In Touch
™© ™©
with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead Volume 9 • Issue No. 2 • DECEMBER 2018
Merry Christmas M an
from
sionH
i ng ousePublish
Skiphire www.collins-skiphire.co.uk
For a fast, efficient & price friendly local service
01473 327596
orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk
MarksAndMann_Ipswich_88mm145mm_Mar2018.ai 1 12/03/2018 11:31:56
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
With you every step of the way Ipswich - 01473 396 296
99-101 Penshurst Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 8QB
www.marksandmann.co.uk
2
In Touch online:
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I hate winter! There, I’ve said it. I’ve tried to appreciate the positives but I spend every long dark evening longing for spring, which for me starts on February 11. For this reason I love Christmas; it gives us something to look forward to and brings family and friends together with time to relax. Of course it can be an expensive time and requires a huge amount of planning, but somehow it’s always worth it. So bring it on I say! Let’s embrace this time to relax and to enjoy the company of those we may not see as regularly as we’d like. This year I’m determined to make Auntie Mary smile, even if I have to spend all day working on it. I’m going to find the perfect non-gift for the impossible aunt who says she doesn’t want or need anything, until she doesn’t get anything of course. I’m going to make the bread sauce nobody eats just so my brother can’t complain that it’s not the same without it! I’m going to discuss the timings with absolutely everyone so nobody comes to the table saying ‘I wish I’d known we were eating this early as I wouldn’t have had that fifth mince pie for breakfast’. I’m going to serve custard, brandy butter, ice cream and cream with the Christmas pudding so mum, my husband, my brother and my nephew have no cause to complain, and for those who always say ‘I don’t really like Christmas pudding’ I shall be serving chocolate mousse. My approach to Christmas present shopping has changed over the years. Where once I might have spent hours online looking for something unusual or quirky, this year I’m focused on finding more thoughtful gifts; this requires a hands-on approach so it’s local shops and markets for me this year. I’m taking the same approach with my son. We’ve been influenced by TV ads for the latest gadgets and plastic monstrosities in the past; recent mistakes include Boom Boom Balloon Game, Chippies Robot Dog, Zoomer Dino Robot Dinosaur and Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage. This year I’m determined to find things I know he will enjoy well into 2019 and I’ll be having a word with Father Christmas too. I hope this month doesn’t cause unnecessary stress in your home. Please do support local businesses and local markets in the coming weeks and together we can look forward to a Happy New Year.
InTouch
with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380
Send editorial copy to: blakenham@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380
Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380
Printing Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk
01473 400379
Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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 •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • 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
NEWS BAYLHAM VILLAGE HALL CHRISTMAS SOCIAL EVENING We shall be holding a Christmas Social Evening in aid of hall funds in the village hall at 7.30pm on Saturday, December 15. Entry is £3 and includes a plate of finger food to share. Bring your own drinks – tea/coffee available. There will be games, a raffle and background music. Hope to see you there!
SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Autumn shutdown Between October 1 and 19 the facility completed its second shutdown for 2018. These planned shutdowns take place twice a year to ensure the facility continues to run efficiently. During this shutdown, inspections were carried out inside the furnaces, and repairs were carried out within the boiler. A new belt was installed on the conveyor which transports bottom ash from the furnace to the building where it is sorted for recycling. School bookings for 2019 The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is taking bookings for the New Year. Why not book your school in for a visit? Classes of up to 30 students from Key Stage 2 and above are welcome to visit the facility and explore how we make use of Suffolk’s household waste. During the visit, students will be given a tour of the facility and have a chance to explore our specially designed interactive visitor centre. Visits can be tailored to meet specific requirements to ensure the experience is suitable for students from Key Stage 2 up to Higher Education level. If you would like to discuss what we can offer, please get in touch via the details provided below. If you have any queries about our operations, please don’t hesitate to contact us at: suffolkefw.uk@suez.com / 01473 839149 OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Book a visit: 01473 836149 / suffolkefw.uk@suez.com Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
In Touch with...
JANUARY DEADLINE
4 DECEMBER 2018 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
3
NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: NOVEMBER 2018 New approach to pothole repairs A Highways Improvement and Innovations Board has announced that Suffolk Highways will be piloting a new approach to prioritising pothole repairs over the winter. It aims to tackle more potholes during a visit and to reduce the number of temporary repairs. The travelling time of maintenance crews will be reduced, and more potholes will be filled. Improvement at last! The Board has also been looking into improving the coordination of road closures, reducing the number of roadworks which overrun, and exploring ways for Suffolk Highways to work closer with town and parish councils. I hope the lessons of Hackneys Corner will be learnt. I expect a progress report from the Board at Scrutiny in December. Second Suffolk children’s home judged “inadequate” A children’s home run by Suffolk County Council has been judged “inadequate” by Ofsted following an inspection. This is the second council-run children’s home to receive an inadequate rating in the past two months. Ofsted were particularly concerned over unsafe behaviour management techniques used. They found a significant increase in the number of physical interventions. Council signs up to 100% nuclear energy deal At the council meeting on October 18 members of my political group called on the council to recognise the benefits of renewable energy. This is now low cost as well as low carbon. We asked them to commission a report into a smart grid for Suffolk. This would allow the array of renewable, top-up and storage facilities for electricity supply to be managed optimally. We also asked for a commitment to ensuring that at least 50 per cent of the council’s energy comes from renewable sources by 2025. Unfortunately, the Conservative administration amended the motion to remove any clear actions or targets. It was also revealed that the council have recently signed off on a 100 per cent nuclear energy deal for the next three years, to commence in March 2019. This represents a major step backwards since the current energy contract includes 18.7 per cent renewables.
No funding to help end “period poverty” The Labour Group asked council for a budget commitment of £15,000 to help tackle “period poverty”. Many girls suffer embarrassment and frequently miss school because they are unable to afford sanitary products. We asked the council to fund products for such girls in all local authoritymaintained schools in Suffolk, and to encourage academies to implement similar measures. Unfortunately, the Conservative administration once again amended the motion, removing all funding. New Home Care Operating Model Cabinet has agreed the new Home Care operating model. It was acknowledged that the previous model had been a failure. Smaller care providers were expected to give up their contracts and residents receiving home care were expected to change provider. We were assured that “lessons had been learned” and that greater care had been taken to develop the new operating model in partnership with stakeholders. The funding to providers will be set by the county and will vary dependent on the availability of care in each parish. There will be five steps from £16.49 to £22.24 per hour of care. That sounds quite reasonable, but the county does not pay for travel time and providers frequently do, together with a small allowance for travel expenses. There is also a need to fund holidays and sickness so the fee per hour received by a carer is substantially lower. I fear that the rate paid to carers remains too low to attract the number of people required. If you have any queries, please phone me on 01473 831306 (you will need to say your name and press #) or 07545 423808 or email me at: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk I do have Twitter (@JohnFieldjd) and Facebook (fieldjd) accounts and my website is at: www.johnfield.suffolk.libdems.org
GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL In January we will decide how much our portion of your council tax bill will be set at. The parish council has not increased this amount for the last two years and hopes to maintain this for 2019/20. As a councillor you would be part of this process, setting priorities for the village and deciding how money is spent. If this sounds like something you would like to be involved in, please contact our clerk to see what it’s all about. Training and support are available for new councillors. Also connected to the financial side of the council’s work, I am very pleased to be able to report that the accounts for 2017/18 have been through the process of external audit and we have received no recommendations or criticisms, which means that our systems and procedures have all passed with flying colours. The new village shop is now open and I’m sure you will all join me in wishing it every success. The owner has very kindly agreed to allow the council to site a defibrillator on one of the outside walls of the shop. This will mean that the village will have two defibrillators provided by your parish council – one at Hackneys Corner on the shop and one on the village hall. The council will also be putting a noticeboard there for parish council and other village notices to be displayed. Woodfield Allotments We have had a number of enquiries about the allotments and, as a result, the council is pleased to welcome all our new plot holders. We still have some vacant plots if you would like to have an allotment and grow your own fresh vegetables and fruit. Gardening is good for your health as well! Our allotment holders are friendly and welcoming – lots of advice will be available if you are new to this sort of thing. The allotments will remain free-of-charge until at least October 2019 and there is a free water supply on the site. Please contact the clerk if you are interested.
4
The council has introduced a policy that all allotments must be worked, as unworked plots cause problems for neighbouring plot holders with weeds spreading. If you have a plot at the moment and have been unable to work it, please contact the clerk. As you may remember, the council would like to achieve long term security for plot holders by buying the land or negotiating a longer lease. The council would like to make improvements to the area, such as new fencing, but feel we cannot spend public money on this in the current situation. At the moment we are clearing plots for new plot holders and to prevent weed spread into neighbouring plots. There is no parish council meeting in December. The next meeting is on Wednesday, January 9 in the Parish Room at 7.30pm – please note the new start time which we hope will make it easier for people to attend. Everyone is welcome and there is a 15-minute public forum where you can ask questions or raise issues related to the work of the parish council. Janet Gobey, the parish clerk, can be reached at: pc@greatblakenham.suffolk.gov.uk / 07508 830777 Thank you for reading this and for your interest in the work of your parish council. Finally, on behalf of the parish council, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas! Parish Council Chairman Steve Plume Facebook: @greatblakenhampc Twitter: @pcgtblakenham www.greatblakenham.suffolk.cloud
In Touch online:
FREE YOUR FINANCES WITH EQUITY RELEASE?
Our local team has over 60 year’s combined experience in equity release matters. Unlike many national equity release firms, we have full in house financial planning capability. All our staff are based at our office in central Ipswich enabling us to fully support you through the whole process from initial consultation (always at our expense), through a thorough viability assessment and then application and processing to a successful completion.
Williams Farrall Woodward Priority House, 8 Turret Lane, Ipswich IP4 1DL 01473 231644 equityrelease@wfw.co.uk
• Cash or Income from an Equity Release scheme could restrict the borrowers’ eligibility for State Benefits. • Equity released will reduce the value of the estate and could leave nothing to pass on as an inheritance. • Home Reversion plans and Lifetime Mortgages are complex products. To understand the features and risk, please ask for a personalised illustration. • Williams Farrall Woodward is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority – FCA 175614.
W E
“WE SPECIALISE IN DOUBLE GL A ZING REPAIRS, CALL FOR YOUR FREE CHECK UP”
ER TT BE NE IR YO E PA N ER A RE AN TH T TH OU
Mr Misty ‘The Window Doctor’ is a family run business that prides itself in exceptional customer care. We promise easy service from start to finish. DOES YOUR DOUBLE GLAZING STEAM UP? WE REPLACE JUST THE GLASS AND NOT THE FRAMES AT A FRACTION OF THE COST FOR NEW WINDOWS.
FAQs SYMTOM: I HAVE GAPS IN OR AROUND MY WINDOWS AND IT IS CAUSING A DRAUGHT. DIAGNOSIS & SOLUTION : THIS COULD BE THE HINGES WHICH CAN BE REPLACED OR THE FRAME HAS A GAP AROUND THE EDGE WHICH CAN BE RE-SEALED. SYMPTOM : I FIND IT HARD TO LOCK MY DOOR OR WINDOW.
PROBLEMS WE SOLVE
ELIMINATE WINDOW CONDENSATION BROKEN WINDOW PARTS BROKEN GL ASS SECONDARY GL A ZING TO BLOCK OUT NOISE LOCKS
DIAGNOSIS & SOLUTION : THIS COULD BE A NUMBER OF PROBLEMS AND COULD BE AS SIMPLE AS A SMALL ADJUSTMENT TO YOUR HINGES.
FAULT Y HINGES DRAUGHT Y WINDOWS
FREE PHONE : 0800 25 45 111 FOR YOUR FREE CHECKUP
WWW.MRMISTY.CO.UK
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
5
NEWS / OUT & ABOUT SOMERSHAM & DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP
The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm / Saturdays: 9am-1pm A Community Shop for the local community, run by the local community Terry Fordham, our long-serving and hard-working committee chairman, has decided it is time for him to resign this post and allow someone new to take on the task. Terry was a member of the original steering group which oversaw the setting up of the community shop. Since opening in 2012 he has been chairman of the management committee and a long-time devotee and passionate enthusiast for the promotion of the shop. We thank him very much for his commitment to our community. Happily Terry will continue with his work as a volunteer and still be with us for, what we hope, is a long time to come. Another loss from the committee is Steve Woolhouse. Thanks to Steve for his valuable work over several years. Steve also will continue with volunteer work for and in the shop. We have been pleased to have a new volunteer, John, who has done some magnificent work and we thank him for being part of our team. Of course, we still have two spaces on the management committee. If anyone should feel they would like to take a place either as volunteers or on the committee they would be very welcome to join us to ensure the continuation of such a worthwhile project for the local area. Somersham featured in a recent article on community-run pubs in the Guardian newspaper, and it was remarked that “what is clearly a very active community (volunteers also run the village shop), it’s a lively place . . .” Come and play a part if you can in this lively and active community. Customers are essential for the continuation of the shop and all are warmly invited to come in and start the Christmas season by purchasing seasonal stock, enjoying the fayre with a hot drink and snack in Coffee Corner and a chance to chat with others. Community events continue with regular Tea and Chat meetings during the winter on the last Wednesday in the month between 2-4pm, though not in December so the next is on Wednesday, January 30. Golden Link is every other Tuesday afternoon and Petrolheads is on the first Wednesday of each month. The shop provides a huge range of products, many produced locally, household goods and other services including newspapers, dry cleaning collection and deliveries to people with mobility difficulties. All gives real heart to the local community and happens because of the magnificent volunteers who give time to man the shop and do many other unsung jobs. We wish all our customers and volunteers a Happy Christmas and New Year. We look forward to your continued support. Management Team Management Team: Lucy Barrett – 831890; Sue Browne – 831321; Peter Jousiffe; Anne MacFadyen – 831288
THE COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES GROUP THE BOOK CLUB This group continues to meet at 10.30am at The Crown (Hungry Horse) in Claydon on the last Thursday of each month. If anyone is interested in joining there are a few places available for new members. Go along and join the group for a light-hearted discussion on the chosenbook. KNITTING GROUP This group meets in the lounge at Alasdair Place, Claydon on the first Thursday of each month from 10.30am-noon. The group is continuing to grow in numbers and members have been making preparations for Christmas. If you enjoy knitting, or would like to learn, please go along. 4EVER MEN’S CLUB The group meets at 10.30am on the third Wednesday of each month at The Crown in Claydon. New members are welcome and also any assistance in arranging activities, etc. Take your partner, meet for a chat and stay on for lunch. MEET ‘N’ EAT LUNCH CLUB This group is growing in numbers. This is held on the first Friday of each month at noon in The Parish Room, Gt Blakenham. A two course lunch is provided at a cost of £4 with an optional £1 for raffle tickets – one of the prizes is always a free meal for the next month. This is an ideal opportunity to go out for lunch and meet new friends. GIPPING VALLEY ART SOCIETY We held a members’ preview and social evening on the eve of our annual art exhibition in October and a good evening was enjoyed by all who attended. We received very encouraging comments by visitors to our art exhibition and made sales. Thank you to all who supported us. We are looking forward to our members’ Christmas meal at The Chequers in December. We are busy with our project to support the Festival of Light in St Mary’s Church at the beginning of December and will also have a table at the Christmas Fayre in The Parish Room, displaying and selling unframed paintings. Please go along and support us. If anyone is interested in joining the art club, we meet every Tuesday afternoon in The Parish Room; please phone Ann (secretary) on 01473 831031 or Margaret (treasurer) on 01473 830135. WALK ‘N’ TALK GROUP We are pleased to advise that this group should be starting up in January. PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP With nobody coming forward to volunteer to run this group we regret that this cannot be taken any further.
BAR-CLAY MUSIC MAKERS – RAPUNZEL TICKETS GO ON SALE The weeks have flown by since rehearsals for Bar-Clay Music Makers panto, Rapunzel, began in September, and tickets will be on sale from December 5 Performances take place on Fridays, January 18 and 25 at 7.30pm, and on Saturdays 19 and 26 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets cost £7 for adults and £3 for children and always sell out fast. To book your seats contact Gillian Webb: 01473 830538 / webbfamily1@gmail.com For more details about BMM contact Vera Rogers: vera.rogers1@btinternet.com
6
In Touch online:
advertorial
Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed
double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems. Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!! If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly
experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.
Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors. Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
Mid Suffolk District Council Waste and Recycling
Christmas & New Year Bin Collection Schedule 2018-2019
Please ensure your bins are presented by 6.30am on the day of collection
Recycling
Refuse
Recycling
Usual Collection
Monday 24th December Tuesday 25th December Wednesday 26th December Thursday 27th December Friday 28th December Monday 31st December Tuesday 1st January Wednesday 2nd January Thursday 3rd January Friday 4th January Monday 7th January Tuesday 8th January Wednesday 9th January Thursday 10th January Friday 11th January
Revised Collection Monday 24th December Thursday 27th December Friday 28th December Saturday 29th December Monday 31st December Wednesday 2nd January Thursday 3rd January Friday 4th January Saturday 5th January Monday 7th January Tuesday 8th January Wednesday 9th January Thursday 10th January Friday 11th January Saturday 12th January
Change
None 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 3 days later 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 3 days later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later
There will be no brown bin collections over Christmas and New Year (between 24th December and 4th January) Please refer to brown bin collection calendars available on: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk for details. From Monday 14th January 2019 normal waste and recycling collections resume.
Waste Services: 0300 1234 000 (option 4) email: Recycling@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
7
OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB
GT BLAKENHAM 200 CLUB
Open to anyone living in Great Blakenham and the surrounding areas, the club meets every Monday other than bank holidays in Great Blakenham Parish Room (opposite the Chequers PH) from 2-4pm. The building is fully accessible. Members pay £2 per meeting to cover hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. If you prefer to bring your own project the charge is £1.50.
Winning tickets for December 2018
Our project in November was a quilted Christmas stocking so members enjoyed a leisurely time hand quilting their work. Our workshop programme for 2018 is now at an end and my thinking cap is on for next year’s programme so look out for this in January. Perhaps we may see you at our meetings? There is currently room for new members so please get in touch if you would like to join us. Although the club is all ladies at present, gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome. Unfortunately I can’t accommodate children. Jackie Durrant: 01449 672690
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB Open to anyone over-50 living in Great Blakenham and the surrounding area. We meet from 2-4pm in Great Blakenham Parish Room (opposite the Chequers PH) on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. The building is fully accessible. The cost per meeting is £2 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and the raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. At our October meetings we had a social afternoon with a picture quiz entitled What on Earth is That? and a visit from the Rural Coffee Caravan with up-to-date information and leaflets including activities taking place and health and welfare information. In November we will be having a visit from Wiltshire Farm Foods and Sandra will be hosting a Call my Bluff afternoon. This brings us to the end of this year’s programme, but we will reconvene on January 9 (weather permitting). New members are always welcome; if you would like to come along to see what goes on we will be pleased to see you. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB The club will meet on Wednesdays, December 5 and 19 and then break for the Christmas holidays. It will start again on January 9. We meet in the upstairs room at Bramford Methodist Church from 10am to noon. Annual membership is £1, payable in September, and £2 per twohour session. Broadband and refreshments are available. There is no set programme; we are here to help you to get the most out of your computer. Why not give us a try?
£25: David, Chequers Public House (54) £15: Lisa Gordon (241) £10: Peter Andrews (252) £10: Sue Buckland (47) £5: Phil Harman (84) £5: Colin Coombs (201) Thank you to all who have supported the 200 Club again this year, and congratulations to all prize winners. Thanks are especially due to those who go out during the cold January days to collect the money! From January 2019 all collectors will have photo ID. If you would like to take part and don’t have a ticket, please contact Marion on 01473 830915. The annual subscription remains at £12, with cash prizes of £5 to £25 each month. All money raised by your membership goes towards the repair and preservation of St Mary’s Parish Church.
1st CLAYDON SCOUT NEWS Scouts Sponsored Bike Ride Homeless As part of the Skills for Life programme, 1st Claydon Scouts were asked what community based activity they would like to do. The troop agreed that they wanted to help the homeless people of Ipswich by undertaking a sponsored bike ride. They came up with a project plan, found out more about the Ipswich Soup Kitchen Charity and what the most important needs were of the homeless people who used it. The troop decided that they would do a sponsored bike ride in Rendlesham Forest on November 2, cycling the 10-mile F.i.D.O track. On the day the group were joined by parents and other young people too. The ride was done in glorious sunshine and over £100 has been raised for the homeless which will go towards woollen gloves, hats and toiletries. The troop will each receive Fundraising Activity Badges for the project. Scout Skills Camp At the end of October our Scout troop joined 24th Ipswich at Hallowtrees for a Skills Camp weekend. The scouts camped for two nights. The aim of the skills camp was to teach tent pitching, pioneering, axe and wood saw skills, open fire cooking and community support (tree planting on the Hallowtrees site). On the Saturday night the troops enjoyed a firework display on the site held by Orwell Scout District. Despite the cold wind and some rain all the Scouts enjoyed the weekend having learnt plenty. Adult Support 1st Claydon Scout Group has a growing waiting list (as do many Scout groups in the area) which is mainly due to a lack of adult volunteers. Despite the Scout Association already having over 100,000 adult volunteers, more are needed across the country including Claydon. Over the last 13 years Scouting has seen continuous growth in the UK. Research already shows that young people who have been involved in Scouts are seen as better candidates when they seek jobs in adult lives. Over the next five years the Scout Association has put in place a strategic plan. We want to make 14-18 year olds even more employable. We will be working with employers and partners to enhance the programme and create links to employability and further education. By 2023: • We will work with employers and education agencies to improve their understanding of what Scouts achieve • We will help young people to better understand and talk about the skills they have developed through Scouts • We will work with partners such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme and the National Citizen Service so that young people can access these through Scouts and achieve the highest awards If you are over the age of 18 (and there is no upper age) and would like to help in our Beaver or Cub sections, please email markpearsonfreshfields@ outlook.com or call 07802 249686. Previous knowledge of Scouting is not required; volunteering is based on the time you can volunteer. 1st Claydon Website: http://1stclaydonscoutg.onesuffolk.net/ YouTube Channel: 1st Claydon Scouts Assistant Group Scout Leader Mark Pearson
8
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
9
10
In Touch online:
SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL
CLAYDON & BARHAM YOUNG FAMILIES
Our annual ‘WOW Week’ took place at the end of October and was very rewarding for all year groups. The curriculum was suspended for three days so that all students could take part in various activities designed to stretch, challenge, motivate and equip them with essential life skills which will help them on their journey through high school and beyond.
Claydon and Barham Young Families is a Mothers’ Union project which has been run by Mothers’ Union members and supporters for 27 years. We welcome mums, dads, carers and grandparents from Claydon, Barham, Great Blakenham and the surrounding villages with babies or children under five; entry is just £1.50 per family.
Year 7 had a fabulous time camping at the Mersea Outdoor Centre in Essex where they took part in adventurous activities such as the high ropes and assault course as well as art, PE and drama activities, all designed to build confidence and encourage creativity, curiosity and teamwork.
This month we meet from 9.30-11.30am on December 6 in Claydon and Barham Village Hall. This will be our Christmas Party so please let Michelle know (01473 833788) if you wish to attend.
Years 8-10 ‘wowed’ us all with their productivity and commitment to their enterprise tournament. In teams of 15, students planned, budgeted and pitched a social action project of their choosing. Guest judges and experts in the industry were invited in to support and help choose an overall winner of the prestigious ‘Challenge Cup’. Students had to assign themselves roles and were scored on their innovation and vision, marketing strategy, teamwork, quality of their pitch and the creativity of their portfolio. Congratulations to the ‘2020 Help’ team, whose well researched and very detailed plans for a ‘hub’ to provide activities and events to tackle social isolation in the community saw them crowned overall winners. Special thanks also go to our guest speakers, whose support was vital in making the event the success it was.
Why not come along and join in the fun, you can make friends and enjoy some valuable play? Hope to see you there. For more information contact me on 01473 833788 or check our listing on Netmums.com.
Year 11 demonstrated great maturity and focus, impressing our business guests and the outside agencies they visited during WOW Week, preparing them for the next step of their education/training. They spent a day at a college/sixth form of their choice, a day at the Suffolk Skills Show held at Trinity Park and a day in school listening to talks from guest speakers and completing application forms and CVs in preparation for a ‘Learning About Work Day’ on Wednesday, November 28. I would like to congratulate our newly appointed head boy and head girl, deputy and senior student leadership team and wish them well as they take up their positions. The preparation, dedication and commitment shown by all candidates has made me very proud. Students demonstrated an array of skills which will serve them well for the future, but also made the decision on who to appoint a very hard one! Now that the festive season is upon us, I hope you will be able to join us at our Christmas Concert on Tuesday, December 11, 7pm at the school (tickets on sale at reception). Our talented students are busy preparing some lovely vocal and instrumental pieces for your enjoyment. The PTA is also holding a quiz night on Thursday, December 6, 7pm at the school. To book your table please email: admin@claydonhigh.com Finally, I would like to thank staff, parents/carers, governors and the wider community for their support this term and wish everyone a Happy Christmas and I look forward to keeping you updated with all our news in the New Year.
This month we would like to wish a happy birthday to Nieve.
Michelle
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL Great news! Our canopy at the back of our building is now fully installed. The children are really benefiting from being able to go outside in all weathers. This will also provide a lot more shade for them in the summertime too. This month the children have enjoyed dressing up for Children in Need, together with Odd Sock Day which we used to promote Kind Hands & Kind Words. They all helped to bake biscuits and cakes to sell for Children in Need, have done lots of craft around Remembrance Day and also had the opportunity to have a parent or carer come in to play with them. We are all looking forward to starting the Christmas crafts in December. Our Christmas Fayre was once again a huge success; thank you to everyone who helped support the pre-school by attending. We have recently added lots of new toys and equipment using money raised through donations and our fundraising events. Without everyone’s help and support we wouldn’t be able to do this, so thank you all again for your continued support. Christmas Nativity This will be held on Tuesday, December 18, time to be confirmed, at Claydon & Barham Church. This will be an event for all pre-school children. Christmas Disco Due to the success of our recent Halloween Party, we have decided to have a family friendly Christmas party which is open to everyone. Therefore, this year we will be having a Family Christmas Disco on Saturday, December 22 from 7pm at Claydon & Barham Community Centre. Tickets are £5 each (children 12 years and under will receive a present from Father Christmas), and can be purchased at the pre-school. The bar will be open – bring your own nibbles. Feel free to dress festively!
CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL
As we are now open all year (except bank holidays and the Christmas period) we can take children up to five years old for additional sessions during the school holiday weeks, subject to availability. If you would like to book any days during the holidays, please contact the administration assistant for more details.
Look at all the exciting activities EYFS and Key Stage 1 have been taking part in since they started back to school in September.
We can take children who are entitled to 30 hours funding. Simply register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible.
Reception children have been enjoying learning all about autumn. We went on an autumn walk around the school where we used all of our senses to explore and we have used exciting WOW words to describe what autumn is like: “Autumn is like crunchy leaves”; “Autumn is like prickly conkers”.
If you would like an application form or any further information please contact Lisa Read: Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ / 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk
Years 1 and 2 really enjoyed their trip to Mountfitchet Castle. We had great fun firing the catapult and getting the teachers wet! We also enjoyed looking at how people lived in the bailey, but our favourite part was trying on the heavy helmets and trying to pick up the swords.
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB
Headteacher Ms Maéve Taylor
We also really enjoyed our medieval day. We dressed up as knights, kings, queens and princesses and took part in many exciting activities such as making shields and crowns, learning a medieval dance and even learning how to sword fight. At the end of the day we had a royal banquet and ate cheese straws which we had made in a food technology lesson. Jayne Wells
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
The October 2018 draw has taken place and the winners were: 1: Brenda Bugg 2: Lisa Robinson 3: Emma Harman Please keep the new entries coming in. The more members we have the bigger the prize fund and the more money goes to improving the pre-school. It’s only £1 a month to play and entry is open to the whole community. For an entry form please contact Lisa at: admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk
11
SPORT / CHURCH NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB We are now well into the indoor bowls season at the Meadlands; for information contact David Hindley on 01449 613144 or 07717 940270.
CLAYDON & DISTRICT BADMINTON CLUB Why wait until the New Year to start getting a little more exercise? Why not get back into badminton right on your doorstep here at Claydon High School? Claydon & District Badminton Club is a social badminton club which meets on Monday nights from 7-9pm during school term time in Claydon High School Sports Hall. Although we are a popular club we have some space and you would be very welcome. If you fancy a game you can have a free taster session. Come along to meet us and have a few games at the Sports Hall on any Monday night during school term – our season started in September and we’ll have a short break over Christmas, but start again in January. For more information visit our website or get in touch with our chairman, Dik Langan: 01473 830692 / claydonbadminton@dnacomputing.co.uk www.claydonbadminton@wordpress.com
IT’S THE FINAL COUNTDOWN We are now in the final countdown for Christmas this year. One shop I visited recently had a digital counter with the number of shopping days left to Christmas. One of our family members has been counting down the days for some time knowing what present they will be getting. It will be a busy period, no doubt, for many as they buy presents, get the food and get all the necessary arrangements made. As we think about the events surrounding the birth of Christ it would have been very busy in Bethlehem. With a census having been called of the entire Roman world everyone would have had to travel to register in their home town. Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem expecting the birth of Jesus at any time. It was certainly the final countdown for them of this big event. Yet with the busyness it seems that no one was aware of what was going on. It was the angels who announced the good news to the Shepherds. They were first to know which is significant in that the good news of Jesus, the forgiveness of sin and life everlasting, is for all mankind. Yet in the busyness of Christmas is it possible we will again miss the real meaning of this miraculous birth? Down at the church, at the bottom of Chapel Lane, we have been busy having started building a new lobby and resurfacing the car park. I hope we will be in the final countdown and be able to use it by the time you read this as our Carols by Candlelight Service will be at 4pm on Sunday, December 16. We will have a short Christmas morning service at 10am and you would be very welcome to join us at either or both services as we celebrate the final countdown to this momentous occasion. CHRISTMAS SERVICES & EVENTS Carols by Candlelight: Sunday, December 16 at 4pm Christmas Morning: Tuesday, December 25, 10am
But now to the most important events of the winter seasons, the socials! As you read this we will already have had our November social which was signing-on night for the 2019 season. If you missed it you can pay your membership at any of the following socials detailed below. Friday, December 17 from 7pm is our Christmas social. Various games will be played and the food will be sausage rolls and mince pies. It’s a good chance to dust off your Christmas jumpers and hats and to kick start the festive season. Raffle prizes would also be appreciated. Members £3, non-members £6. Friday, January 25 sees the return of the Stowmarket Strummers who are always a popular attraction so come along and enjoy an entertaining evening. Food will be sausages, jacket potatoes and beans and again raffle prizes would be appreciated. Members £3, non-members £6. Further socials will be on February 22 and March 22 with the opening drive on April 13. Details will be published in a later article. Meet and Greet days will be Saturdays, April 27 and May 4 from 10.30am. The way the green played came in for a lot of praise. It has now been put to bed but work will continue throughout the winter to ensure it is in the best possible condition for the 2019 season. Anyone interested in helping with the green will be warmly welcomed and should contact Alistair Bailie. Anyone wishing to discuss any aspect of NMBC can contact either Alistair Bailie on 01449 720759 or Pat Hadden 01473 831308.
Christmas Services & Events CLAYDON GROUP OF CHURCHES Serving the parishes of Claydon and Barham, Henley and Great Blakenham Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 December 10am-4pm: Festival of Light and Christmas Fayre Gt Blakenham Church and Parish Room. Refreshments served. Sunday, December 2: Advent Sunday Morning Services in all our churches: 8am, 9.30am, 10am, 11am 4pm: Advent Carol Service, Gt Blakenham Church Saturday, December 15 10am-1pm: Christmas Vestry Café, Henley Church Sunday, December 16 Only one morning services, 10am at Henley 3pm: Carol Service, Barham Church 5pm: Carol Service, Gt Blakenham Church 7pm: Carol Service, Henley Church Saturday, December 22 7pm: Carol Service at St Peter’s Church, Claydon Please walk if possible. Sunday, December 23 Only one morning services, 10am at Barham
WEEKLY EVENTS Monday fortnightly: Little Owls Toddler Group, 10am-noon Tuesday: Weekly Prayer Meeting, 7.30-8.30pm Wednesday: Coffee Morning, 10am-noon. All welcome. Thursday: Home Group, 10-11.45am Friday: Children’s Club (primary school age), 6.30-7.30pm Sunday Morning Service: 10.45am-noon
Monday, December 24: Christmas Eve 3pm: Service of Light, Barham Church 4pm: Christingle Service, Gt Blakenham Church 5pm: Crib Service, Henley Church 11.30pm: Midnight Mass, Barham Church 11.30pm: Midnight Mass, Gt Blakenham Church
For more information contact Michael: admin@blakenhambaptist.org.uk 01473 839785
Tuesday, December 25: Christmas Day 10am: Christmas Day Service, Henley Church For more services visit: www.claydonchurches.com
www.blakenhambaptist.org.uk
12
In Touch online:
CHURCH NEWS
ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD, ST MARY NETTLESTEAD, ST MARY THE VIRGIN LITTLE BLAKENHAM, ST PETER BAYLHAM Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Jenny Seggar 01473 747819 / revjseggar@outlook.com www.stmarybramford.co.uk DECEMBER 2018 Please check porch notices for any changes. Wednesday, 9.30am: Quiet Reflective Communion Service Sunday, December 2: Advent Sunday 10am Parish Communion and Baptism, Bramford Thursday, December 6 3pm United Service at Cherryfields Sunday, December 9: Advent 2 8am Holy Communion, Bramford 10am Parish Communion, Nettlestead 5pm Five o’clock Service Christmas Party, Bramford Sunday, December 16: Advent 3 10am Parish Communion, Bramford 3pm Carol Service and Mulled Wine, Nettlestead 6pm Carol Service and Mulled Wine, Baylham Tuesday, December 18 2pm The Gathering, Church Room Friday, December 21 7pm Carol Service and Mulled Wine, Bramford Sunday, December 23: Advent 4 10am Holy Communion, Bramford 6pm Carol Service, Lt Blakenham Monday, December 24: Christmas Eve 3pm Crib Service, Bramford 5.30pm Crib Service, Baylham 11.30pm First Communion of Christmas, Bramford Tuesday, December 25: Christmas Day 10am United Christmas Communion with Methodist Chapel 10am Christmas Morning Service, Nettlestead Sunday, December 30: Christmas 1 10am Parish Communion with Methodist, Bramford Dear Friends, Christmas is coming and we have an exciting programme of services and events planned. Keep your eye on our service schedules and noticeboards for our wonderful traditional Carol and Crib Services – it will be a real celebration. We begin with the wreath festival and Christmas bazaar. We will have craft stalls and our handmade Christmas wreaths on sale, as well as a lovely display of unusual Christmas wreaths in the church. The national church is taking the theme ‘Follow the Star’. If you have a computer, do go online and sign up for the daily reflections which can be delivered to your phone or email address. These are well worth receiving and help us to reflect on Christmas together, keeping our eyes fixed on the real meaning of Christmas as we prepare our family celebrations. After Christmas I have been granted three months study leave from the
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
middle of January to just before Easter. Clergy can take study leave every seven-10 years. We have to spend part of the time in retreat, part of the time resting, and part of the time on a specific area of study which will help in your ministry going forward. I have a holiday planned in Orkney and lots of bird watching, as well as a residential retreat, and my field of study has been approved by the bishop! All the services will be covered by visiting clergy and we have some quite exciting people coming to help us out over the next few months, including the archdeacon and the new cathedral dean, so do watch your service schedules. On a sadder note, many of you will be aware that Janet Read has not been well and she and Judy Kemish have taken the sad decision to finish running The Gathering. Although meetings will stop for the time being, we have plans afoot to restart it again in the New Year, so watch this space. Janet and Judy have done a wonderful job over the last 14 years drawing people together to chat, laugh and drink tea, and I am sure that you will all wish to thank them for their hard work, as I do. Blessings to you all, The Rev Jenny Seggar PARISH REGISTERS Funerals November 5: Vera Daldry, St Mary’s Bramford November 7: Derrick Thorndyke, 7 Hills Crematorium November 8: Sandra Cracknell, St Mary’s Bramford We extend to their families our sympathy and prayers. Confirmations November 4: Fran Noble, St Mary’s Coombs November 4: Jessica-May Noble, St Mary’s Coombs November 4: Lexi Davey, St Mary’s Coombs Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church October 23: In memory of Philip Stewart December 4: In memory of Jim Thacker December 9: In memory of Patricia (Pat) Brown December 9: In memory of Marjorie Earthy on her birthday December 9: In memory of Ron Earthy marking the centenary of his birth If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week. LECTIONARY Bible readings for our Sunday worship taken from the Revised Common Lectionary. It is good to share the reading of scripture with Christians – both Catholic and Protestant – across the world. December 2 Jer. 33:14-46
1st Sunday of Advent 1 Thess. 3:69-end
Purple Luke 21:25-36
December 9 Mal.3:1-4
2nd Sunday of Advent Phil. 1:3-11
Purple Luke 3:1-6
December 16 Zeph. 3:14-end
3rd Sunday of Advent Phil. 4:4-7
Purple Luke 3: 7-18
4th Sunday of Advent Heb. 10:5-10
Purple Luke 1:39-45(46-55)
1st Sunday of Christmas Col. 3:12-17
White Luke 2:41-end
December 23 Mic. 5:2-5a
December 30 1 Sam. 2:18-20, 26
13
CHURCH NEWS THE CLAYDON GROUP OF CHURCHES The Church of England in Claydon and Barham, Henley and Great Blakenham We offer you a warm welcome to all our events and services. For enquiries about baptisms, weddings and funerals contact: Priest-in-Charge Rev Carl Melville, Claydon Rectory 01473 833542 / carlmelville@hotmaill.com Letter from the Vicar For some people Christmas is anything but joyful and peaceful – the added pressure of family visits and the stress and worry of money are just a few examples why! The first Christmas was anything but peaceful. Mary and Joseph, who we’ve made out to be meek and mild, facing the trouble of pregnancy before marriage, travelling miles only to find they were not wanted at the inn and fleeing as refugees in order to protect their new born. The first Christmas was tense, awful and terrifying. Does this sound familiar? Not much has changed in our world. Christmas is still difficult for millions the world over… refugees, the homeless, the lonely… However, underneath all the human drama, for Mary and Joseph, and for us still today, God is at work. Mary and Joseph’s example encourages us to be joyful despite the pressure of the world around us. That, despite wars, the angels somehow sing; that, despite human frailty, God’s child was born; that, despite our fears and doubts, love always wins. That is the Christmas story – love always overcomes. What are you doing to make someone else’s Christmas a more beautiful celebration? If you’re struggling emotionally, financially or physically, don’t be afraid to get in touch with us. Have a very peaceful and blessed Christmas. Revd Carl Services in December Henley Church: every Sunday at 9.30am Barham Church: every Sunday at 10am Gt Blakenham Church: every Sunday at 11am St Peter’s Church, Claydon is usually open during daylight hours Sunday, December 2 – Advent Sunday 8am Holy Communion Barham Church 9.30am Holy Communion Henley Church 10am Holy Communion Barham Church 11am family@blakenham Gt Blakenham Church 4pm Benefice Advent Carols Gt Blakenham Church Sunday, December 9 – Advent 2 8am Holy Communion 9.30am family@henley 10am Holy Communion 11am Holy Communion
Barham Church Henley Church Barham Church Gt Blakenham Church
Sunday, December 16 – Advent 3 10am Benefice Communion 3pm Village Carol Service 5pm Village Carol Service 7pm Village Carol Service
Henley Church Barham Church Gt Blakenham Church Henley Church
Saturday, December 22 7pm Carol Service
Claydon Church
Sunday, December 23 – Advent 4 10am Benefice Communion 4pm Evensong
Barham Church Henley Church
Monday, December 24 – Christmas Eve 3pm Service of Light Barham Church 4pm Christingle Gt Blakenham Church 5pm Crib Service Henley Church 11.30pm Midnight Mass Barham Church 11.30pm Midnight Mass Gt Blakenham Church
14
Tuesday, December 25 – Christmas Day 10am Holy Communion Henley Church Sunday, December 30 – First After Christmas 11am Benefice Communion Gt Blakenham Church Joy to the World, The Lord is come! Carol Services on Sunday, December 16 Barham Church, 3pm Gt Blakenham Church, 5pm Henley Church, 7pm Further services can be found at: www.claydonchurches.com Social Media: Find us on Facebook and Twitter by searching ‘The Claydon Group of Churches’ NEWS Claydon Church Carols: Once again we meet at St Peter’s Church, Claydon for the annual Carol Service on Saturday, December 22 at 7pm. Carols at the Crossroads, Henley: Villagers are invited to carols, mince pies and chat at Five Ways Crossroads on Friday, December 21 from 6.30pm. Free hot chocolate! Carols on Blakenham Fields Green: Villagers are invited to get together for carols and mince pies on Tuesday, December 18 from 6.30pm. Tots Groups: Our combined (Henley and Gt Blakenham Churches) tots group now meets every Friday at Gt Blakenham Parish Room from 10-11.15am. See our website for more details. Please see page 11 for information about Claydon and Barham Young Families. Meet ’n’ Eat: Fancy a good lunch in the company of others? Know someone who is lonely, needs a chat or wants company? Meet ’n’ Eat takes place in Gt Blakenham Parish Room on the first Friday of the month between noon and 2pm. On Friday, December 7 we’ll be enjoying a homemade Christmas lunch. Bring your friends along! Holy Conversations (Home Group): The first Tuesday of the month at 7pm at The Rectory. All welcome for Bible Study and reflection. Advent and Christmas: Details of our Advent and Christmas events and services can now be found on page 20. You can also visit our website and click ‘Christmas’ for more information. Family Services: Continue in 2019 on the first Sunday at Gt Blakenham at 11am, the second Sunday at Henley at 9.30am and on the third Sunday at Barham at 10am. All ages are welcome. OTHER SERVICES AND EVENTS December Every Friday: Blakenham Tots, GB Parish Room,10-11.15am Saturday 1 & Sunday 2: Festival of Light, GB Church and Parish Room / Christmas Fayre on Saturday 1 Saturday 8: Coffee Morning from 10am-3pm at GB Parish Room, plus wreath making workshop. For more information call Louise: 07821 859611 Saturday 15: Christmas Vestry Café, Henley Church, 10am-1pm Tuesday 18: Carols on the Green, Blakenham Fields, 6.30pm Friday 21: Carols at the Crossroads, Henley, 6.30pm January 2019 Sunday 6: Epiphany Shared Lunch at Barham Church Saturday 19: Gt Blakenham Quiz Night, Parish Room HALL BOOKINGS Barham Church Hall: Zoe Groom, 831804 Gt Blakenham Parish Room: Reg Barton, 839958 Henley Church Vestry: Margaret Gerrard, 831463
In Touch online:
CHURCH NEWS BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH At the Heart of Community Minister: The Rev Derek Grimshaw – 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msn.com Steward: Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Please feel free to contact either of us with any queries. Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement with the minister, who will also arrange Holy Communion for the housebound. Sunday 10.30-11.30am*: Morning Worship with Holy Communion (every second Sunday) 10.30-11.30am: Lighthouse Club for ages 5+ (term time only). Bible stories, painting, card making, biscuit decorating, etc. plus free leaflet to take home. 4-6pm: Families@4, an informal get-together with afternoon tea and a children’s activity; come and go as you please (once a month – please check diary). Not a service but our minister usually joins us. To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380
Monday 2-3pm: Bible Study, an informal look at issues that those present wish to discuss (every third Monday) Tuesday 2-3pm*: Network/MWiB, our ladies meeting, but gentlemen are always welcome (second and fourth Tuesdays from October-April and second Tuesday from May-September) Wednesday 10am-noon: Computer Club (term time only) 7.30-8.30pm: Prayers and Laying on of Hands for Healing (second Wednesday) Thursday 3-3.30pm*: United Service (very informal) at Cherryfields (first Thursday) Saturday 10-11am: Coffee Morning at the Methodist Church or at Cherryfields (see below / third Saturday of month *followed by tea/coffee DIARY FOR DECEMBER Sunday 2 – Advent Sunday 10.30am: Morning Worship, Mr W Glasse Thursday 6 3pm: United Service at Cherryfields Sunday 9 10.30am: Morning Worship, Mrs R Loggie 3.30pm: Follow the Star, a nativity play at Bramford Road Methodist Church, Ipswich 1P1 4AY
Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning
Tuesday 11 2pm: Network/MWiB, a Christmas Celebration with Bramford Primary School Choir Wednesday 12 7.30pm: Prayers for Healing
Dry Carpet Cleaning
Saturday 15 10am: Coffee Morning at Cherryfields
For a FREE no obligation quotation
Sunday 16 10.30am: Holy Communion, The Rev D Grimshaw
Professional Local Service call John Burch: 07870 347486
Tel: 01449 721441
Monday 17 2pm: Bible Study Wednesday 19 7.30pm: Carols by Candlelight Saturday 22 10.30am: Carol singing outside the Co-op in aid of Action for Children Sunday 23 10.30am: Morning Worship, All-age Carol Service, Mrs M Watsham Tuesday 25 – Christmas Day 10am: United Christmas Service with St Mary’s at the Methodist Church (30-45 mins) Sunday 30 10am: United Communion Service at St Mary’s
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
15
ov st Ove er yle r 90 s 30 co and lo ur s
Y A MERR AS M ers IST CHR tom s u c ll our to a
The quick & easy way to upgrade your kitchen this
Christmas Simply cover the worktops replace the doors and drawer fronts for a whole new look!
Plus claim a...
FREE Sink & Tap worth £500* Don’t miss out - Order before Christmas!
Before
After
Don’t just take our word for it
“
Granite Transformations were brilliant from start to finish and such nice staff, nothing was too much trouble. So happy with our new worktops - thank you so much. Sue - Colchester
”
Worktops
In a matter of hours
The top that fits on top
Transforming your old kitchen does not have to be stressful, as we have the products and expertise to modernise it within just a few hours, simply by replacing the door and worktops - no mess - no fuss.
With over 1 Million installations globally, our worktops are the market leaders in terms of stunning styles and durability. Plus all our worktops come with an industry leading 10 Year Guarantee for peace of mind.
E XC LU S I V E C H R I S T M AS VO U C H E R Ipswich Showroom
Unit 3 Alstons Court, Leslie Road, Ipswich IP3 9PL
Call: 01473 851 360 Visit: gt-ipswich.co.uk Colchester Showroom
Hatfields Home Furnishings, Peartree Road, Colchester C03 0LA
Call: 01206 807 347 Visit: gt-colchester.co.uk *Free sink and tap with every order when purchasing worktops and door replacements. Offer ends 31/12/2018. Not in conjunction with any other offer.
£500 FREE Sink & Tap worth
*
UP TO
Voucher Valid until:
31/12/2018