In Touch
™© ™©
with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham Volume 8 • Issue No. 1 • NOVEMBER 2017
Image by Svetlana Sewell / www.landmstudio.co.uk
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NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Being a parent is challenging enough but having a full-time job 40 minutes from home requires some manic juggling at times. I’m fortunate to work in a company which accommodates my occasionally frantic schedule with mid-afternoon parent consultations and Friday morning Harvest Festivals, not to mention the celebration assemblies and share sessions. Not everyone is so lucky, but like my lovely employers I believe in a give and take approach to most things and it appears to work. I’m happy to work in the evenings and at weekends in return for some flexibility on schooldays. Strangely this seems to have backfired in one unexpected way. My son has concluded that his dad’s job is far more important than mine! Apparently I “just do words” while daddy “does important things like bringing us electricity” (he doesn’t!). So all my running and racing from one thing to another so my lovely son has a parent at all of his many, many school events means my job is less important in his eyes. I was livid. Jack quickly realised he’d upset me but struggled to understand why, which made me even angrier. After I’d calmed down we talked about my job for some time and I believe he now appreciates the extra effort required in order to be there when daddy can’t be. But daddy didn’t get off lightly either and though his job doesn’t facilitate the same degree of flexibility as mine he has now promised to attend at least one school event each term. However, this ‘incident’ forced me to consider how my behaviour may have contributed to Jack’s assumption. Perhaps trying to do it all is the wrong approach. After all if daddy is too exhausted after a day of doing important things to do the many, many invisible tasks which seem to have become my responsibility, maybe I should be too! Maybe doing less is the answer. Maybe I won’t put the bins out this week! Maybe I won’t do all the Christmas shopping this year! Maybe I’ll introduce a cleaning rota! I’ll let you know how it works out!
In Touch
with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: bramford@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Printing Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk
01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
We also publish In Touch with... • NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge
In Touch with...
HOT OFF THE PRESS! The Origins of Bramford Street Names has been re-issued with new material and photographs. It will be available to buy at the Christmas Bazaar on November 25 and will make an ideal stocking filler. Also available at history group meetings.
BRAMFORD CHRISTMAS BAZAAR This Christmas Bazaar is to be held on Saturday, November 25, opening at 2pm. It’s not too late to book a table. If you would like to book a table (£8 each) please contact Sue (462599) or Beryl (747979) and leave a message if there is no reply. If you are going to the Christmas Bazaar, then why not have lunch first at Bramford Church Room? Lunches served between noon and 2pm. Set yourself up for the afternoon!
BRAMFORD COFFEE MORNING The coffee morning will be held on Saturday, November 18 from 10-11am at Cherryfields in Gippingstone Road. Tea, coffee and cakes are on sale, together with a wide variety of preserves and pickles sold for charity. It’s a chance to relax in a friendly atmosphere and chat with fellow villagers. We hope to see you there.
“1917” EXHIBITION REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY
12th Nov 2017 11.30 to 14.00
Church Room, Bramford The story of the men of Bramford at:
Arras Passchendaele Cambrai And those on the Home Front
DECEMBER DEADLINE
10 NOVEMBER 2017 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
www.bramfordww1project.org.uk
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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE SITE New Apprentice
The Wheelie Team are starting to work on the 2018 event scheduled for Saturday, May 12. Our first event had the right format and with a few refinements we can make it even better.
We do need people to help in all sorts of ways both as participants and volunteers. More stalls would be good. Please get in touch and register your interest. If would like to join the Wheelie Team as a volunteer, would like to perform on stage, or wish to run a stall (organisation, individual or trader) please contact Terry: 07733 226898 wheelieenquiries@btinternet.com If you have a vehicle (or anything with wheels) you would like to show off please contact Andy: 07833 089148 wheelievehiclebookings@aol.com
BAR-CLAY MUSIC MAKERS Rehearsals for Linzi Hall’s imaginative and lively take on the tale of The Little Mermaid are off to a swimming start! The new panto features all the traditional ingredients you would expect: magic potions and spells (good and bad), a shipwreck, mermaids (of course), goodies, baddies, love, singing and dancing. And that’s before you add in the spectacular costumes and ingenious sets.
Piers Place has joined us on a mechanical engineering apprenticeship. He will be studying Performing Engineering Operations at Suffolk New College. He finished his A levels at Colchester Sixth Form this summer where he studied maths, business and product design. He particularly enjoyed the hands-on aspect of project design which has brought him to the mechanical engineering position.
Piers has always enjoyed engineering and used to take his calculators apart to find out how they worked as school. We hope during the apprenticeship he’ll be learning how to put things back together now. A very warm welcome Piers, we’re sure you’ll enjoy your four years with us. SUEZ Communities Trust The Suez Communities Trust provides funding to projects that improve community life and the natural environment. It distributes money donated by SUEZ recycling and recover UK, although it is independent and has its own board which decides which projects to support. Funding is available for projects within a three-mile radius of the Suffolk energy-fromwaste site and applications can be made online. If you know a project that could be deserving of the funding please visit: www.suezcommunitiestrust.org.uk
Tickets go on sale at the beginning of December so make a note of the show dates: January 19/20 and 26/27. You won’t want to miss this exciting and ambitious production. For more details email: vera.rogers1@btinternet.com
Come and have a look around The Suffolk energy-form-waste facility is holding a series of open days in November which include a tour of the facility and time to explore our visitor centre. There is space on the following days: Monday, November 27, 6-8pm / Thursday, November 30, 2-4pm
SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA)
There are 20 spaces on each day and you must pre-book. To book please email suffolkefw@sita.com.uk and we will confirm your place by email.
In the autumn of last year, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – For full details visit: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building
If you would like to come but cannot make these dates, you can email us to register your interest and we will let you know when the next open days are planned.
It’s important to be aware that this is not a renewal of the original planning approval for SnOasis, which remains in place. Reserved Matters cover the detail of such topics as design, appearance, transport, drainage and ecological mitigation.
Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to contact the facility on 01473 839149.
Our questions and comments about Reserved Matters were summarised in a document which was submitted to MSDC as the comments from the SPA and all its member parishes, giving the comments extra weight because they come from a significant number of local communities, representing over 11,000 registered voters. The SPA member parishes are Baylham, Barham, Bramford, Claydon and Whitton, Great Blakenham, Little Blakenham, Needham Market, Nettlestead and Somersham. The document is available to view on the Great Blakenham Parish Council website: www.greatblakenham.onesuffolk.net/snoasis-parish-alliance You may have seen the recent statements in the media made by the developer stating that SnOasis Reserved Matters would be considered by the district council in September. The SPA would like to make it clear that Reserved Matters were not considered in September and, as a significant amount of information is still outstanding, there is no date for the district council meeting to look at this. The SPA remains ready to work with the district council on Reserved Matters. However, owing to the failure of the developer to provide the requested information, we are unable to make any progress and there is nothing else that I am able to report at the time I write this. For further information, please email SPA clerk, Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS To book a visit: 01473 836821 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
SOMERSHAM CHURCH
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Saturday, November 25, 10am-5pm Sunday, November 26, 11am-5pm Refreshments, free admission/parking, disabled access.
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Somersham Village Hall, Saturday, November 25, 2-4pm. Free parking, free admission and disabled access.
SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume 4
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BRAMFORD SOCIAL CLUB (Formerly known as Bramford RBL Club)
Entertainment for November 71-73 The Street, Bramford IP8 4DX Tel: 01473 745198
Thurs 2 Fri 3
QUIZ NIGHT FAMILY DISCO, FUNDRAISER FOR BRAMFORD SCOUTS / BRAMFORD SOCIAL CLUB Sat 4 SHADOOGIE Thurs 9 TYLER KEMP + ONE, 70’S SHOW Sat 11 POPPY APPEAL DANCE WITH MEL STEVENS Thurs 16 QUIZ NIGHT Sat 18 HANDLE WITH CARE Thurs 23 BINGO Sat 25 MEMPHIS INDEX Thurs 30 QUIZ NIGHT Remembrance Sunday, November 12 Club open 12-4pm. Ploughman’s lunch and entertainment with Adam Harrod. Tickets on sale from the club now.
Every Sunday night Bingo at 8pm
As well as a snooker room and pretty outside seating area we now have hot drinks available at the bar, so come and join us for coffee or beer.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: OCTOBER 2017 Highways I have pointed out the chaos that the several sets of road works in our area are causing and asked the cabinet member to intervene. Unfortunately, the county has limited control, but they do appear to accept major disruption. Hopefully by the time you read this the necessary but annoying work will be complete. The Gt Blakenham Zebra No sooner had I given you the October date than it was delayed to midJanuary due to the disruption that would have occurred if the work coincided with that at Hackney’s Corner. Hackney’s Corner The work to change the junction shape should reduce accidents, but not I feel to the extent we need. Unfortunately, traffic lights were not considered necessary when the latest plans were agreed at the planning meeting in 2015. We will have to keep an eye on the safety record and may have to fight for improvements. School Transport Policy The Liberal Democrat, Green and Independent Group ‘called-in’ the cabinet decision to consult on proposed changes to SCC’s school transport policy. The proposal was to reduce transport provision to the statutory minimum to the nearest school if it is more than two miles away and the child is under eight or three miles and under 16. However, if a route to school is not safe to walk transport is provided from lesser distances. We cited several problems with the cabinet report and argued that to go to public consultation without a comprehensive impact assessment was premature. We questioned the expected savings and stressed the need to fully research how changes might impact on educational attainment, increased car use, and school viability. Scrutiny committee members considered that cabinet was not fully informed, decided that the process had flaws and by a vote of seven to five referred the decision back to cabinet. We believe we have achieved some progress as the cabinet member has responded: “There has been so much helpful discussion and debate over the past few weeks in relation to the future of school and post-16 travel. Proposals for the next stage of the review of this important policy are currently being refined and will be taken to cabinet once we have carefully considered all the issues that have been raised so far.” Minerals and Waste Plan A new plan identifying the various sites allocated for waste related activities and for mineral extraction has reached the preferred options consultation stage. It will be presented for your input at Claydon and Barham Village Hall on November 20 from 2-8pm. There are no disastrous surprises in our area.
Joint Local Plan At SCC cabinet on October 10 a paper was presented on county cooperation in the planning process. It recognised the need for much more work with district councils. I pressed cabinet members and senior officers to recognise the inadequacy of the resource currently dedicated to highways planning that is necessary. They said they would ensure it was adequate. Boundary Review The Boundary Commission have made their first proposals for the Mid Suffolk ward boundary review. They would place Great Blakenham, Little Blakenham and Somersham in a single member ward. Bramford would stand alone and Gosbeck and Ashbocking would be added to the existing two-member Claydon & Barham ward. There is as usual a consultation under way if you want to put your views forward. My group proposed a larger three-member ward pulling together all the Gipping Valley area. The many common interests would then be better served. Mid Suffolk Babergh Merger On October 13, the cabinets of Mid Suffolk and Babergh met simultaneously and co-located at Endeavour House to consider proposals to reduce costs by merging the councillor bodies. There are other proposals such as creating a unitary authority for Suffolk that require wider agreement, but to merge they just have to agree and get the Secretary of State’s consent. Of course there was a referendum on this subject that rejected the concept but the two Conservative groups appear determined to press ahead for a saving predicted to be £600k per year after initial redundancy costs. £60k of this is councillor allowances, the rest is hope. We appear to be ignoring ‘the will of the people’ in this case, but my concern remains as ever that predicted economies are rarely delivered in practice. As to the possibility of reducing councillor numbers, there is currently one county councillor to cover the area of four district councillors: is a reduction possible without damaging your representation? Fisons The district council have bid for government money to try to get development moving and preserve the listed buildings. We may at last see progress. If you have queries please phone me on 01473 831306 (you will need to say your name and press #) or 07545 423808. You can also email me at: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk I do have Twitter @JohnFieldjd and Facebook /fieldjd accounts and my website is at: www.johnfield.suffolk.libdems.org
Bumper Christmas Local Veg Boxes Enjoy local fresh veg delivered to your door with your Christmas dinner this year! may vary Potatoes 4kg Leeks 500g Cauliflower Contents and are subject to Parsnips 1.5kg Mushrooms 200g Red Cabbage availability. Carrots 1.5kg Sprout stalk Swede Onions 750g Based in Claydon
Only £20!
Please order by Monday 4th December.
We provide products and services that create opportunities for people with disabilities and/or disadvantages to succeed in work, learning and life.
01473 831224 www.growingplacessuffolk.co.uk 6
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ADVERTORIAL
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of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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NEWS CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE AND CHARITY SHOP We are delighted with the response to our appeal for the Father Frost Special Delivery program. More than 90 people have pledged to send a present to a child in Chernobyl. Now our only problem is getting them all into our luggage space! Regrettably the airline is now restricting the number of bags we are allowed to send back with the children. In addition to the usual baggage, each traveller is allowed one piece of hand luggage up to 8kg. Traditionally the children have had rucksacks which were easy for them to carry, but would be too heavy at 8kg. From now on we are going to try to give each child a proper ‘roll on’ cabin bag which will allow them to take full advantage of the 8kg allowance. So, if you ever have a small, lightweight cabin bag that you no longer want we would be very pleased to receive it. There will be five children travelling in December and, of course, our large group in the summer. The hope is that as the children will not use the bags again once they are back in Belarus we will be able to recycle them for the next group. Christmas Chocolate Bingo is back!
We are pleased to announce that we will be holding a Christmas themed Chocolate Bingo event on December 16 at our new home, Stowmarket Football Club. Tickets are already selling strongly so make sure to get yours in plenty of time. Tickets are £6 each and are available from our charity shop in Needham Market or directly from the football club. Our charity shop continues to welcome donations, especially at this time of year as we may be able to use some items for the children who arrive in December or those we are sending presents to in January. We are starting to build a really good stock of evening wear for that special big night out during the festive season. Why spend a fortune when you can pick up something ‘nearly new’ instead? Baby on the way? We have a number of high quality brand new baby buggies which usually retail at nearly £800 but are available for less than half that price. They are bankrupt stock which has been donated to the charity. If you are interested please let us know and we will be happy to arrange for you to see one. We are extremely grateful for your support and can assure you that every penny raised stays in Mid Suffolk to use for the benefit of our local Link and the children and families we support in Belarus. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
CHRISTMAS CHOCOLATE BINGO Saturday, December 16 Stowmarket Football Club Bury Road, Stowmarket Fantastic Family Night Out Door open at 6pm / first of six games at 7.30pm prompt Entry £6 including a hot sausage supper with dessert Chocolate related prizes and raffle / Cash prize for final game Tickets from CCLL Charity Show, Needham Market (next to The Rampant House) from Stowmarket Football Club or call 01449 760343 / 07974 424374 A charity event for Chernobyl Children’s Life Line
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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: 9am-1pm Products change with the seasons and now we are looking forward to having winter warmers and Christmas stock. Come along and see what you can get to put in the store-cupboard in case bad weather catches up with us, and also some interesting Christmas goods. We aim to source produce locally and to this end we have freshest local eggs, vegetables, bread, cakes, pies, and we are always looking to try other local products. Not only are locally produced foods delicious, they also save on travel miles. We promote reuse and recycling in the shop and are always happy to receive reusable plastic carrier bags and egg boxes. Our community shop is not only a place to purchase everyday goods that we need at home, although, of course, this is the main aim, but it is also a meeting place and a centre for our local community. The Macmillan Coffee Morning organised by Lucy was well-supported, with many people coming along to be part of what was billed as the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning. All the visitors enjoyed this occasion to share each other’s company and the delicious home-made cakes which were brought along to go with the coffee. A big thanks to all who made the cakes and the coffee, donated raffle prizes and supported the event which raised £324.64 for Macmillan Cancer Support, a worthwhile sum for a worthwhile cause. Our regular Tea and Chat meetings in Coffee Corner are from 2-4pm on the last Wednesday in the month during the winter, so come along for tea and cakes and a chat during the colder months of the year. Golden Link is every other Tuesday afternoon and Petrolheads is the first Wednesday of each month. Anne and Lucy are also kindly organising a mince pie and coffee morning to take place on Wednesday, December 13, a chance for a pre-Christmas get-together. We welcome a new member to the management team – Natasha Leach is to join this very able team who do so well in the important role of organising the shop. Thanks Natasha – it’s good to have you on board. We want everyone to benefit from the shop, so if you would like help with your shopping please get in touch with a member of our management team (listed below) and don’t forget that the dry cleaners pick up on Tuesday mornings and return the following Tuesday. For a book to read in the winter evenings, the book exchange is an excellent way to find a new read, and the village diary is waiting to be filled with events over the coming weeks – take a look and see what is happening locally. Not only a good place to shop and find local produce, meet up with people you haven’t seen in ages, but it also gives real heart to the local community. Come along to see what’s happening if you haven’t already, and new volunteers are always welcome – even a couple of hours a month can make all the difference. And look out for the calendars! Management Team: Lucy Barrett – 831890; Sue Browne – 831321; Terry Fordham – 831529 Peter Jousiffe; Natasha Leach; Anne MacFadyen – 831288 Steve Woolhouse – 831080 In Touch online:
GET READY FOR
CHRISTMAS
• RARE BREEDS • PETS PADDOCK • TRACTOR-TRAILER RIDES • PLAY AREA • CAFE • MUSEUM • GIFT SHOP
CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR 2nd & 3rd DECEMBER BOOK TO EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT
WREATH WORKSHOP 9th DECEMBER
www.suffolkpunchtrust.org
SE OUR W E E FOR D BSITE ETAILS & TIM ES
Woodbridge Walk, Hollesley, Suffolk, IP12 3JR Tel: 01394 411327 Email: info@suffolkpunchtrust.org Reg. Charity No. 1100596
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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NEWS MAMMOTH BOOK SALE Saturday, November 18, 10.30am-1pm at Bramford Church Room with paperbacks from only 20p!
SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT Somersham Village Hall Saturday, November 11, 8pm-midnight Live Music from Unit 99 Disco by Sonic / Licensed Bar
There are hundreds of books to chose from, don’t miss the opportunity to pick up a bargain. Come and have a browse, there’s something for everyone. Stewart McGinty, Friends of Bramford Church
POP CHORUS CONCERT At Somersham Church on Saturday, December 2, 7.30pm.
Fish/Sausage and Chips (included in ticket price, gluten-free available) Raffle Prizes
Tickets (£7.50 including light refreshment) are available from Christine (01473 830710) or Heather (01473 830068) with 10 per cent of profits going to St Elizabeth Hospice.
£10 per ticket / free entry for children under 16 (additional children’s meal @ £2.50 must be ordered and paid for when purchasing ticket)
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL AND FAIR
Tickets available from Somersham Village Shop All proceeds to the upkeep and maintenance of the playing field and pavilion
St Mary Magdalene Church, Bildeston (the church at the top of the hill) November 25 and 26, 10.30am-3.30pm
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5 Town/village MIP/5A Sproughton MIP/5B Sproughton MIP/5C Bramford MIP/5D Bramford MIP/5E Great Blakenham MIP/5F Great Blakenham MIP/5G Baylham MIP/5H Claydon MIP/5I Claydon MIP/5J Barham MIP/5K Bramford
Location Church Lane Wild Man St Mary’s Close Paper Mill Lane Chequers Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park Post Box Crown Edinburgh Gardens Bacon Road Packard Place
Time 9.10-9.25am 9.30-9.45am 9.50-10.05am 10.10-10.25am 10.35-1055am 11-11.15am 11.25-11.45am 11.55am-1pm 2.05-2.20pm 2.25-3.50pm 4-4.30pm
2017 DATES: November 21, December 19 Please note that Mobile Library Route 13 stops off at the Sorrel Horse in Barham from 11-11.10am on the following dates: November 3, December 1 & 29
Display of Christmas Trees, Refreshments, Floral Art and Wreathes, Tombola, Raffle, Christmas Boxes and Cards, Children’s Craft Corner, Cakes and Preserves, Handicrafts The festival will end with Sung Evensong from the Book of Common Prayer at 4pm on Sunday 26.
ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, November 11, 9am-12.30pm. Fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items which make ideal presents. Get in some early Christmas shopping. East End Butchers are pleased to be the market’s resident meat supplier. If you would like to place on order with them it can be collected at the market each month. Their number for orders is 01206 392190. Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue. New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777
His medals took pride of place, they helped us think of everything Here for you every hour of every day 01473 858517 or visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals 10
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NEWS DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH, SOMERSHAM
SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM
Come and raise a glass with us. Whether it’s filled with beer, champagne, wine, spirits or a soft drink, there will be a warm welcome for you at the Duke of Marlborough. Bring your friends or family, invite your neighbours, encourage your workmates or come along alone: we’ll be happy to see you.
Welcome to this month’s SNT article. The Babergh area has recently seen an increase in theft of lead from rooftops – although this is commonly associated with church roofs it has also been reported on residential properties. Installing lead flashing is a standard step for most homeowners, especially when expanding your house with a conservatory or an extension. Flashing covers gaps in roof material and forms an impervious barrier to prevent intrusion from rain and weather.
In November, the pub is open and serving food and drinks at the normal times. Keep your eyes peeled for menu information on the chalk board outside the pub, on Facebook or on the website. Contact Kevin to reserve a table: 01473 831283 / kevin@thedukeofmarlborough.com
While there are many materials produced for flashing use, lead offers the most durability and lasts for many years. Unfortunately, lead flashing is prone to being stolen due to the high value of scrap metal, which makes it appealing to thieves.
Christmas bookings have opened! Prices are being confirmed as this goes to print, but the three-course menu is likely to be around £20 a head. It will be available from the evening of Wednesday, November 29 right through until Saturday, December 23:
Many homeowners don’t even realise their flashing has been stolen until a rainy day comes and water enters their home – potentially causing hundreds of pounds worth of damage.
• Wednesdays – evening only • Thursdays – lunchtime and evening • Fridays – lunchtime and evening • Saturdays – lunchtime and evening Lunches are from noon to 2pm, dinners are from 6pm, with the latest starting time at 8.30pm. On Christmas Day the pub will be open from 11am-3pm for drinks. We’re looking at a ticketed event for New Year’s Eve – watch this space for further info! What about Sundays? Well, we’ll be open for lunch as usual and look forward to seeing you. Check out what’s on offer food-wise as we’re planning an alternative to the traditional festive menu. The buying and re-opening of the Duke of Marlborough has been a monumental community effort. This beautiful 15th century pub has been redecorated, is being run by a professional manager and chef, is serving delicious, fresh food, and is ready to welcome you. Join us in celebrating the achievement. Please help spread the word – particularly if you know companies or organisations who might book their get-togethers in this lovely environment. Most importantly, make sure you’re here to raise a glass to over 500 years of past hospitality and to future years of good food, drink and company. Cheers! Looking for ideas for an unusual Christmas, birthday or anniversary present for someone very special? Did you know you can buy shares in the pub for other people (who are over 18)? It’s a £250 minimum holding per person. If they already own shares, you can add to those at £50 per share. For further information please contact Keith McKeown: 07817 418942 / keithmckeown8@gmail.com
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AT LITTLE BLAKENHAM VILLAGE HALL Free entry on Saturday, November 25, 2-4pm
CRIB DISPLAY AT LITTLE BLAKENHAM CHURCH Saturday, November 25 and Sunday, November 26, 11am-4pm On Sunday 26 a Christingle Service will follow at 4.30pm. Entry is free, but all donations will be gratefully accepted in aid of Little Blakenham Church. www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
TIPS FOR SECURING YOUR PROPERTY Remove all means of access to your roof Criminals often get onto your roof via a wheelie bin, gate or ladder that is near your garage. Secure ladders out of view and try to store your bins in a garage or storage area. If you must leave them out, locate them a short distance from your walls – meaning you may hear the bin being dragged towards your roof. Prevent unwanted vehicle access Metal thieves often rely on a vehicle to remove the metal from the scene. These generally take the form of trucks and vans, so try to limit access your driveway – either with a gate or possibly a bollard Install CCTV and lighting Although this tip is more applicable to commercial premises such as schools and churches, you can get a relatively cheap home CCTV system installed, considering a spotlight or anti-theft light will help deter attempts. Paint your flashing with anti-climb paint Homeowners can purchase anti-climb paint from almost any DIY store and paint it on your flashing to deter theft. However, you must ensure the paint is only on objects at least two metres from the ground and you legally have to install a sign warning that your property has anticlimb paint. Consider replacing lead flashing with non-leaded material While lead is the superior material in terms of longevity, it may be worth replacing your flashing with non-leaded materials. There are brands available that are lighter than lead, safer to handle and also have little to no scrap value. These lead-free solutions may not be as durable, but can be more than suitable for most uses around chimneys, roof lights and solar panels. DNA-identification While this may not apply to smaller homes, if you own a larger house and the value of your lead justifies it, perhaps consider painting your flashing with a microdot, chemical or DNA marking system. These methods help police identify the culprits of theft and help secure convictions. Finally, if you see anything suspicious or want to report anything to police they can be contacted as follows: Phone: 101 (to report any non-urgent incident) Email: hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk (non-urgent, should you wish to contact local officers) In an emergency always phone: 999 11
OUT & ABOUT WREATH SALE Saturday, December 2, 10am-noon in Bramford Church Room Come along, select a wreath and enjoy a warming cup of tea and a snack. There will also be some more wreaths available in the church. The draw for a Christmas hamper will be held. Stewart McGinty
NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH CURT N ROD Curt n Rod will be playing at Claydon Community Centre on New Year’s Eve. “Having played there for their Valentine’s Dance, we can confirm the club has a very warm and friendly atmosphere and non-members are very welcome,” says Keith. “There is a very well stocked bar and a dance floor situated between the band and the seating area. There is parking adjacent to the club.” Apart from munchies, food will not be available on New Year’s Eve, but members and guests can bring their own. Tickets are £12.50 for members and £13.50 for non-members. For tickets and information please contact Keith: 01473 624538
CRIB AND ANGEL FESTIVAL St Mary’s Church, Bramford is holding a Crib and Angel Festival on Saturday, December 2, 10am-4pm. Come along and see them; some have come from all over the world, even the far corners of Suffolk. Tea and refreshments will be available. If you would like to display your crib or an angel, please contact the Reverend Jenny.
BRAMFORD CRAFT AND CHATTER GROUP This month we meet on Tuesdays, November 14 and 28 in the Parish Room, starting at 9.30am as usual. Visitors welcome.
BRAMFORD LOCAL HISTORY GROUP
WOLSEY’S ANGELS ARE IN IPSWICH
This is a special month for us as James Drummond-Murray will be coming to tell us the results of the archaeological test pits on the site of the new houses opposite the cemetery. We will be in the Loraine Victory Hall on Thursday, November 16, starting at 7.30pm. Non-members are welcome, entrance fee £3.
On loan from the V&A, the bronze angels that Cardinal Wolsey commissioned to adorn his tomb, along with many of Ipswich Museums’ rarely displayed Tudor objects, will be on show in Christchurch Mansion until 11 March 2018 Walking with the Angels To complement the exhibition, Ipswich tourist guides are offering guided walks around the town visiting the sites particularly associated with Ipswich’s most famous forefather. The cost is £4 per person with a minimum charge of £40. Parties are limited to 20 people per guide. To book contact the TIC; 01473 258070 / tourist@ipswich.gov.uk Wolsey and his Angels If walking is a problem you may like a guide to visit your venue to give an illustrated talk about Thomas Wolsey, his birth place and the exhibition. To make a booking contact the TIC as above and the charge will be £50.
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There are some ancient ploughed-out burial mounds along the river valley in Bramford so let’s hope that something really interesting was found in the trenches, not just rubbish pits. Though it’s quite interesting to think that archaeologists of the 21st century can find out lots of information about early residents from the rubbish they threw away. What will future generations make of us?
BRAMFORD WI I hope that you all enjoyed our last meeting. Our AGM is on Monday, November 13 at 7.30pm when you will be able to vote in your next committee for 2018. The evening will have a Christmas theme and we will be making gift tags ready for our parcels. Get ready for a sticky evening. There will be no competition. Looking forward to seeing you all there then.
Stowe Veterinary Centre
Moreton Hall Veterinary Centre
Ipswich Veterinary Centre
The Mustard Pot Veterinary Surgery
The Old Tea Room Veterinary Surgery
54 Bury Road, Stowmarket
2 Boldero Road, Bury St. Edmunds
Scrivener Drive, Ipswich
Coddenham Road, Needham Market
Station Road, Elmswell
Tel: 01449 613 130
Tel: 01284 747 000
Tel: 01473 555 000
Tel: 01449 722 198
Tel: 01359 241 761
In Touch online:
Fri 17th - Thurs 23rd Nov
MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS (12A) Fri 17th & Sat 18th: 2.30 & 7.45 Sun 19th & Mon 20th: 2.30 Tue 21st - Thurs 23rd: 5.00 Fri 27th Oct - Thurs 2nd Nov
THE SNOWMAN (15)
Fri 27th - Sun 29th: 7.30 Mon 30th - Wed 1st: 2.15 & 7.30 Thurs 2nd: 2.15 & 5.00
HAPPY DEATH DAY
(15)
Fri 17th & Sat 18th: 5.00, Tue 21st: 7.45 Wed 22nd & Thurs 23rd: 12.15
THE DEATH OF STALIN (15)
Mon 20th: 12.15, Tue 21st: 2.30 Wed 22nd & Thurs 23rd: 2.30 & 7.45
THE MOUNTAIN BETWEEN US (12A) MY LITTLE PONY: THE MOVIE (U) Fri 27th - Wed 1st: 5.00 Thurs 2nd: 12.00 & 7.45
Sat 18th & Sun 19th: 12.15
THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE (PG) Fri 27th - Sun 29th: 12.15 & 2.30
Fri 3rd - Thurs 9th Nov
MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS (12A) Fri 3rd - Wed 8th: 2.30 & 7.45 Thurs 9th: 12.00 & 5.00
GEOSTORM
LIVE ON STAGE Saturday 11th November at 2pm - Tickets £9 The RBL & Stowmarket Town Council present
FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE
THE CAROLE KING & JAMES TAYLOR STORY
(12A)
Sat 4th & Sun 5th: 12.15
Wed 6th - Fri 8th Dec: 7.30, Sat 9th & Sun 10th Dec: 12.00 & 5.00
Sunday 19th November at 7.30pm - Tickets £12.50 & £14 Monday 20th November at 7.30pm - Tickets £15.00
Fri 3rd - Wed 8th: 5.00, Thurs 9th: 2.30
THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE
SNOW WHITE PANTOMIME - TICKETS NOW ON SALE
A night of country music with
STEPHEN SMYTH
(PG)
Fri 10th - Thurs 16th Nov
Friday 24th November at 2.00pm - Tickets £10 & £12
An afternoon of festive nostalgia
MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS (12A) Fri 10th: 2.30 & 7.45, Sat 11th: 9.45am & 7.45 Sun 12th - Wed 15th: 2.30 & 7.45 Thurs 16th: 1.15 & 4.15
THOR: RAGNAROK (12A)
CHRISTMAS MEMORIES Friday 1st December at 7.30pm - Tickets £12
Fat Old Dad present music, festive fun & laughter
ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS TIME
Fri 10th & Sat 11th: 5.00 Sun 12th: 11.45am & 5.00 Mon 13th - Wed 15th: 5.00, Thurs 16th: 10.45am GREAT FAMILY FILMS, KIDS £2.50, ADULTS FREE!*
POCKET MONEY MOVIES
THE EMOJI MOVIE (U)
World Class Theatre - Beamed to Stowmarket
Thurs 16th November at 7pm - Tickets £12.50
National Theatre Live presents the Stephen Sondheim musical
Fri 27th - Sun 29th Oct: 9.45am, Sat 4th & Sun 5th: 9.45am
www.regalstowmarket.co.uk / 01449 612825
Sun 12th: 9.30am, Sat 18th & Sun 19th: 10.00am
FOLLIES
Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1AY
CARS 3 (U)
*1x free adult per paying child. Under 10’s must be accompanied.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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REMEMBERing TOGETHER THIS CHRISTMAS For more than a decade, the East of England Co-op Funeral Services has brought people together at Christmas to celebrate and remember the lives of loved ones sadly no longer with us.
Christmas Concert Free Admission
This year, East of England Co-op Funeral Services in Ipswich will be hosting a Christmas Concert on Wednesday 6th December in the Sir Bobby Robson Suite at Ipswich Town Football Club. Guests are welcome from 6.15pm, the concert led by Celebrant Donna Sparrow featuring singing from Andrew Spall and music from the East of England Co-op band will begin at 7pm. Tanya Carlton-Smith, Funeral Manager at East of England Co-op Funeral Services, explains: “Christmas can be a very difficult time for many people who have lost someone special. This concert will bring the community together at a time when people need support the most, while celebrating the memories of loved ones who are no longer with us.”
Wednesday 6th December 2017 Welcome from 6.15pm Concert begins 7pm
On the night guests will also be able to share memories and messages of loved-ones on special memory pebbles. Donations will be raised through collection boxes at the concert and all funds will be shared equally with the East Anglia Children’s Hospices, St Helena Hospices, St Elizabeth’s Hospices, St Nicholas Hospice, Norfolk Tapping House and Farleigh Hospice.
Ipswich Town Football Club The Sir Bobby Robson Suite, Portman Road, Ipswich
Next year a new memorial of the memory pebbles will be created and a service will be held to celebrate these memories shared of loved ones.
Led by Donna Sparrow Featuring Andrew Spall Join us to remember loved ones this Christmas To book your place call
01473 851948
Tanya adds: “Sharing a treasured memory on a pebble is a small thing that can make a big difference, and is just one of the things we do as part of our ongoing support services for bereaved families in the local community.” The Ipswich Christmas Concert is free but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance. To book tickets call 01473 851948 or visit an East of England Co-op Funeral Services branch where colleagues will be able to assist. For more information visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals.
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In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT 1st BRAMFORD BROWNIES On October 4 the 1st Bramford Brownies held a beetle drive and coffee and cake evening in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. We would like to thank all those who gave cakes and attended the evening – we made a grand total of £75, double what we made last year. Many thanks for all your support.
ST MARY’S CHURCH GATHERING Every third Tuesday in the month, 2.30-4pm, in the Church Room. Do come and join us; we will be very pleased to see you. If transport is required please contact Janet: 741331
BRAMFORD TREFOIL GUILD Our October meeting was our first back in Guide and Scout HQ. For most of the summer we have been enjoying outings, walks and an afternoon at a member’s lovely back garden in Somersham. Members made cakes and pastries that were enjoyed by everyone. Our October speaker was ill so we had a craft afternoon thanks to one of our members. These meetings are always enjoyed. If you would like to visit us or to join our guild please call Pat Caddick: 01473 402152
SOMERSHAM WI At our October evening we were treated to a journey around South Africa with Fay and Sarah, who brought in artifacts from their families and travels. This was possibly the first time a Zulu shield had been to the village hall! Have a look at some of the pictures on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SomershamWI Our first AGM is on November 13 when we will elect the committee and president to take us through the next year. Many thanks to all the committee who have settled the WI into its first year. Christmas card making is also on offer, and members can enter our Christmas decoration competition. Guests are always welcome for only £4; there may be an additional charge for materials for the card making. We start at 7.30pm in the village hall. We are changing our monthly meeting date to the third Monday of the month starting in January 2018 so make a note of the change of date.
SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB I can now confirm that the remaining two outings/meals out this year are:
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50’s CLUB The 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 Great Blakenham Parish Rooms 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. The Parish Rooms is the building with a green door more or less opposite The Chequers. There is plenty of parking space, the building is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. During September we had a social afternoon led by Sandra and then our AGM followed by a couple of quizzes and a few games of bingo. The club continues to prosper and our programme for 2018 will follow in due course. Our programme up to the end of the year is: November 8: Beetle Drive with Jean November 22: Social afternoon with a visit by the Rural Coffee Caravan December 13: Christmas Meal at The Chequers We have quite a varied programme and new members are always 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
HALL WEEN Party
at... The Limeburners Offton Children must be supervised by a parent/carer
• The Chequers Inn at Great Blakenham on October 25 (hopefully already attended and successful).
Free entry for all, fun games and activities and a Fancy Dress Competition for the children (£1 entry). Children will need to leave by 5pm as there is an...
• A fish and chip lunch at Sproughton Church Hall at noon on Wednesday, November 22. The last club meeting of 2017 will be held at the Church Hall on Wednesday, December 20, at 1.30pm. Members are requested to bring one plate of sandwiches or nibbles with them and to wear a Christmas hat. Music and a sherry or fruit juice to toast the occasion will be provided.
Saturday 28th October 1pm - 4pm
ADULT HALLOWEEN PARTY Barking Pre-School CIO The Village Hall, Barking, Ipswich IP6 8HP Tel: 07552 410825
Registered Charity No:1159369
at The Limeburners 7.30pm till late (free entry)
All proceeds from activities and games will be donated to Barking Pre-School CIO
John Bates www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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OUT & ABOUT BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB
GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB
The Wednesday group will meet every week in November from 10am-noon while the Monday group will meet on the 13 and 27 only from 7.30-9.30pm. We are here to help you to get the best out of your computer, so why not give us a try? We meet in the upstairs room at the back of the Methodist Church. Membership is £1 for the school year and £3 per session.
This club is open to anyone living not just in Great Blakenham, but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet every Monday (other than bank holidays) in Great Blakenham Parish Room (opposite The Chequers) on Stowmarket Road from 2-4pm. There is plenty of parking space, the building is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.
IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired business gentlemen. The primary objective is to provide fellowship between members and to share similar interests in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We meet monthly at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us. If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE: 01473 353350 Here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help.
Members pay £2 per meeting to cover hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Alternatively, if you would just like to come and bring your own project to work on, enjoy our company and make new friends without doing the workshops the charge is £1.50 per meeting. Members take it in turns to make the tea. Our workshop for October was Kantha, a style of stitching which originated in Bengal and was used to make bedding from saris. Our afternoon started with a short history and a simple heart pattern followed by a choice of pattern (an elephant, a cat, flowers or birds) for subsequent pieces. It’s Mini Makes on November 13 and our AGM and the last meeting of the year will take place on November 27 as members have decided they would like to go out for a Christmas meal this year. This will be on December 4 at The Chequers, kindly organised by Shirley Biggs. The club year starts again on February 5 and the 2018 programme will appear in the January edition of In Touch. If all this sounds interesting there is currently room for new members so if you would like to join us please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present, gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome. Unfortunately I cannot accommodate children. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
Registered Charity No.1045849
In partnership with THE BARRY KILBY PROSTATE CANCER APPEAL & THE EAST SUFFOLK PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Registered Charity No. 1164097.
THE PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING DAY Saturday 18th November 10am - 2pm (minimal charge £5) no appointment needed ITFC Sir Bobby Robson Suite, Ipswich Town Football Club, Portman Road, IP1 2DA Entrance: Gate 17 Jason Dozell
Supported by ITFC and Legends Jason Dozell and Titus Bramble ITFC Supporters Club
Titus Bramble
NB. Prostate Cancer Screening is suitable for all men aged 40 plus. Screening is particularly recommended for all black African and Caribbean men and men with a family history of prostate cancer or breast cancer who are at considerably higher risk from prostate cancer.
IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE For CHAPS events or information check at www.chaps.uk.com or email info@chaps.uk.com
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In Touch online:
You’re invited to make an appointment at our Wherstead Park office to discuss:
Powers of Attorney Wills
Probate Court of Protection * We also offer a range of other services
Our out of town Ipswich location is very convenient for parking and has Contact us for an appointment today: excellent disabled access. www.ellisonssolicitors.com enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ 01473 556 900 Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL SOMERSHAM & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB
Emma Kerridge, a wildlife artist from the RSPB, is the guest speaker at our next meeting in Offton and Willisham Village Hall on Monday, November 13 at 7.30pm. For anyone interested in wildlife, this should be a good evening. For more information please call: 01473 830600/254941 Christine Barrell
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL Wow, to think the first half term is over and we are now in the second half with Halloween, fireworks and – dare I say it – Christmas! The children have been doing lots of activities around Halloween and fireworks and are now looking forward to Christmas crafts and preparing for their nativity on December 13 at Barham Church. We also had our Halloween dress-up week the first week after half term. There is also a stay and play session for parents and carers coming up at the end of November – giving them the opportunity to see what goes on during the normal sessions. Now we are open all year round we will have some spaces in the school holidays for children aged two to five years old. If you are interested in sending your child please contact the administration assistant, details below, for more info and a booking form. Don’t forget that the government has introduced an additional 15 hours funding for working parents of three and four year olds. This means that parents who both earn the equivalent of 16 hours at National Minimum Wage (£115.20) or more per week and less that £100,000 per year (or just one carer if a single parent) will be eligible to claim up to 30 hours of funding. You can register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible and also register for the Government Childcare Vouchers Scheme. If you are using the 30 hours you must provide a code to us with your national insurance number in order to be eligible. If you would like an application form or any further information please contact administration assistant Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ 18
On Wednesday, September 27 we welcomed more than 500 prospective parents/carers and their children to our school for our annual open evening. Following a short presentation, visitors were able to tour the school and experience our fantastic resources and facilities. Staff and students were on hand to showcase their work and visitors took part in various activities including the English department’s Punctuation Face Challenge, combustible Jelly Babies in Science, interactive maths activities, including gas powered rockets, French and Spanish food tasting in Languages and much, much more. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our 200 Claydon High School student helpers who helped to make the evening such a success. Much of the feedback I received from visitors commented on how helpful, friendly and polite our students were. On Friday, October 13, children’s author Stewart Ross visited Claydon High School to talk to Years 7 and 8 about his writing as he launches his latest book, The Salvation Project, the exciting finale to The Soterion Mission. With more than 250 published titles to his credit, Stewart is one of Britain’s most popular and versatile writers. Students were given the opportunity to meet the author in person and purchase a copy of his latest book. As an experienced speaker, Stewart engaged very well with his young audience and it was lovely to see so many enthused and interested faces and lots of questions being asked. Claydon High School regularly invites authors to the school to give presentations and hold workshops for different year groups. These visits prove to be extremely rewarding for all involved and are a great way to enthuse students about reading and writing. Author visits benefit the school by enabling students and teachers to interact with the author of a book that they have read, to learn more about the creative process and to gain insights into the world of writing and publishing. These school visits also provide authors with direct reader contact and a chance to hear questions, to learn what moments in their books resonate with readers, and to even field suggestions for intriguing ideas for sequels and future books. In other areas of the school, the PE department has had an eventful start to the term with football and netball fixtures, table tennis, golf and cross country competitions and a swimming gala. Year 10 GCSE PE students also had the opportunity to demonstrate leadership skills when they ran a successful Year 6 Sports Morning for more than 100 students from our feeder primary schools. A range of activities was on offer, including table tennis, badminton, netball and fitness and rowing challenges. Our Year 10 leaders made the sessions really fun and competitive and were a credit to the school. At the end of October, Year 11 students visited the Suffolk Skills Show at Trinity Park, Ipswich. Students were able to visit stands, gather information and talk to employers and representatives from many different local businesses and industries, ranging from farming and agriculture, engineering and construction to law, finance and HM forces. The Suffolk Skills Show is the largest employer-led skills and careers event in the area and featured more than 100 exhibitors with in excess of 5,000 visitors expected for 2017. Finally, as I write this article, WOW Week is nearly upon us and I look forward to sharing all of the wonderful activities our students will have experienced in December’s edition. Please watch this space. 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, November 29. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Saunders on 01473 836110 to book a place. Headteacher Maéve Taylor In Touch online:
SPORT CLAYDON FC
Well, the season has well and truly begun and as the clocks move to changing for winter for another seasonal change, the teams at Claydon will have nearly reached a quarter of the way through the season! The facilities are looking great and the pitches are looking superb at Blue Circle, and not too bad at Claydon recreation ground where our Under 16 Dragons and Under 14s are currently plying their trade. A quick edit on my last post in which I thanked those brilliant folk around the village who have contributed to the improvements, and an additional thanks to Keith Flatt for the Claydon Badges on the new dugouts. Keith is a long time barbecue chef at the youth end of season presentation day and a loyal supporter. We are gathering our team photos for the new season and it is with pleasure we have one of the current First team squad who are sponsored by Haxley and Ruffles Roofing Contractors. Apologies as they are not the prettiest, but they seem to be on a winning streak.
NEW MULTI-FUNCTION PRIVATE GYM IN GREAT BLAKENHAM Hello from Kickstart Gym! It’s been a busy few months here – hard to believe we have been open for over three months already. For those of you who haven’t heard about us, we are a new multi-function private gym in Great Blakenham, designed for personal training, Muay Thai boxing and physiotherapy. Our Muay Thai classes have been growing rapidly recently, so welcome to all the new faces. We had an influx of new students from our five-week Muay Thai beginner’s course, which was such a success we will be holding another one in the coming months. Since opening we have started holding sessions six days a week, so there is plenty to choose from now. We have seen some great results from our personal training gym recently and with Christmas closing in fast we have plenty of pre-holiday season training plans on the go to make room for all the festive food. Our latest news has been the opening of our on-site physiotherapy clinic, which has had some fantastic feedback already. We would like to welcome Michelle to the gym, joining us as our lead physiotherapist. She has got off to a flying start fixing up all our Muay Thai boxers. She has also come on board as one of our personal trainers, which means she can aid people all the way through their recovery. All in all, we are very excited to see how things go here at Kickstart and would like to keep everyone posted on our progress as we move further into our first year. If you want more information on personal training, Muay Thai boxing sessions or physiotherapy, contact us on 01473 805426 or find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/kickstartgymsuffolk www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
BRAMFORD BOWLS CLUB
The club finals were played on Sunday, September 17. The weather was excellent and this was complemented by the bacon rolls and all day breakfasts prepared by Joyce Thompson and Bridget Read. The bowling was of a high standard as can be seen by the results shown below: Ladies 2-wood Singles: Winner Lucy Ratcliffe Runner-up Jean Hughes, 21-11 Ladies 4-wood Singles: Winner Mary Saunders Runner-up Lucy Ratcliffe, 21-15 Men’s 2-wood Singles: Winner Steve Zarkos Runner-up Tony Turner, 21-10 Men’s 4-wood Singles: Winner Steve Zarkos Runner-up Tony Turner, 21-4 Handicap 3-wood Singles: Winner Lucy Ratcliffe Runner-up Tony Turner, 21-16 Over 60s 4-wood Singles: Winner Mary Saunders Runner-up David Thompson, 21-19 Nominated 4-wood Pairs: Winners Martin Barber/John Parnell Runners-up Sally Hollingsworth/Tony Fisher, 18-12 Nominated 2-wood Mixed Pairs: Winners Allen Davey/Mary Saunders Runners-up Christian Barber/Janet Paternoster, 19-15 Nominated Triples: Winners Steve Zarkos/Martin Barber/John Parnell runners-up Linda Fairs/Ruby Rudge/Chris Illman, 20-15 Open Day Pairs: Winners Ann Thaine/Mary Saunders Runners-up Allen Tredray/Jean Hughes, 21-15 Club Triples: Winners Maurice Woollard/Ray Paternoster/Andy Roberts Runners-up Tony Fisher/Arthur Lockwood/Norman Spicer, 19-14 We reached the final of the Marie Curie Cup, which unfortunately was held on the same day as our club finals, so some people had to play their finals early and then rush off to Botesdale BC. It turned out to be a closely fought game, so close that we lost overall by just one shot. So near, yet so far! The closing of the green was held on September 24. Unfortunately, with some having other commitments only 20 people played, but this didn’t detract from the enjoyment of the afternoon. The singles format was won overall by Nigel Page, who won all three games, with Arthur Lockwood second, also winning all three games but just losing out on shot difference. Jean Hughes was third by winning two games. It has been a mixed season overall, some very good and some not so good, but hey ho that’s bowls! Just a final word – the green has played excellently all season with not a sign of wear at the end so very many thanks to Peter, Jason and helpers for all their hard work. We have definitely got a green to be proud of and we have had many compliments from other teams and players throughout the season. Mary Saunders 19
Sport / on the grapevine BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Whoosh! What was that? That was the summer, gone, but not forgotten (unlike the hundreds of tennis balls lost from Nicks wayward serves). Interest now moves onto the winter leagues (floodlit and Sunday morning), which will have started by the time you are using this to line the bottom of the budgie’s cage. The first fixture round threw up a local derby match when Nick and Graham as Bramford 1 played Matt and Adam (Graham’s sons) playing as Bramford 2. It proved to be another win for the elders as they won three sets to love gaining three points (one for each set won). Nick claimed the win was down to tactics, but I fail to see how a tiny plastic case of mints can make a difference, unless he was scattering them on the opponents’ court to make them slip. No floodlit or other winter results in as yet, but on the bright side, no defeats to write about either. The tennis club quiz is on Friday, November 17 at the Sports Pavilion on Fraser Road, 7.30pm for 8pm start. Teams of four adults, £2 a head.
SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB Well, that’s it for the 2017 outdoor bowls season at Sproughton, and an extremely successful and thoroughly enjoyable season it was too. Even the weather was fairly kind to us with very few league games being called off due to unplayable greens. All of the 2017 club competitions have been completed with congratulations going to the following: Ladies 2-wood Singles: Julie Spice Ladies 4-wood Singles: Kath Caley Sheila Herring Trophy Singles: Hilary Crick Senior Citizens: Roy Collett Handicap Singles, BE 4-wood Singles, EBF 4-wood Singles: Adrian Beecroft 2-wood Singles: Geoff Spice Presidents Cup Pairs: Kath Caley and Geoff Spice Club Pairs: Kate Sarginson and Iain Selby Final Day Pairs: Erik Wicko and Albert Southgate Club Blocks: Di Roper, Iain Selby and Tony Caley Club members and their guests are now looking forward to our annual dinner and dance, this year being held at the Best Western Hotel, Copdock. With dancing to live band Talk of the Town a great evening is in prospect. Also coming up between now and Christmas are a couple of indoor friendly matches details of which will appear shortly at: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com
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To book a table contact Clive Jones on 01473 464589 or simply turn up. There will be a bar and a raffle. Proceeds for the tennis club. The coaching sessions are still proceeding, contact Carl on carl.douglas@ talk21.com for details of times and prices. These have been very well supported and have proved to be a welcome addition to our facilities. Joke of the Month A man went to view a recently deceased uncle at the funeral parlour, where he found the man laid out in a blue suit. He asked the funeral director if it was possible to change the suit for a black one, as his uncle always wore a black suit. He returned later in the week and was pleased to see his uncle looking immaculate in a smart black suit. He asked the funeral director to add the cost of the suit to the bill. “Oh there is no charge,” said the director, “Just after you left last time a man came for burial, and he had a black suit on, but his son wanted him laid out in a blue suit so I did the obvious... and swapped their heads.” Oh dear back to the usual standard! More guff next month. Mick Russ
HELP TO SHAPE AND IMPROVE HOME CARE SERVICES Healthwatch Suffolk is exploring people’s experiences of accessing home care services (domiciliary care). It is an opportunity for you, your friends or family members to influence and improve these services now and for the future. The watchdog wants to hear from people that are currently using home care services, have used them in the past or those who may need help at home but have been unable to obtain support in the county. Domiciliary care is care provided in a person’s home. Sometimes it is called home care or ‘Support to Live at Home’. Home care can include support with things like helping people to get out of bed, washing, dressing, getting to work, cooking meals, eating, seeing friends, caring for families and being part of the community. Healthwatch Suffolk will use your feedback to help it understand the issues that people face when accessing care at home and what needs to be explored in detail as part of its developing project. As the health and care watchdog for Suffolk, it can use the things that people share to shape, influence and improve care to our county’s most vulnerable residents. Sharing your experiences couldn’t be easier. If you are currently using a service, Healthwatch Suffolk is asking people to take part in a short survey which you can access at: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ homecareinsuffolk. If you are not currently accessing support or would prefer not to feedback online, please contact the Healthwatch Suffolk team: 0800 4488234 / info@healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk. Hard copies of the survey and other formats are available on request.
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on the grapevine / CHURCH NEWS MP DR DAN POULTER REPORTS BACK Since 2010, I have been working closely with my fellow MPs and Suffolk County Council to deliver better broadband for Suffolk. We have worked hard to secure around £30 million of Government funding, specifically to improve services in Suffolk and I am pleased to say that many more homes and businesses are already benefitting. Spending most of my working week in London, it’s easy to take for granted the speed of accessing emails and online services, but returning home to Suffolk very quickly reminds me of the disparity in service and the need to ensure that rural areas are able to connect as quickly and efficiently as their more urban counterparts. Access to the internet and mobile technology is no longer simply for emailing or online gaming – it is essential infrastructure which we all rely upon. It enables and drives growth in our vibrant Suffolk economy, as well as providing access for our young people researching their studies and achieving their academic and career aspirations. With our public services constantly evolving, fast and reliable broadband is essential for accessing services such as ordering a repeat prescription or paying our council tax. In our day to day lives, we use the internet for online banking, grocery shopping and so much more. Living in rural communities, it is so easy for people to feel isolated and cut off as we approach the longer days of winter – access to mobile and broadband services helps to keep our communities connected. Last year, I chaired Suffolk’s first ever broadband summit meeting and was heartened by the commitment around the table to make sure that Suffolk keeps moving forward with mobile and broadband connectivity. Working together with the county council I remain confident that we will achieve 100% coverage here in Suffolk and coupled with the government’s commitment to deliver its Universal Service Obligation, each and every home and business will be guaranteed to achieve speeds of at least 10 mbps by 2020. We’re not there yet, and for those of us still waiting to be connected, I fully appreciate how frustrating the wait can be but with new and emerging technologies advancing constantly, I am confident that this goal will be achieved.
BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH Minister: The Rev Derek Grimshaw 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msn.com Steward: Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Please feel free to contact either of us with any queries. Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement with the minister, who will also arrange Holy Communion for the housebound. Sunday 10.30-11.30am*: Morning Worship with Holy Communion every second Sunday of month 10.30-11.30am: Lighthouse Club for children – term time only 4-6pm: Families @ 4 – informal get-together once a month with afternoon tea provided – come and go as you please (see diary) Monday 2-3pm: Bible Study – an informal look at issues that those present wish to discuss every third Monday of month. 7.30-9.30pm: Computer Club – term time only Tuesday 2-3pm*: Network/MWiB – our ladies meeting, although gentlemen are always welcome (second and fourth Tuesdays of month from October-April) Wednesday 10am-noon: Computer Club – term time only 7.30-8.30pm: Prayers and Laying on of Hands for Healing – second Wednesday of month Thursday 3-3.30pm*: United Service (very informal) at Cherryfields – first Thursday of month Saturday 10-11am: Coffee Morning – third Saturday of month at the Methodist Church or at Cherryfields (see diary)
Early next year, I am hosting a further broadband summit meeting to review the great progress that’s been made and to bring everyone together once more to push for innovative solutions for those in hard to reach areas. We all recognise that there remains a way to go in ensuring that every home, school, business and GP surgery in Suffolk can access better broadband services and that’s why I will continue to fight for more money to deliver the better broadband services that you deserve.
*tea and coffee served afterwards
For more information, please visit: www.drdanielpoulter.com
Sunday 12: Remembrance Sunday – Morning Worship at St Mary’s Parish Church, 10.30am
DIARY FOR NOVEMBER Thursday 2: United Service at Cherryfields, 3pm Sunday 5:
Morning Worship, The Rev T Brookes, Holy Communion, 10.30am
Wednesday 8: Prayers and Laying on of Hands for Healing, 7.30pm
Tuesday 14: Network/MWiB, East Anglian Air Ambulance, 2pm Saturday 18: Coffee Morning at Cherryfields, 10am Sunday 19:
Morning Worship, Mrs D Sawyer, 10.30am
Monday 20: Bible Study, 2pm Sunday 26:
Morning Worship, Prof D Welbourn, 10.30am Families @ 4, The Rev D Grimshaw, 4-6pm
Tuesday 28: Network/MWiB, pre-Christmas outing, 2pm
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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CHURCH NEWS ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD, ST MARY NETTLESTEAD, ST MARY THE VIRGIN LITTLE BLAKENHAM, ST PETER BAYLHAM PARISH REGISTERS
Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Jenny Seggar 01473 748914 / Stmarybramford@aol.com Wednesday, 9.30am: Quiet Reflective Communion Service
Funerals October 18: J ohn T Wilding
November 2 3pm United Service at Cherryfields
Cleaning Rota: H and P Hart
We extend to his family our sympathy and prayers.
November 5: All Saints’ Day
Flower Rota: Advent
10am
Parish Communion with Prayer for Healing, Bramford
Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church
6pm
Group Evening Prayer for All Souls’, Baylham
September 29: In memory of Phil Sawyer’s 10th anniversary
November 12: Remembrance Sunday
October 23: In memory of Philip Stewart
8am
Holy Communion, Bramford
10.30am
Remembrance Sunday Service, Bramford
3pm
Remembrance Sunday Service, Baylham
November 14 10.45am
Remembrance Service at Bramford Primary School
November 18 10.30am
Parish Communion, Bramford
10am
Parish Communion and Christening, Baylham
5pm
Five o’clock Service, Church Room
November 21 The Gathering, Church Room
November 25 Noon-2pm Lunches, Church Room 11am-4pm Cribs and Angels Festival, Lt Blakenham Bazaar, Victory Hall
November 26: Christ the King 8am
Holy Communion, Bramford
10am
Family Worship, Bramford
4pm
Christingle Service, Lt Blakenham
Mammoth Book Sale in the Church Room on November 18 from 10.30am-1pm.
Cribs and Angels Festival and Sale of Wreaths in St Mary’s, Bramford on Saturday, December 2.
10am
2-4pm
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Val will be serving lunches from noon-2pm on November 25; enjoy lunch before the Bramford Bazaar starts at 2pm.
Book Sale, Church Room
November 19: Second before Advent
2.30pm
If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week.
Please check porch notices for any changes. 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.
Thanks for the memories By the time you read this I will have started in my new post as Associate Priest with the South West Ipswich Team Ministry based mainly at St Francis Church at Chantry, but I would like to say a big thank-you for all the memories of the last three and a half years I will be taking with me. It certainly has been a good learning experience of rural ministry. I’ve learnt how to avoid tractors in country lanes and yes, the odd sheep as well! Seeing all the innovative ways country churches face problems and how you deal with them, from the portable toilet complete with its throne-like seat inside at Nettlestead camouflaged in green paint, to the enthusiasm of the village fete and learning how to dodge going in the stocks for a good soaking (I only got caught the first year), and of course the way the shops, businesses and school enjoyed the Christmas journey of the ‘Posada’ figures of Mary, Joseph and the donkey as they made their annual trip round Bramford during December. The spectacular Candlelit Crib Festival at Little Blakenham and the fun of making the Christingles together in the service at the end, also the finding of the hidden crypt at Baylham Church during the installation of the toilet and kitchen facilities, which at the time of reading this project should be nearing completion.
November 5 Mic. 3: 5-end
All Saints’ Day 1 Thess. 2: 9-13
Green Matthew 24: 1-14
November 12 Amos 5: 18-24
Trinity 22 1 Thess. 4:13-end
Red Matthew 25: 1-13
November 19 Zeph. 1: 7 & 12-end
Trinity 23 1 Thess. 51-11
Red Matthew 25: 14-30
November 26 Ezekiel 34: 11-16, 20-24
Christ the King Eph. 1:15-end
Red Matthew 25: 31-end
So, it’s a big thank-you for the memories to all who’ve made life interesting, enjoyable and, yes, challenging.
December 3 Isaiah 64: 1-9
Advent Sunday 1 Cor. 1: 3-9
Purple Mark 13: 24-37
With much love,
All memories that I will treasure, but of course it’s the people who live in our parishes I will miss the most, always loving to have a chat and showing interest in whatever was happening.
Julian
www.stmarybramford.co.uk 22
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