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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead Volume 6 • Issue No. 12 • OCTOBER 2016
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Jack wanted to hold a roadside cake sale to raise money for charity, but couldn’t decide who to donate the money to. Old people were his first choice so I suggested Age UK Suffolk. Then he decided it should go to people who don’t have a place to live so we decided on Shelter. Next it was to help people with cancer so we added Cancer Research UK to the list. We sat there for an hour or so with our little picnic table, offering free squash with every purchase and the option to buy a copy of Jack’s Little Blue Book of Bits and Bones, drawings of some of the many odd bits Jack has picked up on scavenger hunts in the woods and compiled into a book with grandpa’s help. My son definitely has a generous soul, but in this instance I think book sales was his main objective. He did sell three copies and we raised £4 for each of our chosen charities, so not a bad result overall. The best part was meeting people. Most of our customers were walking past but one lovely couple stopped in their car to see what we were up to and purchased four buns and a copy of the book. Turns out they have just moved into the house three doors up and this was their first opportunity, and ours, to meet. I dread to think how long it would have taken otherwise. Everyone seems so busy these days, racing from one appointment to another. I feel like I’m juggling all the time and rarely feel satisfied that I’ve done any one thing as well as I’d have liked. Time with extended family and neighbours, to get involved in community events or to volunteer in any capacity, seems impossible, but thank goodness so many people manage to conquer this balancing act. Those who do are the ones who collect for charity, who volunteer at schools and libraries, who organise fundraising events, who take part in all sorts of fundraising activities, who share themselves with others who may not be able to get out and about so easily. Where would we be without these angels? My paltry £12 split three ways is no more than a token effort which I’m unlikely to repeat in a hurry, but in the coming months we will have several opportunities to support the efforts of others dedicated to raising money for one cause or another. So don’t drive by. Stick your hand in your pocket and throw a few coins in the pot, and if you’re not in a hurry take a moment to chat.
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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead
NEWS NEW PARISH PRIEST PROFILE Name: Carl Melville Age: 29 Hobbies: music, eating out, church bell ringing, walking and my dog! Loves: food (particularly chocolate), Eastenders, tea
It’s much easier to do a profile than to write a paragraph about myself. I’m the new priest-in-charge of Claydon, Barham, Henley and Great Blakenham. I am a Suffolk lad, born and raised in and around Stowmarket, where my family still live. After working for a few years, I then spent some time in a monastery and then worked with orphans for a year in Zimbabwe. I was ordained in 2013 after spending three years at theological college. I spent two years as a curate at St Edmundsbury Cathedral and a year in Cockfield. I am very excited about coming to live in Claydon Rectory and working in the parishes. There is a lot going on in the church and community that I am very much looking forward to getting stuck into. There’s a lot to look forward to. I love conducting baptisms and weddings and meeting new people. Whatever your role is within the church or community, I very much look forward to meeting you and getting to know you. I’m sure there will be plenty of opportunity to ‘meet the vicar’ in and around the community. My licensing will take place on Sunday, October 9 at 6.30pm at Barham Church. From then on my email address will be: carlmelville@hotmail.com For all enquiries, news or baptism/wedding requests, do get in touch. The Rev Carl Melville
In Touch with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead is published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
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LOCALISATION OR GLOBALISATION Having been in local business for over 30 years, we have witnessed (in our opinion) a huge change in people’s buying habits and our local community has suffered because of it. We now consider where our hard earned pound goes when we spend it and are gravely concerned about the amount whisked away into large international corporations, resulting in money possibly leaving the country and more frighteningly, we continue to hear stories of little or less tax being paid. We firmly believe that in order to help put the ‘GREAT’ back into Great Britain (that’s you and I), we should perhaps consider spending more of our hard earned pound wherever possible within the local community and allow it to prosper more, encouraging more local employment, paying more local tax and spending more locally. Do we really know how much of our pound stays in the community or even in this country when we spend it? Do we care?
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Whenever possible we try to use local services, employ local people and spend our money locally, knowing that sometimes we may pay a little more. YOUR LOCAL HEATING OIL SUPPLIER, BASED IN BRAMFORD
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NEWS NEW KIT BAGS FOR THE FIRST RESPONDER GROUP Following a £500 donation from the Claydon based Bar-Clay Music Makers, the Blakenham, Barham & Claydon Community First Responder Group have been able to purchase two new sets of medical kit bags, designed for ambulance service community first responders. These new bags will replace those which the group have been using over the past 10 years, which were showing the signs of wear and tear that goes with their age and continual use. Back row (l-r): Gillian Webb, Linda Pullen, Vera Rogers (Bar-Clay Music Makers), Chris Studd (Claydon & Whitton PC), Gail Cornish (Claydon & Barham Local Community Trust), Anne Dunford (Claydon & Whitton PC) Front row (l-r): Will Farrel, Alan Seager, Richard Bound (Barham & Claydon Community First Responder Group) This year the group have been very fortunate to have also received donations of £150 from Claydon & Whitton Parish Council and £113 from Claydon & Barham Local Community Trust following the success of Claydon Gala Day. As with all CFR groups in Suffolk, the Blakenham, Barham & Claydon Group are self-funded, so rely on the generosity of local people, businesses and organisations for the money needed to purchase, maintain or replace the various non-consumable items in their two medical kits. Previous generous donations from Bar-Clay Music Makers and the parish council have not only allowed the group to buy and equip each of their two medical kit bags with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and Pulse Oxymeter, but also to purchase a Resusci-Anne CPR training manikin and training AED, with which the members can practice and maintain their life support skills. A Satellite Navigation system was donated to the group by Claydon & Barham Local Community Trust. The members of the group would therefore like to express their thanks and appreciation for the financial and moral support they have received from these organisations since 2006, when they first started attending emergency medical calls in the Claydon area on behalf of the East of England Ambulance Service.
GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL A warm autumnal hello to all. To kick off please note that we still have two remaining vacancies for the parish council. If you are interested please email your interest to our clerk. We’re very keen to hear from interested parties from the new Masons Works development. By the time you read this we will have held our September meeting and, barring any last minute changes, will have announced our new clerk and a new councillor. Not being secretive, but at the time of writing the positions haven’t been formally filled. The parish council meet on the second Wednesday of each month in the Parish Rooms on Stowmarket Road, beside the church on the corner of Mill Lane. Please pop in or if you have any concerns contact our clerk or one of the councillors below. At the September meeting we will have discussed: •
Suggestions for two roads on the new Kingfisher Heights developments
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The response from the external auditor on the annual returns
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Adoption of revised standing orders, financial regulations and financial risk assessment
In line with better interaction with parishioners, we will be discussing social media, start times for council meetings and frequency for the rest of 2016/17. As you may be aware we are looking to expand the cemetery and are continuing to explore all avenues relating to this. Talking about the newer cemetery in Chalk Hill Lane, we’re looking at having the two trees managed as they’ve been left to grow and having the gates rehung as the nice but heavy gates are dragging on the ground. Other items of local interest include the care of the village sign and street names and the purchase of additional dog waste bins in areas that currently have none. You’re parish council contacts are: Mr Steve Plume, 17 Gipping Road, Great Blakenham IP6 0JH steveplume@me.com Mrs Karen Peters, 20 Chalk Hill Lane, Great Blakenham IP6 0NA karengbpc@gmail.com Mr Joel Waller, 74 Plummers Dell, Great Blakenham IP6 0HW j_waller2003@hotmail.com Mr Widge Bowman, 42 Chequers Rise, Great Blakenham IP6 0LT widge.bowman@gmail.com Parish clerk: pc@greatblakenham.suffolk.gov.uk
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
We need new members so we can continue to attend life threatening and serious medical emergencies in the future. Do you live or work in the Claydon area? Could you be available at short notice to help people who are unconscious or suffering from a heart attack, breathing difficulties, chest pains, diabetic or other serious medical conditions? If so please consider joining us.
Regular networking opportunities in October
If you would like further information about the Community First Responder Scheme, please visit www.eastamb.nhs.uk/get-involved or for an in formal chat about being a Community First Responder with the Blakenham, Barham & Claydon Group please contact Alan Seager (07766 443400) or Richard Bound (07941 469688).
Additional events Friday, October 28, Hillside Community Centre: Quiz Night with raffle in aid of Stowmarket Chamber’s chosen charity for the year, Stowmarket Food Bank
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Coffee ‘n’ Cake networking: Friday, October 7, 10am-noon, at Needham Market Community Centre Networking Breakfast: Friday, October 21, 6.45am, at Stowmarket Golf Club Book online at: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk
Please check the online events page for further details and to book.
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Please call Ian on: 01449 740285 / 07939 837939 E: ian@marchconsultingltd.co.uk
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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: SEPTEMBER 2016 The annual reports to the county on safeguarding and corporate parenting show an Ofsted rating of ‘Good’. This puts Suffolk in the top 25% of authorities. In these complex services there is a lot still to achieve, but good decisions are made about individual children’s needs. Ofsted say the council officers and councillors have a good grasp of current achievements and what needs to be done. The numbers of children in need and looked after children varies month by month and year by year, affected by national cases that reveal problem issues. However, the thresholds to decide what services children need are appropriate and correctly applied. There are budget issues due to the need for expensive residential placements of children with serious issues, but I am pleased to see that decisions are based on the child’s needs first and financial challenges second. County Budget The forecast of 2016/17 revenue and capital spending is predicting a £10m overspend for the year. The planned £4.3m use of reserves has increased to £10.9m, a substantial sum, but reserves, excluding schools, now stand at £129.4m. Some £44.8m of these are not allocated to anything specific. As the year progresses the overspend will no doubt reduce as pessimistic estimates turn to reality and the county will probably put cash into reserves as it has in all recent years. Devolution The devolution survey by Ipsos/MORI is complete and the consultation has closed. The results are somewhat different as MORI chose the 6,080 people surveyed as representative of the population, but the 5,000 who completed the consultation online or in paper form are sufficiently interested to select themselves. The proposal for a combined authority chaired by an elected mayor aims to deliver: • 95,000 new jobs for Norfolk and Suffolk residents • GVA growth of £11bn from £32bn to £43bn by 2026 • 200,000 new homes by 2036, for our growing population • 10,000 new businesses for economic growth by 2026 The headline figures are: The elected mayor Survey: 52% support and 29% oppose / Consultation: 27% support and 57% oppose Attitude to devolution Survey: 53% support and 16% oppose / Consultation: 49% support and 41% oppose Councils joining a combined authority Survey: 58% support and 25% oppose / Consultation: 35% support and 55% oppose So what conclusion do we draw? The population supports devolution in principle. Surveyed people support a mayor and a combined authority; those who chose to contribute to a consultation are opposed. Scrutiny We are to scrutinise the impact of the Brexit decision on funding for the
New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership that covers Norfolk and Suffolk. This will be on September 30. We will look at Highways again and then in late November the budget proposals for next year. Roads It continues to be difficult to get progress on the matters that concern you. On November 3 we will be scrutinising the progress made since we asked for a range of improvements. We will look at the extended time and cost of design work that we were promised would improve. The use of contractors that appears to lead to delays in tasks like white line renewal and grass cutting on verges is another question. You will have noticed a number of roads being surface dressed using additional funding from the government. This low cost process seals the cracks in a road, preventing water entering and freezing during the winter. This makes the road last longer. Planning-SnOasis The reserved matters, the detail that go with the Outline Planning Approval for the SnOasis development, must be submitted by the developer by October 31. If this happens, the district council and the parish councils will need to work to ensure local views are taken into account. This is not a review of the principle of the development but agreement on the final form, size, appearance and impact on our environment of the proposed features. Payments need to be with the district council and the county council to support planning officer and fire officer involvement three months before then. I have determined that the payments have been made so we should presume that the reserved matters will be presented on time. The district council want to be sure the local community feel informed and understand the process and the decisions that will be required. I will arrange a meeting of the parish council chairs and planning councillors for a briefing on the process and to plan the work they need to do. The council will see this progress as welcome, leading to significant employment and economic growth. However, planning decisions must be an open process based on planning law and full considerations of the impact of developments on the locality. Sheltered Housing Meetings with residents to present and discuss the proposals to ‘de-shelter’ some housing schemes have found most residents happy with the proposals, with some reservations. Mid Suffolk will now refine their proposals, accommodating residents’ concerns wherever they can, before the proposal goes to councillors for decision. Part of the plan is to increase activities for residents and contact with the wider community. If you have queries please contact me: 01473 831306 / john.field@suffolk.gov.uk www.john.field@suffolk.libdems.org
All the girls wore yellow, her favourite colour It’s the little things that make a funeral special
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NEWS GREAT BLAKENHAM VILLAGE HALL & RECREATION GROUND COMMITTEE As autumn approaches it’s a good opportunity for a quick catch up. Below is the report I presented at the annual meeting in July. Apologies for the delay but the cycle speedway season has been in full swing. Since then I have been actively working towards some exciting ideas generated by the village hall committee. The main aspiration is to make the village hall and recreation ground the hub of the community. It’s very easy to see that the village is growing. It’s also unbelievable, but true, that many villagers don’t know about the hall and what it can offer. Many clubs and activities use the hall on a regular basis, but I am asking for your help to spread the word. We are here for you, for wedding receptions, birthday parties, clubs… just ask. We have a Facebook page and we do try to keep people informed so please find us and like us. Just one thing to mention. We have a number of rubbish bins at the hall including general rubbish and also glass recycling. Unfortunately nonvillage hall items are often found in the red bin by the hall, including carpet tiles and a lawn mower. Please note this bin is provided for the sole use of the hall and its hirers. For the second year we will be holding a New Year’s Eve party and it’s going to be bigger than last year. We are also starting to make plans for a big summer event next year, but if you have ideas or just want to get involved please get in touch. It’s your hall – let’s all make use of it. Terry Ashford CHAIRMAN REPORT It was so easy for all of us to take the amount of time Derek Lockwood gave to this village hall and recreation ground over the 50 years he was in the post for granted. The only person who fully understood his commitment was his wife Doris. Doris carried on with the country and western club monthly dances, which was their passion, until the end of 2015. The year since Derek passed away has gone so quickly and not without its challenges. We may have got some things wrong, but no one can fault the effort and commitment that the committee has given to the people of Great Blakenham and this wonderful village hall and recreation ground. Last year’s open meeting/AGM was cancelled and rescheduled as soon as possible after Derek’s funeral, but was a very low key affair. From my
point of view, I was fully aware that Derek’s legacy would be a major task with the main objective, at the time, to move forward and to take the pressure off Doris. Within days of my appointment the cleaner resigned, nothing to do with the new committee – just coincidence, a new one was appointed, but they never took post. With great gratitude a couple of long serving committee members rallied around and did the job until the current permanent replacement was found. My main agenda from appointment was to ensure that the facilities were maintained and used predominantly by the people of Great Blakenham. To show villagers that it’s their village hall, a 70s/80s New Year Eve Disco was arranged with tickets being sold only to local residents and monies from the £1 tickets going to two worthy charities. It was a fantastic success and one that will be repeated. Along with the big things that Derek dealt with over the years, I was aware of two that always seemed to be on the agenda. With a number of locals using the recreation ground to exercise their dogs, dog fouling has always been a problem. As far as I am aware we have had no complaints and do thank all you considerate, responsible dog owners for keeping your recreation ground clean. The other is the issue of the fence and open gate. This matter is still ongoing so please don’t get too concerned. With development in mind, myself and the vice chair attended the Village Hall Seminar at Gt Barton, an award winning hall with lots of facilities on offer. It was a very informative day. Our hall and surrounds are constantly being worked on and maintained with grass being kept trimmed by our own groundsman. The main revenue is of course from hall hire and it’s good to report that there are a number of people using it on a regular basis. However we would always welcome more. The committee has had applications from four football teams to use the pitch in 2016/2017 season; this is really great news, but will from time to time present parking issues. I would like to thank everyone who has been part of the last year. With a new committee being formed it is more important than ever that the nominated people are committed to acting in the best interests of the hall, helping to move forward their objectives and improve the facilities on offer.
EVENTS AT GREAT BLAKENHAM VILLAGE HALL New Year’s Eve Party
After a fantastic response last year, and a brilliant evening enjoyed by Great Blakenham villagers, we are once again holding our New Year’s Eve Party. Tickets will be available nearer the time, but due to selling out last year and to avoid disappointment, please register your interest by contacting our committee secretary stating your name, contact telephone number and how many tickets (£2 each, all ages) you are interested in: halladmingbvh@btconnect.com
REGULAR EVENTS Monday evening: Keep Fit and Bowls Tuesday afternoon: Ballet Tuesday evening: Badminton Wednesday morning: Parent and Toddler Session Wednesday evening: Kick-Boxing Thursday evening: Bowls
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One Saturday every month: Country & Western Dancing
HALL AVAILABILITY Availability for hire in October is as follows: Mondays, October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 – available til 4pm Tuesday, October 25 – available til 7pm Wednesday, October 26 – available all day/evening Thursdays, October 6, 13, 20 and 27 – available til 7pm Fridays, October 7, 14, 21 and 28 – available all day/evening Saturday, October 8 – available from 5pm Bar available on request. We also have a conference room available for hire – please see our website or Facebook page for further details. Enquiries to: halladmingbvh@btconnect.com / 01473 830312
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NEWS SOMERSHAM & DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP
SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE The Suffolk energyfrom-waste facility is to be the subject of a film showcasing the work of Grimshaw, the architects of the building.
A Community Shop for the local community, run by the local community The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm Saturdays: 8am-1pm Summer is over and we hope those who have been away on holiday had an enjoyable time and are ready to settle down to routine again. We must thank all those volunteers who did extra shifts to cover when there were gaps in the rota and kept the shop well stocked and running during the holidays. We are now looking at our autumn/winter schedule and a warm welcome will be there for all. The Tea and Chat afternoons will be held again this year on the last Wednesday in October, November, January, February and March. So come along when the weather gets cold and the evenings darker and meet up with others for a cup of tea, a piece of cake and a chat between 2 and 4pm. The first Tea and Chat will be on the last Wednesday of October. We look forward to seeing you then. Also for those interested in all thing mechanical, there is Petrolheads where like-minded people get together for a chat about all things motor orientated. These meetings take place in the Coffee Corner on the first Wednesday of the month between 2 and 4pm, so if that is your interest please just turn up. At the time of writing the Macmillan World’s Biggest Coffee Morning was still being organised but will now have taken place. Lucy had organised the event this year for the community shop, and if past years are anything to go by, our very generous customers will have raised a good amount for this very worthwhile cause, while enjoying a very social morning and delicious cakes baked by our local residents. We also plan to support Somersham Parish Church at the Pumpkin Festival to be held in October. If you have pumpkins to donate to this display, please let Lucy know. They will be much appreciated. The community shop also extends its support to the on-going Save the Duke Campaign. Nowadays it’s up to local communities to keep traditional village services such as the shop and pub alive. Much hard work, but gives heart and soul to the community and saves our villages from becoming just dormitories for local towns. The shop is a much involved community hub as well as supplying all our daily household needs. You can keep up-to-date with events in the shop and new lines available by joining our email list. Simply email: somershamshop@btinternet.com We also have a village diary in the shop so that when an event is organised it can be listed for all to see, avoiding date clashes and ensuring the best possible attendance at every event. Do pop in and put any dates you have into the diary. Now we’ll be ordering more seasonal products as well as our usual everyday household goods and produce. We always offer an excellent range of fresh local produce including eggs, bread and pies and a whole range of other household goods, as well as wine and locally brewed beer. Orders can be taken for fresh produce, either as a one-off or regular placement. Our other services are there for all to use: the village diary, Coffee Corner, book exchange, a dry-cleaning service, newspapers and magazines which can be ordered for collection at the shop and a delivery service for those with mobility problems. Please come in and see what’s on offer. Management Team Lucy Barrett, 831890; Terry Fordham, 831529; Jenny Hitchcock, 832060; Peter Jousiffe, 833577; Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080 A COMMUNITY SHOP FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, RUN BY THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
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Nick Grimshaw, founder of the practice, featured in a BBC series about eminent British architects, and on the back of this he commissioned the film company to produce a series of short films about key Grimshaw projects. The Suffolk building was chosen to be one of these, alongside the Eden Project in Cornwall and the Fulton Centre in New York. Filming took place in September, and although the focus was on the architecture, the producers were also keen to explore what local people thought about the building. So, as well as interviews with the architects and staff from both SUEZ and Suffolk County Council, the film also included the views of Penny Pearson and Chris Studd, local residents and members of the site’s community liaison group. Grimshaw has been short-listed for a Civic Trust award for their work on the building. Judges will visit site in October and regional finalists will be announced in November. USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 / To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060
SAVE THE DUKE Save the Duke have just celebrated one year since the launch of our share scheme to buy the Duke of Marlborough for the community. We can’t believe we have managed to raise more than £275,000 in that time through both shares and loans. Massive thanks again to all who have helped make it happen – we truly couldn’t have done it without you. Shares continue to be sold so if you are in a position to chip in now, we would love to hear from you. Remember, 30% tax relief is still available for tax payers. We are currently in the final stags of negotiation with the owners of the Marlborough and we really hope we can reach an agreement in the coming weeks. It’s the final push – if we could just sell a few more shares, we would be able to make the offer that is needed. We are so close now to having our pub back and being able to safeguard its future at the heart of the community. Don’t miss out on being part of this. If you can help, or know someone who might, please email us at marlboroughsomersham@ gmail.com or call James on 831042. Fundraising has continued in the form of a post-harvest barn dance/ ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee) which raised an impressive £1,250 and was enjoyed by all who attended in the lovely old barn at Church Farm on September 3. Thanks go to all who contributed in some way. Thanks to Wayne Baven from Town 102 who did a sterling job on the microphone and auctioned off several enticing lots including a one-hour Suffolk Punch cart ride, lunch at The Shed in Sproughton and two sets of signed Coldplay goodies, which were both snapped up by a particularly dedicated Coldplay fan! Thanks to all who made puddings or donated raffle prizes – it was much appreciated. So what’s next? A community hop picking day and BBQ at Inghams Farm, Lt Blakenham to pick hops for brewing a special Save the Duke ale. For pictures and the latest news visit: www.savetheduke.net / facebook.com/marlboroughsomersham
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OUT & ABOUT FOUR COMMUNITIES ACTION GROUP The Four Communities Action Group (4CAG) was created in 2010 by members of the churches of Barham, Claydon, Great Blakenham and Henley, Age UK (Suffolk) and interested members of the wider community. Its aim is to work together as four parishes to develop new activities and support networks, especially for those in need, and to provide spiritual support and encouragement with a view to enhancing the lives of all members of the community. The group currently supports five organisations: • 4Ever Young Men’s Group meeting at The Crown, Claydon on the third Wednesday of each month (see page 15) • Meet ‘n’ Eat Lunch Club at the Parish Rooms, Great Blakenham on the first Friday of each month (see page 14) • Gipping Valley Art Society meets at the Parish Rooms, Great Blakenham every Tuesday afternoon • The Book Club, an informal group which meets at The Crown, Claydon on the last Thursday of the month • The Knitting Group, a relaxed and friendly group meeting at Alasdair Place, Claydon on the first Thursday of the month Our aim is to increase awareness of these groups, plan future projects and also to attract like-minded people in the community to join us. The Crown at Claydon has always offered us a venue for some of our meetings, coffee and the chance to stay for a bite to eat afterwards, and we would like to thank the team there for their support. If you would like to know more about our work, pop along to one of our activities or email: 4CAG@bigvax.co.uk
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EAT PUDDING FOR A GOOD CAUSE AT FOOD FUNDRAISER Wednesday, October 19 at The Swan in Westerfield A scrumptious dessert is a perfect way to end a meal – so why not make that the main attraction? Round up some friends, be a bit naughty and treat yourselves to a night of indulgence in aid of a great cause. Local award winning hearing care specialists, The Hearing Care Centre invites you to attend their very popular event which gives the opportunity for dessert lovers to spend an evening in pudding paradise at The Swan, Westerfield. You will not only be allowed but positively encouraged to sample every dessert on the menu, and at the same time raise money for the fantastic charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. The charity, close to the hearts of The Hearing Care Centre, delivers specialist training for hearing dogs which provides invaluable emotional support and gives many deaf people confidence, independence and constant companionship, which totally transforms lives. The Swan at Westerfield is the ideal location to enjoy a great range of wines, ales and delicious food amongst a great atmosphere. During the evening guests can enjoy a delightful mini main course and all you can eat mouth-watering desserts from a huge selection supplied by Deben Inns. Foodie competitions and a big prize draw will give those in attendance time to digest between tasters to ensure maximum samples are enjoyed by all. The Hearing Care Centre Charity Pudding Club Evening is at 7.30pm on Wednesday, October 19. Tickets are excellent value, priced at just £17.50. Tables are limited, so book as soon as you can at: 01473 230330 / www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk/puddings
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OUT & ABOUT BAR-CLAY MUSIC MAKERS NEW SEASON On the warmest summer evening in September, Bar-clay Music Makers met for the first read-through of our January panto, Goldie Locks and Some Other Guys. It’s hard to believe that rehearsals will soon be in full swing. The chorus tried out some new moves, the actors met their fellow cast members, novel set ideas were unveiled, chaperones filled out forms and everyone was persuaded to pay their subs. It was business as usual and all our efforts are now concentrated on producing an entirely new show written by one of our members, Sharon Hulm. The dates to note are January 20, 21, 27 and 28, when Claydon Village Hall opens its doors to you and all our loyal audiences. And just a reminder – if you would like to nominate a local (Claydon and Barham) good cause to benefit from our profits, please contact Vera Rogers: vera.rogers1@btinternet.com
BELLRINGING AT HENLEY CHURCH Would you like to learn to ring church bells? A small group of learners meet each Saturday at Henley Church at 9.30am. You may have heard us! It’s good gentle exercise and anyone over about nine-years-old (no upper age limit!!) is very welcome If you would like to have a go, please do come along, we would love a few more people to join us. For more details please contact Stephen Christian: 01473 890767
GREAT BLAKENHAM 200 CLUB Winning tickets for August 40 £25 Russell Dawson 199 £15 Rosemary Longdon 209 £10 Sam Wells £10 Jane (Book Club) 57 203 £5 Mr Wood £5 Nick Thomas 129 All money raised by your membership of the 200 Club goes toward the repair and preservation of St Mary’s Parish Church. Tickets are £1 a month, collected at the beginning of each year but you can join at any time. Please phone Marion on 01473 830915 if you would like the chance to win a prizes and help maintain the beauty of our ancient church building.
BAYLHAM VILLAGE HALL Our annual village walk will be held on Saturday, October 22. The cost of £4 includes coffee and a selection of homemade soups/rolls on your return. Please meet at 10am in the hall and wear suitable footwear. Book your place with Wendy: 01473 830615 Forthcoming event A quiz with fish and chip supper will be held in the hall on Saturday, November 12. Further details to follow.
OPEN DAYS AT CREETING ST MARY CEVAP Creeting St Mary CEVAP School will be opening their doors to the local community and prospective pupils and their families on two open days – Thursday, October 13 and Friday, October 14, from 2-7pm. It will be an opportunity to see the school in action, to look at the facilities we have to offer and to meet our new headteacher, Mrs Christine Friar. No appointment is necessary for this informal visit and refreshments will be available. Our village school operates at the heart of the local community, teaching up to 84 pupils from Reception to Year 6. Creeting St Mary CEVAP school is part of the Debenham High School Pyramid and has an OFSTED rating of GOOD and a SIAMS rating of OUTSTANDING. We are very proud of our small, family friendly school and our caring, sharing ethos where each child is encouraged to fulfil their potential and we look forward to sharing our work and achievements on the open days. If you would like further information please call 01449 720312 or visit: www.creetingstmary.suffolk.sch.uk
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5 Town/village Location Time MIP/5A Sproughton Church Lane 9.10-9.25am MIP/5B Sproughton Wild Man 9.30-9.45am MIP/5C Bramford St Mary’s Close 9.50-10.05am Bramford Paper Mill Lane 10.10-10.25am MIP/5D MIP/5E Great Blakenham, Chequers 10.35-1055am MIP/5F Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park 11-11.15am MIP/5G Baylham Post Box 11.25-11.45am MIP/5H Claydon Crown 11.55am-1pm MIP/5I Claydon Edinburgh Gardens 2.05-2.20pm MIP/5J Barham Bacon Road 2.25-3.50pm MIP/5K Bramford Packard Place 4-4.30pm DATES: October 25, November 22, December 20
GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB The club meets every Monday other than bank holidays in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. Members pay £2 a meeting and this covers hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Our workshop meeting for August was Always Need Storage where we made small storage bags, a few of which are pictured. This was a most enjoyable workshop. The September workshop was entitled Lovely in Lace and made good use of some crafting supplies donated to the club by a former member. While cardmaking was predominant, members were encouraged to think of other ideas such as home décor items.
MEET ‘N’ EAT LUNCH CLUB
Our programme for the remainder of 2016 is below but I give no clues as to the project.
The Meet ‘n’ Eat Lunch Club meets at noon on the first Friday of each month at the Parish Rooms in Great Blakenham. For only £4 we serve a choice of soup with a roll and butter, then home made puddings with cream or custard and a cup of tea or coffee. In addition, we offer the chance to sit and chat with old friends, make new friends, play a game of bingo, win the raffle and have a bit of fun.
October 3: New Baubles, Mind the Furniture November 7: Getting Ready for Christmas December 5: Christmas Party
If you’re interested, call Sue Broomfield (07890 512828) or Mike Biddle (07805 507497), or just come along on the first Friday of the month – you will be very welcome.
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There is currently room for new members so if you are interested in joining us please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present, gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome, but unfortunately I cannot accommodate children. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB
CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL
Great Blakenham Over 50s Club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea.
September saw us warmly welcome all of the new children in Nursery and throughout the school, as well as our existing pupils returning after their summer break, all resplendent in their new uniforms and shoes.
The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. We started back again on September 14 with our AGM and discussions on our new programme, details of which will follow in due course. We would be pleased to welcome new members, but if you would just like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
4 EVER YOUNG MEN’S CLUB The 4 Ever Young Men’s Club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 10.30am in The Crown at Claydon. We have a full timetable for the rest of the year. In October, there will be a presentation from the Hearing Care Centre Ltd and in November, our Police Community Support Officer Mark Pagehas will talk to us. We’re already preparing for our December meeting, our annual Christmas Lunch. The Crown at Claydon very kindly accomodates us and provides coffee for our meeting, and some of us often stay for a spot of lunch afterwards. The meetings give us the chance to sit and chat with old friends, meet new friends and learn of new interests and ideas. We’re always looking for members and speakers, so if you fit the bill (Forever Young!) please come along to listen or talk (or both).
On our return, we were delighted to be awarded the Silver Mark by School Games in recognition of all pupils in Key Stage Two taking part in intra-school sports competitions (60% of whom participated in extracurricular sporting activities), as well as school-club links being created and staff being up-skilled in 12 different sporting expertise areas. This is a great achievement and represents our dedication to encouraging children to participate in sports. You may remember our skilled group of gymnasts who, in July, had won a place in the county final. Well, we are delighted to report that they won Gold in that final and, as such, went on to represent Suffolk in the regional competition, which was a great achievement. Our heartfelt congratulations go to all gymnasts who participated. Finally, we are very proud to tell you that all our pupils worked really hard during the last academic year. At the end of Reception, our five year olds are assessed and again the number of children who achieved a ‘good level of development’ was well above the national figure. At the end of Key Stage One, our seven year olds are assessed and this year there were lots of changes to the curriculum and the expectations for these pupils. Staff and pupils rose to the challenge and we were delighted with their results. At the end of Key Stage Two, our 11 year olds are also assessed in reading, writing, maths and science and they take the national tests, known as SATS. Again, expectations have been changed and are now much higher, but we were proud with how hard the pupils worked to tackle the new tests. Congratulations to our pupils, staff, parents and carers. We look forward to another successful year.
CLAYDON MUMS ‘N’ TOTS GROUP
For more information, contact Mike Biddle on 07805 507497, or just turn up on the third Wednesday of the month. You will be very welcome.
Calling all mums, dads, grandparents and carers with children 0-4 years old. Are you looking for somewhere to entertain your children and make new friends at the same time?
CLAYDON & BARHAM YOUNG FAMILIES
Claydon Mums ‘n’ Tots meet every Tuesday (term time) from 1.15-3pm in Claydon & Barham Village Hall. We charge just £1.50 a family (one adult and children) which includes a drink and a biscuit for both the adults and children. There is a great selection of toys and activities to stimulate the children and help them let off some steam.
Claydon and Barham Young Families is a Mothers’ Union project which has been run by Mothers’ Union members and supporters for 25 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 a family. This month we meet from 9.30-11.30am on Thursdays, October 6 and 20 in Claydon and Barham Village Hall. At our regular sessions we welcome anyone with babies or children under five for imaginative play, storytime, songtime and lots of fun. Families can enjoy a different craft activity with a theme where children can be creative and try out different materials to produce an individual masterpiece. Playdough and all sorts of toys that encourage children’s imaginative play and physical and social development are available. We also share songtime for a bit of noise. For parents and carers it is a good opportunity to meet others with pre-school children or babies. There is also a prize draw for the children. This month we would like to wish a happy birthday to Sophie, Harper and Ned. 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. Michelle
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Each week we have a different theme at our arts and crafts table where the children can make and create something amazing to take home and show the family. We always end our session with a sing-a-long. This month we will meet on October 4, 11 and 18 and new faces are always welcome. So why not come along, have a cuppa and meet some people in your area? We look forward to seeing you and your little ones soon. Could you run this group? Since Georgie Bolton stepped down from successfully running Claydon Mums ‘n’ Tots for many years, the group has been kept going by a small group of volunteer mums. However, it would really benefit from having a committed individual to take charge of the group, make it their own and lead it into the future. All that would be required from you is a little spare time, a love of children and some fresh new ideas for weekly activities. Parents are always on hand to help out at the sessions each week. If you are interested in finding out more about what’s involved in running the group please contact Julie Cook at juliet.cook@ymail.com or drop in to one of our sessions.
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL
HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL
Students and staff have once again been rewarded for their hard work and commitment with another great set of GCSE results. Of the 148 pupils at Claydon High School, 70% of students achieved A*-C in both English and Maths. Students in Chemistry, Physics and Further Maths recorded a fantastic 100% A*-C success rate with top results in other subjects including: Biology 97%, English Language 85%, Spanish 85%, Business Studies 82%, Drama 81%, R.E. 80%, P.E. 80%, Media Studies 77% and Maths 75%. We are determined that our students are given every opportunity to be the best that they can be and they have certainly excelled themselves this year. I am delighted with the individual results for students and offer my congratulations to our young people who should all be very proud of what they have achieved, in terms of both academic success and the contribution they have made to school life over the past five years. I would also like to thank our teaching and support colleagues who always insist on delivering excellence, our governors for supporting us and to families who have gone out of their way to ensure that their sons and daughters have been well supported at home. As our students move on to the next chapter in their lives, we wish them all the very best of luck. Moving forward to this new academic year, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to our new staff and Year 7 students and their parents/ carers. We have had a very busy start to the autumn term and I am delighted at how well our new students have settled in. It is always an exciting but anxious time (especially for parents/carers), but it always amazes me at how quickly they adapt to high school, finding their way around and making lots of new friends in the process. We have lots of events and activities organised for this half term. Year 11 students are particularly busy with planned trips for several departments including Business Studies, Textiles, English and Leisure and Tourism. A group of Year 10 and 11 Spanish and Art students will be travelling to Barcelona in mid-October for four days. This trip will give students an invaluable chance to practise their language skills and absorb the culture and architecture of this fantastic city. As I write this article, staff are busy planning for WOW Week at the end of October. This will be three days of specially designed activities for each year group. Year 7 will be camping at Mersea Outdoor Centre, taking part in various team building activities such as orienteering and rocket building. Years 8-10 will participate in a media based enterprise challenge. This will focus on creating an entrepreneurial spirit, developing leadership skills and accelerating employability skills. Year 11 students will spend a day at a college, sixth form or university, work with the YMCA on activities in school and will finish the week with a trip to Trinity Park for the Suffolk Skills Show. I will let you know how they all get on in the December edition.
We hope everyone had a wonderful summer break, enjoying the Great British Summer and all it had to offer. We would like to give a warm welcome to all our new children joining us this term, say ‘nice to see you again’ to the children returning for another year with us and wish good luck to those who left in July to start primary school. We are also delighted to welcome and introduce our new setting manager who started this term, Bridget Wyatt. Many of you may know of Bridget from her previous setting and we are really excited to have her take up the reins from Carol, leading the setting into the new school year. Due to increased demand, we are delighted to announce that we are now open Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, so your children can attend the setting for a full day on Tuesday and Thursday. Sessions are now available 9am-noon and noon-3pm Monday to Friday. We are a small, rural pre-school situated in the light and airy Boughton Room in Henley Community Centre, less than a 10 minute drive from Great Blakenham and Claydon. All staff are highly qualified and provide a secure foundation in allowing the children to learn and develop in a friendly, inviting setting. There is a large car park on site making drop off and collection a safe and easy experience. We have sessions available for both grant funded and paid sessions for two to five year olds. Lunch club is also available (noon-1pm). You don’t need to live in the Henley School catchment area to come and play with us – we have children from Ipswich, Claydon, Great Blakenham, Needham Market and other surrounding areas. If you would like to come and join in the fun, or would like to have a look around and see what Henley Pre-School has to offer, please ring 01473 833848 during session time to make an appointment. Out of hours, or if you wish to leave us a message, please ring the pre-school mobile on 07979 468467 or visit: www.henleypreschool.co.uk Bridget and the team
Finally I would like to inform prospective parents and carers of our open evening on Wednesday, October 5. I would be delighted to welcome you into our school to experience our superb facilities and resources and to talk to our staff and students as they proudly showcase their work. The evening will begin at 6.30pm with a presentation at 6.35pm. If you are unable to attend the open evening or if you would like to visit the school and see us in action during the day, then please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen on 01473 836110 to book a place on one of our open mornings in the autumn term. The next one is on Tuesday, October 11. Headteacher Mrs S Skinner
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SPORT GIPPING VALLEY BOWLS CLUB
CLAYDON & DISTRICT BADMINTON CLUB Did you enjoy watching our men playing badminton in the Rio Olympics, when they won bronze medals? Why not give the game a try at Claydon? 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. Why not give us a look at the Sports Hall any Monday night – our season started in September? For more information contact C&DBC chairman Don Golding: 01473 747596 / don.golding@btinternet.com
Well, our season is almost over and we shall soon be hibernating for the winter, or the hardy ones turning to indoor bowls. Our finals day was played on Sunday, September 11 with Edith Roberts winning the Ladies Singles, Ashley Watson winning the Men’s Singles and Dale Quinton winning the Four Wood Singles. A competition was also held on this day for the Alf Harvey Trophy which was won by Rita Adams. Our final game before the green is put to bed for the winter, our Club Fun Day, is on September 18. This is when members and families get together to try their skills at fun bowls games put together by Mick Scott and to have lunch. However, we don’t finish there. We still use the pavilion throughout the winter with a luncheon club once a month prepared by Marion Ward and her willing helpers including a Christmas Dinner in December, a Beetle Drive/Games Night with fish and chips one evening a month and computer courses run for our members by Mick Roberts. To finish off, our annual presentation dinner is held in January, this year at Ipswich Sports Club, where trophies are presented to all competition winners and runners-up. We are always looking to welcome new members. If you are interested in playing next year please contact our secretary Rita Adams (01473 830845) or come along to our AGM at the club on Tuesday, October 4 at 7pm.
NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB Another outdoor season comes to an end with a very busy time clearing up all the fixtures postponed due to the heavy rain. The best result for our teams was the Tuesday afternoon A team who won division one with a record 13 wins from their 18 fixtures and a total of 87.5 points. Congratulations to captain Joyce Walton and her team. Next best was second place for the Wednesday night team with 12 wins from 18 fixtures, a good result on our first year in the league. The Thursday night ‘development’ team acquitted themselves well with six wins. Congratulations to all the new bowlers. The Monday A team had five wins while the B team had four wins and the Tuesday B team had six wins. A very good run in the Marie Curie Cup with three wins saw us progress to the regional final where we were beaten by a very strong Combs Ford team. Good luck to them in the final. Also congratulations to Ginny Last, Trevor Harvey and Roger Last on reaching the semi-finals of the Over 60’s triples competition. We had a very successful club triples competition which was won by
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BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Dear Guff lovers, unfortunately the guff meister is on holiday this month and so is unable to write his usual offering. We can however all look forward (or not) to Canadian jokes on his return. I thought I would take the opportunity to remind you all that Bramford Tennis club is open 12 months a year to all members. Membership details can be found at: http://bramfordtennisclub.onesuffolk.net/ If you want to play some tennis before you decide to join, you can play up to three times for £2 a person. Please contact us if you need a partner to play with. The summer season has now ended and the winter leagues will soon start. This means some courts may be in use by teams on Saturday and Sunday mornings. However there is always at least one court for members to use. Please consider joining the club. We are very reasonably priced, all the family can join in and it’s a fun way to exercise. You can play at league level, club level or just with friends and family. Everyone is welcome. Mick will be back next month. Lorna Jones, secretary Rita Robertson, John Cook and Roger Last (pictured), but only after a very dramatic sudden death end. Thanks to Pat Goodrum for the bacon sandwiches and hot dogs and all the ladies who baked cakes. To be repeated next year. As you are reading this we will have had our closing drive September 11 and will have put the green to bed. The hard work starts now for our dedicated team of greenkeepers who will work throughout the winter months to ensure the green and surrounds are in the best possible condition for the 2017 season starting mid-April. At the moment no social events have been arranged, but a future article will have details. Non-members are always welcome at these events. Our meet and greet Saturday morning will be repeated in April 2017, full details later. Like all clubs we find it extremely difficult to attract young people to bowling, so remember, its not just an old persons game you’re never too young to bowl. Contact Pat Hadden, 01473 831308 / Alistair Bailie, 01449 720759
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SPORT CLAYDON FC Senior section reports After an enjoyable end to last season with AFC Hoxne, I accepted the role of First team manager at Claydon FC. When I took on the role I was aware that we needed to do a bit of work, but I couldn’t have envisaged the manic summer that lay ahead. I have probably been the busiest manager in the SIL after our Reserve managers and entire Reserve side turned tail and headed to the slopes of Somersham at the 11th hour in pursuit of First team football. As is the case with most clubs, we had several other players who decided they fancied their chances elsewhere and made their exit stage left. This left five players from last year’s squad. After five weeks of stressful running around, with the support of others at the club, we had appointed a new Reserve manager and added 34 additional players to our squad. Pre-season came and went and the new First team side were either brilliant or not so brilliant, but there is certainly huge potential there and reason to be very optimistic. I think it could take time for us to gel and by the time we do that, we might be playing catch up in a very tough Division 1 this season. However, if we click early doors, who knows what might happen. Saturday, August 27 On our first Saturday our new team faced a tough opener against the organised Sorting 87. You never know what you might be up against when they roll into town as they quietly go about their business and have an excellent manager in Mr Warnock. Despite our summer signing heroics, we were thin on the ground with five players missing for one reason or another. The bank holiday weekend is always going to have an impact, but we put a side out and issued a game plan. We revisited the game plan at half time after coming in at 0-0, when we could (and should) have been two or three to the good. Sporting hadn’t shown too much ambition and were well drilled and difficult to break down. We planned to go a bit longer second half, but no sooner had I got back the to the dug-out with my cup of tea, when we conceded a raggedy ass goal to fall behind. Sporting then sat deeper, but we eventually regained our composure and controlled the flow of the game. We (and in particular Nathan Harper) were rewarded for our efforts when Nathan lashed an excellent shot into the top corner from the edge of the box. We looked the most likely to go on and win from here, with a draw looking next most likely result. However, things didn’t work out for either scenario as we missed several chances and Sporting broke on us and scored a scrappy second. We threw everything at them for remainder of game, but heroic blocks and saves ensured they left with all three points. A disappointing result, but plenty of things to be enthused about moving forward as a team. The Ressies, under the management of Lee Brill and Nathan Brame, enjoyed a successful day at Stonham, with Brillo’s young team coming back from 2-1 down at half time to take the points with a gutsy
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second half display, winning 3-2. Goals from Big Sanchez, Denton and ‘The Labrador’. Saturday, September 3 Following our open day defeat to Sporting 87 we were looking to bounce back against Ipswich Valley Rangers. We were again short on players, but we did welcome back Lapdog (from his premature retirement) with Double and Parris stepping up from the Reserves. Finally, we were boosted by the return of summer signing Josh ‘Urban Pipless’ Dowsing. Josh was unavailable the week before. It quickly emerged that we were going to control the game and that IVR might be in for a long season. After 15 minutes or so of probing and getting closer to the target, summer signing Driver opened the scoring with a crisp finish from Horn’s excellent cross. Kirby then doubled the lead with a smart finish from the right of the box, firing in to the keeper’s left. Driver then made it 3-0 when he reacted quickest to a long throw to poke home. Kirby then scored the best goal of the game when he picked the ball up on our left, by the half way line, prior to setting off on a diagonal run, beating numerous players and firing in from the edge of the box (very decent). Knock made it 5-0 at half time when he scored his first of the season direct via a 25 yard free-kick. Half time team talks are difficult when the game is won, but we urged the boys to not show mercy and keep the tempo up. Rather predictably the second half was a bit of a non-event and for a very long period IVR defended well and it looked like there would be no further goals. However, we added three more in the final 15 minutes with goals from Dowsing, Lapworth and a third from Kirby. Final score 8-0. I’m pleased with the win and the goals, but we definitely won’t be getting carried away off the back of this result. I wish IVR all the very best for this coming season. The Ressies had a tough day at the Circle where they lost out to Henley Reserves 5-1. Brillo advised that despite the result there was much to be proud of, with several youngsters on the pitch and the team playing well. The scorer for Claydon was Oliver Keeley, who scored his first ever goal in men’s football with his proud dad and Claydon stalwart Bod Keeley looking on. Next the Ressies travel to East Bergholt while the First team welcome newly promoted Stowupland to the Circle. General news The new small-sided pitch is starting to look like a pitch after some sterling work, from having the soil delivered, thanks to ‘Few’, some rolling, endless driving around with our set of chains, a bit of digging and finally players and parents raking out the millions of stones. Tim Carr
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CHURCH NEWS ST MARY’S CHURCH, GREAT BLAKENHAM Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Carl Melville Churchwarden: Mrs Wendy Hooper, 01473 846642 New Priest-in-Charge We are delighted and excited to announce that the new priestin-charge for our church grouping with Claydon and Barham with Henley and Great Blakenham is The Rev Carl Melville. The Rev Carl is officially licensed on October 9. You will no doubt see him out and about in the village walking his dog, so please say ‘hello’ to the both of them. Please continue to pray for The Rev Carl as he takes up this new position. Community Coffee Morning The next Community Coffee Morning will be on Saturday, October 8 from 10am-noon in the Parish Room. Come and join us for coffee and homemade cakes and a chat. We look forward to seeing you there. Festival of Wreaths and Angels We will be holding a special Festival of Wreaths and Angels from November 25-27, 10am-4pm each day. The wreaths and angels will be on display in the church and entry is free. In addition, we will be offering refreshments in the Parish Room as well as holding a raffle. The weekend will come to a close with a Carol Service on Sunday, November 27 at 4pm. If you are able to support this event by either providing a wreath or angel, sponsoring a display, providing a raffle prize, advertising in our programme or giving a donation, please contact Wendy Hooper (01473 846642) or Jane Corbett (01473 830201).
Service times are also advertised by the outside noticeboard with a brightly coloured banner.
BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH
Sunday Worship (10.30am)
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OTHER DATES FOR YOUR DIARY October 8: Community Coffee Morning, 10am-noon October 9: Holy Communion Service, 11.15am October 23: Family Service, 10am November 13: Service of Remembrance, 10.45am November 25-27: Festival of Wreaths and Angels, 10am-4pm All are welcome to join us for the above services and for refreshments after the 10am services.
OCTOBER SERVICES October 9: Holy Communion Service, 11.15am October 23: Family Service at 10am
October 2 Mrs Alicia Holmes, Harvest October 9 The Rev D Grimshaw, Holy Communion October 16 Mr R Wilson October 23 Mr R Hulford October 30 The Rev P Wright October 23: Familes @ 4, 4-6pm: A very informal get-together – come and go as you please – tea provided. October 6: United Service at Cherryfields, 3pm
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CHURCH NEWS MISCONCEPTIONS The prominent statue in Piccadilly Circus known as the ‘Eros’ statue, the one near the big glowing billboard adverts that looks like cupid firing a bow and arrow, is a popular tourist spot. People love to pose for photos with cupid firing the arrow at them. It’s known as a symbol of erotic or sensual love. Having been in Piccadilly Circus many times over the years I’ve always simply known it as the Eros statue and not thought much else about it. This week I discovered that this is completely wrong. The statue is in fact not ‘Eros’ (the Greek god of erotic sensual love) but is his brother ‘Anteros’ (the Greek god of selfless love). In fact the entire feature is called the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain and was built as a memorial to a man called Antony Ashley Cooper, a Victorian Lord and philanthropist. Cooper, though a rich man, spent his life serving the poor, defending the mistreated and working for social justice and equal opportunities.
Much like the common misconception over the ‘Eros’ statue, it seems many people have misconceptions about the type of love God has for us and His purpose for our lives. They either assume He is a tyrant out to get them or else He is all loving and would never discipline or punish anybody.
The Bible does indeed describe God as a God of love but also a God of justice and righteousness, which means He must punish and discipline wrongdoing. He deals with this situation by taking our sins upon Himself and in return offering us His righteousness. Much like Antony Ashley Cooper, Jesus left His life of riches to spend His days serving the poor, destitute, mistreated, unloved and helpless. He even ultimately died for them, and for us. ‘For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.’ 2 Corinthians 8:9 SERVICES Sundays: 10.45am at Great Blakenham (including Sunday Club for children), 6.30pm at Mickfield Wednesday: Fortnightly prayer and Bible study, 10am Friday: Action Bible Club, meeting at the church, 6.30-7.30pm – games, crafts and stories for ages five to 12 For more information contact: info@blakenhambaptist.org.uk / 01449 720357 www.blakenhambaptist.org.uk
CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET (Methodist/United Reformed Church) High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC), 01449 711798 The Rev John Boardman (Methodist), 01787 372738 Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am (including creche and Sunday Club) Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS Tiddlers (For mums and toddlers 12 months to four years): Monday, 9.30-11am (term time) Contact Hannah: 07969 482360 Scrabble Club: Monday, 2-4pm New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Women’s Fellowship: Second Wednesday, 2.30-3.30pm Contact Linda Hills: 01449 721258 Christians Together Ecumenical Group: Room 4 Christchurch, Thursday, 10am Contact Ann Devereux: 01449 721575 Coffee Morning: Second Saturday 10am-noon (Always with a selection of cakes for sale) OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Monday, 7-9pm Children’s Musical Theatre: Tuesdays, 4-6pm. Contact Faye: 01449 722354 Karate: Wednesdays – juniors 6.30-7.30pm / adults 7.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm / Brownies: Thursday, 6.307.30pm (term time) Self Defence: Thursday, 8-10pm HALL LETTINGS: 07851 742847 CHURCH CONTACT: Ann Devereux, 01449 721575 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk Do you ever stop and ponder – asking yourself: “I wonder...” Whether that’s “I wonder why...?” or “I wonder what...?”, or “I wonder how?” at Christchurch we have had an “I wonder...” box and people have written some of their “I wonder...” queries down and put them in the box. Over the next month or so we will explore some of those questions.
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In many ways that’s the easy part isn’t it, forming questions, whether they be big ones about faith, life and death, or seemingly more trivial questions like, “I wonder how they get a ship in a bottle,” or ‘Where do spiders go in the winter time?” With the advent of the internet and Google (other search engines are available), we can easily find answers to our questions, but how can we be sure they are the correct answers and are dependable? We would be wise to check that the source is reliable and trustworthy before we declare it to be ‘gospel truth’. That’s an interesting phrase isn’t it? ‘Gospel truth.’ It means that something is undeniably truth, or as true as the biblical gospel. I appreciate that these days the Bible’s authority isn’t recognised as widely as it used to be but when we explore the “I wonder...” questions in church we will be turning to the Bible to find answers to many if not all of them. It’s good to ask questions, to wonder about ‘life, the universe and everything’ (to coin another phrase – and I wonder how many of you know where that comes from!). If you have questions, are wondering about stuff, perhaps you too would like to visit Christchurch and take time to ponder – either on a Sunday morning or a Saturday morning when the church is open. I hope you have a good month, The Rev Mary Playford CHRISTCHURCH CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL This year Christchurch Needham Market is planning something different on December 2, 3 and 4. We would like to fill our church with a Christmas display and we are inviting individuals, families, groups and businesses to take part. There will be display areas for: Marvellous Mangers (nativity/crib scenes), Stupendous Stars (stars), Amazing Angels (angels) and Tremendous Trees (unusual representations of Christmas trees, no taller than 60cms). Any of these could reflect your business or hobby. We will also have a children’s corner where children can draw and display their own Christmas pictures, look at books or listen to a storyteller. Refreshments will be available for you to sit and enjoy among the displays. If you have, or can make, cribs, stars, angels or trees that fit our categories above, and you would like to enter them in our Christmas Festival, please contact Sheila Norris for a registration form or more details: 01449 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk
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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 748914 / stmarybramford@aol.com Assistant Curate: The Rev Julian Fennel, 01473 833250 www.stmarybramford.co.uk Morning Prayer at Bramford: 8.30am Monday to Friday Quiet Reflective Communion Service: Wednesday 9.30am Please check porch notices for any changes. October 2 10am 11am 6pm
Trinity 19 Holy Communion with Prayer for Healing, Bramford Harvest Festival Communion, Lt Blakenham Harvest Festival, Baylham
October 6 3pm
United Service at Cherryfields
October 9 8am 10am 5pm
Trinity 20 Holy Communion, Bramford Parish Communion + Joint PCC, Nettlestead 5 o’clock Service – Prodigal Son, Parish Room
October 11 11am
Communion from Reserved Sacrament, Baylham Care Centre
October 12 7.30pm
Healing Service, Methodist Church
October 16 10am 10am
Trinity 21 Holy Communion, Bramford Holy Communion, Baylham
October 18 2.30pm 5pm
The Gathering Church Room Time4you, Bramford
October 22 10am
Coffee Morning, Church Room
October 23 8am 10am 10am
Trinity 22 Holy Communion, Bramford Family Worship with Baptism, Bramford Morning Prayer, Nettlestead
October 30 10am
Group Communion Service, Bramford
Dear friends To start with this month, an update on the crypt at St Peter’s Church, Baylham. As I write, lots of research is being done on the history of crypt and the Acton family who are buried there. Unfortunately, it is still holding up the building of our disabled toilet, but we have to ensure that we record everything properly. We have a number of decisions to make about how to proceed, but there are some potential legal complications which the diocese are helping us to unravel. In the meantime we are keeping the church locked for safety reasons. Once the archaeologists have properly catalogued our amazing find, we are hoping to be able to open the church again so that the crypt can be seen, alongside any historical information we have found, before it is covered over by the building works. It is very rare to have the opportunity to view a church crypt as mostly they are hidden. Many of our churches have vaults or crypts underneath, and we mostly don’t see them unless there is a problem. We will advertise any times that we open the church widely, so watch this space. If you would like to see the crypt before it is advertised, please contact Hilary Ritchie, the churchwarden at Baylham, and she will open the church for you. An update on the vandalism of the graveyards. At time of writing damage had been suffered at five churches in the area, but so far no clue has been found. The police have no suspects so they cannot take any further
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action at the moment, but they have advised us to keep on being vigilant, visiting our churchyards and keeping our eyes open. If you see anything suspicious then please do not hesitate to call the police on 101. Finally, we like to focus on a local charity at harvest time, so our harvest collection this year is for FIND (Families in Need, Ipswich), the food bank. We are co-ordinating this with the school so we are looking for dried or canned food (in date please), cleaning and laundry products, shampoo, shower gel, tooth brushes and tooth paste. After the harvest services there will collection points at the back of the church which will be available until Christmas. We are also collecting used aerosols for Emmaus, a charity for homeless and addicts. There is a collection box near the door in St Mary’s, Bramford. Blessings to you all, Jenny East Anglican Magazine Due to staffing changes within the diocese the communications officer, Tom Warminton, will leave the diocese in late August to begin training for ordination. A replacement will be appointed in due course. As such the printing of The Anglican has finished. This may only be until a replacement for Tom is found. In the meantime should any news appear on the diocese’s website, I will try to print a version and put it in the church for your information. Stewart PARISH REGISTERS Baptisms August 7: Holly Burrows, Courtney Thacker, Keagan Thacker August 21: Ava Grace Scarlett May they grow in grace and the knowledge of God. Weddings August 13: Jack Oliver Robertson and Sian Hiskey August 27: Jonathan David Price and Harriet Trudie Squirrell May they grow in their love for each other. Funerals August 23: Ruby Ellen Blowers – Burial of ashes for Baylham August 31: Raymond Kenneth Garner We extend to his families our sympathy and prayers Cleaning Rota: J Sillett Flower Rota: October 15 & 22, W McGinty Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church September 29: In memory of Phil Sawyer, on the ninth anniversary September 7: In memory of James Rowe for his birthday October 31: In memory of Malcolm Driver 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’s good to share the reading of Scripture with Christians – both Catholic and Protestant – across the world.
October 2 Lam.1:1-6
Trinity 19 2 Timothy 1:1-14
Green Luke 17:5-10
Trinity 20 October 9 Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 2 Timothy 2:8-15
Green Luke 17:11-19
October 16 Trinity 21 Jeremiah 31:27-3 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5
Green Luke 18:1-8
October 23 Trinity 22 Joel 2:23-32 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
October 30 Isaiah 1:10-18
Trinity 23 2 Thess. 1:1-12
Green Luke 18:9-14 Gold or White Luke 19:1-10
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