.police.uk You can report non urgent crimes online via: www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us You can also call the police on 101 to report crimes and other concerns that do not require an emergency response. In an emergency always call 999. Kindest regards, PC Sarah George and PC Diane Porter
In Touch online:
advertorial
Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed
double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems. Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!! If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly
experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.
Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors. Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
5
NEWS HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY GP and Staff Training Afternoons Our next training afternoons will be Wednesday 11 December and Thursday 6 February. The practice will be open for patients to come in to collect/ drop off prescriptions and book appointments/make enquiries at reception. However, there will be no clinical staff on site and our telephone lines will be switched over to the out of hours’ service on these afternoons to allow for staff training. Please ring 111 for advice if your query cannot wait until the following day. In an emergency, dial 999.
A new Tree for Life scheme means families across Babergh can join those in Mid Suffolk in claiming a free tree to mark the arrival of a child, enhancing biodiversity in the districts.
Flu Vaccines Thank you to all the patients who attended our flu vaccination clinics. We vaccinated nearly 1,200 patients across the four clinics and for the most part it was a steady flow of patients after the initial rush.
The initiative, which has been running in neighbouring Mid Suffolk since 2018, offers parents with a new born or newly adopted child the chance to mark their arrival by planting a tree – benefiting families, communities and the environment by boosting the number of trees in the district.
If you are eligible and have yet to have your vaccination, please contact reception to book this as soon as possible.
Open to families who have welcomed a new arrival between 1 January and 31 December 2019, the scheme is also available to parents who may have lost a child during the same period to apply for a memorial tree.
Building Work Update Phase one of our building work is complete and some staff have moved upstairs temporarily while phase two gets underway. We will be making improvements to the offices at the back of the practice as well as fitting out two new consulting rooms and replacing doors and windows. One of the lobby doors will become an ‘assisted door’ and we can then revisit the outside to re-site our bike rack and make a buggy area. Thank you for your patience while we are making these improvements. Private travel vaccinations We are no longer able to offer private travel vaccinations that are not supplied by the NHS. These include Rabies, Japanese Encephalitis and Hepatitis B. Patients can review their own travel requirements by visiting the Fit for Travel website (www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk) and our nurses will continue to supply NHS vaccinations. If you require private travel vaccinations, there are a number of travel clinics in the local area. Practice Manager Julia Smith
TREE FOR LIFE FOR NEW ARRIVALS
Any Tree for Life must be planted within the two districts; a plant pot grown tree will also be available for those without access to a garden. Families in both Babergh and Mid Suffolk are now being encouraged to apply for this year’s trees, ahead of the 12 January 2020 deadline. Councillor Elisabeth Malvisi, Babergh District Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “I’m thrilled to be able to officially launch the Tree for Life scheme in Babergh. Across the world people are becoming more aware of the importance of leaving a healthy and richer environment for future generations. We recognise the importance of this too, and hope the initiative enables our new families to take the first step whilst marking their new arrival at the same time.” Families can apply for their tree at: www.babergh.gov.uk/tree-for-life Eligible applicants will be invited to choose and collect their tree at a tree giving event in early 2020, where they will be able to learn more about how to plant and maintain their tree.
BENTLEY COMMUNITY SHOP: Best Possible Service This month we decided to use other people’s words by going into Bentley Stores and asking customers why they visit. Here’s what they said...
“I come in because it’s convenient and you meet people you do not normally meet and have a chat.”
“Our disabled and elderly residents can no longer go to Capel by bus so the shop is a vital community service and we are delighted with the range of products available.”
“Good bread, bananas, muesli and rice, all good quality and reasonable prices.”
“I couldn’t be bothered to get my car out so walked to the shop.”
“My sister from Ipswich thinks it is lovely and stocks so much.”
“I like the village community and can park and still see my puppy in the car. I love the friendliness of the staff and I don’t like supermarkets.”
“Because I can find printer paper for my computer without having to go to Ipswich, saves petrol and supports our village.”
“Smiley faces and chat.” “Good gossip.”
“I have limited time so just popped in to the shop for my paper and odds and ends.”
“It gets me out of the house and a bit of exercise, nice to have a shop within walking distance which stocks all the basic things I need.”
“Good stock of things and most families run out of things. Most are on the shelf, if not the volunteers will offer to get them in for next time!”
“It is convenient and such a lovely little shop.”
With 50 plus customers each day these comments show why they like to shop with us and some pay with their phones and watches!
“I can leave my young children safely in the car while I shop as I can see them through the window!” “The country pies from Capel are really delicious.”
6
“My husband can now buy his Swiss Water Decaf CoffeeLink coffee here.”
We are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and weekends from 9am to noon; why not pop in to see us?
In In Touch Touch online: online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
7
homecare
Bring some sunshine into your day!
We have been helping our clients in Ipswich and surrounding areas to maintain their independence and wellbeing within the comfort of their own homes and communities.
To find out how we can help, please get in touch:
Tel: 01473 924224 enquiries@sunflowerhomecare.co.uk
8
In Touch online:
NEWS / OUT & ABOUT CONSTABLE COUNTRY MEDICAL PRACTICE Appointment System and GP+ Generally, feedback from patients on the new appointment system has been very positive. Many haven’t needed to visit the practice to resolve their medical issue, which has enabled our doctors to spend more time with patients who need to be seen in person.
of appointments available so just ring the practice to book your vaccination. Please note we can only vaccinate patients we have sent a letter to. We are unable to vaccinate children who would normally be vaccinated via the school programme unless they have a health condition and we have sent them a letter.
However, the practice has limited capacity and we need to make full use of other services available to us. GP+ is an out-of-hours service offering GP, Nurse Practitioner and Practice Nurse appointments during weekday evenings and at weekends. The service operates form Ipswich and Stowmarket and typically GP appointments are 15 minutes rather than the usual 10.
We also raised well over £1,000 for St Elizabeth Hospice at our flu clinics, so thank you all for your generosity.
Our receptionists can book appointments with GP+, which may be more convenient if you work during the day, and will help relieve pressure on our busy practice. Our doctors may also offer you an appointment with GP+ if they feel you need to be seen in person. Flu Vaccinations We held four flu clinics through September and October and vaccinated 2,035 over-65s and 448 under-65 eligible patients. This is a great achievement, but we need to vaccinate as many eligible patients as possible. We have plenty
DO YOU PLAY AN INSTRUMENT? We have three bands: Ipswich Hospital Band, St Peter’s Band and Saints Community Band. Join us and make new friends. Some instruments are available for hire. www.ipswichhospitalband.org.uk / info@ipswichhospitalband.org.uk St Peter’s by the Waterfront, College Street, Ipswich IP4 1BF
Training Days Please note that the practice will be closed from 1pm on the following dates for staff training: Wednesday 11 December and Thursday 6 February. On these afternoons the Capel St Mary building will be open to enable access to the pharmacy, but 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. Our phone lines will be closed for the afternoon. If you need medical assistance please contact 111. If your need is urgent then please dial 999 or attend your local A&E. Practice Manager Pete Keeble
CAPEL LIBRARY Book tokens are sold in the library and they make great Christmas presents, especially if you need to post. We can even sell you the stamps. The Friends of Capel Library will be holding their AGM on Saturday 25 January at 4pm in Capel Library. Please come along to find out what we got up to in 2019 and what’s planned for 2020. The library will close on Friday 10 January at 5pm and at 12.30pm on Saturday 11 January. This is to accommodate the Orchard Players pantomime, Little Red Riding Hood. We will be open as usual in the morning of Saturday 11 January. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Tot Rock: Every Thursday, 9.30-10.15am; nursery rhymes and story time for the under fives Capel Creators: Saturday 21 December, 10.30am-12.30pm, for children and adults of any age. Come along and see what fantastic models you can build with Lego! The £1 charge includes a drink and a biscuit. Children under eight must be accompanied by an adult. Minecraft: This club doesn’t run through December Scrabble Club: Every Friday, 2.30-4.30pm, all abilities welcome, game boards are provided. Capel Library Book Group: The group doesn’t meet in December. The next get-together will be Friday 17 January. This adult group meets on the third Friday of each month in the library from 2.30pm. Come along, pick up the book they are currently reading and join in. We have a great selection of books for sale, perfect for holiday reads. OPENING TIMES Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9.30am-12.30pm & 2-5.30pm Wednesday: 9.30am-12.30pm Thursday: 9.30am-12.30pm Friday: 2-5pm & 5.30-7.30pm Saturday: 9am-3pm Sunday: 10am-3pm Tel: 01473 311699
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
9
10
In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT NOTES FROM THE CASE Christmas really feels as if it’s approaching us very quickly now and here at The Case we are certainly getting ready for it. We will be open right through the holiday, as follows: Christmas Eve: noon-2.30pm & 7-11.30pm Christmas Day: noon-2pm & 7-10pm Boxing Day: Normal hours New Year’s Eve: 7pm-late New Year’s Day: Normal hours We will be gathering in the pub on Sunday 22 December for our annual carol singing. Singing begins around 5pm, so come along and give your Christmas a traditional start. Our very popular Open Mic Night is on Tuesday 3 December. Music starts around 8.30pm; for more details contact Dave on 07885 963882. On Saturday 7 December, Brooke Telling, one of our regular performers and a star in the making, will be playing at The Case to celebrate the release of her first CD. The music begins at 8.30pm.
BELSTEAD VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKETS A market takes place in Belstead Village Hall from 10am-1pm on the first Saturday of every month to raise vital funds to support refurbishment of the kitchen and ladies toilet. With an extensive range of tables, a raffle and refreshments, the market is the perfect place to meet with friends for a chat over a cuppa and a piece of cake while supporting this essential local amenity. You can also support our chosen charity at a table laden with homemade goodies for sale. If you can sew, make or create and would like to hire a table (£10) please contact: 07981 335859 / market@belsteadvillage.co.uk
COPDOCK CHURCH ROOM COMMUNITY GET TOGETHER All welcome for tea, coffee and cakes 2-4pm on the last Friday in the month
Our December Games Evenings will be on Saturday 14 from around 7.30pm. If you haven’t been, they’re very informal and always a lot of fun – just come along and join in. The December quiz will be on Saturday 28, starting at 8.30pm. As always, teams can be up to six members, entry is £2. All profits from this and the raffle will be donated to our charity of the year, FIND. To help blow away the winter blues, on Saturday 18 January we will have The Tea Ladies to entertain you. They will be performing their eclectic mixture of Elvis to heavy rock, via a dash of reggae, played in their own unmistakeable style. By the way, they aren’t ladies and they rarely drink tea! The music starts at 8.30pm. Please note, Jane, our mid-week cook, will be taking a well-deserved break over the holiday period and the kitchen will be closed from Monday 23 December, reopening for light lunches on Wednesday 8 January. Also Esther will be taking a break so Sunday lunches will not be available on Sunday 29 December and Sunday 5 January but she will be back on Sunday 12 January. And finally, we would like to give a huge thank you to the team of 15+ volunteers who gave our garden its autumn tidy up. As before, after all their hard work they were rewarded with very welcome hot bacon rolls and coffee. We will be doing it again in the spring, so if you would like to join in please ask at the pub. Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at The Case! 01473 805575 / www.thecasepubbentley.co.uk/whats-on www.facebook.com/TheCaseBentley
Thank you to everyone who helped and supported our latest jumble sale and made it a great success. If you missed this last sale, there will be another in April/May 2020, so watch this space! Please save all your goodies, but if this is a problem, we can collect before then. Pam Rayment: 01473 310283 / 07970 741581
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
11
OUT & ABOUT PENINSULAR PIX
CHRISTMAS MARKET AT COPDOCK HALL
Peninsular Pix’s December Christmas film is Rocketman, a biopic of the life and career of Elton John directed by Dexter Fletcher. I’ve seen it and it’s a doozy. It’s got real songs and everything. You might want to amble along in your overcoats, scarves and gloves to Tattingstone Village Hall for an 8pm start on Thursday 5 December.
Sunday 1 December, 1-4pm Christmas Gifts & Homemade Cakes Chutneys, Preserves and lots more Refreshments
I’m sure we’ll have some Christmas treats for half time: mulled wine and mince pies, seasonal fare to warm the cockles for the walk home, hopefully on a crisp, clear evening with stars at their brightest.
CRAFTERS UNLIMITED We look forward to seeing members past and present to share our Christmas refreshments and enjoy making a Pom Pom Holly Card on Monday 2 December. We also hope to tell you about some ideas we have for projects in 2020. The first meeting of 2020 will be on Monday 6 January. Contacts: Ann 01473 780298 / Jill 01473 713534
This movie grossed almost $200 million in the States, the sort of money that makes people think it’s got to be good. If the weather’s bad, get your skis or snowshoes out, or put chains on your tyres. You can’t miss this film just for a few snowdrifts.
THE ORCHARD PLAYERS 2020 PANTO COPDOCK & WASHBROOK WI History and the weather had us fascinated at our October meeting. Frances Sparrow presented some interesting historical events that had been affected by weather conditions. One such event featured the Spanish Armada and how the weather destroyed the Spanish fleet in 1558 when the wind picked up and the fleet were blown towards dangerous sandbanks. This led to the battle of Gravelines where the English caused significant damage to the Spanish fleet. We will be learning Nordic Walking in our November meeting which will prepare us for what may be a hard winter. Then it will be Christmas and a time when we all bring goodies to share to our social evening and reflect on what we have done in 2019 and look forward to 2020 and how many New Year resolutions we can break! There are so many good reasons to join the WI in Copdock and Washbrook. We are a diverse group, sharing a wide variety of interests and we enjoy some wonderful outings and events. There are opportunities to get involved or just come for friendship. All visitors and new members will be warmly welcomed. If you want to join us you can come to three meetings as a visitor, the first one is free to see what we get up to before deciding if you would like to become a member.
Red Riding Hood, January 9-11 at Capel St Mary Community Centre Not many things can upset the villagers of Fermley on the Fiddle – that is except werewolves and politicians! This Panto season, join us as we tell the story of the most famous Red Hood around. Can the Woodcutter outwit the Wolf? Will Red get to Granny in time? Or will the evil Baroness hoodwink them all? You’re in for a howling experience! Tickets (£8/£6) for performances on Thursday 9 and Friday 10 January at 7.30pm, and at 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday 11 are now on sale. Box Office Number: 07793 820215
CAMEO: COME AND MEET EVERY ONE
We meet at Copdock Village Hall on the third Tuesday of each month (excluding August). Please arrive around 7.15 for a 7.30pm start.
Annette from the Coffee Caravan joined us in October. It’s always a pleasure to see her, and this time she brought information on smart meters which inspired a lively group discussion! She was also helpful regarding carbon monoxide detectors, insulation (including grants available) and ways to reduce heating costs.
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 15
We will have Jane and Julie (sisters, entertainers and musicians extraordinaire) at our December meeting, along with the usual festive nibbles. The hall is undergoing extensive refurbishment (thanks to all involved in that), the majority of which should be completed by Christmas so hopefully we will be able to provide warm nibbles.
Route 15
Town/village
Location
Time
MIP/15A
Washbrook
Pearson’s Way
9.50-10.40
MIP/15B
Washbrook
Brook Inn Car Park
10.45-11.15
MIP/15C
Washbrook
Fenn View
11.20-11.40
MIP/15D
Burstall
Telephone Kiosk
11.50-12.15
MIP/15E
Elmsett
Rose and Crown
12.40-13.05
MIP/15F
Whatfield
Wheatfields
14.05-14.50
MIP/15G
Hintlesham
Timperleys
15.05-16.00
2019: 4 December
The aim of Belstead CAMEO is to provide an opportunity for residents to meet each other for tea, coffee, refreshments and chat on a drop-in basis. The club is not-for-profit and there’s no charge, but a small donation towards refreshments is much appreciated. Belstead is a friendly village and we want to increase this community spirit, both on personal and business levels. We aim to promote all types of local interests and have noticeboards showing events, along with information on businesses and charities. You would be amazed at the wealth of talent and scope of business in our small village! It’s always good to know that somebody in the village has recommended the businesses whose cards and information we display. We meet at Belstead Village Hall on the second Monday of the month (excluding July and August) between 2.30 and 4pm. Sandra Howard
12
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
13
14
In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH TRANSPORT SOCIETY ALTON BELLES WI
Monday 20 January: Grey’s Coaches from Ely – 70+ years of Service, from the Beginning by Richard Grey
In October we welcomed Vicky and Dawn from BJs Hair and Beauty Studio in Bentley to our meeting at Tattingstone Village Hall. They arrived with lots of different products to show us. They were both very knowledgeable and were able to answer the members’ questions on hair and beauty. Great fun was had with an app on an iPad that shows you what you would look like with different coloured hair.
Monday 17 February: Annual General Meeting followed A 1982 Summer in New York (Shipping) by Ron Davies
Several members attended a group meeting at Chelmondiston where they were entertained by Iestyn Edwards with My Tutu went AWOL. Many members dressed in fairy costumes; great fun was had!
Monday 16 March: Bahamas Locomotive Society – The Story So Far by John Hillier Monday 20 April: City of Norwich Aviation Museum – The Collection & the Story by Trevor Eady All meetings take place at Greenfinch Church Hall, Greenfinch Avenue, Ipswich at 7.30pm. Refreshments available.
A few members met for coffee at the coffee shop near Landguard Fort. It was a beautiful day and the river provided much entertainment. We held our AGM in November and welcomed a speaker from the Lighthouse Project. Members collected all kinds of toiletries and bags for the speaker to take back to the project. If you are interested in joining our vibrant and forward looking WI, but feel nervous about coming along on your own, just contact our secretary, Sheila Paxman, who will make sure you are looked after: 01473 327319
VILLAGE LINK Our next meeting is on Wednesday 11 December at 10am in Tattingstone Village Hall when Barbara Faulkner will present a humorous talk on The Man in Red. Our aim is to bring communities together and over the years we have attracted members from many villages, men and women of various ages. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am to noon. I would like to welcome back former members and to see new members from all local villages, either as visitors or members. If you wish to take part in our Christmas tombola please bring a small wrapped present to include. Also bring a small plate of food to share with refreshments.
STOUR VALLEY U3A We don’t hold a speaker meeting in December but instead a Christmas lunch and this year it’s being held on Wednesday 11 December at the Ipswich Best Western Hotel, Copdock IP8 3JD. This is always a very popular event so an early reservation is advised. On January 8 Chris Parfitt, a retired teacher, will enlighten us on The Mysteries of Easter Island. Chris will present an illustrated talk in which he will look at life on this remote island today and explore its unique history revolving mainly around the famous statues and some of the theories surrounding them. Tracy from the Giggly Pig Co will talk on The Life & Times of an Essex Bad Girl on Wednesday 12 February. Just how did she manage to change the direction of her life into being a pig farmer and successful sausage producer? 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. Each month The Coffee Grinders meet at The Lambe School, Gaston Street, East Bergholt CO7 6SD from 10am to noon. This meeting especially welcomes new members and gives all members the opportunity to meet the activity group leaders and the committee while enjoying a cup of coffee. The next meeting is on Friday 31 January.
Chairman Linda Evans: 01473 311262
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
15
OUT & ABOUT STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB Our speaker on December 4 is Simon Gallop with The Unknown Constable Country and we end the year with our popular annual Christmas quiz. It’s rumoured that there are some valuable prizes to be won on this occasion! We will not meet on January 1 so our first meeting of 2020 will be on Wednesday 15 January when fellow member Michael Hole will present a talk entitled First and Second World War Prisoner of War Camps. On February 5 Carole Wheatley will enlighten us on Internment in Guernsey during the Second World War and on February 19 Colin Hopper will present The Story of London Bridge. 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, 10 for 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202
KNIT ‘N’ STITCH / CRAFTING AFTERNOON If you can sew, knit or crochet, or like to make or create in any other medium and fancy working alongside others with a creative streak, come along to our new club. Bring your own project or get inspiration to start a new one.
EBONY’S BLOG: Life at The Shelley Centre So now the weather starts to disrupt the programme of rides and our riders can’t always be sure they will get up on a pony and enjoy an outdoor lesson. That’s where I can help; on really wet days each rider can have 10 minutes on my back, practising skills that might not be possible on a live horse. The best thing I help with is rising trot. Looks easy? Ha, you just try that little uplift of your bottom while keeping yourself sitting tall, and balanced, and in rhythm with my body as I emulate the trot for you! At least if the rider clutches tightly on the reins by mistake, I won’t slow down or get confused. My mouth is pretty tough so the rider is forgiven. It’s also good fun teaching this skill; there are often squeals of laughter from my room as the bouncing continues. In addition to this session with me, a cancelled outdoor ride gives time for revision of the horsemanship skills needed to pass grades and earn certificates. RDA is committed to helping each rider to gain knowledge and understanding of the horse world, and to reinforcing the learning that school pupils receive through the national curriculum. Having a riding lesson during school hours will complement a person’s learning journey. This is also the season of mud, as any horse owner will know. Our live horses live out, nicely rugged-up against the wet, but their field gates become well ploughed up by their hooves, and in fetching them in or leading them out, our volunteers have to wade through the quagmire. Its not fun, but ‘all in a good cause’ as we say. Luckily I don’t have mud in my room, and we can switch on the heater in the worst of weather.
We meet at Belstead Village Hall every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30-3.30pm. Refreshments available. For more information contact Diane: 07981 335859
ICUSTEPS SUPPORT GROUP For critical care patients on the road to recovery We meet at Bluebird Lodge Community Hospital, 100 Mansbrook Boulevard, Ipswich IP3 9GJ from 6-8pm on December 4. For more information email outreach.event@ipswichhospital.nhs.uk or visit: www.icusteps.org
Christmas will soon be celebrated around the world, whatever the local climate may be. I think we are lucky that it happens during our winter when darkness descends early and there is every excuse for candlelight. Once again, our carol service will begin in the yard with riders and their families gathered in. We shall have prayers read by some of the riders, music, mulled wine and mince pies.
BELSTEAD VILLAGE GARDEN CLUB
As darkness falls the Shetland ponies lead the large Shelly family down the hill to the lane and along the lantern lit route to Shelley Church. Each pony is represented by a candle, carried by one of their riders, who place it on the altar for a blessing. It’s the perfect way to remember our connection with a far away, much more primitive stable being mentioned all over the planet at this time of year.
Please note we meet on Wednesday 11 December, 7.15 for 7.30pm, when Zuzanna will present a talk entitled A Very Hungarian Christmas. Festive food and mulled wine will be served, all are welcome, The club meal is on Wednesday 15 January, so no meeting in the hall until February.
16
No doubt, our volunteers will be having their Christmas party too. I shall pick up the gossip afterwards, but not be there myself of course. I hope all my readers have an enjoyable festival and keep well and happy throughout this busy time. See you in the new year! www.shelleyrda.com / 01473 824172
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
17
Looking after you and your family... Our private client team offers individuals a high level of personal service, tailored to your needs, ensuring you have peace of mind.
Wills and Trusts Lasting Powers of Attorney Probate Disputes
Probate and Estates Court of Protection Financial Planning
Contact us today to make an appointment: enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com www.ellisonssolicitors.com
01473 556900 Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ
Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336
18
In Touch online:
SPORT / SCHOOLS BELSTEAD CARPET BOWLS EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FC The 1st Team have continued their high scoring form with one 7-0 and two 4-1 victories sandwiching an extra time exit in the Morrison Freight Cup. The Reserves have also been amongst the goals, scoring five in advancing to the next round of the Suffolk Senior Reserve Cup, seven in a victory and four on two occasions, one draw and one defeat, in the League. The A Team didn’t have any wins in October, but the young team have acquitted themselves well. UPCOMING FIXTURES 1st Team: Senior Division 23 Nov: Westerfield Utd (H) 30 Nov: Henley Athletic (A) 14 Dec: Achilles (H) 21 Dec: Trimley Red Devils (A) 28 Dec: Bourne Vale Utd (H) Reserves: League A 23 Nov: Haughley Utd Res (A) 30 Nov: AFC Kesgrave Res (H) 7 Dec: Old Newton Res (H) 14 Dec: Coplestonians Res (A) 21 Dec: Trimley Red Devils Res (H) A Team: League C 23 Nov: Hundon Res (A) 30 Nov: Wickham Market Res (A) 7 Dec: Leiston St Margarets Res (A) 21 Dec: Stowupland Falcons Res (A) Fixtures are subject to change. To confirm visit: http://fulltime.thefa.com/Index.do?league=4358069 Sponsorship We would like to thank our sponsors for this season: Smy IT Specialists, JAK, Riverside Taxis Manningtree, Marquis, Bergholt Travel, G & C Timber & Joinery Ltd, Primus and Kitchen Worktops Online. If you would like to sponsor the club in some capacity we would also be delighted to hear from you. Ladies and Juniors We are looking for new teams, boys or girls, of any age group to join us as we look for the club to grow. Also ladies who would like to join are welcome. If you are interested please contact David George: davidgeorge5000@hotmail.com Events The darts tournament will be held in January 2020. Keep an eye on our social media feeds for details.
We started our winter league season with a visit to newly promoted Burstall, a club we had not played since the 1999/20 season. After some good bowling we came home with an 8-2 win. Next was a trip to Chelmondiston, where most teams have trouble with what must be the worst floor to play on, so with a win and a draw on one of the carpets and two heavy defeats on the other mat we were happy to get away with a 7-3 loss. The final game to report on was at home to Claydon who have strengthened their team by recruiting several current and ex-county players, eight of whom played on the night so it was very satisfying for us when we ran out winners by 8-2. All in all, a good start to the season which we must try to maintain.
BENTLEY CEVC & COPDOCK PRIMARY SCHOOLS Jingle bells! Yes it is that time of year already! Plans are already well underway for the festive season. Both schools are having their Christmas Fayres on the same date this year. On Friday 13 December we warmly invite everyone from our local and school communities to join us from 3.15-5pm for a chance to share the Christmas cheer and bag yourself a few bargain gifts! This term has been a busy one with lots of trips out and some special visitors. Bentley had a visit from two police officers who came to talk to them about what the police do, how and when to contact them and how to keep yourself safe. There was much excitement when a police car rocked up on to the playground and you can only imagine the joy on the children’s faces as they set off the sirens and blue flashing lights! We would like to thank Suffolk Police for their time and support. Hedgehogs and Woodpeckers were treated to a dramatic morning of learning by the East Anglian Faith Alliance and Open the Tent team who performed ‘story stations’ telling the story of Diwali in a super creative and interactive way. The children and staff couldn’t sing the group’s praises highly enough, and all had a great learning experience. Both schools have held successful open days and evenings for prospective parents. If you were hoping to come along, but couldn’t make it, please do get in touch with the schools; we would be more than happy to give you the guided tour. Bentley CEVC Primary School: 01473 310253 / admin@bentley.suffolk.sch.uk Copdock Primary School: 01473 730337 / admin@bentley.suffolk.sch.uk
The FIFA tournament will be repeated and is open to all-comers so keep an eye out for the next one. This upcoming season is the 125th anniversary of the club, there will be special events to mark this momentous achievement. We want to get in touch with as many former players and officials as possible. Please let us have your details by contacting our secretary or on our Facebook page. Keep in touch for details, but keep Easter Sunday 2020 free. Follow us on: Facebook: East Bergholt United Football Club Instagram: east_bergholt_united_fc Twitter: @EBUFC1 Steve Butcher (secretary): stevebutcher55@btinternet.com
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
19
SCHOOLS / CHURCH NEWS ROBIN’S NEWS Baby Bears Although the wintery weather is approaching, we are still making the most of our outdoor environment. Our outdoor sleeping area is still open to those who wish for their children to sleep outdoors. We provide children with fleecy sleepsuits, sleeping bags and warm fleecy blankets. There will be days where it’s just too cold, windy or rainy for this to be appropriate, but for the most part we will be sleeping outdoors. Through researching sleeping outdoors, it’s believed in many sources that sleeping outdoors, rather than in a room with other children and the heating on, the risk of the spread of germs, colds and illness is reduced. It is suggested by activeforlife.com that spending time in enclosed spaces can contribute to the spread of germs.
opportunity to explore a wide variety of authentic resources throughout December. It will be completely led by the children’s own creative ideas and inspiration. They may wish to use the Curious Christmas resources in playdough or water. They may choose to paint or glue them. They may choose to use them in a way we as adults could never imagine! There is no right or wrong way to be curious and investigate, the most important thing is that the children are allowed the time and space to do this in a way that sparks their own interest and learning style.
Toddling Tigers The Tigers have been developing their turn-taking skills recently using the wishing well in the garden. We have demonstrated to the children how to use the handle safely in order to raise and lower the bucket. The children then used mathematical language to discuss the direction of the bucket and the handle. The children also were able to exercise the cognitive development in the brain ‘crossing the midline’ through circular gross motor motion of turning the handle.
Meerkats With the evenings becoming darker earlier, it’s an opportunity for the Meerkats at after school club to make the most of the darkness by exploring the great outside by torch light. The Meerkats love to go outside all year round and have also enjoyed various cooking activities; these have been a great success and we have some fantastic wintery recipes planned to look forward to.
Gruffalos We are continuing along our curious journey with lots of exciting things planned to ignite their curious sides. The children will have the
If you would like further information about Robin’s Childcare, please contact Emma: 01473 310767 / info@robinschildcare.co.uk
We hope you all have a happy and curious Christmas!
CAPEL & HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES Seeing for Myself Have you ever been told something and passed the information on to others and then discovered it was untrue? It can be a bit embarrassing and we may protest, “Well that’s what I was told”. We may even go so far as to name the person who told us. A girl bought up in the centre of England far from the coast, was walking with her boyfriend’s family near the sea. There was a lot of stringy seaweed and he told her that there must be a string factory around the headland and what she was seeing was the offcuts thrown in the sea. At first, she believed him and enquired more, expressing disgust that a factory could discharge its waste into the sea. Before she had a chance to go to the shoreline and examine the ‘string’ herself, she realised that it was a joke that she had fallen for. I grew up in a Christian household, I was told the stories of Jesus, I went to Sunday School and loved my Sunday School teacher. I loved the stories and many people around me believed the stories. A few knocks to my simple faith came and I began to wonder whether it was a joke, stories just made up. My brother told me about a group of young people meeting in the Potteries which had grown from four to 150 young people in four years. I went along and for these young people the stories were vividly true – not just in the historic case of in Jesus’s time, but God was speaking to them personally. A girl younger than me got up at the end of the meeting and said anyone can come and meet Jesus. I realised then that I knew lots about Jesus, but I didn’t ‘know’ Jesus. Like I know a lot about the Queen, but I don’t know her, and she doesn’t know me. That evening, I ‘came’ to Jesus, discovered he knew my name and everything about me – including the wrong things I had done, and despite that, he still loved me and I could talk with him. Two thousand years ago on the hillside outside Bethlehem shepherds were told of the birth of a baby, born to be the Saviour. It could have been a joke, a fantastic laser light display with sound effects, but they said, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see if it’s true for ourselves”. They hurried off and found the baby and all the detail was exactly as they had been told. As they returned to their sheep, they told everyone what they had heard and seen. I still love introducing people to Jesus. I would love for to see for yourself. You
20
can’t rely on my faith, Jesus knows you and he wants you to know him. Jesus came into our world 2,000 years ago in the flesh, now he comes by his Spirit and you can know him. Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Capel & Holbrook Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary, Ipswich IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 AT CAPEL ST MARY METHODIST Home Groups on various days and times – contact the Minister Sunday 1 10.30am 6.30pm Sunday 8 10.30am Sunday 15 10.30am 6.30pm Sunday 22 10.30am 4-5pm Christmas Day 9.30am Sunday 29 10.30am
Worship with Mr Victor Jack Prayer Worship with Mr Tom Boswell All-age Christmas Celebration Carol Service with Rev Andrew Sankey Worship and Communion with Rev Andrew Sankey Cakes and Carols – for all ages Worship with Rev Andrew Sankey Worship with Mr Roger Hulford
AT HOLBROOK METHODIST Tea and Chat (HCT / Holbrook Churches Together): Mondays 2.30-4pm Home Groups: Second & fourth Tuesdays at 7.30pm Sunday 1 10am Worship with Mr Mike Castle Friday 6 3.30pm Messy Church (HCT) Saturday 7 10-11.30am Coffee Morning Sunday 8 10am Communion with Rev Michael Allen Sunday 15 10am Worship with Rev Andrew Sankey Wednesday 18 7pm Carol Service Sunday 22 10am Nativity Service Christmas Eve 11.30pm Communion Christmas Day 10.30am Worship with Rev Andrew Sankey Sunday 29 10am At All Saints – Worship with Rev Grimshaw Please see the noticeboard on the front of the chapel for all events in December. For more information about Messy Church and Tiddlers (HCT) contact Gerald Laws: geraldolaws@aol.com / 01473 328507
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
21
CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook, and Belstead & Bentley with Tattingstone For parish queries please contact:
Sproughton Carol Service: 6.30pm on Sunday 15 December
The Rev Annette Shannon The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674
Bentley Crib Service: 3pm on Tuesday 24 December
Benefice Administrator Hayley Purnell northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07904 972116
Copdock Midnight Mass: 11.30pm on Tuesday 24 December
What does Christmas mean to you? I have such lovely memories of Christmas past; my father patiently unscrewing every coloured fairy light to find the broken one, followed by the family cheer when he was successful; a special table cloth placed on the sideboard ready for fizzy drinks that were only permitted at Christmas; the cupboard of tasty treats added piecemeal over the preceding months bought out of the weekly budget; enthusiastically decorating the tree before colour coordination or minimalism were embraced; writing letters to Father Christmas to throw into the fire so they would float up to him in the sky; ‘helping’ mum decorate the Christmas cake with plastic ornaments; making sticky peppermint creams and marzipan stuffed dates. All precious moments filled with the season sentiments of love, wonder and joy.
Burstall Holy Communion: 9.30am on Christmas Day
It was only in my adulthood that I experienced the awe and anticipation of attending Midnight Communion on Christmas Eve and appreciated the depth of the Christian message in the birth of Jesus. My childhood Christmas was filled mainly with excitement, but I did appreciate the fact that everyone seemed a bit kinder and more caring through the season. Now as an adult the emotions attached to this special time have grown to include a tangible mixture of faith, hope and love.
Sunday 1 December 8am Copdock 9.30am Burstall 10am Bentley 10am Copdock 10am Tattingstone 11am Sproughton
Holy Communion Holy Communion Christingle Morning Prayer Holy Communion Family@Church
Every time I celebrate the Eucharist at midnight on Christmas Eve, I have an overwhelming sense of new beginnings, a time of renewal of faith not only in a sense of religious traditions but also deep within my soul. I am left with a powerful sense of God’s love and a renewed desire to share that love.
Sunday 8 December 9.30am Sproughton 9.30am Burstall 10am Copdock 10am Bentley 6pm Tattingstone
Croissant Church Christingle Nativity Holy Communion Evensong
Sunday 15 December 10am Bentley 9.30am Burstall 6pm Belstead 6pm Copdock 6pm Tattingstone 6pm Sproughton
Carol Service Holy Communion Carol Service Carol Service Carol Service Carol Service
Sunday 22 December 8am Sproughton 10am Bentley 10am Copdock 6pm Tattingstone 4.30pm Burstall
Holy Communion Holy Communion Holy Communion Holy Communion Carol Service
Christmas is enchanting but the potential held within our hearts is even more magical. Our ability to love one another, to renew our faith and bring hope into our lives and the lives of others, are the greatest of gifts to bestow and receive at Christmas. The greatest presents are not those wrapped in expensive paper or dressed with colourful tags and bows. They are the gift we give to each other with hearts full of faith, hope, and love. This time of year as we come together to celebrate the birth of our saviour, the one who makes all things new, let us turn the page, sing a new song, hold our hands up high and shine a light… together. We can be the light, we can be the song and we can be the sanctuary. When we gather together in faith we are the church. May you have a magical Christmas, The Rev Annette CHRISTMAS SERVICES & EVENTS Copdock Christmas Market at Copdock Hall: 1pm on Sunday 1 December Bentley Christingle: 10am on Sunday 1 December Sproughton Christmas Market: 10am on Saturday 14 December Burstall Christingle: 9.30am on Sunday 8 December Copdock Nativity: 10am on Sunday 8 December Bentley Mulled Wine & Carols in Bentley Village Hall: 7pm on Thursday 19 December Bentley Carol Service: 10am on Sunday 15 December Burstall Candlelit Carol Service: 4.30pm on Sunday 22 December, followed by mulled wine and mince pies in the village hall Belstead Carol Service: 6pm on Sunday 15 December Copdock Carol Service: 6pm on Sunday 15 December Tattingstone Carol Service: 6pm on Sunday 15 December
22
Sproughton Nativity: 3pm on Tuesday 24 December Tattingstone Crib & Christingle Service: 4pm on Tuesday 24 December Belstead Midnight Mass: 11.30pm on Tuesday 24 December Bentley Holy Communion: 10am on Christmas Day Sproughton Sung Communion: 10am on Christmas Day Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and a Peaceful New Year from all at North Samford Benefice. FROM THE REGISTERS Funerals Bob Scarpe – Tattingstone Anthony Booth – Sproughton Peter Jones – Copdock Burial of Ashes Katheine Lea – Tattingstone SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE
Tuesday 24 December: Christmas Eve 3pm Bentley Crib Service 3pm Sproughton Nativity 4pm Tattingstone Crib & Christingle Service 11.30pm Copdock Midnight Mass 11.30pm Belstead Midnight Mass Wednesday 25 December: Christmas Day 9.30am Burstall Holy Communion 10am Bentley Holy Communion 10am Sproughton Holy Communion Sunday 29 December 10am Copdock
Benefice Communion
Please submit church letters and copy for the January edition of In Touch to Hayley Purnell by December 4: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com
In Touch online:
CHURCH NEWS HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB Fr Paul Vincent, 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ 01473 684963 / www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR DECEMBER Sunday 1 1st Sunday of Advent 9am Mass Tuesday 3 9.30am 10am
Morning Prayer Mass
Tuesday 10 9.20am 10am
Eucharistic Adoration Mass
Sunday 15 9am
3rd Sunday of Advent Mass
To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380
Sunday 8 2nd Sunday of Advent 9am Mass
Tuesday 17 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 22 9am 11am
4th Sunday of Advent Mass, Holy Family, Brantham CO11 1TB Mass, St Mark’s, Ipswich IP2 0QQ
Tuesday 24 Christmas Eve: The Nativity of The Lord 5.30pm Mass, St Mark’s, Ipswich IP2 0QQ 8pm Mass, Holy Family, Brantham CO11 1TB Wednesday 25, Christmas Day 9am Mass, Holy Family, Brantham CO11 1TB 11am Mass, St Mark’s, Ipswich IP2 0QQ Sunday 29 9am
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph Mass
Tuesday 31 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass CATHOLIC COMMENTARY Coincidental with this issue of In Touch, we begin the Season of Advent, the period of preparation for Christmas. The preparations are intended to be spiritual as well as material and often include a penitential service, or for some, individual confession. The Nativity of Christ is followed in early January by the Epiphany (the coming of the Magi-the three Kings-to acknowledge and worship him) and the Baptism. Eastern Orthodox Christians tend to make more of these two feasts than do Western Christians and see the celebrations, taken together, as but one revelation of God incarnate in Jesus Christ. Bishop Alan Hopes installed Fr Paul Vincent as our parish priest on Sunday 6 October. Fr Paul has now been joined in Ipswich by his fellow Carmelite priest, Fr Benny, with the prospect of a third member arriving from India next year. In the Catholic Church each religious order has a distinctive charism, the spirit of contemplation in the case of the Carmelites. Of course action has to follow prayer, but a model of Christian community is significant in itself. The Carmelite charism can also be followed by lay people in their own lives, in the family, in their work or professions. EVENTS AND DIARY DATES The 100 Club draw took place on November 17 at Holy Family when three lucky winners shared a £166 prize pot. The next draw takes place on Sunday 15 December at Holy Family, Brantham. 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 to noon. We are raising funds for the new carpet in the Parish Room and all are very welcome to join us. The next coffee morning is on Thursday 30 January.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock
Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning
Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation
call John Burch: 07870 347486
Tel: 01449 721441
23
BRITISH ARMY BAND, COLCHESTER AND THE BAND OF THE ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL
SATURDAY 1 FEBRUARY, 7PM
FREE ADMISSION Tickets available from experiencetickets.co.uk/rhsmusic 01206 573948 ASSEMBLY HALL, ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL, HOLBROOK, IPSWICH IP9 2RX
Sponsored by