In Touch News with Gt. Blakenham – December 2016 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead Volume 6 • Issue No. 2 • DECEMBER 2016

A Walk in the Park by Johanna Wain

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’ve just been informed that Auntie Sarah will be visiting Suffolk on December 3 and as it’s the perfect opportunity to get Christmas presents to that side of the family (all 11 of them) I’m now on a deadline! Thank goodness there are many, many Christmas markets and festivals coming up. They are a particularly useful place to find locally produced gifts for out-oftowners. I’m definitely focused on finding handmade gifts this year, possibly inspired by the beautiful Christmas Tree decoration I received from a close friend last year. It was one of my favourite presents and I’m secretly hoping she gives me another this year. I have been dropping heavy hints since June or thereabouts so I’m quite hopeful. There are many good reasons to shop local at Christmas, not least the fact that your spending will boost the local economy, save or indeed generate jobs, support local entrepreneurs and create a more vibrant and engaged community. There’s also the social aspect, the fact that you are more likely to find quirky, one-off items, maybe even try before you buy and get a better deal or some advice. According to a new study, UK shoppers are predicted to spend £73 billion this Christmas, with online sales accelerating to unprecedented levels. Apparently convenience, price comparison and avoiding crowds and queues are three of the main reasons why online shopping is so popular, but don’t assume than ‘online’ and ‘local’ are entirely contradictory. Most of our local retailers sell online so you can take advantage of the benefits of online shopping and support local business at the same time. For me, Christmas means cleaning the house from top to bottom (sad I know, but deeply embedded) and down ‘n’ dirty old style shopping with the crowds, the queues, the Christmas music, carol singers, hot chocolate, mince pies and a glass or two of mulled wine to soothe aching muscles. I can’t wait. On behalf of my colleagues here at Mansion House Publishing I wish you and yours a Happy and Peaceful Christmas.

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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead

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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IN TOUCH WITH . . . • Hadleigh • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Needham Market, Creeting St Mary & Creeting St Peter • Sproughton & Burstall • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Woodbridge & Melton • Bramford, Somersham & Offton • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton

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JANUARY DEADLINE 2 DECEMBER 2016 is the final date for both advertising & editorial copy

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NEWS SCOUT CHRISTMAS CARD DELIVERY SERVICE Once again this year, 1st Claydon Scouts and Guides have joined forces with 10 other groups in and around Ipswich to offer a Christmas card delivery service for the bargain price of only 25p per card. Cards and the postage can be dropped into one of our collection boxes and we will arrange for delivery to any of the under mentioned villages or postcodes before Christmas Eve. Last year we handled just under 100,000 cards. However, be warned, in order to do this massive task, the last posting date must be December 7. Deliveries can be made to: Ipswich IP1, IP2, IP3, IP4 and IP5, Pinewood Estate Martlesham Heath, Grunidsburgh, Henley, Westerfield, Witnesham, Tuddenham, Playford, Culpho, Bealings, Kesgrave and, new this year, Felixstowe, Trimleys and Kirton as well as Claydon, Barham, Bramford and Great Blakenham As from November 25 the collection boxes will be placed at: St Mary’s & St Peter’s Church, Barham; Alasdair Place; Fresh Fills Bakery; St Peter’s Court; Claydon Primary School; Choices Shop, Bea’s Boutique; Claydon Community Centre; Melmerby House, Gipping Road, Gt Blakenham; Crown Public House. If you need any assistance or wish to check addresses, please call 01473 833014. Remember: post early and save money! The Macmillan Coffee Morning at Baylham raised £700. A massive thanks to everyone who donated items, helped and supported in any way. W D Garner

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. Our meeting in December will welcome our new priest-in-charge, The Rev Carl Melville, to the community and we will look forward to the ideas he will bring along. The group currently supports five organisations: • 4 Ever Young Men’s Group meeting at the Crown, Claydon on the third Wednesday of each month (see page 13) • Meet ‘n’ Eat Lunch Club at the Parish Rooms, Great Blakenham on the first Friday of each month (see page 10) • Gipping Valley Art Society meets at the Parish Rooms, Great Blakenham every Tuesday afternoon • The Book Club is an informal group which meets at the Crown, Claydon on the last Thursday of the month • The Knitting Group is 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 group 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 – we would love to hear from you.

NEWS SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP

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 Christmas goods are now on the shelves and orders can be taken for special bread, cakes, meat and many other products that you may require. All our fresh product suppliers can supply far more items than we can stock and we are in the process of producing price lists for as many of the fresh produce suppliers as we can. We have started with our new meat supplier, Palfrey & Hall, who can supply an enormous and varied range of meat. Cakes can also be ordered from our local bakers. So do have a look and speak to our staff who will be delighted to help you. Our range of locally brewed beers and a selection of wines are always available and can be ordered if required. It’s probably sensible to stock up on a range of everyday household goods and products as we never know what the weather will throw at us through winter. It’s always good to have a few things in the storecupboard in case bad weather catches up with us. Also, a valuable point is that if the roads become impassable and a trip to town is impossible, our very local shop with its fantastic staff of local volunteers will very likely be a bright beacon in a dull situation, a good time to make the most of our local facilities. We don’t have our tea and chat afternoon in December, but you can still come along with friends, or by yourself, to enjoy a cup of tea and piece of cake in our Coffee Corner. It’s warm and cosy and with our book exchange close by it’s a good opportunity to choose some light reading to while away the dark evenings. The Petrolheads will be meeting up on the first Wednesday of the month from 2-4pm so do come along if you are interested in all things motor-led. Also, if you are taking a walk around our lovely footpaths, the Coffee Corner is a good point at which to finish with a warming drink. Plastic bags are becoming fewer now, a good thing for the environment, but we still promote reuse and recycling of these bags and use them in the shop. If you have any that you don’t want, please bring them along and we can make good use of them. CHRISTMAS OPENING Saturday, December 24 – Christmas Eve: 8am-1pm Sunday 25, Monday 26, Tuesday 27: Closed Wednesday 28, Thursday 29, Friday 30: 8am-6pm Saturday 31 – New Year’s Eve: 8am-1pm Sunday 1, Monday 2 – bank holiday: Closed We wish all our volunteers and customers Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and look forward to seeing everybody in 2017 and to another successful year ahead for our very own local shop. Management Team Lucy Barrett – 831890 Terry Fordham – 831529 Jenny Hitchcock – 832060 Peter Jousiffe – 833577 Anne MacFadyen – 831288 Steve Woolhouse – 831080

OFFER ACCEPTED The campaign to save our beautiful, oak-beamed local is on the verge of success. Our offer on the Duke of Marlborough has been accepted. The Duke of Marlborough is set to be the fifth community-owned pub in Suffolk, and one of approximately 50 across the country. The individual and collective effort has been aweinspiring. It has involved 22 months of hard work following closure of the pub at Christmas 2014. Around £300,000 has been raised in shareholdings and loans: just enough to make our offer. Dr Sarah Caston, who started the campaign says: “Massive thanks to everyone who’s helped the campaign over the past two years. It has been a long haul to get to this point, but the support has been amazing, and we’re now nearly there. We really can make sure that 500 or 600 years of hospitality at the Duke don’t come to an end now.” So what now? The process of purchasing the pub begins. Exchange and completion have to be agreed. There’s all the conveyancing to be done. Things always take longer than expected, but we want it to happen as soon as possible, and not too far into the new year. There’s loads to do before then including: • Raising more money • Keeping people informed • Gaining more willing hands and (free-of-charge) professional support Raising more money We are able to buy the pub only by the skin of our teeth. Funds are still desperately needed to get the business on its feet. Buying shares is the best way you can help. Why not join the 230 great people who have already invested in this way, or increase your holding if you are one of them? At the same time as saving a precious community asset, you can benefit from 30% tax relief through the EIS scheme. Any questions, just get in touch. Keeping people informed We will be holding a public meeting in the village hall in the near future – we will put up a sign and put a note on the website when a date is set. The meeting will include an update on the purchase, plans for managing the business short and long-term and an opportunity to share ideas. All are welcome – please spread the word. Gaining more willing hands and (free-of-charge) professional support If you, or any of your friends, family or contacts have professional expertise that you would be willing to give, please let us know. This might include things as diverse as support with: • Buying the pub and meeting statutory obligations to get it up and running • Overseeing or providing building, decorating, garden improvement works • Researching collective-buying and service and goods providers • Setting up volunteer employment contracts • Fundraising, marketing, website • Customer services We are looking at setting up an operations/management committee: please let us know if you have relevant commercial experience and would be interested in one of the crucial roles. There must be a great team to make this thing work. And of course there are all the everyday jobs too – which are every bit as important. Just let us know what you’d like to volunteer to do. James Batchelor-Wylam, chair of Save the Duke: 07789 691434 www.savetheduke.net

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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: NOVEMBER 2016 Early Years Education I have been discussing the plans to expand the pre-schools in Gipping Valley with county officers. They need to cope with increased housing and the move from 15 to 30 hours of government-funded attendance that some families will receive. There are funds available from new developments. There is a clear need for a pre-school in Great Blakenham and we are exploring solutions that will provide both the indoor and the outdoor space required at the high standard expected. The officer who organises this area has an excellent grasp of the requirements and will ensure that there are no problems. Primary Schools Claydon Primary School still has places in some years despite attracting a number of out of catchment pupils. However, Bramford and Henley are currently both full. As house building progresses the schools must expand. Claydon will need to increase to at least two and a half form entry and probably to three if the Barham Church Lane development goes ahead. Sketch plans exist and will be shared with residents as soon as architects have put some flesh on the bones. Scrutiny: Highways The cabinet has extended the highways contract for five years so that Kier are able to plan investments for efficiency over a longer period. The alternative of taking the contract back in-house would result in a long and expensive process. If performance does not meet the county’s need, an annual review process will reduce the contract term. We will cover these issues at scrutiny but unfortunately, the most critical individual for the November 3 meeting fell sick at the last moment and we will now meet on December 20. County Budget for 2017-18 On November 30, we will scrutinise the county’s budget proposals. By then the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement will be just a few days old and there will be initial views on its likely effect. Just to what extent the government will back off austerity to stop the fall in GDP postBrexit we do not yet know. With Trump in the White House, the global economy too will be in for some shocks, but they won’t emerge for months. I find that it is easy to see the sums budgeted for inflation and demographic change, government funding reductions and the savings required to keep the books balanced. It is much more difficult to see where estimates of income are unduly pessimistic and where reserves are kept for activities that will never occur. It is even more difficult to obtain any measure of the effect on people who need county services. For roads, just how much pothole filling, yellow lining, speed signage or mini-roundabout construction will be delivered? For the

vulnerable, what quantity and quality of care does the budget aim to provide? Is it sufficient to meet the need? Devolution Norfolk County Council remains in favour of devolution, provided there is not a mayor. That removes some uncertainty, but the government are adamant a mayor is not negotiable. Clearly, devolution gives us the right to do as we are told. Suffolk will make its final decision on November 23. Roads There is progress on the flooding issue at the Pest House Lane road junction in Barham where work is due to start. As I reported before, there is now a highways budget specifically earmarked for flooding issues and this is the first impact it has had in Gipping Valley. Chris Nix of Easton and Otley College is adamant that in September, he changed the routes of the buses that are a problem to Henley and Barham. We had agreed they would change when the contract changed. However, I did meet an Otley bus by the nursing home on the way to the meeting. I have asked for route details. SnOasis The developer has now paid the £250k planning fee as well as the sums for work by an MSDC officer and SCC Fire Officer. The next step is to validate the considerable input and determine if it meets the requirements to move ahead. I understand that final plans for the railway station will not be forthcoming. This was a critical component of the Secretary of State’s approval and the lack of a station would have a significant impact on the road traffic generated. We must not overlook this. District council issues Mid Suffolk and Babergh have appointed a new chief executive. He is a trained barrister and has been working in Suffolk Coastal. His start date is not yet determined so it will be a while before we know or feel the impact of the change. Move to Endeavour House We ‘twin hatters’ will be taking district councillors on a tour of county headquarters to give them a feel of the place. People are likely to be located in areas vacated by Concertus and Schools Choice who are moving to a building next to Landmark House recently purchased by the county. Car parking issues are yet to be resolved. Hood Drive District and county officers have agreed to take out some of the shrub beds on the left hand side of the road as you enter into Hood Drive. These shrub beds, that were blocking drivers’ sightlines, are SCC owned but maintained by MSDC. If you have queries please contact me: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk / 01473 831306 www.john.field@suffolk.libdems.org

GREAT BLAKENHAM VILLAGE HALL & RECREATION GROUND New Year’s Eve Party: Saturday, December 31, 8pm-1am Tickets are now available and selling fast. To reserve and purchase please telephone 01473 830939. Resident tickets this year will be £2 each (all ages).

We have a conference room available for hire. Please see our website or Facebook page for further details. Enquiries to: halladmingbvh@btconnect.com / 01473 830312 Weekly events at the hall Every Monday evening – Keep Fit, Bowls Every Tuesday afternoon – Ballet Every Tuesday evening – Badminton Every Wednesday morning – Parent and Toddler Session Every Wednesday evening – Kick-Boxing Every Thursday evening – Bowls One Saturday every month – Country & Western Dancing

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NEWS GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL Firstly, I would like to welcome our newest councillor, David Jones, to Great Blakenham Parish Council. David is a local resident of long standing and is also an allotment holder. There is still one vacancy on the council. We would love to hear from anybody who is interested in talking about what is involved in being a councillor. This especially applies to any residents of the Blakenham Fields development as we don’t have any councillors from that area of the village. We agreed at a recent council meeting to look at utilising social media as in this day and age it seems to be the quickest way of communicating. We have set up a Facebook page and a Twitter account. You will find us on Facebook at @greatblakenhampc and Twitter @pcgtblakenham. These are now up and running and we are beginning to post information on them about the parish council and its work, but also items that are of interest locally, such as road closures. If you want to leave us a message this way, please do so.

areas, there is increasing pressure on local services, education, health and policing. We will continue to work with the county and district councillors to apply pressure at every opportunity to seek benefits for our parish. Members of the public are very welcome to come along to our council meetings. These are all listed on the website and are on the second Wednesday of each month (except December when there is no meeting) at the Parish Rooms on Mill Lane. We have a new start time of 7pm. At the beginning of each meeting, 15 minutes are allocated in the agenda for members of the public to ask questions and raise any issues that are related to the council’s work. Finally, Great Blakenham Parish Council would like to wish you a Happy New Year Kind regards Steve Plume, chairman

The council website is: www.greatblakenham.onesuffolk.net

Your parish council contacts are:

Regarding the allotments, we are in negotiation with the agents for the owners for a one year licence and hope to sign it shortly so that plot holders can continue to use their plots while we try to arrange a longer term lease. Any news on this will be posted on our website, Twitter and Facebook accounts, so please keep checking them if you are a plot holder. No rent will be charged for this year.

Mr Steve Plume: steveplume@me.com

As new housing continues to be built in the village and surrounding

Parish clerk: pc@greatblakenham.suffolk.gov.uk

Mrs Karen Peters: karengbpc@gmail.com Mr Joel Waller: j_waller2003@hotmail.com Mr Widge Bowman: widge.bowman@gmail.com David Jones: drj180734@yahoo.co.uk

SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE Suffolk staff crowned operational team of the year The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility has won two more national awards – one for the building and the other for the team running it – and is in line for a third. The Peel People’s Cup is awarded by the CIWM (Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) to the best operating team of the year. It is recognition that a successful waste operation is heavily dependent on its staff – the people at the sharp end who play such a critical role in the success of the operation. Plant manager Paul Leighton said: “We have won a number of awards for different aspects of this project, from its design and construction to its many environmental features, which help make it one of the greenest buildings in the country. But a fantastic building is nothing without a great team to run it. In our first year of operation we met or exceeded all of our targets, and that’s down to the great staff we have here. I am delighted this superb team effort has been recognised with this national award.” Last month the site, which was designed by Grimshaw, won the top prize for sustainability in the Blueprint Awards 2016, which celebrate the very best in world architecture and design. The site was one of eight short-listed, including the Theatre Royal in York, the refurbishment of a building at the University of Brighton and projects in Malaysia, Denmark and Australia. It is also a regional finalist in this year’s Civic Trust Awards, which recognise outstanding architecture, planning and design in the built environment. A total of 16 buildings from the eastern region are included in the regional finalists list including two colleges in Cambridge and a hospital in Welwyn Hatfield. All regional finalists go through to the national/international competition, with winners being announced on December 15. USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BAYLHAM VILLAGE HALL

We wish you all a Happy Christmas and a prosperous 2017. Networking and a little Christmas shopping? Come and browse the stalls at our coffee morning at Red Gables in Stowmarket on Thursday, December 8, 10am-noon. Or join us for Christmas Lunch at Stowmarket Golf Club on Friday, December 16, noon-2pm You can book online at: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk

GOLDIE LOCKS AND SOME OTHER GUYS The weeks have flown by since rehearsals for Bar-Clay Music Makers new panto began in September and tickets will be on sale from December 7. Performances take place on Fridays, January 20 and 27 at 7.30pm, and on Saturdays 21 and 28 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets (adults £7, children £3) always sell out fast, so contact Gillian Webb to book your seats: webbfamily1@gmail.com / 01473 830538 Prepare for plenty of action as Goldie, jewel thief extraordinaire, is pursued by three bears, Wolfie (aka The Big Bad Wolf) and Prince Rupert while looking for any opportunity to steal some swag. Will the three bears get any dinner? Will Wolfie catch his thief? Can Prince Rupert be persuaded to kiss the mostly dead Snow White and what’s going to happen to her diamond coffin? There’s only one way to find out...

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CLAYDON & BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE Church Lane, Claydon IP6 0EG Saturday, December 24: Young Ones Christmas Disco, 5-9pm Father Christmas will visit at 7pm. Music supplied by Dan the Man. Saturday, December 31: The Preservatives A great musical band specialising in dancing music. The centre is going to shake, rattle and roll. Doors open at 7pm with the band from 9pm-late/ early. Members £12.50, children £7.50. Community Café The Community Café is open in the hall from 8am-4pm, Monday to Saturday (closing times vary due to other activities using the facility). Serving teas and real coffee, delicious cakes and savoury treats. Special afternoon teas at an attractive £7.50. We have a wide and varied range of draft and bottled ales, ciders and lagers. Guinness and mild are also available and our premium larger, San Miguel, is now on tap. www.candbcc.co.uk / 01473 831805 Facebook: Claydon Community Centre

Winning tickets for October 18 £25 Birgitta Conlan 76 £15 Lindsay Balls 11 £10 Andy Perry 188 £10 Wendy Smith 42 £5 Jill Glaister 36 £5 Ted Black Winning tickets for November 24 £25 Ann Darlow 274 £15 Ron Game 226 £10 Judy Williams 281 £10 Elaine Battley 301 £5 Lee and Joanne Chamberlaine 158 £5 Hannah and Will Durrant

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Route 5 Town/village Location MIP/5A Sproughton Church Lane MIP/5B Sproughton Wild Man MIP/5C Bramford St Mary’s Close MIP/5D Bramford Paper Mill Lane MIP/5E Great Blakenham, Chequers MIP/5F Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park, MIP/5G Baylham Post Box MIP/5H Claydon Crown MIP/5I Claydon Edinburgh Gardens MIP/5J Barham Bacon Road MIP/5K Bramford Packard Place DATES: December 20, January 17

We shall be holding a Christmas social evening on Saturday, December 10 with food, entertainment and good company available.

The Meet ’n’ Eat Lunch Club meets at noon on the first Friday of each month at the Parish Rooms in Great Blakenham. Our December meeting takes the form of our Christmas Lunch, held this year at the Chequers, Stowmarket Road on December 2. Here, we have to say goodbye to the founder of the lunch club, Sue Broomfield, who is moving to the south of England nearer to her family. We all wish her well and hope she’ll pop in for lunch with us when she’s back in the area. Our regular meetings will continue throughout 2017, where for only £4 we serve a choice of soup with a roll and butter, then homemade 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. If you need more information, telephone Mike on 07805 507497 or just come along on the first Friday of the month with your friends – you will be very welcome.

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OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER FIFTIES CLUB

GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB

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 on 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 a 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. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House. It has its own parking area, is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. In October Bert Leech gave us an interesting talk about his life and at our second meeting we had a Beetle Drive, something many members hadn’t done for a long time and which proved to be most enjoyable, coupled with little prizes for the winning beetle in each round. Our programme up to Christmas December 7: Christmas Meal at The Chequers December 14: Christmas Tea Party New members are welcome, 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

The club meets from 2-4pm every Monday other than bank holidays in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham. Members pay £2 a meeting to cover hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Our workshop meeting for October was entitled New Baubles, Mind the Furniture in which we decorated MDF bauble, star and bell tree decorations and coasters ready for Christmas. In November we made small pictures to hang as Christmas decoration banners and we will be working on our contribution to the Angels and Wreaths Festival at St Mary’s Church.

4 EVER YOUNG MEN’S CLUB

We just have our AGM and Christmas party to complete the 2016 programme. Watch out for the 2017 programme in due course.

The 4 Ever Young Men’s Club meets at 10.30am on the third Wednesday of each month in the Crown at Claydon. Our December meeting takes the form of our annual Christmas Lunch which this year has been brought forward to Wednesday 14 to ensure we don’t run out of party hats and crackers as Christmas approaches.

There is currently room for new members so if you are interested in joining us when we start back in February please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present, gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome. Unfortunately I can’t accommodate children.

We’ll hold our annual Christmas Quiz before lunch – the twist this year is that I might use the same questions as last year because we’ve all probably forgotten the answers anyway. We’re working hard to put together a timetable for 2017. Some good ideas came up at our last meeting which we’ll be trying to incorporate. 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. The Crown at Claydon very kindly accommodates us and provides coffee for our meetings, 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. 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.

IPSWICH BRANCH, SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY On Friday, December 9 at 7.30pm (two weeks earlier in the month than normal and on a Friday), TV producer and storyteller Andrew Selwyn will present an entertaining talk entitled Victorian Ghost Hunters, just right for getting in the Christmas spirit!

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB We welcomed Phil Chatfield to judge open competition (1) on October 10. Members pulled out all the stops and shared some fantastic pictures, several of which were awarded full marks by the judge. On November 24 club member Geoff Walker demonstrated how to mount photographs for competition and club trophies were presented to the members achieving the highest overall competition scores in each category. Congratulations to you all. Small prints: Sandra Hullis Monochrome prints: Roy Ward Colour prints: Roy Fidler PDIs: Roy Fidler All Rounder: Roy Fidler NEXT MEETINGS Monday, November 28: Open Competition (2) judged by Roy Essery Monday, December 12: Wildlife Competition judged by Brian Carlick

Admission is £3 for society members and £3.50 for non-members, who are warmly welcomed. You can join the society at the meeting if you wish. Tickets are not required, just turn up and pay on the door.

New members are always very welcome. All you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras. Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Mondays of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30 start. We’d love to see you there.

For more information contact Howard on 01473 274300 or visit: http://suffolkfhs.org.uk

For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

We meet at the Co-op Education Centre where the pedestrian entrance is at 11 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JW, and the car park entrance is in Waterworks Street IP4 1JG.

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS IT MAKES A CHANGE AT ORCHARD BARN One of the great aspects of volunteering at Orchard Barn is the variety of tasks. There is a choice of day depending on your general interests – Tuesday for gardeners, Wednesday for site development, Thursday for greenwood working and Saturdays, monthly.

CLAYDON & BARHAM YOUNG FAMILIES 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.

Gardening could mean creating new Hugelkultur beds, sowing, weeding, potting on or tending fruit trees.

This month we meet on December 1 and 8 from 9.30-11.30am in Claydon and Barham Village Hall. Our Christmas Party is on December 8. Please let Michelle know (833788) if you wish to attend.

Site development has included wattle and daub, deadwood screening, ditch digging, grass cutting, apple picking, composting, hedge-laying and shrub clearance. That’s when we’re at the barn. Once a month we go to a 200 acre wood and help in its restoration with log stacking and splitting, filling and emptying the charcoal kiln and covering stumps to protect them against the deer.

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. It’s a good opportunity for parents and carers to meet others with pre-school children or babies. There is also a prize draw for the children.

Greenwood working is aimed at creating items for sale such as garden benches, bird boxes, clocks, garden labels.

This month we would like to wish a happy birthday to Nieve.

If you would like to try any of these activities and develop new skills, visit www.orchardbarn.org.uk or contact us on: 01473 658193 / 07766 054042

CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL After an action-packed October and a break to recharge, the children have returned wrapped up in coats, hats and scarves (getting ready for break times takes considerably longer at this time of year) ready for the second half of the autumn term. There were so many exciting activities during October that we would like to share some with you. The weather was kind to our Year 6 pupils who enjoyed their residential trip to Hilltop Activity Centre in Norfolk at the beginning of October. Embracing the motto Challenge by Choice, our pupils leapt off the air jump (the only one in the UK) onto an inflatable cushion, donned harnesses to whiz through the trees on the big zipper, rode mountain bikes, lit camp fires and played Owls and Mice among the trees at night. It was a fantastic opportunity for the children to make new friends and get to know the Year 6 staff at the beginning of the academic year. On Monday, October 10, our Key Stage 2 children were lucky to receive a visit from published author Gillian Overitt. She brought her dragon, Dakas, along and read the first chapter of Max’s Magical Dream to the children. Gillian answered lots of the children’s questions and then helped Year 4 to develop their own stories.

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 Michelle on 01473 833788 or check our listing on Netmums.com. times at home received a gold certificate. This successful scheme is running again for this half term so everyone in Key Stage 1 has another chance to earn a certificate while enjoying a book. Year 3 dressed up and enjoyed a French café experience where they tasted croissants, brioche and different cheeses on Tuesday, October 18. Once finished, they produced some wonderful independent writing in the role of food critics and critiqued the produce they had sampled. During the afternoon, they made bilboquets and enjoyed playing with them. On Thursday 20 and Friday 21, Year 3 visited the Energy Waste Recycling Centre in Great Blakenham where they discovered how black bin waste is turned into electricity. In addition, they were intrigued to learn how plastic bottles are made into fleeces and how tires are transformed into pencils. This interesting trip will support the children in English this half term when they write recount texts.

The Reception Gardening Club commenced in October and children were busy adding compost to the garden with a view to planting winter vegetables.

As always, October saw many children taking part in sports. Girls from the Year 5/6 football club attended the IPSSA Girls Football Tournament at Whitton Sports Centre on October 11. The girls rotated through defence and midfield positions and everyone improved as the afternoon progressed. Well done to all the girls for their excellent attitude throughout the tournament and great sportsmanship when substituted. In addition, we took a mixed football team to the School Games first U9 Football Festival on October 19. Our mixed team were rotated throughout the afternoon and displayed some good football with several draws, and came very close to winning their second game. All the children greatly enjoyed the experience of representing the school.

Throughout October, our Key Stage 1 children were busy reading; congratulations to all who earned a reading certificate during the first half term. Reading 20 times at home earned them a bronze award, 30 times earned a silver award and those who managed to read 40 or more

As the nights draw in and the Christmas decorations are brought down from the loft, we will begin our own preparations for the festive season, including the nativity and singing and playing instruments in the community, so get your tea-towels and tissues ready.

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Do you have a desire to make a difference? Care your way to a career If you think a career in care may be for you, a family member or a friend, please email carejobsinsuffolk@suffolk.gov.uk to receive an information pack and find out how to apply for jobs across the county and in your area. www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham

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SCHOOLS HENLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL It has been another eventful, but fun few weeks at Henley School. Class 3 have managed to put pen to paper despite some exciting distractions. We have all been making good progress in our core subjects and project folders are fattening up nicely like Christmas turkeys. We had a very enjoyable music week where we welcomed some visitors into school. Kicking off the week was our former music teacher who entertained the children with some Halloween themed musical exercises. Some very game parents also came in to sing with the children, including a very vocal and innovative rendition of Going on a Bear Hunt! We were also treated to a day of Bassistry where the children participated by dancing and singing along to the music. There was a real buzz throughout the school and everybody enjoyed it immensely. We were also lucky enough to secure a visit from a steel band who gave us a valuable insight into the history and mechanics of steel band music. The children were able to try their hand for themselves and then rounded the session off with a conga back to class.

Music week culminated in a barn dance with the children dressed appropriately like mini Dolly Partons and John Waynes. Each class had been practicing their own routine and nobody noticed the odd trip or tumble as we all clapped along. A few brave members of staff entertained the children with an impromptu Gay Gordon which the children found highly amusing and justifiably so! Our parent consultation day provided an opportunity for an outside learning day which roughly translated as an excuse to get wet and muddy. The children made some interesting mud art, including a pepperoni pizza and a pile of dinosaur dung! They also had a chance to pond dip (using nets not themselves thankfully) and identify their findings.

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CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL Our annual WOW Week took place at the end of October and was very rewarding for all year groups. Year 7 had a fabulous time at camp, taking part in adventurous activities such as the high ropes and assault course as well as art, science and drama activities, all designed to build confidence and encourage creativity, curiosity and teamwork. Years 8-10 impressed us all with their talent, fresh ideas and commitment to their film based enterprise tournament. In teams of 15, students planned, produced and pitched a film trailer of their choosing. Guest judges and experts in the film industry were invited in to support the event and choose an overall winner of the prestigious WOW Week Cup. Students had to assign themselves roles and were scored on innovation and vision, teamwork, quality of approach to the task and their results. I would like to thank the University of Suffolk, Suffolk New College, Dan Theophani, Camera on Films and local filmmakers Sam Travis and Ana Garcia Rico whose support was vital in helping this event to be the success it was. 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 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, December 14. Well done to everyone for their positivity and hard work over the three days. I am pleased that Claydon High School can develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning and I hope to be able to provide more stimulating experiences beyond the classroom that engage, excite and challenge students. Now that the dark nights are upon us and we are moving swiftly into the festive season, I hope you will be able to join us at our Christmas concert, A Very Merry Christmas, on Tuesday, December 13 at 7pm (tickets on sale at our reception). Our talented students are busy preparing some wonderful vocal and instrumental pieces for your enjoyment. The PTA is also holding a quiz night on Thursday, December 8, 7-9pm. For more details, please email Rebecca: becca48@ntlworld.com GCSE Drama students are busy rehearsing for their Christmas panto which will tour to local residential care homes, French students are looking forward to visiting the Christmas Markets in Lille (despite the 3.15am start) and the whole school is currently busy creating fabulous Christmas hampers which will be donated to a local charity for the homeless. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Wednesday, January 18. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen, to book a place: 01473 836110 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. I look forward to keeping you updated with all our news in the New Year. Headteacher Sarah Skinner

SCHOOLS / SPORT CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB

The children are all getting into the festive spirit with lots of activities going on. They are enjoying lots of Christmas themed activities as well as practising their singing and talking for their Christmas Nativity. They are all getting really excited for December 25 and looking forward to a well-earned break.

Greetings guff lovers,

Our Christmas Nativity is taking place on Wednesday, December 7 and the children will be able to have lots of fun at their Christmas Party on Wednesday, December 16 from 4-6pm.

At this time of year the only dummy with an unruly mop of hair is usually sitting on top of a bonfire. In the USA they have just put him in the White House. Be very afraid! Just as all the Halloween fuss has died down it seems that the Canaries are getting in seasonal mood by producing some gruesome performances of their own. Indeed the back four and goalkeeper have been moving at the same speed as The Walking Dead.

A big thank you to everyone who supported our Christmas Fayre on Saturday, November 12; a great time was had by all. Also, a big thank you to everyone who helped organise such a great event.

I have been getting in the swing of things by winning the best costume prize at a recent Halloween evening. I didn’t have the heart to tell them that I wasn’t in costume and was only popping in to give my wife a lift home!

The pre-school is open Monday to Friday from 9am-3.30pm during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to Reception. Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a lunchclub (noon12.30pm) for £1.60. We are happy to accept childcare vouchers and we offer two-year funded places for any eligible children. We also run a holiday club in the Easter and summer holidays for two to eight year olds. For further information contact the administrator, Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk

In the winter league, Nick and Graham have been scaring us all by winning their opening games (until Nick’s over enthusiastic Halloween celebrations resulted in a defeat the morning after the night before). Any more performances like this and the drug testing authorities are likely to get involved to check if their opponents have been administered sleeping tablets in their water bottles, a ploy I have used successfully in the past! If they can maintain this form there is a ghost of a chance that they could win promotion.

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB

The men’s floodlit team have been a little bit Jekyll and Hyde, winning one and losing one of their games to date, although the spectre of the worsening weather looms threateningly.

October prize winners: No 43 John Harrrison No 50 Nadine Harrison No 7 Niki Bennett

£17.70 £8.85 £2.95

New members are welcome at any time. Entry is just £1 a month and the draw takes place on the last Friday of each month from September through to July. The more entries we get the greater the prize money and all money raised is used to enhance the lives of our children within the pre-school. For an entry form please contact Nadine Harrison: 01473 831857 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk

NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB NMBC held it’s AGM on October 17. The meeting began sadly with a minutes silence for members who had passed away in the previous 12 months – Ross Theobold, Derek Mitchell, David Cousins and Terry Welhams. This was followed by reports from the president, club captain and treasurer which were all very positive, with treasurer Linda Benthom reporting that finances were in a healthy state and proposing that membership and green fees be kept at their current levels. This was passed by the meeting. The election of the clubs officers followed. President: John Holloway Chairman: Alistair Bailie Treasurer: Linda Benthom Secretary: Pat Hadden Club Captain: Alistair Bailie Minutes Secretary: Pat Goodrum A proposal by Brian Locksmith and John Milliard to hold more club competitions during 2017 was warmly received and singles, pairs and triples competitions will be played. Social events are held each month during the winter and they will be as follows. November 25: Carpet Bowls, members £3, non-members £4.50. This is also signing on night so don’t forget membership fees. You will also be asked what days you wish to bowl.

No news to report from our other pairs so I shall take pity on you all and go to the joke of the month. A man in a supermarket approached a glamorous looking young woman and asked her if she would mind talking to him for a couple of minutes. Feeling a little uncomfortable, she asked him why. He replied that he had lost his wife somewhere in the store and that usually if he talks to a lovely looking woman she will turn up after a minute or so. More guff next month, Mick Russ

December 16: Our Christmas social with a quiz, Scatagories, hoi bingo and maybe even carols. Mince pies and sausage rolls are on the menu. Members £3, non-members £4.50. January 20: A Beetle Drive with a session by Stowmarket Strummers ukelele band, thanks to Colin Biginton. Hot food will be served. Members £3, nonmembers £4.50. This is your last chance to pay your membership fee. February 24: Big Quiz Night, always well attended and I think getting quite competitive. Food is soup and a roll followed by a pudding. Members £5, nonmembers £6.50. March 24: To be arranged When the green reopens we shall be having meet and greet sessions on Saturday mornings for anyone who wishes to take up bowling, Exact dates will be published in the April, so come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, or even try bowling. Remember, YOU’Re NEVER TOO YOUNG TO BOWL. Contacts: Pat Hadden 01473 831308 / Alistair Bailie 01449 720759 Pictured above: captain Joyce Walton receiving the trophy on behalf of her team for winning Division A of the Tuesday league

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS CLAYDON FC New pitch opened After many months of hard work by the volunteer team, we opened our new Under 7’s and Under 8’s pitch at Blue Circle on Saturday, October 29. Councillors John Whitehead and James Caston took the first kick-off before a number of superb games from the Under 8 squad after which the Under 7s took to the pitch to show their skills.

allowed us to host post match food at the club and make the game day experience even better. The space will also allow for the junior teams to host awards days and other communal activities. A huge thank you to the Suez Community Trust for the grant for this work which has seen the building transformed and will provide a fantastic environment for all club members. Summary of Senior Section match notes from roving reporter KK League Div 1, September 24 v Old Newton We showed glimpses of what we are capable of and the tempo of the game changed when we introduced Driver. Within five minutes Blackman scored a diving header making it 1-0 at HT. We pushed on with Kirby scoring making it a final score of 2-0. Junior Cup First Round, October 1 v Barham Athletic There are lots of connections between the two clubs and there was a large vocal crowd in attendance, but as a consequence of the game we found ourselves £120 worse off following a number of bookings and sending off. The 10 remaining lads on the pitch were a huge credit to the club, but we lost in extra time 1-2. League Div 1, October 8 v Benhall This was a tough game and after initially going 2-0 up we ended sharing the points with a 2-2 draw.

Under 8 team with Councillors John Whitehead and James Caston and Claydon FC chairman Tim Carr (centre) Claydon FC would like to thank Claydon and Whitton Parish Council for the initial grant for this work, those who attended the summer training camp which raised funds, Will at Parker Pitches for his hard work and, of course, the many volunteers at the club who raked dirt, removed stones and pulled weeds. This is another huge step forward in our facilities at Blue Circle. Clubhouse opening The revamped and revitalised Claydon FC clubhouse was formally opened on October 29 and the phase one facilities were put to their first use at the senior game in the afternoon. A newly refurbished common area and kitchen have

Kevin the Carrot is Aldi’s Christmas TV ad character for this year, based on the story It was the night before Christmas. The carrot embarks on a mission to meet Santa when he gets his mince pie. The journey is described as a ‘dangerous quest’ as he travels past mashed potato, a pudding that catches fire and a grater, but he does complete it. Just as Kevin the Carrot had a purpose in starting his adventure, Jesus too had a far greater purpose for His coming into the world. The Bible tells us that Jesus came into the world to save sinners, to seek and to save the lost. It was a dangerous journey with His life at risk from the time He was born. His mission was completed following His death on a cross, burial

Reserves, October 8 v Felixstowe Rangers Primary Cup Brillo’s young side performed very well, however run out 2-0 losers. League Div 1, October 15 v Hoxne Another very tough match against table toppers Hoxne saw us weather an early storm to win 3-2, gratefully taking all three points. Reserves v Benhall Res, October 15 Our Reserves went down 2-1 to Benhall with young Aidan Brame breaking his arm and the Benhall keeper breaking his collar bone. We wish both a speedy recovery. League Div 1, October 22 v Trimley Missing some key players, we still managed to name a half decent starting 11. It became clear early on that we were dominant and went in at halftime 3-1. Rudge fired in second and our fourth in the second half for us to take the points with a 4-2 victory. www.claydon-fc.co.uk www.facebook.com/ClaydonFootballClub

and resurrection. The Bible also tells us that He was taken up into heaven and one day will return, His mission to rule doing what is right. Will you make it your mission to discover Jesus this Christmas season? We have our Carols by Candlelight Service on Sunday, December 11 at 4pm and you are most welcome to join us. 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

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CHURCH NEWS

ST MARY’S CHURCH, GREAT BLAKENHAM Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Carl Melville, 01473 833542 Churchwarden: Mrs Wendy Hooper, 01473 846642 If you wish to contact The Rev Carl about weddings, baptisms, funerals or any other aspect of church life, he can be contacted at The Rectory, 7 Back Lane, Claydon IP6 0EB 01473 833542 / carlmelville@hotmail.com To find out more visit: www.claydonchurches.com Christmas Fayre Our Christmas Fayre takes place on Saturday, December 10, 10am-noon, in the Parish Room. There will be many Christmas items available including a raffle, tombola and refreshments. We look forward to seeing you there. Christingle Service, Friday, December 23 We will be holding a special Christingle Service starting at 4pm. If you have never been to a Christingle Service before and are wondering what a Christingle is, here is a short description. Each piece of the Christingle (an orange) holds special symbolism to help children understand the importance of Jesus and the Gospel, and its relevance at Christmas time.

BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH Minister: The Rev D Grimshaw dkgrimshaw@msn.com / 01473 805486 Church Steward: Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Sunday worship at 10.30am December 4: Mr H Chicken December 11: The Rev D Grimshaw – Holy Communion December 18: Mrs N Glasse December 25: The Rev D Grimshaw – Christmas Day United Service with St Mary’s Parish Church The computer club meets each Monday evening from 7.30-9.30pm and Wednesday morning from 10am-noon during term time. December 1: United Service at Cherryfields, 3pm December 10: Coffee Morning at Cherryfields, 10-11am December 13: Carols, poems, stories and mince pies, 2pm

CHRISTMAS SERVICES IN THE CLAYDON GROUP OF CHURCHES

The orange represents the world

Serving the parishes of Claydon and Barham, Henley and Great Blakenham

The red ribbon symbolises the love and blood of Christ

Friday 25 & Saturday 26 November, 10am-3pm Festival of Wreaths and Angels, Gt Blakenham Church. Church open, refreshments served in the Parish Room.

The sweets and/or dried fruit represent all of God’s creations The lit candle represents Jesus’ light in the world, bringing hope to people living in darkness Come along and make a Christingle with us at St Mary’s and sing some Christmas carols. Refreshments will be served after the service. DECEMBER SERVICES Sunday, December 11, 11.15am: Service of Holy Communion Sunday, December 18, 10am: Carol Service, followed by refreshments Friday, December 23, 4pm: Christingle Service All are welcome to join us for our services. Service times are also advertised by the outside noticeboard. EARLY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR 2017 Looking ahead to 2017, we are planning to hold a Wedding Festival at St Mary’s Church and the Parish Room during the Bank Holiday weekend of May 27-29. The church is looking for some wedding dresses, old and new, to display over the weekend. Also, we would love to hear from you if you were married in St Mary’s and may be willing to lend us some photographs (or even your dress) for display. Please contact Wendy Hooper on 01473 846642 or Jane Corbett on 01473 830201. We look forward to hearing from you. Further details will be available early in 2017.

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Advent Sunday / Sunday, November 27 10am-3pm Gt Blakenham church open, refreshments served 4pm Advent Carol Service, Gt Blakenham Church, with the Six Village Brass Band Saturday, December 10 10am-noon Christmas Fayre, Gt Blakenham Parish Room 7pm Karaoke Carols, Henley Church Saturday, December 17, 10am-1pm Vestry Café, Henley Church Sunday, December 18 10am Carol Service, Gt Blakenham Church 3pm Carol Service, Barham Church 6.30pm Carol Service, Henley Church Friday, December 23, 4pm Christingle Service, Gt Blakenham Church Christmas Eve / Saturday, December 24 4pm Service of Light, Barham Church 5pm Children’s Crib Service, Henley Church 11.30pm Midnight Mass, Barham Church Christmas Day / Sunday, December 25 10am Christmas Day Service, Henley Church No services at Gt Blakenham or Barham New Years Day / Sunday, January 1 11am All Age Service, Gt Blakenham Church An informal all age service to unwind after Christmas For more services visit www.claydonchurches.com or contact The Rev Carl Melville: 01473 833542 / carlmelville@hotmail.com

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

when we prepare for the coming of Christ into the world, and into our lives.

Assistant Curate: The Rev Julian Fennel, 01473 833250

So how does the church prepare? Well we have special readings and prayers in our services which lead us towards the events of Christmas, and we spend some time thinking about what this might mean for us. We will also be planning the Christmas services. Each year we give Christmas a theme and this year we will be focusing on the shepherds. If you would like to come to our services as a shepherd, please do (children and adults). We will also be circulating the Posada figures again around the village, the church community and the school, so watch out for them.

www.stmarybramford.co.uk Please check porch notices for any changes Wednesday, 9.30am: Quiet Reflective Communion Service December 1 3pm

United Service at Cherryfields

December 4 8am 10am 2pm

Advent 2 Parish Communion, Lt Blakenham Family Communion with Baptism, Bramford WI Carol Service, Bramford

December 11 10am 3pm 5pm 6pm

Advent 3 Family Communion, Bramford Traditional Carols, with mulled wine, Nettlestead 5 o’clock Service Christmas party, Bramford Traditional Carols by candlelight, Baylham

December 13 12.30pm The Christmas Gathering, Church Room December 18 10am 10am 4pm 6pm

Advent 4 Family Communion, Bramford Holy Communion, Baylham Traditional Carol Service, Lt Blakenham Traditional Carols by Candlelight , Bramford

We look forward to seeing you over the festive period. Blessings Jenny PARISH REGISTERS Funerals October 11, Peter Turner, Bramford October 25, Ann Cullen, Nettlestead November 5, Ann Cullen Thanksgiving Service, Nettlestead November 7, Garry Wilden, Bramford We extend to their families our sympathy and prayers. Cleaning rota: H and P Hart Flower rota: Advent and Christmas Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church

December 20 2.30pm Bramford Primary School Service, Bramford Church

December 9: To mark the centenary of the birth of Marjorie Earthy

December 21 2pm Carol Service, Baylham Care Centre

Christmas: In memory of Walter Isaiah Carmen

December 24 11am 3pm 5pm 11.30pm

Christmas Eve Communion for Christmas, Baylham Care Centre Crib Service, Bramford Crib Service, Baylham First Communion of Christmas, by candlelight, Bramford

December 25 10am 10am

Christmas Day United Christmas Service, Methodist Chapel Communion for Christmas, Nettlestead

January 1 First Sunday of Christmas 10am United Communion Service, Bramford Dear All Well it hardly seems like five minutes since last Christmas and here we are again! In fact, the batteries in my wonderful Christmas jumper are still working so providing they last out December I will wear it at the Crib Service on Christmas Eve. However, we still have the whole of December to go, the time of year we know as Advent. It is a time of waiting and preparation, not just the physical preparation that we are used to, buying presents and cards and food, but also a time of spiritual preparation, a time

December 9: Also in memory of Ronald Earthy on his 98th birthday

December 26: In memory of Kathy Sparrow If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 a week. Lectionary Bible Readings for our Sunday Worship are taken from the Revised Common Lectionary. It’s good to share the reading of Scripture with Christians, both Catholic and Protestant, across the world.

December 4 Isaiah 11:1-10

Advent 2 Purple Romans 15:4-13 Matthew 3:1-12

December 11 Isaiah 35:1-10

Advent 3 Purple James 5:7-10 Matthew 11:2-11

December 18 Isaiah 7:10-16

Advent 4 Purple Romans 1:1-7 Matthew 1:18-end

December 24/25 Isaiah 9:2-7

Christmas Eve/Day Titus 2:11-14

Gold Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)

January 1

Naming of Jesus

White

Isaiah 63: 7-9

Hebrews 2:10-18

Matthew 2 13-23

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