In Touch News with East Bergholt April 2019 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

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with Dedham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary Volume 6 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2019

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NEWS

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I often write about how fortunate we are to live in a part of the world where ‘community’ is valued and where there are endless opportunities to engage with those who share our little part of the planet. Finding that special place to lay your roots and raise your children, where you know you will be greeted with a smile when you pop into the local (shop or pub) and share your day-today existence with neighbours you can call on in an emergency is something to treasure. If you’re lucky you may even have family close by. A recent trip home to Ireland to celebrate my dad’s 80th birthday has reminded me how distant I have become from my extended family, inevitable when you move away. Events like weddings and significant birthdays have become treasured opportunities to catch-up, to meet new family members and to get to know others a little better. And so it was on this occasion. For possibly the first time ever, I had an opportunity to have a proper girly chat with my dad’s three sisters, a chat which started when they admired my dress. Well in no time at all they were telling me about the way they dressed going to dances and balls when they were young. They howled with laughter as they told me about cycling six miles to dances at the Emerald Ballroom and back home again at 1am. They talked about the music, the dancing (proper dancing!), the way all the men lined up on one side and the women on the other… and the dresses. They’d all learned to make their own dresses but occasionally paid a local dressmaker to create something for a special occasion. The planning and effort they put into these events was extraordinary. Everyone had to get their hair properly done and in those days hair-dos were an architectural phenomenon. Hair pieces are not a new invention! They laughed in horror when they remembered having to sleep on their faces because their hair had so much lacquer in it! I know it wasn’t all dressing up and dancing, but boy did they know how to party, and alcohol wasn’t mentioned once (which is probably why they remember every tiny detail). If you do have older family members in your life, or neighbours who would like nothing better than an opportunity to reminisce, don’t wait for an occasion. Put the kettle on and get to know someone a little bit better while you’re fortunate to have the opportunity.

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with Dedham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary

EAST BERGHOLT NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN Government legislation has changed, making it prudent to review our Neighbourhood Plan which was published in 2016. In addition, Babergh is working on a revised Joint Local Plan, giving us the opportunity to better integrate our plan with their new strategy. Revising our plan will ensure it reflects these developments and remains relevant in a changing environment. Our Neighbourhood Plan remains an important document, allowing residents of East Bergholt to have a say over future developments in the village. It provides a very useful framework for the parish council and Babergh in considering planning applications. Furthermore, a number of the projects that were identified in the plan, such as the creation of East Bergholt Community Land Trust and many others are now providing benefits to the community. We would really like you to become involved. Why not come along to one of the monthly meetings and have your say? The dates are published on the website and parish council noticeboards. You will be made most welcome. Roy Toyne

MANNINGTREE ROTARY CLUB At the start of our new presidential year in July 2018 we made the decision to support the charity Against Breast Cancer by collecting unwanted bras on their behalf. We are now eight months into our collection and to-date we have managed to fill fourteen large black bin bags. Our target when we started was to fill twenty bags, so with four months to go we call on you to help us meet our target. If you do have any unwanted bras you will find our collection box located in the entrance lobby of the Co-op in Manningtree. Thank you for your continued support

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We also publish In Touch with... •B eyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge

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Lettice Dykes Foundation Trust for East Bergholt Applications are invited from students and pupils 25 and under living in East Bergholt for small grants to help towards their education or maintenance while studying. Contact the clerk, Mrs Britt Evans, at Rookery, Gaston Street, East Bergholt CO7 6SF / 01206 298334 for an application form for consideration by the trustees. Rev Steph

MAY DEADLINE

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NEWS CONSTABLE COUNTRY MEDICAL PRACTICE New Appointment Cancellation Service If you need to cancel an appointment, you can now send us a text message. This should help reduce the number of non-attended appointments and also provide a simple method for patients to let us know they need to cancel rather than wait in the telephone queue first thing in the morning. To cancel an appointment, simply send a message to 07562 618401 and include your name, date of birth and the date and time of the appointment you wish to cancel. Please note that this number can only be used for appointment cancellations. Launch of eConsult Service I’m pleased to announce that we have launched a new service called eConsult which is available via: www.constablecountrymedicalpractice.co.uk Our eConsult service enables you to request advice and treatment from our practice online, at any time of the day. You can also obtain self-help advice for hundreds of conditions. You can access eConsult any time of the day and the system will ask you a number of questions regarding the nature of your problem. It may provide self-help advice, or direct you to a pharmacy if it’s a problem which can be addressed by a pharmacist. The system may also advise you to phone 111 or 999 if your responses suggest you require urgent attention.

NOTES FROM THE CASE Suffolk’s first Co-operative Pub We are really pleased as punch with our wonderful new bay windows and front door. They have been expertly replaced, along with the soffits and fascias, with pre-coated timber framed flush casements to match the others in the building. The old ones had certainly seen better days and were probably only held together with the paint, but now the bays are warm and cosy, even when the wind blows! We know they have been a long time in the planning but it has been worth the wait. This month sees our special fifth year anniversary celebrations and we would like to invite you all along to join in with the festivities. On Saturday, April 13 we will be hosting two musical events. From 3-5pm the Tyler Kemp Duo will be playing a mixture of easy listening music and some light jazz. During this time we will be serving free tea, cakes and light bites (the bar will also be open). From 8.30-11.30pm the very popular Robbie Gladwell and his band will be entertaining us and canapés and savouries will be freely available. To enable us to gauge the numbers for each event free tickets for each session are now available from the pub and from Bentley Stores. At around 5pm on the day itself – Wednesday, April 17 – we are going to create a new anniversary version of our famous WE SAVED OUR PUB photo. We would like as many of our customers and shareholders as possible to come along and be part of the next stage of our incredible history.

If your problem is non-urgent and can be dealt with by the practice, we will receive a report which will be reviewed by one of our doctors. They will determine the most appropriate next step which may include a telephone or face-to-face appointment. You will be contacted by 6pm the following day with advice or to book an appointment if necessary. We hope this new facility will further improve access to the services provided by our practice. National GP Patient Survey Questionnaires Please complete and return your GP Patient Survey if you receive one. Feedback is really important to us. We have been working hard over the last couple of years to improve the service we offer and patient feedback is vital in understanding the progress we have made and which areas we need to focus on. Training Days Please note that the practice will be closed from 1pm on the following dates for staff training: Thursday, April 4; Wednesday, May 22; Thursday, June 20. 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 off-site training. 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

DISTRICT COUNCILLOR REPORT APRIL 2019: COUNCILLOR JOHN HINTON This will be the last time I have the opportunity of addressing you as Dodnash Ward Councillor. After 16 years representing the ward, boundary changes instigated by the Electoral Commission came into effect on 1 March 2019 and ‘Dodnash’ will cease to exist with East Bergholt standing alone and Bentley merging with other parishes to the north to form ‘Copdock and Washbrook’. New wards mean new electoral registers so please check that you are on the new registers so that you can exercise your right to vote. In the meantime, it has been an honour and a privilege to represent Dodnash and to, in some small way, help the residents. Thank you for allowing me to do so for those 16 years. Good luck for the future and don’t forget to check your eligibility to vote and then turn out on May 2. Councillor John Hinton: 01026 298309

To continue with the celebration theme, we will be holding our very popular Traditional Easter Egg Hunt and a Children’s Easter Bonnet Competition on Bank Holiday Monday, April 22. We will again be selling cream teas in the pub and as Easter is later this year we may even get outside while the children are searching the garden for the elusive coloured corks which they can exchange for Easter eggs. These festivities all start at 2pm. Keep an eye on the ‘What’s On’ website page and on the posters for more details. Of course we still have all our usual monthly events and our ever-popular Open Mic Night will be on Tuesday, April 2 with the PA provided. The music starts around 7.30pm. This month’s Quiz Night in will be on Saturday, April 27. A curry supper (booking essential) will be available from 6-8pm. The quiz starts at 8.30pm. Come along and test your wits against this month’s quizmaster. And finally, some months ago we introduced Adnams Ghost Ship Alcohol Free (0.5% ABV) bottled beer. It has proved so popular with our customers and has been in such high demand that we have now installed the keg version. With only around 100 calories per pint it can be enjoyed as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle and is a great choice for designated drivers while still enjoying a good beer. 01473 805575 / www.thecasepubbentley.co.uk www.facebook.com/TheCaseBentley

DEATH CAFÉ The next peninsula Death Café will be on Sunday, May 5 in The Compasses, Main Road, Holbrook. We meet for an hour and a half from 10.30am. We are very grateful to The Compasses for allowing us to use their lounge where we are made very welcome with tea, coffee, fresh scones and muffins. For more information about the Death Café contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777 / jane.gould@btinternet.com

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NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES, MID-SAMFORD WARD: MARCH 2019 BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR SUE CARPENDALE Local Elections You will be aware that we are entering the pre-election period for the local elections. Babergh’s electoral officers are expecting around 1,700 nominations across two districts, which need to be checked and validated. These are for the two district councils, and all the town and parish councils. You don’t have to be a member of a political party to stand for election. Nomination packs with full instructions are available on the electoral commission’s website. The deadline for applications to register to vote is April 12. If you are not registered to vote, you have until then to do so. Individuals can apply online at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote New postal or proxy votes, or changes, must be made by April 15. Poll cards will be sent out from March 25. Postal ballots will be on their way from April 12. Because of the Boundary Review, every ward in Babergh will be different this year. For example, Capel St Mary and East Bergholt will be single-member/ one-councillor wards and only for the village itself. Please vote in these elections. Local councils deliver front-line services, so decisions taken by Babergh affect all of us directly and the parishes do important work at a very local level. Have your say. County Lines Babergh and Mid Suffolk councillors were invited to a briefing from County

Lines officers. Much of what we were told is confidential, but in general terms ‘County Lines’ and the supply of drugs, is effectively a gang of at least three people who have established a drug market in a rural town, with origins to an urban city location. For example, in Suffolk, it is likely to be a gang from London moving into local towns, predominantly Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Lowestoft to transport and sell class A drugs (specifically crack cocaine and heroin). However, at the recent SNT Police Forum in Pinewood, we were told that there have also been problems in some of our villages. If you see more people than might be expected living at the address of a vulnerable person, it might arouse your suspicions. Drug dealers often take over the home, make the victim sell drugs and use the home as a place for others to take drugs. Unusual activity could include: • Regular comings and goings from the address from lots of people not known locally in the area • Anti-social behaviour/activity from a property at night/early morning, with signs of drug usage, i.e. needles discarded • Strange smells coming from the property • Windows covered or curtains closed all the time • Cars pulling up to or near the property for a short period of time You can report your concerns using the normal channels, e.g. phoning 101 or via the police website: www.suffolk.police.uk sue.carpendale@babergh.gov.uk

BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR FENELLA SWAN Exacom Database The councils’ Exacom Database has been awarded an iESE Bronze Award in the Intelligent Council category. The database went live in December and has led to greater transparency and access to information for residents. The database, which gives web-users access to data on developer contributions for development in Babergh and Mid Suffolk going back to 1974, is the first of its kind in the country with Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils recently designated pilot authorities by the software’s developer.

Council Budget The budget was passed at the February meeting of Babergh District Council and comes into effect on April 1 this year and will see Council Tax rise by 3.15 per cent. Councillors made the tough decision to increase Babergh’s part of the Council Tax precept by 3.15 per cent, equivalent to £5 per annum or just 10p a week for a Band D property. The increase was voted through as Babergh’s Revenue Support Grant from central government drops to zero, down from £2.3m in 2015/16.

The iESE is the public sector’s transformation partner and their annual awards, now in their tenth year, recognise outstanding transformation work in the public sector nationally. Babergh and Mid Suffolk last year won Silver iESE Awards in the Working Together category for their work.

However, the council also agreed that young people leaving care will be eligible for a Council Tax discount of up to 100 per cent in order to support some of Babergh’s most vulnerable residents.

Rural Service Network Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council leaders are supporting the demands of the Rural Service Network for central government to recognise the needs of rural communities and develop a rural strategy. The needs of communities in rural areas, which accounts for 17 per cent of the UK population, are different from those in urban areas and are often not considered in central government decision making, in the setting of financial grants or the introduction of policies. The Rural Service Network is the national champion for rural services, ensuring that people in rural areas have a strong voice – fighting for a fairer deal for rural communities to maintain their social and economic viability for the benefit of the nation.

Some key parts of the budget are: • An increase in Council Tax of 3.15 per cent, which will see the largest properties paying £10 more over the course of the year, with the smallest seeing an increase of just £3.33 • A decrease of one per cent in council house rents, equivalent to an average rent reduction of 90p a week • No change to the Sheltered Housing Service Charges • An increase of five per cent in the Sheltered Housing utility charges, an average increase of just 61p per week • No increase in garage rents Babergh’s Council Tax Reduction Scheme remains in place, ensuring that the poorest residents pay just five per cent of their bill. fenella.swan@babergh.gov.uk

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT ARDLEIGH SURGERY

THE TECHNICAL REHEARSAL

It is with great sadness that we announce that Dr Bettle will be retiring on May 28. That will also be his last day of work. He will be sorely missed by both staff and patients. There is a comment book in reception for patients to write in their comment and wishes.

A Comedy by Alan Marshall

We will like to remind patients that if you are running late for an appointment please phone through and inform the surgery. If you are more than 15 minutes late for an appointment the clinician may not be able to see you. From the Waiting Room It was overheard from the waiting room that we have been in the same premises for 40 years and that it’s about time the government relocate us to premises with abundant and accessible parking. We wish this was true, but unfortunately GPs are independent subcontractors to the NHS and therefore have to provide their own premises. Like any other small business we have to make a business plan and as the current climate is supportive of large super practices only we have not been successful. So for now we have to stay where we are. From the Dispensary From the first of February 2019 the Falsified Medicine Directives Law comes into action. This law was brought it to help reduce fraud in NHS medicines management. In practice it means that if you order medications and they are dispensed and placed on the shelf it must be picked up within one week, otherwise it will have to be removed from the shelf and disposed of. In the past we were able to return the items to the stock cupboard and cancel the prescription. So please do pick up your medication once you have ordered it to avoid wastage.

ART EXHIBITION AT MANNINGTREE METHODIST CHURCH Hundreds of pictures and works of art will be on display and for sale at the 47th Art Exhibition in the Manningtree Methodist Church Halls (South Street CO11 1BQ) for four days starting on Good Friday, April 19, 2-5pm, then Easter Saturday, April 20, 10am-5pm, Easter Sunday, April 21, 2-5pm, and Easter Monday, April 22, 10-4pm. Local and regional artists have supported this well known Easter event which is added to by photographic displays, special Easter decorations, stalls, features and refreshments.Further details from 01206 391145/298635.

EAST BERGHOLT CINEMA Friday, April 5: Bohemian Rhapsody (12A) The story of Queen and the band's legendary lead singer, Freddie Mercury. The film won the best film award at the Golden Globes and its star, Rami Malek, puts in a remarkable turn as Mercury. Plenty of music, drama and a celebration of great musicianship. Friday, May 3: Peterloo (12A) In 1819 a cavalry charge on a peaceful protest at St Peter's Field in Manchester resulted in the Peterloo Massacre. Fifteen people were killed by government backed troops and hundreds injured. Never heard of it? You are not alone. Sounds like something that happened in a foreign country? No, it happened here. Director Mike Leigh gives us an epic film of the events of that day with his usual attention to detail and profound humanity. Rory Kinnear and Maxine Peake star. All films start at 8pm. Tickets (£4 / £2 for ages 18 and under) are available at the Fountain House Tearoom in East Bergholt, on the door or phone 01206 299774 to reserve tickets. Bar open with ice creams at the interval. www.eastbergholtcinema.co.uk

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Traditionally the technical rehearsal is the last chance for the cast to practise all their moves on a completely constructed set with spectacular lights and sounds, wearing stunning costumes before they have to perform at the dreaded dress rehearsal. That’s the theory – in practice it’s frequently, if not always, a complete disaster. For this hapless group, things really couldn’t get worse. They have a set builder who can’t tell his left from his right, a hypochondriac Cinderella, a philandering Ugly Sister, a vengeful wife and a juvenile lead with a mid-life crisis. This play is a hilarious fly-on-the-wall experience for the audience. It will be performed at the Constable Hall in East Bergholt by the East Bergholt Dramatic Society from Thursday 11 to Saturday, April 13. Tickets are £7 in advance from 01473 311553 or 07803 475750 or from The Fountain House Tearoom East Bergholt (£8 on the door if any left).

FRIENDS OF CAPEL LIBRARY It was great to see so many children attending our Build a Bird Box event. A big thank you to Ipswich Wildlife Group who provided all the materials, tools and assistance. We have received some great feedback and are already planning to organise another event, possibly featuring hedgehogs, either in the autumn or early next year. Now that the evenings are getting lighter and the days milder, it’s a good time to start sorting out the garden. If you are looking for inspiration, the library has a good selection of books which may help. And why not take a leaf out of the children’s efforts and make your gardens wildlife friendly by planting butterfly and bee friendly plants and providing habitats that will attract hedgehogs and other wildlife. Our Tuesday computer classes are going well with lots of new people attending. If you want help or are just starting out, why not book one of the free sessions? If you just want to use a computer, you can book a slot in the library, or we have two iPads which are available to borrow for up to three weeks at a time. I’m really looking forward to reliving memories of Live Aid when we screen Bohemian Rhapsody on Tuesday, April 16 at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm). Tickets are on sale at the library, but we expect this to be a sell-out so get your tickets early. The film is a celebration of Queen, their music and their extraordinary lead singer Freddie Mercury. I haven’t seen it yet, but know lots of people that have and without exception they all say it’s not to be missed, so come along and join us for a foot stomping evening! Trevor Stevenson / friendsofcapellibrary@gmail.com

STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB Brian Wills presented a lecture of particular local interest on Wednesday, March 6 when he spoke about Constable and his Paintings, and we held our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, March 20. On April 3 Chris Parfitt will introduce us to Bhutan, Land of The Thunder Dragon and David Ablewhite will return to present The Horrible Hanoverians on April 17. On May 1 Francis Boardman will present Son of a Gun – Woman in Nelson’s Navy and on May 15 Bill Roberts will recall Memoirs of An Armed Protection Officer. 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

OUT & ABOUT CAPEL LIBRARY April sees warmer days making it easier to get out and about. The library offers books on walking, both from the online catalogue (www.suffolklibraries. co.uk) and free material where you can join in with a group, namely Stepping Out in Suffolk and Suffolk Walking Festival which is coming up in May and June. Capel offers us some shorter walks around the area and there are many good walks up and down the Suffolk coast with nice pubs en-route. There’s no need to be stuck indoors on a nice day! GROUPS MEETING THIS MONTH BabyBounce: Tuesdays, April 2, 23 and 30. We take a break for the school Easter holiday. The free sessions for under-fives start at 2pm. Come and join in with singing, shaking instruments and finger rhyme fun. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Capel Creators: Saturday, April 27, 10.30am to 12.30pm for children of any age. Come along and get your creative building juices flowing. £1 charge includes a drink and a biscuit. Children under eight must be accompanied by an adult. Capel Library Book Group: No meeting in April as the date clashes with Good Friday when the library will be closed. Easter Closing: Please note that the library will be closed on both Good Friday and Easter Sunday, April 19 and 21, and open as normal on Saturday, April 20. You may post any books for return in the letterbox. We have a selection of donated books for sale which are perfect for taking on holiday. We also sell book tokens and books of first and second class stamps. Thank you from Jenny Thanks to those who turned out to wish me well in my retirement, it has been a pleasure serving the community. We have an excellent library service in Suffolk and need you to keep visiting on a regular basis to read all that it has to offer.

ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, April 13, 9am-12.30pm. Visit all your favourite market stalls selling 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. New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777

WEDNESDAY BRIDGE GROUP If you know the basics of Bridge and would like to play regularly in a social environment, why not join our Wednesday evening Bridge group? We meet at Lambe School in East Bergholt at 7.30pm each Wednesday. A regular partner is not essential as we ensure everyone who turns up gets a partner for the evening. If you would like to know more please contact Nigel Clover on 01206 323422

THE DEBBIE MILLAR SCHOOL OF DANCE

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 Contact: 01473 311699

MANNINGTREE POETRY GROUP The next meeting of Poetry Plus will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, April 9 at the Red Lion, South Street, Manningtree.

The Debbie Millar School of Dance is once again presenting its annual show at the West Cliff Theatre in Clacton on Sea.

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.

This year’s show from the Lawford based dance school is entitled A Visit to the Musicals and, as the name suggests, features dance routines from a wide range of popular musicals from both stage and screen.

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

DEDHAM FOOTPATH GROUP

Students from 18 months old to 18 years will perform dances from a number of genre including classical ballet, tap, jazz, modern and disco freestyle with a touch of musical theatre as well. The adult classes will also be making their contribution.

Enjoy walking, meeting new people? Then why not come along to walks organised by the Dedham Footpath Group.

As in previous years, the Debbie Millar School of Dance likes to support local charities out of the show proceeds with recent recipients including the East Anglian Children’s Hospice, the Children’s Ward at Colchester General Hospital and the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance.

We walk four to five miles on the first Sunday morning of each month from various locations. Our April walk will be on Sunday, April 7 at 10.30am. Meet at the free public car park on the A137 immediately opposite Ardleigh Church.

This year the chosen charity is Ipswich based Fresh Starts – New Beginnings which was set up to provide a therapeutic service for children and young people up to 21 years who have reported being sexually abused and to offer support for their families.

The group welcomes all walkers and those with well-behaved dogs, kept on leads at all times, are welcome to join us. For more information email: DedhamFG@gmail.com

There are two performances of the show, Saturday, May 4 at 6pm and Sunday, May 5 at 2.30pm. Tickets available from the Box Office on 01255 433344 or via: www.westcliffclacton.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT MANNINGTREE & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY On February 14 we had a very informative talk by Kenneth Payne on Photoshop Lightroom. Even those of us who don’t do much post image processing were able to take something from this. Our talk on February 28 was on underwater and other wildlife photography and was wonderfully illustrated with images ranging from close encounters with sharks to macro images of coral reef life and sea horses, a fantastic insight into a whole other world. There was no competition in February but our Facebook challenge subject was Wood and the winning image by Tim Stott is pictured. FUTURE MEETINGS In April we have a talk entitled A Hole in my Bag by Don Thompson, and a competition on April 25 in which members are asked to show three images of the same subject. We are also taking part in the East Ipswich Camera Club Granville Foulger Trophy on April 16. Meetings are held twice monthly on Thursday evenings (second and fourth of the month) at 7.30pm at the St Johns Ambulance Centre, Station Road, Manningtree CO11 1EB. A number of informal ‘Rookie Club’ evenings are also arranged where members can refresh their skills and share experiences. New members are welcome to join us or may attend initially as visitors. Please contact our secretary for details: madps@post.com / 01206 393751 www.manningtreeanddistrictphotographicsociety.co.uk

STOUR VALLEY U3A On April 10 Mark Mitchels will talk to us on The Genius of Charles Dickens. Dickens rose to become a great novelist by sheer talent and determination. He worked a self-imposed schedule that never relaxed and in the end he probably brought about his early death. But the novels survive to be rediscovered by each generation. What sort of man was he? His genius is astonishing and this talk uses biography and extracts from his books to re-create the man and his achievements. Our speaker on May 8 is Dr Helen Geake, National Finds Adviser, Portable Antiquities Scheme. She will talk about local finds recorded by PAS and explain what to do if you find an historic artefact while gardening, beachcombing or walking the dog. This talk look at how archaeologists reconstruct items and will include details of local finds. 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, April 26. 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. 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.

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BRANTHAM GIRL GUIDING & SCOUTING UNITS Over the last couple of months a fantastic range of activities has been undertaken by the various Brantham Girl Guiding & Scouting Units. The Rainbows have been celebrating festivals from other cultures, including Burns Night, Australia Day, Chinese New Year, Saint David’s Day, St Patrick’s Day and the Holi Hindu Festival when they will try their hand at Mehindi. Some of the Rainbows also took part in an exclusive Girlguiding cinema screening of Mary Poppins Returns where hundreds of Girlguiding members took over several screens. The Rainbows meet on Monday evenings during term time and are running at full capacity until after Easter 2020. However, it’s never too early to get your daughter on the waiting list which you can do at: https://go.girlguiding.org.uk/join-us/join-as-member The Beaver Scouts have been busy learning about different cultures and learning the Green Cross Code which they put this into practice during a walk in the dark through Lawford. They have also been busy taking part in YouShape month and have earned their YouShape badges. As part of the Scouts YouShape programme they got to chose some of their activities and enjoyed a guided tour of Ipswich Town Football Club and swimming at Crown Pools. Over the coming months there will be a visit from the RNLI and the annual Easter Egg Hunt. Girls or boys can join Beavers from age six to eight, but there is also a waiting list so register your child’s name as early as possible. Meetings take place on Monday evenings at the Scout Hut in Factory Lane from 5.45-6.45pm. For further details please contact Lin Dally: 01255 871059 The Cub Scouts have been enjoying a fantastic range of activities too, completing their gardener badge and learning about healthy eating and the importance of keeping fit. The Cubs have also had an opportunity to gain a broader understanding of different cultures and recently visited a Gurdwara. Other activities have included box fort building, fire lighting and cooking, taking part in a panto sleepover and an evening of tobogganing. During the recent half term holidays the Scouts held a fundraising event with a difference – caving in Brantham! The Scout & Guide Group hut hosted a network of tunnels all built from cardboard boxes and children were invited to navigate their way through. Money raised from the event is being put towards Project 2000 to raise funds for a new headquarters for the group. The current hut was built in 1948 as a temporary base and is in urgent need of replacing. A huge amount of effort has gone into this endeavour and a staggering £20,000 has been raised to date.

STOUR VALLEY LADIES PROBUS CLUB Stour Valley Ladies Probus Club meets at The Haywain, Bentley Road, Little Bromley at 10am on the first and third Thursday in each month. The first meeting in the month includes lunch and the second is a coffee morning. At each meeting there is a general interest speaker. The aim of our club is to encourage interest and fellowship among our members, all of whom are retired and have a lively and informed outlook on life. New members are welcome and anyone interested in attending a coffee morning should contact our president, Jill Nicholls: 01206 393680

OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS ROTARY CLUB OF MANNINGTREE STOUR VALLEY SPRING JUMBLE SALE

The Rotary Club of Manningtree Stour Valley entertained a packed hall in Lawford on Saturday, March 9 with a radio style murder mystery play.

Clear the Clutter – Bag a Bargain!

Written by Rotarian John Cox, The Naked Gardener was performed with a cast of nine Rotarians to raise funds for the eradication of Polio worldwide. The evening included a fish and chip supper and raised £1,150 which will be multiplied by the Bill Gates Foundation into a total of £3,450 for Polio eradication. The club is now receiving bookings in the area for repeat performances.

Saturday, April 6 from 2pm at Bentley Village Hall If you have anything you wish to donate, please bring it along to the hall from 9am on the day or telephone Pam (01473 310283) or Aimée (01473 311311) who will arrange to collect it from you. If you would like to come to our sale, the hall will be open from 2pm with tea and coffee available. We look forward to seeing you and thank you for your support.

BENTLEY & COPDOCK PRIMARY SCHOOLS Spring has sprung and the warmer weather has revitalised us all. There has been a great deal going on across the schools, not least of which was a novel take on World Book Day. Instead of children and staff dressing up this year, we challenged the children to dress a potato up as their favourite book characters! Some of the results were hilarious, but all were well thought out and well presented. Congratulations to our teams of Year 5 and 6 pupils who went along to the Spelling Bee competition at East Bergholt High School. They faced fierce competition from other schools in the area and did exceedingly well. Red Nose Day was a great deal of fun again this year. The children came to school dressed in red and took part in sponsored activities to raise money for this wonderful charity. Anyone watching the outrageously comical three legged race the Hedgehogs class organised, couldn’t help but join in the laughter that accompanied it. We are looking forward to a number of events in the coming month, including the Schools Farm and Country Fair at Trinity Park for which we were fortunate enough to get places. Pupils from Years 4, 5 and 6 are excited about running in this year’s big cross country competition at the Royal Hospital School and everyone is eagerly anticipating our annual Easter Bonnet parades and the inevitable plethora of chocolate that accompanies Easter celebrations! The federation is looking for governors to join our hardworking, dedicated team. In particular we are looking for members of the community with HR/personnel and or finance/ business management expertise. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact either school. As ever, if you would like to volunteer in either of our schools, or if you are a parent who would like the opportunity to come and have a look round, please do contact us: Bentley: 01473 310253 / admin@bentley.suffolk.sch.uk Copdock: 01473 730337 / admin@copdock.suffolk.sch.uk

VILLAGE LINK Mark Reynolds will present a talk entitled My life as a Live Drawing Cartoonist Comedy Impressionist when we meet at 10am on April 10 in Tattingstone Village Hall. The club aims are 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 any former members and to see new members from all local villages at our meetings, either as visitors or members. Chairman Linda Evans: 01473 311262

ROBIN’S NEWS Baby Bears The Baby Bears have been appreciating the slightly warmer weather and over the last few weeks we have reintroduced our outdoor sleeping environment. The Bears fall asleep peacefully listening to the wind in the trees, the chatter of the older children, the birds, or sometimes the sound of rain on the roof. They will have lovely long sleeps outside in the cots and wake up content to look around at their surroundings, feeling refreshed. Toddling Tigers During the holidays our Tigers and Gruffalos share a room and they have so much fun being together, paying hide and seek, running on the field and helping each other to complete various tasks. The younger Tigers look up to the Gruffalos and the Gruffalos love showing and sharing with the Tigers to help them progress. On World Book Day it was fabulous to see so many Tigers dressed as our favourite characters and each day of the week we focused on a different book. We even had a tea party for The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Gruffalos March has been a busy month for the Gruffalos. As well as celebrating Shrove Tuesday with pancakes on the campfire at Forest School, we have participated in World Book Day, showing off our wonderful costumes and outfits. We have also thought about our mums and important people to us as we prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day. One thing that really stuck out this March was just how competent the Gruffalos are getting at using tools. Not only do they use scissors and knives daily, they also use hammers, saws and drills at Forest School. This, of course, is a process put in place with a lot of careful thought and planning and when the children are ready to expand their skills. The children are shown how to keep themselves safe and given a small amount of responsibility for this. If we just take over and don’t allow children the opportunity to try (with very close supervision and support) they will not learn how to manage their own risks. A child who holds a hammer with an adult holding it and controlling it doesn’t learn that if you bang it hard near your fingers it can hurt! It’s so important for children to learn how to manage risks so that they are equipped to cope with the big wide world as they get older. Taking risks within a safe and supportive environment with knowledgeable adults builds confidence, boosts self-esteem and creates a ‘can do’ attitude, all important skills to help prepare for school and life in general. If you are interested in our nursery or pre-school please contact us at: 01473 310767 / info@robinschildcare.co.uk

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HOW LONG IS A PIECE OF STRING? When meeting new clients and taking on claims for personal injury, one of the first questions that we are often asked as personal injury practitioners is “how long will my case take to settle?” Unfortunately, this is a difficult question to answer. It tends to be case specific and is dependent upon a number of factors: • What further evidence is required before we can submit a claim for personal injury and loss on your behalf to the person who we deem to be at fault. • Whether responsibility for your accident or illness is accepted at an early stage by the person at fault or whether further evidence is required before a decision can be made as to whether the claim can be pursued. • What the extent of your injuries are. • Whether you require further treatment to assist in your recovery. If this is the case then it depends on when we are able to obtain a final medical report detailing the extent of your injuries and loss. • What further evidence we will then need to calculate the financial losses that flow from the injuries or illness that you have suffered, and when we can obtain the information required. Once the above information has been gathered, then your case can either proceed to a settlement, normally by way of negotiation with the person at fault (or more likely their insurer.) Or if fault has not been admitted and we are still of the view that the case should be brought against the person who we deem to be at fault, then at a court hearing. Fortunately, the vast majority of cases are settled without proceeding to court, but the process can take a matter of months or longer depending on the circumstances of the specific case. It is worth remembering that as personal injury practitioners, we are here to guide you through the personal injury claims process, and to assist you through to the conclusion of your claim as quickly as possible. This includes obtaining appropriate treatment for you where necessary to aid your recovery. If you would like any advice or assistance arising out of an accident or incident and would like to pursue a personal injury claim, please contact our Louise Plant: 01473 232121 / lplant@prettys.co.uk

A warm welcome guaranteed Bentley Road, Little Bromley, CO11 2PL www.thehaywain.co.uk | 01206 390004

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Our experienced personal injury lawyers handle accident claims arising out of incidents at work, home, on the roads, on holiday or in a public place in the UK or abroad. You will receive professional dedicated support throughout every part of your claim to help you recover the damages that you deserve.

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01473 232121 enquiry@prettys.co.uk

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SPORT EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FC After suffering defeat in the first game of February, the 1st Team scored emphatic victories over two teams below them in the league to move to a solid mid-table position, giving optimism that they can finish the season in style. The Reserves won all three games in February to move up to seventh in League A, but they are still some way off the top two. One draw and one defeat in February did not improve the A team’s position, but a victory over high flying Kesgrave in the first game in March put them right back in the mix. The team are now only three points behind the second placed team, with games in hand. UPCOMING FIXTURES 1st Team Senior Division Sat, April 6: Capel Plough (A) Sat, April 20: Coplestonians (H) Sat, April 27: Claydon (A) Reserves League A Sat, Mar 30: Mendlesham Res (H) Sat, April 6: Achilles Res (A) Sat, April 13: Old Newton Res (A) Sat, April 27: Trimley Red Devils (A) A Team League C Sat, April 13: Framlingham Town A (A) To confirm visit: http://fulltime.thefa.com/Index.do?league=4358069 Sponsorship We will be looking for new kits for all three teams for next season. This is a great opportunity to support a local organisation and publicise your venture. There are a number of options available and anyone interested is invited to make contact with the secretary in the first instance.

CAPEL PLOUGH FOOTBALL CLUB Several seasons ago the club started a team for players over the ripe old age of 35 years, known as the Veterans. They play their games on Sunday afternoons every three weeks or so. Our Veteran squad consists of players who are not fit enough to play in the competitive Saturday leagues, but aren’t quite ready to take up the game of bowls! Recent results saw the team move up to second place in their league after beating Old Times 3-2 before reaching the semi-final of the Suffolk County Cup after a 4-3 victory over Hoxne thanks to goals from Wayne Pannell, Ross Dorward and a brace from midfield general Patrick Tynan. Our Sunday morning side lost 3-2 to Great Blakenham with Charlie Read scoring both goals, before winning 4-0 against Felixstowe Rangers Reserves thanks to goals from Joe Bigmore, Dan Pasque and a brace for Stirling Mayes. Bigmore has been playing well in midfield while Kieran Tynan has put in some solid performances at centre back. Our young Saturday Reserve side drew 0-0 with Kirton Reserves before beating Kesgrave Reserves 4-3 which included a brace of goals from Charlie Read, then beat Wickham Market 2-1 thanks to a well taken goal from Harry Taylor and an own goal. Bill Butcher has done well in defence alongside Oliver Miller with Harry Golding putting in some good performances in midfield. Finally, not a good February for our Saturday 1st Team who lost three consecutive games against Claydon (5-0), Bourne Vale United (3-2) and Achilles (2-1). Skipper Shaun Webb is the leading scorer with 12 goals with the side now in eighth place in the senior league with five games left to play. BOB THE PLOUGHMAN

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. If you are interested please contact David George at: davidgeorge5000@hotmail.com Events It is anticipated that the darts tournament will become a regular event and will be open to all, so darts players, keep an eye for the next event. Secretary Steve Butcher: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

EAST BERGHOLT BOWLS CLUB The carpet bowls team is still in with a good chance of promotion, with only a few points between the second and fourth clubs. Currently we are fourth. The Club Singles was won by Vic Saunders who defeated Peter Dent in the final and the Club Pairs was won by David Jermyn and Robbie Goodchild, who defeated Val Ayton and Mick Lomax in the final. Outdoor bowls starts again on April 13 with the annual President v Chairman team competition. If you would like to try your hand at lawn bowling, please come along on a Sunday morning or Tuesday afternoon. Bowls provided, just wear a pair of fairly flat shoes. Recent social events included a quizingo evening at the snooker club which involved a quiz set by Vic Saunders and a bingo session called by Gary Jarvis. It was a very enjoyable evening with a donation to Macmillan Nurses. Another fish and chip night takes place in April. Melvyn Powell: melpowell46@gmail.com

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS MISTLEY CRICKET CLUB Men’s Cricket & Ladies Cricket Pre-season nets got under way for both juniors and seniors. This is an important aspect of preparation for the new season. Coming Up Our winter training continues as follows. • Juniors at Manningtree Sports Centre, 7.30-8.30pm • Seniors at Royal Hospital School, 8-15-9.30pm For more information contact us. We hope the weather will be kind when we move outdoors. The new season starts in earnest on Easter Saturday and we are looking forward to an enjoyable summer.. UPCOMING FIXTURES SATURDAY CRICKET 1st Team / Two Counties Div 1 Sat, Apr 20: Witham (A) Sat, Apr 27: Coggeshall (H) 2nd Team / Two Counties Div 3 Sat, Apr 20: Abberton (H) Sat, Apr 27: Long Melford (A) 3rd Team / Two Counties Div 9 East Sat, Apr 27: Copdock & OIs III (H) SUNDAY AND MIDWEEK CRICKET Two Counties Sunday League Sun, Apr 21: Abberton (H) Sun, Apr 28: Ardleigh (A)

BENEFICE OF EAST BERGHOLT AND BRANTHAM Rector: The Rev Canon Stephne van der Toorn 01206 392646 / revstephvdt@googlemail.com www.constablecountrychurches.co.uk RAMBLING RECTOR As I type, parliament is painfully working its way through a series of convoluted votes on Brekfist. I have been trying to follow it all but have often been sorely tempted to lie down in a darkened room with a cold cloth on my forehead. Jolyon wants bacon, Julia wants mushrooms and bacon, and Judy is allergic to both bacon and mushrooms so is demanding fries instead. All they seem to be able to agree on is that the coffee needs to be black and strong, though Jude is having second thoughts about that and hesitating between red bush tea and a whisky and soda. And dear old Jack is refusing to even sit down at the table. I wonder what Jesus thinks of it all? Somehow, I don’t imagine that he minds which Brekfist we have, provided that we love one another, work for justice, seek truth and continue to look after the widow, the orphan and the stranger amongst us. The disciples had their fair share of disagreements. Who should have the best seat? Who is the most important? You don’t know what you are doing! Do it another Way. My way. May God help us all this Easter. Rev Steph SERVICES IN APRIL Wednesday 3 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt

January 2019 100 Club Winners 1: Graeme Butcher (79) £115 2: Tim Hills (33) £55 3: John Stuck (20) £50

Sunday 7: Fifth Sunday of Lent 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am Benefice Communion, East Bergholt 4pm Family@Church, East Bergholt

New players are always welcome. For more information please email: mistleycc@btinternet.com

Sunday 14: Palm Sunday 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt No 10am Service at East Bergholt 11am Informal Service, Brantham 3pm Musical Meditation, East Bergholt

LAWFORD FOOTBALL CLUB This year marks the 70th anniversary of Lawford Lads and the 40th anniversary of Lawford Junior. The two clubs came together in 2015 to form one club, Lawford FC. Can you help us celebrate? We are hoping to build a pictorial history of the club over the decades to mark these anniversaries. Do you have any photographs, perhaps in family albums or tucked away in a box somewhere that could play a part in telling the history of the club? We are looking for images from both the near and more distant past to use on our website and newsletter. Any images you lend will be returned within a few days and if you know of others who might be able to help please pass on the message. Please contact the club by email: lawfordfc@gmail.com

A MEDITATION IN WORDS AND MUSIC TO MARK HOLY WEEK St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt Palm Sunday, April 14 at 3pm The Passion according to St Matthew and music by various composers including Bach/Gounod, Rossini/Jenkins and Wilby/Malotte

Wednesday 17 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt Thursday 18: Maundy Thursday 7.30pm Informal Re-enactment of the Last Supper, Brantham Friday 19: Good Friday 10am Family Service, Brantham 2pm At the Cross, East Bergholt Saturday 20: Easter Saturday 7.30pm Easter Vigil and lighting of the fire, Brantham Sunday 21: Easter Day 8am BCP Easter Communion, East Bergholt 10am Easter Communion, East Bergholt 11am Easter Communion, Brantham Sunday 28: Second Sunday of Easter 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 11am Benefice Communion, Brantham Wednesday, May 1 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt Sunday, May 5: Third Sunday of Easter 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am Benefice Communion, East Bergholt 4pm Family@Church, East Bergholt There is a BCP Communion every Sunday in East Bergholt at 8am. Choral Matins is on the fourth Sunday in East Bergholt.

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CHURCH NEWS BRANTHAM & CAPEL METHODIST CHURCHES PLANNING FOR – PART 2 Last month I shared a little of my lifestory, which included planning for retirement. Thank you for a number of encouraging comments I have received. My current invitation to serve the churches in this area is until August 2020, but I am hoping that might be extended when the review of my appointment comes up this summer. So although I am planning for retirement it might be another three-and-a-half years away so I still have some more monthly articles to write!

I commit to making sure it is written down, and I will update at regular intervals during my retirement as new songs become inspirational. I am happy to sit down with individuals and families (whether you go to church or not) to talk through the options available to you and make a long term plan for your life. Forty years ago, before I went to work in Zimbabwe, my mission organisation insisted that I wrote a will and make a plan if for some reason I didn’t come home. It’s never too early to make plans, but we can leave it too late and never do it!

I seem to have had a run of funerals to officiate at recently. It is a privilege to come alongside families when a loved one is dying or has already died. The circumstances of the death, the faith of the deceased and the family relationships are all very different. There are some families where the deceased has made very clear requests about their funeral arrangements. Sometimes this is a formal funeral plan, which has been paid for in advance and the funeral company keeps details on file. Others are where the person has chosen the songs, hymns, music and readings, place and method and left the details with the family. It is even better when they have talked it through with their family so that it doesn’t come as a shock.

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

It is good to plan for your funeral. It takes away the uncertainty for relatives that they are doing what you wanted. There are so many uncertainties in life, but one thing is certain, we will all die (unless the Lord returns first) so why not plan what you want. And why not make a commitment to Jesus and invite him to make that difference in your life now and for the future. That’s not just planning for the short term, but for an eternity. For those who are Christian, the funeral service is a celebration of their lives and affirmation that although the deceased was never perfect, he/she is with the Lord in heaven. I cannot tell you what heaven is like, beyond saying it is a place of peace, beauty and love – it is where Jesus is. Jesus was raised from death and we will be celebrating that fact in churches on Easter Sunday, April 21. Funeral services where the future hope is proclaimed give strength and hope to the grieving relatives. At a funeral I conducted we believe the deceased made a commitment to the Lord shortly before he died and so the funeral service affirmed he was with Jesus. I must do as I preach. I have sometime said in services, ‘that’s a hymn I want at my funeral’, but I haven’t written them all down. By the time this is printed

AT BRANTHAM METHODIST The Rev Ian Gardner, Minister at Brantham Methodist Church 34 Medway Road, Ipswich IP3 0QH ian.gardner@methodist.org.uk / 01473 411507 Sunday 7

11am

Worship and Communion with Rev Ian Gardner

Sunday 14

11am

Palm Sunday Worship with Mrs Maggie Finbow

Sunday 21

10.30am Easter Sunday Worship with Mr Martin Ellis

Sunday 28

11pm

Worship with Mrs Carole Almond

AT CAPEL METHODIST Home Groups on various days and times – contact the Minister Sunday 7

10.30am Worship with Mr Andy Jelfs 6.30pm Prayer

Sunday 14

10.30am Palm Sunday Worship with Mr Simon Mattholie

Friday 19 9.30am Good Friday March of Witness from Capel Community Church

11am

Good Friday Service

Sunday 21 10.30am Easter Sunday Worship & Communion with Rev Sankey Saturday 27 3.30pm Messy Church Sunday 28

10.30am Worship with Mr John Gillett 7.30pm United Prayer

DEDHAM AND ARDLEIGH PARISHES Services and Events for APRIL Sunday, April 7 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Dedham 9.30am Morning Praise, Dedham 11am Morning Prayer & Baptism (CW), Ardleigh 5pm Evensong, Dedham Palm Sunday, April 14 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Ardleigh 9.30am Rise ‘n’ Shine, Dedham Maundy Thursday, April 18 6pm Maundy Thursday Meal / Communion, Ardleigh Good Friday, April 19 10am Good Friday Get-Together, Ardleigh 11am Stations of the Cross Walk, Dedham 2pm Good Friday Meditation, Dedham Easter Saturday, April 20 8pm Service of Tenebrae, Dedham Easter Sunday, April 21 8am Holy Communion, Dedham 9.30am Holy Communion, Dedham 11am Parish Eucharist, Ardleigh Sunday, April 28 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Ardleigh

9.30am Morning Praise followed by APCM, Dedham 5pm Revive@5, Dedham Sunday, May 5 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Dedham 9.30am Rise ’n’ Shine, Dedham 11am Morning Prayer (CW), Ardleigh 5pm Evensong, Dedham BCP – Book of Common Prayer / CW – Common Worship Weekly Midweek Services Monday 15 to Thursday 18 April: Morning Prayer & 6pm Evening Prayer Rest of Month: Tuesday Morning Prayer at Dedham at 10.30am & Thursday Evening Prayer at Ardleigh at 5pm Dedham Lunch Club: Monday, April 1, 12.30pm at Essex Rose Tea Rooms, Dedham Men’s Breakfast: Saturday, April 12, 9am at The Vicarage Ardleigh Friendship Group: Tuesdays, April 9 & 23, 10am-noon at Ardleigh Church Annual Parochial Church Meetings: Saturday, April 17, 10.30am at Ardleigh & Sunday, April 29, 11am at Dedham www.dedham-and-ardleigh-parishes.org.uk

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CHURCH NEWS

HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB Parish Priest: Fr Peter Raj 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ / 01473 684963 www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR APRIL Sunday 7 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 9 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 14 Palm Sunday of The Passion of The Lord 9am Mass Tuesday 16 Tuesday of Holy Week 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass Thursday 18 Maundy Thursday 7.30pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St Mark’s, Ipswich Friday 19 3pm

Good Friday Solemn Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion at St Mark’s, Ipswich

Saturday 20 Holy Saturday 8.30pm Easter Vigil & First Mass of Easter at St Mark’s, Ipswich Sunday 2 9am 11am

Easter Sunday Mass at Holy Family Mass at St Mark’s, Ipswich

Tuesday 23 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 28 2nd Sunday of Easter 9am Mass Tuesday 30 St George Patron of England 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass The weekly newsletter, with weekly mass times, is always displayed in the cabinet by the front door. Catholic Commentary In a recent homily the Pope preached: “Blessed is the word with which Jesus begins his preaching in St Matthew’s Gospel. And it is the refrain

he repeats, as if to fix in our hearts, more than anything, an essential message: if you are with Jesus, if you love to listen to his word as the disciples of that time did, if you try to live out this word every day, then you are blessed. Not you will be blessed, but you are blessed; this is the first truth we know about the Christian life. It is not simply a list of external prescriptions to fulfil or a set of teachings to know. The Christian life, first and foremost, is not this; rather, it is the knowledge that, in Jesus, we are the Father’s beloved children. The Christian life means living out the joy of this blessedness, wanting to live life as a love story, the story of God’s faithful love, he who never abandons us and wishes to be in communion with us always. This is the reason for our joy, a joy that no one in the world and no circumstance in our lives can take from us. It is a joy that gives peace also in the midst of pain, a joy that already makes us participate in that eternal happiness which awaits us.” Events & Diary Dates The 100 Club draw took place on Sunday, March 24 at Holy Family when three lucky winners shared a £159 prize pot. The next draw takes place on Sunday, April 28. 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 online at: www.stmarksparish.org.uk Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv & Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am to noon. We are raising funds for a new carpet for the parish room and all are very welcome to join us. The next event will be on Thursday, April 25. 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. The Sick & Homebound Fr Jeremiah Matthias is the Ipswich Hospital Chaplain and he can be contacted on 07951 066607. Please let him know as soon as possible if a friend or relative has been admitted. Please let Fr Peter know of anyone who is ill at home or homebound, so that they can receive appropriate pastoral care. All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services; it’s 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.

In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS LINK LINE CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES “For the truth of God’s Word and the Light of the Gospel” Un-denominational/meeting at Ogilvie Hall, Wignall Street, Lawford CO11 2JE (unless otherwise stated) Our Worship Services are held on the second Saturday monthly (except in May when it’s the first Saturday) in addition to other events. Saturday, April 13 From 9.30am: Cafe/Oasis Coffee Morning & Sales Event 11.15: Praise & Worship Service & Ministries Up-date Transport is available from Colchester & Manningtree District Thursday, April 18: Community Support, Great Horkesley Friendship Club Friday, April 19: Annual Good Friday Assembly at the Ogilvie Hall 2.15pm: Praise & Thanksgiving Service followed by Fellowship Tea

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Saturday, April 21: Christian Supportive Outreach 3pm: Songs of Praise at Fingringhoe Methodist Chapel Wednesday, April 24: Link Line Fellowship Tours Programme Visit to Beth Chatto Gardens. To book call 07812 582754. Ministries News We continue to extend news of our ministries over a wide area, and maintain a programme of hospital and care home visitation. Our Church & Home Christian Resources Unit has also been a means of support to groups and fellowships within the area. This ministry is freely available and we welcome your enquiries. Our new All-Age Community Outreach Meeting Point offers warm fellowship, new friends, news updates, coffee, chat, information, prayer and praise on the third Friday each month at the Venture Centre, Bromley Road, Lawford from 10am to noon. Free transport is available for all our services and activities. Services, news and prayer support: 01206 272064 Special Pastoral Measures (inc. hospital transport/visits): 01206 272064 Mini Bus Fellowship Tours: 07812 582754 Group Catering Services: 07812 582754 Soldiers & Airmen’s Scripture Readers Association: 01255 504050

KEY TO LOVE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Where Jesus is Love and Love is Jesus COME AND WORSHIP THE LORD JESUS WITH US – ALL ARE WELCOME Hear the teaching of our saviour and King, lively praise and worship every Sunday at 11am at the Ivell Suite at The Venture Centre 2000, Bromley Road, Lawford CO11 1AH. Do you need someone to listen or in need of prayer? Please contact David and Rosie: 01206 615228 / 07787 572977 info@thekeytoloveministries.co.uk www.keytoloveministries.com

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SCHOOL BAND & BIG BAND CONCERT SATURDAY 11 MAY

7.30PM, ASSEMBLY HALL

Full: £10 | Conc: £7 | U18: FREE Available from experiencetickets.co.uk/rhsmusic 01206 573948 ASSEMBLY HALL, ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL, HOLBROOK, IP9 2RX Sponsored by the Royal Hospital School Association