In Touch
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with Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit Volume 3 • Issue No. 10 • JANUARY 2020
Fabulous Frosty Mornings by Sheila Sawers
Traditional Acupuncture Nutrition Counselling, CBT and EMDR Sports and Remedial Massage Hypnotherapy Reflexology and Holistic Therapies
feel good in 2020... Because your health matters 01359 408 011
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I am utterly addicted to and obsessed by Leonard Cohen, so you can imagine how excited I was to discover a new album was to be released three years after his death. Thanks for the Dance has been arranged by Leonard’s son Adam and features various collaborators and previously unheard material. Every line is a masterpiece, all the more poignant because it was written and recorded when he was “Waiting for the miracle to come”. Death and dying have always been key themes of his work, but is it fair to refer to the man who said “The older I get, the surer I am that I’m not running the show” as ‘the grandfather of gloom’? I go to one or other of his albums for inspiration, comfort, reassurance, hope and even humour. Tonight Will Be Fine always makes me smile: Sometimes I find I get to thinking of the past. We swore to each other then that our love would surely last. You kept right on loving, I went on a fast, Now I am too thin and your love is too vast. And the ultimate love song must surely be If I Didn’t Have Your Love: If the sun would lose its light And we lived an endless night And there was nothing left That you could feel That’s how it would be My life would seem to me If I didn’t have your love To make it real I can’t imagine a world without music (it doesn’t have to be Leonard Cohen all the time), but for others it might be art or theatre, movies or even long walks in the countryside which provide the indefinable something which makes life better. Whatever it may be, I hope you find time and space to indulge in it this year. Maybe we can help you find it if you haven’t already! And when you’re having a bad day… “Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act.” Leonard Cohen
NEWS GOOD NEWS FOR WOOLPIT ARC We have been celebrating the result of our recent Ofsted visit as we held onto our ‘GOOD’ status even though we were tested under the new Ofsted Education Inspection Framework which only began in September. The inspector commented: ‘teaching is consistently good and some is outstanding’. We are proud to provide excellent and nurturing childcare services for children aged two to 11 years. We truly believe that every child is an individual and will have their own unique approach to learning, which we strive to enhance and develop. Our aim is to offer a healthy, safe and supportive learning environment where every child feels valued as part of, and able to contribute positively to, the Arc and the wider community in which they live. We take pride in preparing our pre-school children for any school, whether that’s in Woolpit or elsewhere. In September 2019 we supported children’s transition to primary schools in Woolpit, Rattlesden, Rougham and Bury St Edmunds. We offer regular funded hours (up to 15 a week) for all three and four year olds the term after they turn three. We also offer extended funded hours (up to a total of 30 a week) for eligible three and four year olds of working parents through the 30hr scheme, and stretch funding for our preschool children who don’t use up all their funded hours during term time. The unused hours can be ‘stretched’ to use at our holiday club during the school holidays. We are open Monday to Friday 8am-6pm and will have spaces available from January 2020. Contact us on 01359 245868 or email us at: admin.woolpitarc@timicomail.co.uk
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.
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In Touch Titles • Stowmarket & 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 • Shotley, 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 • Westerfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe
Monday 20 January Printed on gloss paper from FSC certified sources
Please recycle.
is the advertising and editorial deadline for the February edition
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DEMENTIA FRIENDS An evening with Linda Moden to help change the way people think, act and talk about dementia is taking place at Woolpit Room Christian Fellowship at 7.30pm on Friday 24 January. Free admission, coffee and desserts For more information call Phil and Jan Sparkes (01359 240502) or Margaret Cook (01359 240565).
LADIES AND GIRLS BADMINTON NIGHTS Stowmarket Badminton Club’s ladies and girl’s only sessions will continue in the new year at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre on Tuesday evenings from 8-9pm. If you fancy a new challenge for 2020, or just want to get back into badminton, why not dust off your racket, lace up your trainers and join us for some casual informal fun sessions? Rackets will be provided and we have courts available to allow you to refine your skills, or just have some fun in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. For further information please contact Mary Hughes: 01359 240811
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT NEWS FROM YOUR NEW DISTRICT COUNCILLORS Joint Local Plan Planning policy officers are continuing to work through the submissions made to the Preferred Options (Regulation 18) Consultation and these are being discussed by a cross-party working group of councillors. All submissions can be viewed on the Mid Suffolk website. The timescale for further steps in the process to adoption of a Joint Local Plan has not yet been confirmed. In the meantime, this is known as the Emerging Local Plan and is not given full weight when planning decisions are taken. Neighbourhood Plans Now there are six Neighbourhood Plans in Mid Suffolk (Mendlesham, Debenham, Stowupland, Stradbroke, Haughley and Thurston) and all of these carry full weight when planning decisions are being taken. Recent planning applications have been refused where they did not comply with the relevant Neighbourhood Plan. Grants for Home Adaptations If you know anyone who needs adaptations to their home due to disability or a long-term health condition, Mid Suffolk offers grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 and this funding is never fully spent each year. This scheme is open to all homeowners, private tenants and council property tenants. For more information call 0300 123 4000 or visit: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/ housing/disabled-adaptations-grants
Museum of East Anglian Life Iliffe Way Stowmarket IP14 1DL 01449 612229 enquiries@eastanglianlife.org.uk
The Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket presents The Year I went Heywire, a new temporary exhibition of art made from litter discarded by telecom operatives in Woolpit and surrounding Suffolk villages. Concerned by the negative impact that these discarded items are having on the environment, and frustrated by the lack of interest by Openreach to resolve the issue, the artist has taken the situation into her own hands. Not many people wake up in the morning and say, “I should spend an entire year collecting telecom debris from my local junction box and make it into art,” but that’s exactly what artist Christine O’ Connor has done. The exhibition will be open to the public from 23 January to the end of April 2020 (Tues-Sun: 10am-4pm) and entry is free. Help Plant Hedgerow at the Museum
Rachel Eburne: 01449 673311 / Rachel.eburne@midsuffolk.gov.uk Keith Welham: 01449 673185 / keith.welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk Joint Mid Suffolk District Council Ward Members (Green Party) for the Ward of Haughley, Stowupland & Wetherden – including Old Newton (with Gipping and Dagworth)
Over the festive season, New Year’s resolutions are often made to volunteer and do more exercise. Come and kill two birds with one stone by spending a few hours helping us plant 3,000 plants to create new hedgerow habitat for birds, insects and small mammals. We will be planting on Sunday 5, Wednesday 8, Thursday 9 and Friday 10 January. Come along for a morning or afternoon session or stay all day. All ages welcome; no experience necessary. Let us know if you’re interested by emailing: volunteering@eastanglianlife.org.uk
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Friday, January 17, 6.45am: Breakfast Networking at The Mix in Stowmarket Book online: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk/networking-events
STOWMARKET CRAFT MARKET We are relocating! We are all about supporting the local community, be it the crafters, the venue, local schools and charities or giving people somewhere to come and socialise. From 2020 Stowmarket Craft Markets will be found in The Mix, which is located opposite the Regal Cinema. This will give us the chance to finally grow our market and make us easier to locate. The Mix supports local families and young people in the area, especially teens and young adults. It also has the fantastic Cabbages and Kings cafe so refreshments and seating will still be provided. Our events will start from April and will continue on a monthly basis throughout the year on the first Saturday of the month from 10am-1.30pm. I’d just like to take this opportunity to thank all the stallholders and the local community who have supported us over the last few years. We look forward to being able to share our events with even more of the community, so if you’ve yet to visit us, 2020 will offer many more opportunities. For more information contact Sherilee: Stowmarketcraftmarket@gmail.com
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This project has been made possible by a grant from Postcode Local Trust, a grant-giving charity funded entirely by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP We don’t meet in January but listed below is our programme for 2020. February 5 History of Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society by David Lilley March 4 My Family of Criminals by Jill Wright April 1 Parish Workhouses by Ray Whitehand May 6 Witches in Suffolk by Pip Wright June 3 Behind the Scenes at Who Do You Think You Are by Gill Blanchard July 1 AGM & talk TBA July 6 Visit to Woolpit Village and Museum August 5 Becoming a House Detective – Researching the History of your Home by Stephen Poulton September 2 TBA October 7 Two Suffolk Historians – Edmund Farrar & Charles Partridge by Sarah Doig and Neil Langridge November 4 TBA December 2 TBA We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ where there is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members. For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386
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OUT & ABOUT ELMSWELL HISTORY GROUP VALENTINE’S DANCE Charity fundraiser for Old Newton Village Hall renovations Live music with Andy Tween – best loved sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s Saturday 15 February, 7.30-10pm at Old Newton Village Hall Tickets £5 from Lorna on 07733 111892 or Diane on 01449 775504 Bring your own drinks and nibbles
In November, a few members visited Rougham Control Tower Museum which is dedicated to the American airmen and women who served in both the 322nd and 94th Bomb Groups of the USAAF 8th Airforce during the Second World War and was originally known as RAF Bury St Edmunds. The two-storey museum contains a huge variety of the most interesting displays, but was rather cold that day so we could readily understand why it’s not normally open during the winter months. Special thanks, therefore, to the two volunteers who showed us round while explaining its history. At the time of writing (early December), our much-anticipated and soldout Christmas meeting has not taken place, but we’re all very much looking forward to it and will report on this in February’s edition. January 9: Keely Taylor’s talk on How to Build Your Family Tree
STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday 5 January: 6 mile walk in the Yaxley area. Park and meet near lay-by 0.5 miles north of Yaxley Bull on the Old Norwich Road in Yaxley, accessed by taking turning off A140 signed Yaxley & Mellis, at 10am / GR. TM 119734. Leader: 01449 672168 Sunday 12 January: 5.5 mile walk in the Wetherden area. Park and meet at Wetherden Village Hall at 10am / GR. TM 006626. Leader: 01449 257349
Would you love to know about your ancestors, but have no idea where to start? Are there gaps in your family knowledge that you’ve always wondered about? Using real-life examples, Keely will demonstrate what needs to be done as a beginner genealogist, along with some of the pitfalls and surprises that may await you. Here’s where you can begin your journey back in time. We meet at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of each month at Chamberlayne Hall in the Blackbourne Centre. Annual membership is £8, plus £2 per meeting or £4 for visitors. 01359 242601 / www.elmswell-history.org.uk
Sunday 19 January: 4.2 mile walk around Great Barton village and countryside. Park and meet at Great Barton Village Hall (located opposite garage on A143) at 10.30am / GR. TL 894670. Leader: 07795 574762
STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB
Sunday 26 January: 5.5 mile walk in the Old Newton area. Park and meet at Old Newton Village Hall at 10am / GR. TM 052625. Leader: 01449 673131
With new competitions on the horizon, the club looks to increase membership in 2020.
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB Our first meeting of 2020 will be on Wednesday 29 January at 12.15pm and will be a lunchtime workshop with homemade soup being served and a workshop given by Pat South entitled Not a Flower in Sight. The meeting will be held at Woolpit Village Hall and visitors and new members will be very welcome.
The Children in Need simultaneous pairs event held on November 8 raised £115, with Andy Billinge and Sekar Pillai being the club winners, finishing 17th out of 909 in England and Wales. Recently, Simon Riley and David Willson, after finishing first in the qualifying round, came second in a very competitive Felixstowe Congress. Also, the club finished fourth in the Suffolk Teams of Eight League and ninth in the Teams of Eight Championship. A new mixed pairs competition will begin next year. Meanwhile, in-house competitions continue. The Ron Ion Trophy is at the quarter-final stage and in the ‘Upside Down’ cup, Willson’s Warriors hold a slender lead over Wright or Wrong and Heath’s Heathens. We play at St Mary’s Hall (IP14 1LS) in Stowmarket, close to Wolsey Road Post Office, on Wednesdays from 7pm and Fridays from 2.15pm. Come along with a partner or contact Arthur Winchester (01449 612105) who will help to find one for you. We have players of all abilities. To find out more, contact Arthur or visit: www.bridgewebs.com/stowmarket
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB Monday 10 February: Open Competition No. 3, judged by Andy Wilson LRPS
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT MONDAY CLUB We enjoyed various activities in the run-up to Christmas with card making, snowman making, a party and another Christmas themed evening.
As agreed at the AGM, entries are limited to one monochrome print, one colour print and two PDIs. Monday 24 February: Overlanding through East & South Africa by Glenda Taylor New members are always very welcome. You don’t have to be an expert photographer; all you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras. Regular meetings, which start at 7.30pm, are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Monday of the month between September and June. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us? For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net
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We now look forward to a new year and will start with a disco with Jane and Julian on January 13. We hope that the real snowmen won’t be much in evidence and that we don’t have to cancel any meetings due to bad weather. We wish all our members, helpers and friends a very happy and healthy 2020. We are a club for adults with learning difficulties and meet each Monday from 7.30-9.30pm at the Community Hub in Crown Street, Stowmarket. We are run entirely by volunteers and new members and helpers are always very welcome. If you would like further information, please contact me on 01449 672123 or come along on a Monday evening. Lilian Fidler
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HAYWARDS SOLICITORS
FOR ALL YOUR FAMILY’S LEGAL NEEDS We offer Fixed Fees at Competitive Rates
Telephone: (01449) 613631
email: enquiries@haywards-solicitors.co.uk www.haywards-solicitors.co.uk @HaywardsLaw on Twitter Free car park available for use by clients 7 - 9 TAVERN STREET STOWMARKET IP14 1PJ
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OUT & ABOUT HOW TO HEAT THINGS UP THIS WINTER Last month we talked about applying ice in the first 24-36 hours after an injury and in the process, crushed some myths. This month it’s the turn of heat after those first 36 hours. This will increase blood to the area to bring in nutrients to help you heal, relax muscles and speed up healing processes. At some point we have all reached for that hot water bottle or heat pack to ease sore muscles or stiff joints. You may have also noticed how aches and pains seem better after relaxing in a hot tub or bath. These are all forms of heat therapy or thermotherapy. Heat therapy has been used for centuries to relieve pain and tension in the body. Heat therapy is more useful than most people realise, mainly because muscle is a source of much pain. For starters, heat should not be applied to an infection or fresh/acute injury or any other inflammation; the soothing effect of ice will be more helpful in these circumstances. Also, applying heat to a heat related injury like a burn is not a great idea. Having cleared that, heat is a cheap, drugless way of taking the edge off many non-inflammatory body pains. Heat is reassuring and reassurance is analgesic, after all warmth is comfortable. Heat therapy works by stimulating the nerves that sense heat and ‘scrambling’ the signals from the nerves that sense threat. Heat can also penetrate a few centimetres into tissues, which can then help increase blood supply to the affected area, which encourages healing. Applying heat at home should be as easy as applying a band aid. A hot water bottle, heat pack or wheat bag will do the trick. This should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time. This is enough to increase tissue temperature by 3.8 degrees Celsius at an approximate depth of one centimetre. At this depth, heat-sensing nerves can be stimulated, effectively creating the ‘scrambling’ effect on threat sensing nerves. A common misconception is that heat only works when the heat pack is very hot. This is not true; a 60-70 degree Celsius hot water bottle wrapped in a towel applied for about 15-20 minutes will have the desired therapeutic effect. If using any heat pack, simply follow the instructions and you won’t go far wrong. Also, for chronic pain where emotional stress and/or muscle ‘knots’ are main contributing factors, full body heating in a warm bath or for those able to, a long soak in a hot tub, saunas or steam rooms can be great ways of relaxing muscles and stimulating blood flow.
BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET This month we are looking for a new home for Jasper, a distinguished looking boy with beautiful amber eyes and a lovely silky coat. He is a gentle and friendly chap who loves to be fussed over and enjoys games. Jasper can be a little hesitant with new situations, but soon gains his confidence. Due to his past history he would be best suited to an adult only home or one with older children, and as an only pet. Jasper is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. If you are interested in giving a home to any of the cats in our care please ring 01449 674584. For more information visit our Facebook page or go to: www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need help towards the cost, please ring Margaret on 01284 851055 and leave a message. Your call will be returned as soon as possible. Our Admissions and Lost & Found number is 01449 615500. Our table in Needham Market Community Centre in December raised £226.28. Many thanks to everyone who helped on the day and donated prizes to our very popular tombola. Thank you for your continuing support.
STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. This is the only time of the year when the professional players can expect a ‘proper’ break, but even this has been shortened by the new Davis Cup format which now extends into late November. Spain are the winners of the first team challenge to be run in the new style. Before this revamped event the players would finish with the finals at the O2 Arena in London and then break until the beginning of January with warm-up events taking place in Australia before the Open at the end of the month. We often hear of the top players having to choose carefully which events to support because of the increasing demands placed on their bodies; they simply can’t play everywhere and expect to emerge unscathed.
Heat therapy is not recommended for anyone with sensory impairment (numbness and reduced sensation), especially at the affected area, circulatory problems, DVT and malignant tumours In conclusion, heat therapy is a great first step in taking the edge off many chronic pain problems like back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, arthritis, muscle ‘knots’ and so on before seeing your physiotherapist. Moderately heated heat packs applied for 15-20 minutes several times a day is enough to have the desired effect. Sylvester Dengzee MSc MCSP HCPC Senior Physiotherapist PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic
With this thought in mind we are all enjoying a slight lull in activity over the festive season. The winter league takes a couple of weekends off and the coaching programme also has a break from 21 December until 6 January. After this we will all be back in the dome, racing around and trying to shed the odd extra Christmas pound. Or two! As you know, we have indoor tennis all through the ‘off season’ so nothing ever stops at the club. There are taster sessions for all ages, so if you’re looking to get started or even return to the game, get in touch and we’ll get you on court. After all, if the pros are getting back on court, so should we! Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com / 07761 142372
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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS AIKIDO BEGINNERS COURSE New people are always welcome to come along and join in at Satomi Kai Aikido Club, but once a year the club runs a special beginner’s course. One of these introductory courses will be starting on Sunday 26 January at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre in Stowmarket. It’s perfect timing for anyone making New Year’s resolutions to come and try something new. If the pure physicality of heading down to the gym and pounding the treadmills doesn’t appeal, this dynamic Japanese martial art offers a great way to exercise not just the body, but your mind and your spirit too. It’s an art that will grow with you as you get older, so this year’s resolution can last you a lifetime. An introductory course like this is the ideal way to start. Not only does it mean that the lessons are tailored specifically towards new people, but also starting as part of a group of like-minded fresh faces is always a great help. Feedback from some previous attendees says it best: “Walking through the doors of Studio One for my first lesson in Satomi Kai Aikido was one of the best decisions I’ve made, a life choice that will see me walking through those doors for many years to come.” Rob “I was looking for something to try and get me out of the house. What I found was a bunch of new friends, relaxed atmosphere, and a dynamic new hobby. What’s not to like?” Jamie “The beginner’s course was well structured and everyone was very friendly, helpful and welcoming. I felt like I was being welcomed into a family and I am proud to be part of it.” Michael “I wondered what it would be like to be a newcomer in a room of martial arts experts as, with some trepidation, I came along to a new starter course. What I found was a really friendly group of people and instructors who were patient and inclusive. Four years on I am still learning and still in one piece.” Andrew The course runs for six consecutive Sundays from 7-8.30pm and costs just £30. This includes association membership and insurance for a full year, so if you fall in love with the art as we did, you can simply continue by paying for classes with no additional joining fee. The club is a non-profit organisation so there are no contracts. Coloured belt gradings are free, and black-belt gradings are all subsidised at national level, so there are no hidden costs. The course is open to anyone aged 16+. Places will be limited for space and safety; anyone interested in the course can book by emailing: aikido@precepts.co.uk www.satomikai.co.uk
STOWMARKET CRICKET CLUB After another successful season, the recent AGM saw Paul Blake unanimously retain the captaincy of the 1st XI, with Kevin Holland elected vice-captain. The 2nd XI’s new captain is Henry Griffiths, with Simon Codd as vice-captain and also T20 captain. We are always looking to welcome new players, juniors and adults, male and female, to the club. Winter nets are about to be confirmed. Please see our website or contact Clive Witherly for more information: wigg51@btinternet.com / 01359 240019 www.stowmarket.play-cricket.com
ELMSWELL BAPTIST CHURCH At the time of writing this offering for In Touch, only one of our pre-Christmas events has taken place, the election is still three days away, and we are all still looking forward to the festive season and the start of 2020, so there is little that I can report. I trust that all our readers had an enjoyable Christmas and New Year. Our activities for 2020 begin with: Monday 6 January: Ladies Friendship Group meeting at the church at 7.45pm for their first meeting of 2020, described as ‘Jenny’s surprise evening’. Contact Margaret on 01359 241323 if you would like to join our ladies Thursday 9 January: Food and Friends lunch at noon, aimed at our more senior residents. Please contact Jackie on 01359 245918 if you would like to join us. Our services will be led by: January 5 Stephen Spurgeon – inc. Communion January 12 Stephen Spurgeon – Sunday Morning Together January 19 Rev Barbara Challis January 26 Kevin Moore February 2 Stephen Spurgeon We are a small fellowship in numbers, but huge in the warmth and friendship we offer to anyone who joins us for any of our services or activities. For any more information you might need, contact Tony on 01359 241541 or visit: www.elmswellbaptist.org.uk Thank you for taking the time to read this offering. Happy New Year to you all from all of us at Elmswell Baptist Church.
EMPLOYMENT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS In the context of providing guidance in relation to non-disclosure agreements, the Equality and Human Rights Commission has recently provided some helpful guidance on the key requirements for a settlement agreement between an employer and an employee. A settlement agreement is a contract between an employer and an employee which is entered into when a contract of employment comes to an end. The purpose of a settlement agreement is to set out the arrangement between both parties. Usually, an employee will be giving up any rights that he or she might have to any employment claims that there might be against the employer – for example, for unfair or wrongful dismissal, and that sort of thing. In return, the agreement will usually then provide for some financial compensation by the employer. To be enforceable at law, a settlement agreement must meet certain criteria. The first of the criteria is that it must be in writing – so in this context, any verbal agreement would not be enforceable between the two parties.
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It must also relate to the issue being settled, which hopefully is fairly obvious anyway. Prior to the signature of the agreement, the employee must have received advice from an independent adviser. Usually, an independent adviser will be a qualified lawyer, but this could also be an officer of a trade union, who is competent to give the advice, and is authorised to do so on behalf of the union. It also a requirement that the independent adviser has appropriate insurance in place, and the agreement must identify advisories. The settlement agreement must also state that independent advice has been provided by the adviser.
Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk
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Calling all horse and pony owners!
Put the Date in your Diary NOW!
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Quality items of tack on sale
Not to be Missed!
#10
Bargains Galore! ____
Refreshments Available!
SUNDAY 2ND FEB. 2020 NORTON INDOOR CAR BOOT SALE AT: NORTON VILLAGE HALL - IP31 3LE Set-up at 8.00am Doors open from 9.00 - 12.00 noon Refreshments available including Hot & Cold drinks / Bacon rolls / Crisps / Chocolate bars / Cake TABLE FEE £5.00 To book a table please contact: Angela Walton on 07702 954299
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In aid of Village Hall Funds
THURSDAY 13TH FEBRUARY 2020
Bargains galore ____
EQUESTRIAN TABLE-TOP SALE
Refreshments available
NORTON VILLAGE HALL IP31 3LE
Put the date in your diary now!
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Set-up: 6.00pm
(All profits in aid of Village Hall funds)
Doors open: 6.30pm - 8.30pm Refreshments available: including Hot Dogs / Burgers / Hot & Cold Drinks / Cakes / Etc.
Indoor
VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE The Village Hall Ixworth Road Norton Bury St Edmunds IP31 3LE
Entry: FREE! Table fee: £5.00 - Booked & paid in advance Contact: Angela Walton on 07702 954299
VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE The Village Hall Ixworth Road Norton Bury St Edmunds IP31 3LE
EST. 1881
REEMAN DANSIE Auctioneers & Valuers
A rare and important example of the Longines A7 Avigation Watch Sold for £22,000
Chinese Qing period famille verte oviform porcelain vase Sold for £10,000
A fine diamond single stone ring with a brilliant cut diamond weighing 10.83 carats Sold for £74,000
John Vine of Colchester (1809-1867) oil on canvas A Prize Bull Sold for £5,000
Rare fine quality 19th century mantel clock in the form of a giant carriage clock Sold for £7,600
8 Wyncolls Road, Severalls Business Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 9HU Tel : 01206 754754 Fax : 01206 754750 Email : auctions@reemandansie.com Web : www.reemandansie.com 12
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CHURCH NEWS ST ANDREW’S NORTON & ST ANDREW’S TOSTOCK Part of the Benefice of Pakenham, Norton & Tostock, with Great Ashfield, Hunston & Stowlangtoft Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Katherine Valentine 01359 235095 / katherine@kavalentine.plus.com Our beautiful and ancient churches are both open daily for visitors and for private prayer. JANUARY 2020
Sunday 5 January 8am: Holy Communion, St Andrew’s Norton 9.30 for 10am: family@church at Pakenham – Epiphany Sunday 12 January 9.30am: Holy Communion, St Andrew’s Tostock 6pm: Evensong, St Andrew’s Norton Sunday 19 January 11am: Morning Prayer, St Andrew’s Norton 6pm: Evening Prayer & Praise, St Andrew’s Tostock Sunday 26 January 9.30am: Family Communion, St Andrew’s Norton 11am: Morning Prayer, St Andrew’s Tostock 6pm: United Service for Week of Prayer for Christian Unity at Norton Salvation Army Hall Coffee Morning an aid of the Leprosy Mission We shall be holding a coffee morning at the Baptist Chapel in Norton on Saturday 25 January from 10.30am to 12.30pm in aid of the Leprosy Mission. This is in place of our usual soup lunch which we have held for many years on World Leprosy Day. We shall be having our usual stalls and raffle so please come along and support this very worthy cause, meet your friends and enjoy a good cup of coffee. With many thanks, Alan & Helen Taylor Service at The Croft, Tostock: Monday 20 January, 10am Come and sing your favourite hymns and chat with friends. All welcome.
St Mary’s Pakenham, 9.30 for 10am Sunday 5 January: Epiphany Sunday 2 February: Candlemas Breakfasty refreshments available from 9.30am. This service on the first Sunday of every month is run by the whole benefice and is the opportunity for all our villages and families to join together in worship and get to know each other. Look out for the invitation coming through your door! For more details of all our churches visit: www.achurchnearyou.com Our Benefice magazine is also available at: www.vcnews.org.uk Week of Prayer for Christian Unity – Unusual Kindness, January 18-25 This year’s material has been prepared by the people of Malta and Gozo. It focuses on hospitality, inspired by the kindness shown to St Paul when he was shipwrecked on the island of Malta. We give thanks for the hospitality we share between our churches in Norton and for the Christian church around the world as it calls us to a greater generosity to those in need. Our own Christian unity will be discovered not only through showing hospitality to one another, but also through loving encounters with those who do not share our language, culture or faith. All are welcome to come to any of the events listed below. Sunday 26 January, 6pm: United Songs of Praise at Norton Salvation Army Hall United Daily Prayer at 9am Monday 20 at St Andrew’s Church Tuesday 21 at the Salvation Army Wednesday 22 at the Baptist Church
WOOLPIT ROOM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP So here we are in 2020. January is often a time to reflect and review the past year and anticipate the new one. Some of us may look back on the past 12 months with an overall sense that things went really well, while others may have a strong feeling of sadness or regret. We may even make New Year resolutions with a sense of excitement and determination. Others may face this year with real concerns. While we cannot know what the future holds for us, Christians have confidence in the One who holds the future. The Bible encourages us to: “Cast all your anxiety on Jesus because he cares for you (1 Peter 5v7). So may I wish you a very happy New Year and “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him” (Rom15v13). Please join us on Friday 24 January at 7.30pm for what should be a very interesting and enlightening evening entitled Dementia Friends with Linda Moden (see p3). Dementia Friends is a national movement which aims to break down stigma and promote understanding for people living with dementia. Making our society more dementia friendly is the ultimate goal. Linda got involved with Dementia Friends when she was a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Society. For seven years she was a telephone befriender and supported people with dementia and their loved ones. Linda also works
www.keepingintouchwith.com/elmswell
with people living with dementia in a local care home. She is currently a trainer with the Alzheimer’s Society and has delivered dementia training to a very varied audience from inspectors to GP surgeries and most interestingly a dance studio. You are, of course, very welcome to join us for our regular Sunday morning services at 10am, and also to Monday Meet on Monday afternoons at 2.30pm (recommences on January 13). If you need transport to get here, or if you would welcome a visit, please contact us and we will gladly help. Sundays: 10-11am followed by tea, coffee and biscuits Mondays from 13 January: 2.30-3.30pm including tea, coffee and biscuits – and occasionally – cake! You are very welcome to join us at Monday Meet from 2.30-3.30pm. Friendly, informal and relaxed, we start with an interesting talk, then break for tea, followed by an encouraging talk from the Bible. See our website for further information or call Margaret (01359 240565) or Phil and Jan (01359 240502). www.woolpitroomfellowship.org
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CHURCH NEWS Breakfast Church 3rd Sunday of the month
ST JOHN’S CHURCH, ELMSWELL Hello from St John’s, If you’d like to know about our church, please get in touch or visit: www.stjohnselmswell.org.uk / Facebook The Rev Peter Goodridge: 01359 240512 / elmswellrector@gmail.com Happy New Year from all at St John’s Church Elmswell – a welcoming church for all ages! Wow! What a wonderful Christmas! December is always an action-packed month at St John’s. We started the month with an engaging Family Church, followed by a traditional BCP Service, both focusing on Advent. Advent is a time of waiting for the Lord and is full of hope for what he brings. The countdown to Christmas had begun! The Advent theme continued as we welcomed Years 5 and 6 from the primary school to Discover Advent, a creative way of reflecting on the original Christmas events of, 2000 years ago. The children loved moving around five areas of the church and engaging with some of the main characters and events of Christmas. The following day it was the turn of Little Elms Pre-School to take over St John’s for their wonderful nativity, watched over by many proud parents, grandparents and carers. One week later, it was great to welcome back Elmswell Community Primary School for their Carol Celebration. In the middle of the month, the church was splendidly lit with candles for the Carols by Candlelight Service, an atmospheric occasion when we reflect on Jesus as the light that shines in the darkness of this world. The theme of hope continued as we approached Christmas Eve. We had another packed church at Messy Nativity, where we heard the story from Eddie the Donkey’s point of view. And then there was our more reflective Late Night Communion, which saw in Christmas Day.
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9am at St John’s, Elmswell
As we head into a new decade, we will continue to support the needs of those nearby (e.g. through the Stowmarket Foodbank) and those far away (e.g. through Mercy Ships and TearFund). We will also continue to make the love of God known to all. Perhaps you feel you need to experience his love and compassion or are seeking meaning in life. Why not come along or get in touch? Encountering Jesus can be life-changing. In mid-January, our rector, Peter, is taking a 12-week sabbatical. The first five weeks will take him to the fascinating country of Cambodia. Watch this space for opportunities to hear about what he was up to following his return. There’s always lots going on at St John’s and everyone is always welcome. Remember this is your church – it’s for everyone. If you’d like to know more or enquire about getting married or having your baby christened, please get in touch! SERVICES FOR JANUARY Sunday 5 January 9.30am Family Church – The 3 Wise Men Visit Jesus 11am BCP Morning Prayer plus Communion Sunday 12 January 8am Holy Communion 10.30am Parish Praise Morning Service Sunday 19 January 9.30am Breakfast Church (breakfast from 9am) 11am Holy Communion Sunday 26 January 10.30am Holy Communion 3pm Retro Praise (1960-80s Worship) Sunday 2 February 9.30am Family Church 11am Holy Communion (BCP)
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