In touch news with kesgrave nov 17

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Volume 8 • Issue No. 1 • NOVEMBER 2017

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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!

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NEWS SUFFOLK COASTAL BUSINESS and COMMUNITY AWARDS 2018 The Suffolk Coastal Business & Community Awards opened for nominations on October 5 and remains open for entries until January 5. This year’s awards categories cover teamwork, growth, services to the community, health and wellbeing, customer service and tourism.

Each award aims to recognise the contributions, initiatives and successes of businesses, groups and individuals within the Suffolk Coastal District over the past 18 months. The winners will be announced at a black-tie awards dinner at The Hangar, Kesgrave Hall on March 15.

The line-up of 2018 sponsors includes: Christies Care, EB Carpets, EDF Energy, Gotelee Solicitors, Places for People Leisure, Suffolk Places, Ufford Park and Suffolk Coastal District Council and Suffolk Coastal Norse.

Councillor TJ Haworth-Culf, Suffolk Coastal District Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for Customers, Communities and Leisure, said: “We’re expecting this year’s awards to be bigger than ever as we look to reward more businesses, groups and individuals who are making a real difference in the community.

“This year we have two new awards, the ‘Food & Drink Retailer of the Year’ and the ‘Big Bang Award’ which looks to recognise those driving the growth of science, technology, engineering and manufacturing in this area. There’s so much innovation happening in this part of the world, we need the public’s help in finding those who inspire the community and make this a special place to live – so get nominating!”

Charles Rowett, CEO of Gotelee Solicitors – sponsors of the welcome drinks – added: “It’s a real pleasure for us to sponsor the Suffolk Coastal Business and Community Awards for the second time. With our new coastal footprint and strong corporate offering to businesses, it’s a no brainer for us to be sponsoring these awards that reward good business.”

For more information on the awards or to nominate someone for an award visi: www.scbca.co.uk The full list of awards and sponsors is as follows.

• New Business of the Year sponsored by EB Carpets Felixstowe

Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP

• Business Growth Award sponsored by Suffolk Coastal District Council

Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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• Customer Focus Award sponsored by Christies Care

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01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: kesgrave@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

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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 Kesgrave & Rushmere is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

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DECEMBER DEADLINE

10 NOVEMBER 2017 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

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• Services to the community (group) sponsored by Suffolk Coastal Norse • Services to the community (individual) sponsored by Places for People • Big Bang Award sponsored by EDF Energy • Club of the Year sponsored by Ufford Park • Great Idea Award sponsored by Suffolk Coastal District Council • Food & Drink Retailer of the Year sponsored by East Suffolk Food Trails • Health & Wellbeing sponsored by De Vere Care • People Development • Team of the Year

CHARITY SHOP MANAGER The 2nd Stop Charity Shop in Kesgrave requires an experienced retail shop manager.

Duties will include day to day running of shop, organising volunteers, dealing with donations, interacting with customers, all management tasks relating to staff, accounts and the premises, etc.

Applications with CV should be sent to: Charles Rayworth, 12 Copswood Close, Kesgrave IP5 2QF or email: charles.rayworth@gmail.com

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NEWS KESGRAVE TOWN COUNCIL – NOVEMBER 2017 300 Homes Inquiry – Long Strops The vice-chair of the town council, Councillor Becky Patten, worked very hard on behalf of the council and local residents in preparing documents and papers for the Public Inquiry in August and the submission to oppose this planning proposal. Two local residents also worked very hard in separate submissions at the inquiry. It is hoped that the Planning Inspector and the Secretary of State will make the best decision for Kesgrave. At the time of writing, there are no updates from the Local Planning Authority or the Secretary of State about this Public Inquiry.

its community. Kesgrave Town Council has a long-standing commitment in enabling and facilitating activities for young people, including fully funding drop-in youth clubs.

Cutting back Trees/Hedges and Undergrowth The warm spring and wet August has had a glorious effect on the greenery in our gardens and in public places. Now that the bird nesting season is over, public bodies start to trim back overgrown areas. The bulk of this work takes place over winter, you may find that areas near you may be later in the schedule, but while there is still some autumn warmth, it’s a good time to look at your garden borders footpaths or roads and make sure that they are kept clear for pedestrians and that sight lines near junctions are clear for road safety. If you have concerns about overgrown highway verges you can report them online yourself at: www.suffolk.gov.uk

The town council and its staff are excited about these inspirational improvements and further developments for young people in Kesgrave.

Success of the Popular Kesgrave Mobile Skate Park Sessions – October 2017 These sessions were a great success and really popular again. They were held for one day during the October half-term on the playground at Cedarwood Primary School, Kesgrave and were free. Children and young people aged five-16 had great fun. Our skateboarding coaches were on hand again to help.

Our planning and development committee meets each fortnight on Monday evenings from 6.15pm. Please do attend and make your representations in person to the town council in addition to emailing and writing.

PCSO (Police Community Support Officer) for Kesgrave Report Mike Sarbutts, our PCSO, has been assisting with some anti-social behaviour around the town. He has been engaging with some of the young people who congregate in groups – sometimes on foot, sometimes on mopeds or in cars. ‘Hot-Spots’ in the town include the underpass near Kesgrave Library, the library car park, and various other areas around Kesgrave. The police are taking a zero-tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour and mindless vandalism. Sadly, drug taking and drug dealing are also occurring in the town.

Local residents are urged to report any crimes or potential crimes to the police. Parents/Carers – in order to try and deter some of the mindless vandalism over the past month, we would ask do you know where your teenagers are, who they are with and what they are doing. Any damaged council owned property needs to be repaired or replaced and ultimately this is paid for by you, as council tax payers. We need your help in order to help you and to keep your council tax from increasing.

Play Areas in Kesgrave A small Play Area and Open Spaces Working Party investigates and progresses future play area projects in Kesgrave. This is subject to land availability, grants/funding, planning permission and consultation with local residents.

There will be further updates about play area projects next month.

Ice Skating in Kesgrave This free of charge event will be held during the weekend of November 25-26 for Kesgrave Families. The town council would like to sincerely thank its local district councillors for funding this community event for the town. Booking is essential and will be on a first come, first serve/book basis. Details will be communicated shortly, including via our local schools parent mail newsletters.

Christmas Lighting Up Event in Kesgrave This exciting event takes place on Friday, November 24 from 6.20pm at the Rupert Fison Centre (near to Tescos, Kesgrave). Pop down and start to get into the spirit of the festive season. A great free of charge event for the whole family with lots to do and see for all ages.

Youth Provision and Services in Kesgrave Following a review and restructure of youth provision, Kesgrave Town Council will be outsourcing its youth services on Thursday evenings under a pilot scheme. This will be via Orwell – a local not for profit organisation which provides support and care in the community.

Should this service prove popular and subject to budget provision, then it is desirable for the youth services to increase. However, the outsourcing is subject to monitoring and reporting structures in order to demonstrate good outcomes for the youth of Kesgrave.

Kesgrave has a higher than the Suffolk average proportion of under 18s in

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Unfortunately, Kesgrave’s Thursday evening youth club/provision recently ceased operating. (The town council took over this youth provision when Suffolk County Council withdrew these services in Kesgrave) The town council has made provision for the Millennium Jubilee Hall, Kesgrave as a venue for youth club/activity.

Planning Applications in Kesgrave When emails or letters of objection are sent to Suffolk Coastal District Council in respect of planning applications in the town, please could they be copied to the town council. There have been instances where the town council has made its views known without being aware that objections have been made to Suffolk Coastal District Council. Please email: enquiry@kesgravetowncouncil.org.uk

New Town Guide Website for Kesgrave Kesgrave Town Council has recently launched a new town guide website which is aimed at the local community, as well as visitors, those from surrounding towns and anybody or any organisation who views the council’s town guide website. The web address is: www.kesgravetownguide.co.uk The town guide website is full of up-to-date and useful information and is using innovative ways such as full virtual tours to promote the town.

“The town council wanted to produce an up-to-date and attractive town guide website that benefits the local community and those viewing the guide website. The council is always looking for effective ways to promote and communicate what its town has to offer and the town guide website is an important part of this. The council is delighted with what has been achieved so far and is excited about future enhancements.”

Local businesses and community groups who wish to be included, or would like to request a virtual tour can contact: info@kesgravetowncouncil.org.uk Would your Voluntary Organisation or Community Group benefit from some local financial support?

Kesgrave Town Council may be able to help you.

Requirements for Grants Voluntary organisations or community groups wishing to be considered for a grant should write to the town council and include the following information: • The specific amount of the grant • What the funding is for • Breakdown of costs and any funds already raised • How the project will benefit Kesgrave and its residents and how many residents will benefit (if possible an approximate breakdown of age groups too) • Latest set of Accounts/full Financial Statement In making decisions they will observe the following guidelines: • Approvals will depend on sufficient funds being available within the overall grants budget • The latest set of accounts or a full financial statement will be required with each application/s • Kesgrave organisations will receive preference for grants • Applications from county or national organisations will be considered if it can be shown that their activities provide positive benefits for Kesgrave people. Amounts of grants in such case will be limited.

Town Clerk Susan Clements Kesgrave Town Council, Ferguson Way, Kesgrave IP5 2FZ 01473 625179 / townclerk@kesgravetowncouncil.org.uk OPENING HOURS: Mon, Tues & Fri 9am-1pm / Wed 9am-3pm

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT BUS NOTES FOR NOVEMBER 2017 With the July changes to our local services, we have unfortunately lost some facilities. Now that the 64 no longer has peak-hour journeys to and from the rail station, connections between bus and train are quite poor.

In the morning, the best train from Ipswich is at 07.32, non-stop from Manningtree to London. To be on that you need to catch the 66 from St Isidores at 06.43, which gives a 10-minute connection. But you need to be on the same bus to even catch the 07.49 train because the next bus at St Isidores at 07.13 misses that by three minutes! The next train, at 08.20, is the only non-stop to London, but catching it off the 66 bus is risky, with only three minutes to spare. Those not prepared for a last-moment dash have to put up with a 28-minute wait after the next 66 gets to the station at 07.52, again the 07.13 from St Isidores. However, that fast train doesn’t arrive in London until 09.24, which may be too late for many commuters.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENING You are invited to an evening of shopping, pampering and festive treats all under one roof!

Coming home to Kesgrave, catching the 16.00 train from Liverpool Street gives an Ipswich arrival of 17.07, missing the 66 bus which goes at 17.05. The next train arrives at 17.34 and has a reasonable connection to the 66 at 17.45, while the 17.00 from London, the only non-stop to Ipswich, arrives at 17.59 to give a tight connection to the 66 at 18.05.

Kesgrave Community Centre is teaming up with local resident and fundraiser Fiona Farrell to host a festive shopping experience. Browse and buy from over 30 stalls offering some unique Christmas gifts, with live music to get you in the mood and you can even treat yourself to a pre-bookable mini pamper treatment.

For those who live closer to Main Road, the solution is to ride the 800 Park & Ride bus, which now effectively gives a limited-stop service in Kesgrave and runs every 15 minutes. It does not run to the station, but calls just over the river bridge at the fire station; the 07.10 from Kesgrave High School will arrive there at 07.38, just enough time to catch the 07.49. Returning, you should cross the bridge to the stop in West End Road, where 800 buses call at 17.13 and every 15 minutes until 18.58.

Tickets are now available for this exclusive shopping evening taking place on Friday, November 24 from 6.45-10pm, priced at just £5 including a glass of mulled wine (or juice alternative) and a mince pie on arrival. To get your exclusive tickets and book mini pamper treatments, please call Fiona on 07739 848910. For more information about this shopping evening and other events visit: www.kwmcc.co.uk

Happy Wanderer

The centre is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas this year, whether you are looking for a venue for your work Christmas party or a celebration with friends and family, we have a choice of function rooms with a fully licensed bar and welcoming staff who will ensure that you have a fabulous time.

SOMERSHAM WARD SUPPORT GROUP Somersham Ward Support Group is holding a coffee morning at Rushmere Church Hall on Saturday, November 4 from 10am-noon. The group raises money to help with patient care. Do pop in to show your support.

KESGRAVE SINGERS CHARITY CONCERT

Monthly Networking Launched in September and sponsored by Bates Wells & Braithwaite Solicitors in Ipswich, this event take place in the conference centre on the second Tuesday of every month from 9.30-11.30am. No membership fee; just turn up and pay £2 on the door (donated to St Elizabeth Hospice). For more information please email: jo@kwmcc.co.uk Mum2Mum Market Saturday, December 2, 2-4pm (£2 admission on the door). Buy top quality pre-loved baby and children’s clothes, toys books and equipment. For more information call Katharine: 07903 585334 If you would like to book a function room or activity at KWMCC, please contact the centre on 01473 612648 or visit: www.kwmcc.co.uk

THE MASQUE PLAYERS

On Saturday, November 11, Kesgrave Singers and the Ipswich Community Children’s Choir will be holding an autumn concert. All proceeds will be donated to the Royal British Legion. Over the past three years similar concerts have raised money for Suffolk Carers, Talitha Koum, Home-Start, Kim Sale and the Air Ambulance.

The concert will be held in the main hall at Kesgrave Community Centre and will begin at 7pm. Tickets are £7.50 for adults and £3 for children under 16 years and are available from Michael Rayment: 01473 623486

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The Masque Players will be performing Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime at Kesgrave Community Centre from Wednesday, November 29 to Saturday, December 2. The play is based on an 1890’s story by Oscar Wilde about Lord Arthur Savile who is engaged to the lovely Sybil Merton. Her pet chiromantist Podgers has read Lord Arthur’s palm and foretold he would commit a murder. Lord Arthur desires a blissful married life and therefore feels duty bound to get the murder over with first.

Curtain at 7.45pm, doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets are £9 and can be reserved via the website or by calling 01473 725633. www.masqueplayers.com

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OUT & ABOUT

KESGRAVE LIBRARY Sunday Crafts (10am-noon) in November • Sunday 5: It’s Bonfire Night. Pop along and create a glittery firework picture to display.

• Sunday 12: Today is Remembrance Sunday. Make a poppy out of hearts to commemorate.

• Sunday 19: Friday was Children in Need day. Make a Pudsey Bear hat to wear home.

• Sunday 26: It was Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 23. Create a pompom corn on the cob to celebrate.

Cards for Good Causes Charity Christmas Cards and Suffolk Wildlife Christmas Cards available until Saturday, December 23 (during library opening hours).

Activities are free. Parents must stay with under eights. There’s no need to book – just turn up and have a go.

Donated Book Sale Kesgrave Library Community Group is holding a donated book sale starting on Saturday, November 18. If you have any good condition books you would like to donate, please speak to a member of staff.

Free BookStart Sessions: Every Thursday (no session on Thursday, November 2) • Tot Rock: 9.45-10.15am • BabyBounce: 10.30-11am Story Time: every Friday morning 9.45-10.15am OTHER LIBRARY EVENTS FOR NOVEMBER 2017 Lego Club: Every Tuesday afternoon in term time, 3.45-4.45pm.

Parents must stay with under eights. We are also looking for a volunteer to help us run this session. Ideal if currently enrolled on Duke of Edinburgh. Please speak to staff if interested.

Wednesday, November 1: Knit and Natter, 2.30pm. Just £1 with tea, coffee and biscuits provided. Welcome to all our new members.

Thursday, November 2: Afternoon Book Group, 2.45pm. Currently reading The Legacy of Elizabeth Pringle by Kirsty Wark.

Thursday, November 9: Evening Book Group, 7pm. Currently reading Decline and Fall by Evelyn Waugh.

This year there is a wider selection of designs for each charity. Every purchase also supports Kesgrave Library. Some of the charities represented include Cancer Research UK, Barnardo’s, NSPCC, Cystic Fibrosis, Mind, Bloodwise, Alzheimer’s Society and RNLI. Why not pop along and see the selection of cards available?

All the proceeds will go to Kesgrave Library. We are also hoping to have the Book Surgeon, Mike Holton, back during November. Look out for posters advertising the date.

We are also holding a Christmas Fayre on Sunday, December 3 and are looking for donations of good condition soft toys and small items for our children’s tombola stall. Please speak to a member of staff if you are able to donate anything.

Christmas Fayre: Sunday, December 3, 10am-noon Loads of stalls with fun games, including a free craft activity for the children and a visit from Father Christmas. A raffle and refreshments are available plus homemade cakes.

Maggie Lusher, Kesgrave Library Manager, Kinsey House, Kays Close, Kesgrave Tel: 01473 626103

Thursday, November 30: Baking Club, 7pm. £2 entry. This month’s theme is Scotland. If you enjoy baking, why not pop along?

www.suffolklibraries.co.uk

If you are interested in joining any of the groups, please ring or speak to a member of staff.

Tuesday: 9am-noon, 2.30-5pm

IT Help Sessions: There are spaces available from November onwards if you would like any help with any aspect of IT such as using your iPad, e-reader or need guidance downloading e-books from the library catalogue. Please get in touch or speak to a member of staff if you are interested.

OPENING TIMES Wednesday: 2.30-6pm Thursday: 2.30-8pm Friday: 9am-noon Saturday: 10am-5pm Sunday: 10am-3pm

His medals took pride of place, they helped us think of everything Here for you every hour of every day 01473 851 703 or visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

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OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE SOCIAL CLUB – NOVEMBER 2017

ANTHEMS FOR ADVENT

The club has some fantastic acts planned for November and the committee and staff have all been working really hard to make it a great entertainment venue. We have created a brand-new website that details all of our upcoming events along with information about the artists: www.kesgravesocialclub.co.uk The amazing Infrared are back at Kesgrave Social Club on November 4. Infrared are a five piece versatile band that cover a great collection of hit songs.

Our Country Music Spectacular on November 11 features the amazing Kay ‘D’.

Kay won the prestigious Female Vocalist of the Year at the 2016 CCN Awards.

The Preservatives are at the club on November 18, a four piece covers band from Ipswich whose mission is “to preserve the downtrodden and forgotten songs of yesteryear”.

November 25 sees the awesome Ultimate Everlys and Tricks of the Trade. Brothers Mick and Terry and have been playing together for more than 35 years and cover a huge range of songs from artistes as diverse as Frank Sinatra to Bruce Springsteen, from Buddy Holly to Queen.

We also have Line Dancing, Foxyrock Rock ‘n’ Roll Dancing and Salsa Dancing at the club throughout the month as well as various darts, quiz nights, charity and snooker events. Ipswich Heartbeat also meets at the club every month.

For full details visit: www.kesgravesocialclub.co.uk Members and non-members are always welcome. You can also watch all the latest sports events as we have Sky TV and BT Sport available and free BT Wi-Fi on tap.

Gippeswyk Singers are delighted to present Anthems for Advent, a concert featuring special guests Nightingale Wind Quintet conducted by Geoff Lavery.

Gippeswyk Singers invite you to join them for an evening of uplifting music to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season, including beautiful anthems and carols, a superb organist, special performances from the Nightingale Wind Quintet and delicious refreshments to send everyone home glowing with seasonal good will.

The concert will be held at 7.30pm on Sunday, December 3, in St Mary’s Church, Great Bealings IP13 6NY. Drinks and tasty refreshments will be served (in exchange for a donation to church funds).

Nightingale Wind Quintet was formed in 2006 by a group of experienced Suffolk musicians whose aim is to promote wind music, playing a wide range of styles, and to raise money for local charities. Members are Samantha Ellis (flute), Judith Weale (oboe), John Helleur (clarinet), Marian Hellen (horn) and Karen Bainbridge (bassoon).

SIDEGATE LANE COMMUNITY CENTRE

Gippeswyk Singers are an accomplished and expressive chamber choir who perform regularly throughout East Anglia as well as concert tours further afield, delighting audiences with sensitive and moving choral arrangements under the artistic musical direction of Geoff Lavery. Their Snape Maltings debut of Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius with Beccles Choral Society and Lambeth Orchestra earlier this year received outstanding reviews. Future concerts include Bach’s St John Passion in Felixstowe on Good Friday, March 30, 2018 and a tour to the West Country (Bath and Frome) next summer.

Tuesday Tea Dance with Teresa Brown each week from 2-4pm with refreshments. Ballroom, Latin and sequence dancing. £3 for members.

Contact: 01473 422427

Profits from this season’s concerts will go to support local charities Bipolar UK (Ipswich) and Sound On (Ipswich and District), a talking local newspaper for the vision impaired.

Wednesdays are for beginners from 7-8pm. Learn to dance in time for Christmas and New Year celebrations. The 8-10pm improvers’ session is for those who have experience. Practice ballroom, Latin dance steps and style with Teresa Brown. £3 for members. Contact: 01473 422427

Tickets (£10) are available from: Sarah Galley, 4 William Close, Eyke IP12 2SA (please send SAE with cheque payable to Gippeswyk Singers).

Kesgrave Social Club: 01473 622128

Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich IP4 4HZ www.sidegatelanecommunitycentre.org.uk / Facebook Finding Sidegate Community Centre: As you drive off the bypass into Sidegate Lane, go past the school on your left and over a pedestrian crossing. On the right is a lane with houses and this is where the centre is located.

GRANT APPLICATIONS FOR THE ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND Applications for a grant are welcome from individuals and from groups.

Application forms should be submitted to the address below by 1 January 2018. Grants will generally be of up to £150, e.g. towards the cost of instruments, music, music related equipment and musical activities.

Further information and grant application forms can be obtained from: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk / The Roger David Burrows Music Fund, c/o The Burrows family, 17 Squires Lane, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich IP5 3UG / 01473 625196

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www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk

AN EVENING WITH MOZART’S MASTERPIECES The Ipswich Bach Choir and Ipswich Chamber Orchestra will present a varied selection of Mozart’s masterpieces at St John’s Church, Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich on Saturday, November 25 at 7.30pm. Conductor Patrick McCarthy told us: “The choir will perform two of his most popular choral works: his celebrated Vespers includes the beautiful soprano solo Laudate Dominum and his festive Coronation Mass featuring the equally lovely Agnus Dei. A real highlight will be principal flute Mary Blanchard’s performance of Mozart’s delightful Flute Concerto in D.” “Another treat will be our brilliant soprano soloist Gill Wilson raising the roof with the Queen of the Night aria from The Magic Flute,” added choir secretary Edyth Banks.

Other soloists are Muriel Kwint (mezzo-soprano), Paul Hazelgrove Spurin (tenor) and Alan Loader (bass). It will be a Mozart night to remember.

Tickets are available at the door or in advance from choir members, Music World (Ipswich) and the Card Centre (Felixstowe).

01394 271538 / www.ipswichbachchoir.org.uk

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

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OUT & ABOUT MARTLESHAM HEATH COUNTRY MARKET Eating together is an important part of celebrating, whether it’s a family get-together, a friend’s birthday or – coming ever closer – Christmas. Now is the time to think about your own catering needs for the festive season. Our talented cooks are poised to bake you a cake (Christmas or otherwise), Christmas puddings and topclass mince pies. Place your order soon and there’s no need to worry. Pick up your goodies from Tuesday’s Martlesham Heath Country Market or from the monthly Kesgrave market at the Scout Hut. We’re taking extra space at Kesgrave Community Market on November 18.

Talk to our bakers and makers and they will help you make your choice and take your order. Gluten-free and other special dietary needs can be catered for.

What about gifts for your friends and family? Delightful and unusual handmade crafts, pretty and practical, from witty beaded jewellery and key rings, to must-handle wooden dibbers, cord pulls and pendants, bags, quilts, cushions, hand-painted pots and jolly tiles to remind you of summer scenes, cards, knitwear and crochet-work that you’d find in any design magazine: you can see them all and get your Christmas shopping off to a flying start.

Handmade and home-baked doesn’t mean budget-breakers either. Tell us what you want and we’ll help you make your money go further.

We can make up hampers of any size with delicious locally made preserves, honey and jams, prize-winning chutneys, cookies and sweets with crafty treats too – all personally selected. What could be a better reminder of a long friendship or a special celebration? Don’t just give a box of massproduced chocolates!

Remember there’s a warm welcome at Martlesham Heath Pavilion every Tuesday from 9-11.15am. Come and find us!

Our bands will be paying their respects on Remembrance Sunday, November 12 at the Remembrance Day Parade in Woodbridge, St Mary’s Church in Martlesham and also at Barrack Square, Martlesham Heath.

Our Christmas season starts towards the end of the month with the first of many engagements playing Christmas carols to entertain local shoppers. As usual the band will be raising money for charities nominated by band members. We hope you will join us for Coffee and Carols at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath on Saturday, December 2, 10am-noon, to hear the intermediate band play some of your favourite Christmas music. Refreshments available, together with a raffle and various stalls. Admission is free.

We would love to hear from new players, young and old, with or without experience.

Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to come and have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and would like to come along and meet us, please contact us via the website or use the contact details below.

Publicity Officer Liz Howard e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617 www.martleshambrass.co.uk

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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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH COUNTRY MARKET 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

ORWELL SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT The Orwell Singers will be holding their Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 2 at 7.30pm at St Michael and All Angel’s Church, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Guests this year are accordionists Mellow Bellows.

Admission at the door will be £8 for adults and 50p for accompanied children and will include sherry and mince pies in the interval. For more information please contact: 01473 635955 / d.sharman@btinternet.com

CEDARWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR Hosted by the parents and friends of Cedarwood Primary School from 3.205pm on Friday, December 8.

Enjoy Santa’s Winter Wonderland, a grand draw, hampers, a raffle and refreshments. Fun stalls and games for children and adults alike including Pin the Nose on the Reindeer, Knock Santa down the Chimney, Let’s Go Crackers, Name the Christmas Teddy, Lucky Carrot Dip, Pluck a Turkey and much more!

Free admission, everyone welcome. Please come along and join in the fun!

Ipswich Country Market is a great place to find that unique and special present for someone that you won’t be able to find anywhere on the high street, while supporting local producers and artisan crafters. We also happily take orders and commissions to your own requirements.

You’ll find hand-crafted cards, knitwear and beaded and sewn accessories, plus delicious food to enjoy with a tea or coffee on the morning or to take home.

Did you know that you can also pre-order a selection of our goods made into a hamper, individually prepared to your own requirements?

You can order a selection of home-baked cakes, pastries, savouries, preserves, plants or craft items. From a couple of jars of delicious preserve in a decorative jute bag to a much larger selection of items. Anything in fact that’s available from the market. All baked and savoury items will be fresh and most will be suitable for freezing.

We will also be taking orders for Christmas items so come along for a browse and a chat and enjoy your local weekly market.

We are open on Thursday mornings from 10.15-11.30am at Rushmere Village Hall on Humber Doucy Lane. We have plenty of free parking and home baked refreshments with a free tea or coffee on your first visit. You can sample a slice of our cake or a scone with a drink for around a pound. On the first Thursday of the month we sell bacon rolls for only £1!

You can find out more about our market on our Facebook page: Ipswich Country Market

KESGRAVE CANASTA CLUB Join us for an evening playing Canasta. We are a friendly crowd and would welcome new players. It doesn’t matter if you have never played before, this card game is not complicated and we can teach you very quickly.

You will certainly be playing by the end of your first evening!

GRESSLAND COURT CHRISTMAS FAYRE Gressland Court (Mead Drive, off Ropes Drive, Kesgrave IP5 2HJ) will be holding their Christmas Fayre on Saturday, November 18, 2-5pm. There will be tombola, a raffle, refreshments and lots of other stalls.

Come along and join us and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and a slice of cake. We look forward to seeing you on the day.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

We meet at the Royal British Legion Hall (off Ropes Drive) on the third Wednesday evening of each month (except August). Coffee or tea and biscuits are provided and we start at 7.30pm and finish at 9.30pm. The cost is £2 for the evening and there is plenty of car parking.

This is not a serious or competitive club so come and enjoy a couple of hours of fun with us.

Our next three evenings are November 15, December 20 and January 17.

Information from Barbara: 01473 622017

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OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE CO-OP WOMEN’S GUILD Our speaker on September 19 was Ted Wheatley who had travelled over 10,000 miles by scooter through parts of Africa. He had pictures of the various places he had seen and the roads and tracks he’d managed to navigate with some difficulty at times. He slept each night in a small tent in the bush and had a few encounters with the wildlife, but nothing too scary. Ted’s slides were fascinating and we realised what a courageous journey he had made.

Woodcarver Maureen Midwinter was our speaker on October 3.

Although she grew up in an artistic family, it wasn’t until her children had left home that she decided to give up her nursing career and take up woodcarving. She had been inspired after finding a piece of tree root shaped like a snake while on holiday.

Maureen trained in London, taking her City & Guilds exams at the London School of Art. She explained the process and amount of time it takes to produce a wood sculpture and the various ways of finishing and colouring the pieces. She uses gold leaf, which is very delicate, on some of her work and other coloured plasters to create special effects on others. The woods she uses include oak, yew, acacia, lime, box and mahogany.

Maureen has made a bench-end to replace a damaged one in St Mary’s Church, Great Bealings, and an intricate coat-of-arms for the Worshipful Engineers Company to go in their hall in the City of London. Locally she made the village sign for Great and Little Bealings where she lives.

Final names were taken for our trip to Boundary Mills on November 7 and we will be organising the Guild Christmas Lunch on Tuesday December 1 at Rushmere Golf Club.

Tuesday, November 14: Peter Battey will give a humorous look at the history of the Punch and Judy Show.

Tuesday, November 28: A Year at RSPB Minsmere is the title of the talk to be given by Alex Bass. Alex is a wildlife tour guide and speaker based in Saxmundham. He runs a range of birds and butterfly tours along the beautiful Suffolk Heritage Coast and tutors in bird identification by sight, song and call and how to identify species of butterflies.

Tuesday, December 12: The final meeting is the Christmas Party, time for fun and delicious refreshments to round off a very busy year.

KESGRAVE WI CELEBRATES 90 YEARS Members past and present plus guests celebrated Kesgrave WI’s 90th year in style at their October meeting in The Millennium Hall.

Fifty-five present members along with Becky Patten, Vice-Chairman of Kesgrave Town Council, Suffolk East Chairman Jane Sago, WI Trustee Celia Davies, our advisor Wendy Jary, Federation Secretary Gill Denny and visitors from other local WIs enjoyed an evening of reminisces from Pat Brown, Daphne Ludbrook and Enid Castle, three long standing WI members. Although they couldn’t go as far back as 1927 they did recall memories from as far back as the early 1960s when ladies would attend WI meetings in their suits, not being fully dressed unless they wore a hat! Meetings were held in the village hall which stood on what is now the roundabout to Tesco and all the paperwork was handwritten – no computers! The biannual table top show had more than 90 classes including classes for husbands and children.

Lyn Parker, Yvonne Mills, Sue Hilling, Delcie Corbett and Margaret Knights provided a variety of entertainment for the evening including games (such as passing dried peas using a straw and making an animal using only 10 pipe cleaners), quizzes and anagrams from past times. We all then enjoyed a buffet supper followed by a celebration cake made

by Angela Finch and cut by Pat Brown, our longest serving member.

Our president, Monica Collins, proposed a toast to the future of the WI and our good health with a glass of French bubbly!

The competition for the best party hat was won by Maggie Stockton for a hat she had decorated with handmade flowers. The celebrations were closed in true WI fashion with the singing of Jerusalem.

Our next meeting is on Thursday, November 2 at Kesgrave Community Centre when we will be holding our annual meeting to elect the 2018 committee and Moira Hammond will present a talk about the work of the ACWW. For further information please contact Di Chilver: 01473 611415

The Guild welcomes new members who can visit for two meetings before joining. The annual membership is £15 and we charge £2.50 a meeting to include raffle tickets and refreshments. Meetings start at 7.15pm in the community centre. There are 23 meetings a year and we have several trips and events throughout the year.

For more information please contact Gloria Everett on 01473 614991 or visit: www.kesgravecoopwomensguild.onesuffolk.net

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OUT & ABOUT 1st KESGRAVE SCOUT GROUP

MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY

Christmas Card Collection The Christmas card collection and delivery service has been running for more than 30 years in Ipswich and 20 years in Kesgrave. The delivery area covers Kesgrave, Rushmere, Ipswich Borough and Martlesham, postcodes IP1 to IP5, Felixstowe, The Trimleys and Kirton and some of the surrounding villages including Claydon, Barham, Gt Blakenham, Westerfield, Witnesham, Henley, Tuddenham, Grundisburgh, Playford, Bealings and Old Martlesham.

Monday, November 20: A Christmas Miscellany by Mark Mitchels

Postboxes will be available from November 25 at many collection points across the area with local ones including Krop & Co, Beech Road, Kesgrave Butchers, Penzance Road, House of Hair, Edmonton Road, 2nd Stop Charity Shop, Kesgrave Library and Orwell Vets. The cost per card will be 25p and the closing date is Tuesday, December 12. All profits are shared between the Scout groups taking part in the ratio of the number of cards collected and delivered. Further information at: www.scoutspostipswich.org.uk

MARTLESHAM HEATH AVIATION SOCIETY

Christmas Fair This big annual fundraiser will start on Friday, November 24 when the Christmas Tree lights are switched on outside the hall. The fair will also be open on Saturday, November 25 (10am-4pm), Sunday 26 (10am-4pm) and Monday 27 (10am-8pm). We have lots of gift ideas for young and old, cards, gift bags, paper, decorations and the hamper draw. Come along and buy your presents with many at pocket money prices. If you have any unwanted items that would make presents or you would like to donate a draw prize then please leave the items in the box in the Scout Hall entrance Jumble Sales The next dates are November 11 and December 2. There are always lots of bargains to be had including clothing, bric a brac, books and games. If you can help with the sorting on the Friday night before the event or on the Saturday morning from 8am-1pm please come along to the Scout Hall.

As we approach the festive season, come along and enjoy a celebration of all things to do with Christmas.

Meetings are held at Martlesham Heath Pavilion at 7.30pm. Admission £2.50.

Mr Les Hamblin, a sub-mariner in the Royal Navy for 27 years, presented a talk entitled Arctic Patrol to a packed hall on October 6.

Les was a tactical radio and countermeasures officer and was based at Faslane for some of his service. In this age of the nuclear submarine, his work involved teaching submarine crew some of the unique equipment employed on these vessels such as the ability to remain hidden and to detect enemy activity in the strange world beneath the waves. All this was at the time of the so called Cold War and the arctic patrol involved patrolling under the vast arctic ice cap. A most interesting and unusual talk and a vote of thanks was given by our president, Richard Barker.

Clive Denney, an old friend of the society who now runs Vintage Fabrics and is also a display pilot, will present a talk entitled A Day in The Life of an Air Show on Friday, November 3.

Meetings are held at Martlesham Community Hall and start at 7.30pm with a break for tea/coffee. Non-members are welcome for a payment of just £4 at the door.

For further information visit: www.kesgravescouts.org.uk

Our popular and colourful calendars are now available for 2018. Only £6 each delivered to your door. They have room to enter events and appointments.

Full illustrated details on our website. Just phone the number below to order.

Celia Comber

Alan Powell, 01473 622458 www.mhas.org.uk

MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB Owing to circumstances beyond our control the dates of the October meetings had to be changed at short notice and were incorrect in the October edition. We do apologise for any inconvenience caused.

The November meetings are planned for the following dates. On November 9 we are holding a Beetle Drive and Quiz Evening with nibbles and Christine Thomas will demonstrate how to make Christmas cards on November 23.

The Christmas party will be held on December 7 and will be the last meeting of 2017.

All ladies are very welcome to come and enjoy fun evenings in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Our meetings are held on alternate Thursday evenings at 7.15pm in the Richards Room. For further details contact Doreen Boar: 01473 622768

Our annual Remembrance Service will be held on the Barrack Square at Martlesham on Sunday, November 12 at 3pm. This will last approximately 30 minutes and we look forward to seeing as many folk as possible.

AKENHAM CARPENTRY & JOINERY Fitted kitchens, bedrooms, offices, windows, doors, staircases etc in any timber • Kitchen fitting service available on your own units • All interior and exterior carpentry • Competitive rates

NO VAT

Mobile: 07790 370030 Email: dalewatts@btinternet.com www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

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OUT & ABOUT ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY October 4 saw the second lecture of the new season. Given by Hugh Belsey, a former curator of Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury, it was entitled Sir Edwin Lutyens: Domesticating the Country House. Hugh led us on a fascinating exploration of this talented architect and provided insight into his very interesting life.

Our next lecture on Wednesday, November 1 is German and Netherlandish Glass by Jane Gardiner.

On Friday, November 17 we shall hold the first ever Orwell DFAS Study Day and do hope you’ll be able to join us. The subject is Art and Architecture of the American West and we shall meet for coffee at 9.30am for a 10am start. Our lecturer, Roger Mitchell, has a wealth of knowledge of the subject and the day, which includes a buffet lunch, promises to be most enjoyable and informative. The cost of the day is £29 and further details are available from our website.

So why not join us and enjoy good company and interesting talks? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space.

For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

U3A GIVES MEMBERS NEW TALKS AND INTERESTS The beautiful colours of autumn have already encouraged members of The University of the Third Age in East Suffolk to join new groups and attend interesting talks in our four campuses. If you haven’t had the chance to meet many other members here is your opportunity. Kesgrave, Woodbridge, Felixstowe and Saxmundham talks are listed in the current handbook (blue version) and updates shall be published in In Touch.

Kesgrave Community Centre, Monday, November 27, 2pm Martlesham Heath 100 by Ian Read, an account of the creation of the military airfield through to its multiple uses today on the 100th anniversary of aviation at Martlesham Heath. Refreshments follow.

Market Hall, Saxmundham, Thursday, November 9, 2pm Women Can Fly by Sally Dearman-Cummings, one woman’s journey from jumping out of aeroplanes to becoming a civil pilot and the first woman to pass the RAF fast-jet training system. Refreshments follow.

Woodbridge Community Hall, Friday, December 15, 10.30am The Life and Laughs of a Local Journalist by Lynne Mortimer, a personal account of becoming a journalist and working as a court reporter and columnist. Refreshments available from 10am.

Visitors are invited to come to one talk before actually enrolling as a full member. If it is your first visit please make yourself known to the campus co-ordinator so they can welcome you accordingly. Full details are available for our secretary on 03001 233913 or at: www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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OUT & ABOUT CRAFTERS UNLIMITED A craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere with refreshments, we meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in Rushmere Village Hall from 7.30-10pm.

Thursday, November 23: Beaded Snowflake and Candy Cane (Jill) and Christmas Party No meeting in December There are always other projects available with assistance from the committee and other club members.

New members are always welcome. For more details contact: Jill 01473 713534 / Emma 01787 373850

ORWELL PROBUS CLUB We meet at Rushmere Golf Club on the second Thursday of each month for lunch and usually a speaker entertains us afterwards. In August we held our annual summer garden party for 80 members and guests which was a great success despite some gusty wind which involved some holding onto marquee poles.

What is Probus? Probus clubs provide an opportunity for active retired or semi-retired gentlemen to attend regular meetings and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded people who appreciate similar interests. Some Probus clubs are for men only, as we are, others are for ladies and some mixed. We have social events, outings and holidays which, of course, include spouses, partners and friends.

If you think Orwell Probus Club could be for you, please contact our secretary, Graham Balfe, for further details: 01473 729012 / grahambalfe@tiscali.co.uk

IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY On Wednesday, October 4, Bernard Mabbett gave us a really interesting talk about St Helena, with lots of examples of mail from prisoners held there during the Boer War. The mail was censored by the British who had two camps on the island. We were shown the censor markings of the individuals doing the checking and Bernand also had some stories about them. We also saw a significant amount of mail that had been misdirected from all parts of the world, eventually ending up at the correct place, but coming via South Africa, South America and also one via St Helens in the UK! Robert Mason, one of our members, will present Russia-Provisionals and Locals of the 1990s on November 1 and on November 15 we have a visit from Ely Philatelic Society during which they will display some of their members’ material (we don’t know what, so we are in for a surprise).

Membership gives access to all the talks and displays and also to a circulating packet that allows you to buy material from other members and vendors from your own home. Meetings are held at Cedarwood Primary School, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave, 7 for 7.30pm, visitors welcome.

For further information contact Mike Smith: 01473 403904

THE WHITE EAGLE LODGE The White Eagle Lodge is based on spiritual principles with members in 25 countries. Our path is one of love, tolerance and service to all life, seeking inner peace and awareness of our eternal, spiritual nature.

At the Ipswich Group we offer services and retreat days. We meet at the Millennium Hall in Kesgrave on the second Sunday of each month (excluding Jan, Aug and Sept). Our next meeting is on November 12, 10am for our Remembrance Service at 10.30am.

We would love to see you if you feel in sympathy with our work.

For further events visit www.whiteagle.org/east-anglia or email: weeastangliaregion@gmail.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, November 22: The TSR2 Aircraft Story, illustrated talk by David Morton We meet at 7pm at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich. Entrance via the rear car park. Visitors £3.50, members £1.50 including refreshments.

Details from Martyn (01473 422145) or Peter (01394 420490). www.idhts.co.uk

IPSWICH AND DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB Any thoughts about policing?

Join us on Wednesday, November 8 to hear Tim Passmore, Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner, speak at our club meeting. We have asked him to give us an overview of his job and current priorities and then to focus on how he feels about issues concerning women and how the police service is dealing with them.

If you are interested in hearing Tim Passmore please contact our secretary on 01394 615659 for more details and directions.

IPSWICH BRANCH, SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, November 23 at 7.15pm: Duleep Singh – The Last Sikh Ruler and Suffolk Gentleman, presented

by Stephen Govier A fascinating, controversial and often sad tale of a man who lost an Empire but became a country gentleman, living in splendour at Elvedon Hall. Given the current fascination with Queen Victoria and her Indian Servants, did Duleep fit in with British aristocracy and what happened to him?

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. Admission is £2 for society members and £2.50 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.

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

IPSWICH AND DISTRICT SUPPORT GROUP, DIABETES UK Our next meeting is on Thursday, November 9 at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH from 7-9pm. It will be an evening of festive fun, quizzes, information and support.

This is a social gathering of people who have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes to share information on diabetes and to talk to other people in similar situations. Refreshments will be available free of charge. No admission charge or joining fee.

For further information please contact: dsgipswichduk@gmail.com 07547 513730 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri) www.ipswich.diabetesukgroup.org

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust, then we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you.

We meet at Ropes Hall War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave IP5 1JF. The start time is 7.15pm.

Our next meeting is on November 21 when Captain Peter ChapmanAndrews RN Ret’d. will be sharing his experiences of serving on board two of the most famous RN vessels, Ark Royal and Britannia. Peter, who was a navigation officer, will explain the roles that both ships played in representing the UK to the outside world and the contrasts between the two appointments.

There is no meeting in December so the next meeting is on January 16 when Mark Mitchels will be discussing the role Samuel Pepys played in establishing the Royal Navy.

DEBEN FLOWER CLUB This year’s Christmas demonstration will be held on Tuesday, November 14 in Kirton Church Hall at 7.30pm and will be given by national demonstrator Julia Knights from Norfolk.

We are extremly lucky to have such a talented NAFAS national demonstrator living relatively close by. Julia enjoys competing at events, has a flair for costume design and creates unusual containers to fit in with the theme of her demonstrations. After the demonstration Julia’s designs will be raffled and lucky winners will have an early Christmas decoration to take home.

Visitors are assured of a warm welcome with £4 payable on the night. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available after the demonstration. For further information please contact: 01394 411422 / wa@sandlings.co.uk

Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome, entrance fee £3 each. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 a year (£12 a couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events.

Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term time at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL from 10.30am-noon.

For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary – membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 – or visit: www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

Youngsters from birth to five years old are welcome to come along to Bright Stars for a fun start to the week with their parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers. These mornings are free and usually involve singing, games, making crafts to take home and telling stories from the Bible for the first half hour. We then have refreshments when the adults can chat and the children can play until approximately noon.

PORTAL WOODLANDS CONSERVATION GROUP Now is a great time to have a walk through our woods: the leaves are changing colour and falling to the floor, birds and other wildlife are foraging for berries and nuts and the fungi are making an appearance. The summer flowers are near gone, but there are always attractions in the woods. Why not take a stroll down one of the three pathways (historic, nature and pond) marked by way markers (an aeroplane, an acorn and a dragonfly)?

Photo by S Corley

On September 16 the Nature Explorer group completed the final installation of way marker posts before joining the working party who were clearing an area of debris to enlarge a section of the main path. A surprising amount of litter was uncovered during this process including the broken metal frame of a bin. Please make sure to take your litter and rubbish home with you.

DATES FOR THE DIARY Volunteer Work Mornings (all ages) Saturdays, November 18 and December 17, 10am-noon Meet at the Education Area. Tools, training and light refreshments provided.

All ages welcome – no need to book.

Nature Explorers (11-18 year olds): Saturday, November 18, 9-11am Nature Watch Club (5-11 year olds): TBC New volunteers of all ages and abilities are always welcome. No experience needed. For further information please contact us – pwcg.martlesham@ gmail.com / 01473 612632 – visit www.pwcg.onesuffolk.net or join our members’ Facebook group by messaging Duncan Sweeting.

Nature Explorer and Young Volunteer Sam Cork

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So far this term we have made our own Noah’s Arks, sown cress while finding out about planting and growing and, after hearing about harvest and wheat, we made (and enjoyed) some tasty sandwiches. We have also sang and played our percussion instruments, enjoying noise and actions. Why not come along to one of our sessions?

The remaining sates for the autumn term are November 13 and 27 and December 11.

You are welcome to come along to any of our mornings. Just turn up, no need to let us know in advance. We look forward to seeing you.

If you would like further information please contact Sonya & Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196

BROKE HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL OPEN EVENING We would like to invite all prospective parents and children who are due to start Nursery or Reception over the next two years to an open evening on Thursday, November 2, 4-6pm. The entire school will be open for you to view.

Our prefects are eager to give you tours of the school and show you some of the exciting learning activities that take place. Other children will be entertaining you with music and the kitchen staff will be preparing some samples of school lunch fare. Staff from Heathlands Outof-School Club will also be available to answer your questions about care provision before and after school.

Mrs Barr, the staff and governors look forward to meeting you.

If you require information regarding the application process, please contact the school on 01473 729544 or call into the school on Chatsworth Drive, Ipswich IP4 5XD and the office staff will be pleased to help.

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SCHOOLS MARTLESHAM AND KESGRAVE PLAYSCHOOLS Just before the summer break the playschool held a quiz night courtesy of Debbie at the Bell Pub. This was well attended and a great night was had by all.

Thanks to Debbie and everyone who supported us the fantastic sum of £215 was raised which shall be split between both settings to buy new toys and resources.

Since the start of the term we have been very busy in the garden, picking all the ripe baby tomatoes in Kesgrave and pears in Martlesham, which we have enjoyed for snack. The children have been busy planting daffodil bulbs and we wait for them to grow. Unfortunately this does take longer than the next day as some children found out!

This half term we have been observing the changes in season and how this affects the colours in our environment. We adventured into the local woodland which we are so lucky to have on our doorstep and explored the autumnal changes and collected leaves and acorns for our autumn display.

We have also been forced into observing spiders. They have been visiting us recently at playschool – some large and some small as they try to find a warmer place to live. The children have been involved in making a large spider’s web and spiders from clay and other materials.

Don’t forget, if your child is due to start school in September 2018, you need to apply online before January 15, 2018. Read more on the Suffolk County Council website.

Spaces are still available at Kesgrave; please contact us or pop in and take a look at what fun we get up to. We are also on Facebook: Martlesham and Kesgrave Contact us for a chat about how we can offer 15 or 30 hours funded childcare over both settings all year round. We’d also like to hear from you if you need breakfast and after school availability for two to five year olds to gauge if there is more need for this in our area.

Martlesham Playschool: Gorseland School, Deben Avenue, Martlesham IP5 3QR / 01473 625986 / mplayschool@btinternet.com Kesgrave Playschool: Millennium Jubilee Hall, Millennium Way, Kesgrave IP5 2EN / 07746 907060 / mplayschool@btinternet.com

THREE BEARS PLAYGROUP We have had a great start to the autumn term. All our new starters have settled well and we have been busy collecting wheelbarrows and buckets full of leaves, acorns and conkers from the garden to explore and use in our craft area and interactive display. Thank you to everyone who brought items in from your autumn walks.

The children have been bringing their teddies and other animals into playgroup to sit with while we have storytime each day. We finished off our teddy time with a couple of days of huge teddy bears’ picnics.

We will be looking at our intake for January shortly. If you are interested in a place for your child at a fantastic setting with amazing staff it’s never too early to register with us. Call in for a registration form, email us or visit our website.

Three Bears Playgroup, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave IP5 2ES 01473 635255 / threebearsplaygroup@btconnect.com www.threebearsplaygroup.org.uk

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SCHOOLS HUMPTY DUMPTY PLAYGROUP Our weekly book topics have been so much fun. We have been supporting the children’s learning in fun and differentiated ways through the children acting out the characters in the books with masks, making giant collages where all the children are involved, tasting foods, cooking and building to name but a few.

We would like to say a big thank you to The Rev Claire Ling and her dog Jack from All Saints Church, Kesgrave for talking to the children about Harvest, sharing her story from the bible, and the juicy tomatoes from Jack. There are lots more exciting things happening in November.

Please follow us on Facebook to see more.

By following the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and ensuring activities implemented fulfil the seven areas of learning in fun and meaningful ways, we aim to capture each child’s imagination to develop high rates of progress to support their learning, confidence and independence.

We are an Ofsted registered childcare provider for children from the age of two years onwards. As we are registered as ‘Good’ we can provide funded places for two-year-old children who have received ‘Golden Tickets’ from Suffolk County Council.

From September 2017 we will be providing 30 hours of free childcare to children who are eligible the term after their third birthday. We currently have spaces so please come in and meet our friendly Early Years team, no appointment necessary. To find out more regarding the government’s new Childcare Choices which offers parents Tax-Free Childcare and 30 hours’ free childcare, visit: www.childcarechoices.gov.uk Within our team, we have staff trained with Qualified Teacher Status, BA (Hons) level 6, and CACHE level 3. Our ratios of staff to children are one adult to four children, so you can rest assured that your child will receive excellent care and attention.

We are situated inside Kesgrave Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Bell Lane. You can contact us on 07837 154081 (term time 8.30am-4pm) or manager Sally Cutts on 01473 625998 (evenings only).

Wendy Payne

HEATHLANDS COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL & AFTER SCHOOL CLUB Heathlands Community Pre-school & After School Club warmly invite perspective parents to come and meet the team and learn more about our ‘outstanding’ Early Years provision.

Our open evening is on Monday, November 13, arrival from 7.15pm. There will be a short presentation followed by a chance to meet the staff, see the types of activities and experiences we offer, wander and get a feel of our setting and have any queries answered. There will also be the opportunity to speak with families who currently attend Heathlands and enjoy a cup of tea.

If you are interested in attending please contact Marie or Julie: 01473 417517 A well-established, committee-run pre-school situated in the grounds of Broke Hall Community Primary School. We can offer funded places for eligible two year olds and for all other children the term after their third birthday. A breakfast club and afterschool club is also available. We are pleased to accept applications for a place for terms starting January 2018 and beyond.

We look forward to meeting you soon.

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In Touch online:

SCHOOLS / SPORT HEDGEHOG NURSERY AT GORSELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL We are very excited to announce that we are full for all of our morning slots and there is limited availability for afternoon places. We have had a lovely start to this term with All About Me – getting to know each other and things we like to do. We have walked around the school and become familiar with places such as the large hall (where we do PE) and the library building.

We enjoyed learning about our bodies and drawing round one of our friends.

We also learnt about our five senses and enjoyed smelling different things and guessing what they were. We took part in listening activities and even completed our first ‘homework’ challenge!

We have been learning about different pets that we have. Dogs and cats are the most popular. We are very fortunate to have had visits from dogs, a kitten, a rabbit, guinea pigs and a fish. A huge thank you to our supportive parents for bringing their pets in to share with us. We found out about how to care for them and what a responsibility it is. The children thought of pets they would like and had photographs of pets they knew. Our discussion about why an elephant wouldn’t be such a good idea was a funny one!

The children are enjoying exploring the forest school. They have loved the adventure of being outdoors in a different environment. They have had a swing in a hammock, climbed trees, learnt about the wolf howl and followed the rules of the forest to stay safe.

Our next exciting topic is about People Who Help Us and then we will be beginning the nativity songs and thinking about our performances!

Nursery Lead Teacher Mrs J Florey Hedgehog Nursery is open Monday-Friday from 7.30am-6pm for three and four year olds. For more information visit www.gorseland.net or contact the school office on 01473 623790.

KESGRAVE & NORTHGATE KARATE NEWS Well after a quiet summer, competitors are gearing back up for the competition season. Sunday, September 17 saw a number of competitors taking home medals from the Northgate Open Competition. Lauren Berry had a great day and took home a gold in individual kata and a silver in her first ever kumite competition. Alana Bray and Thomas Humphries decided on the morning of the event to compete as a pair and managed to win a silver medal in the pair’s kata. Alana also won silver in the individual kata. Chloe Buckley and Lola Blofield took home bronze for their paired kata and Lola also took home bronze for her individual kata while Riagan Huq, in what was only his second kata competition, took home bronze in individual kata.

Ruby Hunt, having won gold the weekend before in Dudley, was in action in Luxembourg the weekend of September 17. She was in a tough category of European girls aged 12-13 (40kg) but managed to come away with a silver medal. Sunday, September 24 saw Ruby and Dylan Barnes in action at the Biko Open Competition in Harlow. Dylan won two rounds, but lost in the quarter-finals and Ruby came away with a silver medal.

The club held a race night on September 23 and raised in excess of £1,000 for club funds which will go towards supporting club members when they represent Northgate and Associated Clubs at competitions. A big thank you to our sponsors and contributors – IS Electricals, CJ Clow Mechanics, Chris Walters from Rendezvous Café, Luke Read from Airborne Fitness, Damien Nurse from Distraxion, Scott Watson and Danny Donnelly from DW Flooring – for all their support and Carl Melton for printing off and putting together the brochures (and sustaining a nasty stapling injury in the process). The club would also like to say a huge thank you to Nickie Witmore and her team (apologies for not knowing who’s who here) for putting so much time and effort into organising such a successful event.

IPSWICH WANDERERS FC The long-running saga of appointing a new First team manager at Wanderers has ended with the appointment of Mark Benterman. Mark replaces Shane Wardley who took the club to a top half league finish last season. Mark was manager of Debenham FC and Halstead Town and achieved success at both clubs. The First team has struggled to get a run of good results together in the early stages of the Thurlow Nunn Premier season, but we received scores of applications and expressions of interest in the post. Mark showed us the combination of experience and enthusiasm that we need at the club and has already made his mark felt. A big part of his team will be the defensive quality of Mark Goldfinch who served as caretaker during the appointment process.

Mark Benterman has brought in Jack Wignall and ‘Boris’ Crompton to assist on the bench and within his first week in charge six new players arrived to boost his First team squad. Two narrow losses, both by the only goal against high-flying Brantham Athletic and Godmanchester Rovers, have shown that the established players and new additions will be able to compete and rise up the league. Star player Danny ‘Percy’ Thrower, who was side-lined in September by a serious leg injury, is making a recovery and everyone at the club looks forward to his return to action later in the season.

The Reserves have shown improved form since James Buckle stepped in to help manager Tom Page on the coaching front. James played in the narrow 2-3 defeat against Long Melford in which we deserved more from the outcome. And well done to Mark Dixon’s Under 12s who look to be heading for success in league and cup this time out, Ben Risby scoring in a memorable victory over favourites Felixstowe.

We hope to see you at The Doucy in November. Our home First team fixtures this month are: Tuesday, October 31: H v Woodbridge Town (KO 7.45pm) League Cup Saturday, November 4: H v Ely City (KO 7.45pm) League Tuesday, November 15: H v Haverhill Rovers (KO 7.45pm) Suffolk Premier Cup Saturday, November 18: H v Hadleigh United (KO 3pm) League There will also be fixtures for our Reserves, Under 18s, Ladies, Academy and Youth teams. For details visit: www.iwfc.co.uk Keith Lloyd

THERE IS A SEASON FOR EVERYTHING In Ecclesiastes we read that there is a season for everything in life and we believe that this also applies to church life.

There is a time to sow, a time to reap and a time to uproot.

It’s our time to lay the church down so that other things can be planted. We have not reached this decision lightly, but we feel it is right and timely.

Don’t forget that classes run throughout the week at a number of different venues. For further information on times and locations please visit: www.northgate-karate.co.uk / Facebook

We thank you for reading our articles over the years and we pray that they may have impacted you in some small way. We believe that as one door closes another one will open, and that God has good plans for our futures like he does yours. We pray that God will continue to bless Kesgrave and the other churches serving the community.

Eleanor Legg

God bless you all.

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CHURCH NEWS

SERVICES AT ALL SAINTS Our basic pattern is that every Sunday we have services at 8.30am (BCP Communion), 10am (Modern yet Traditional Service with All-Age alternative) and 6.30pm (Evensong). There isn’t enough space to mention our myriad of tweaks and alternatives! Please visit: www.askegrave.org,uk Jennie Fidler, our children and family worker, writes: “My family and I visited The Lake District this year for our summer holiday. I love the beautiful scenery up there – sometimes the hills are gentle and the lakes calm, and at others the views are dramatic and the waters choppy. The weather is the same – changeable!

“It got me thinking that life is rather like The Lake District – one moment things can be calm and serene, and you’re sailing along steadily and then out of the blue the wind picks up and it starts to be a bumpy and uncomfortable crossing. The Bible tells us ‘Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’

(Joshua 1:9).

November brings us even closer to the year’s end with its days drawing in and the colder winter weather making us think back to the summer gone or the one to come next year. It’s an amazing planet we live on, having just the right conditions for life, sometimes known as the ‘Goldilocks Zone’ so that if the earth’s tilted axis was a degree different one way or the other we would either freeze or boil. That kind of thing is so astronomically rare that it cannot be a fluke or luck that there must be a creator behind it. God has placed us in just the right conditions for life to flourish on this world and as Christians we give thanks and praise to the One who made it all, not just on Sunday but every day. And you can too!

Join us on Sunday mornings at 11.30am (Café and Children’s Church at 10.30am) at The Ark Church, The Drift, Nacton Road, Ipswich IP3 9QR. You can contact us via email at arkipswichuk@gmail.com, follow us on Facebook and on Twitter @arkipswich or visit: www.arkipswich.co.uk

“What an amazing promise that is! Even though there are times when we don’t know which way to turn, and it can feel as if we are completely alone, we’re not. If we ask God to walk with us and help guide us, He will be right by our side.”

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM Sunday, November 12 will see All Saints hosting the Remembrance Sunday Services at 10am and 11am. The format sees a 10am service – with a slightly more informal feel to it – starting in church and ending at the War Memorial at 10.45am. The 11am service – to which all ages are also welcome but has a slightly more formal feel – commences at the War Memorial at 10.45am before we move into church.

All welcome.

AN EVENING WITH JOHN FROUD John is a gifted and popular Christian singer/songwriter who will be performing a concert at All Saints on Saturday, November 18 at 7.30pm. There is no charge for the concert although we would welcome donations towards the church fund. You can listen to samples of his work at: www.johnfroud.com SIGN UP! The best way to keep up-to-date at All Saints (along with the website and our Facebook page) is to receive our fortnightly newsletter by email. Please contact Robin (robinspittle@btinternet.co.uk) to subscribe. For other queries his number: 01473 623388

RUSHMERE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Parentalk – The Teenage Years This great new course, with materials provided

by Care for the Family, covers vital topics which are valuable for parents, grandparents, carers and those who work with pre-teens and teenagers. The course is being run by Steve and Michelle Jones on behalf of Rushmere Christian Fellowship and will be held on six consecutive Wednesday evenings from November 1 from 7.30-9.30pm at Colchester Road Baptist Church, 75 Colchester Road, Ipswich. Each evening will involve watching a DVD and discussing together how to navigate the challenging teenage years. For more details and to sign up, contact Michelle Jones: 07570 093097 / michelle.msmljones@ntlworld.com For further information about RCF visit www.rcfchurch.org.uk or contact Stephen French: 01473 431701 / sfrench@rcfchurch.org.uk

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Declaring God’s Way - Sharing His Love Now that most churches have celebrated Harvest Thanksgiving, I suppose our thoughts must turn to the next important event in the church calendar – Christmas. How this year has flown – or is it that some of us are getting older and the passage of time seems to sweep by ever faster? Our own Harvest Thanksgiving Service was preceded by a Harvest Supper on the Saturday evening, which was well attended and a very enjoyable time of fellowship together. We had a wonderful display of gifts which reminded us once again of God’s goodness to us and the generosity of people. The harvest gifts this year will be given to FIND (Families in Need), a local charity which helps provide among other things, food for disadvantaged families in the local area.

We have recently commenced a new venture which is held on our church premises. Rushmere Ducklings is a new baby and toddler group running every Friday morning from 9.15-11am during term time. We’re all about creating an environment for little ones and adults that is inviting, friendly, relaxed and fun. It’s free, and we offer hot drinks and homemade cakes for adults and a variety of healthy snacks for babies and toddlers. We’d love the community of Rushmere to feel welcome at this group and we really look forward to getting to know you.

Our usual activities are as follows: Monday FFaF Children’s Club for School Years 2-6 from 6.15-7.30pm

‘Spring’ is for young teens, also on Monday evenings Wednesday Rag Tag Drop-in at 2.30pm on the first Wednesday Senior Citizens’ Friendship Hour at 2.30pm on the second Wednesday Thursday

Luncheon Club at 12.30pm

Saturday

Meeting Point Coffee Morning on the fourth Saturday of each month from 10.30am-noon. All are welcome

Minister: The Rev Heather Marsden Secretary: Mrs Jean Cutting Church Telephone Number: 01473 721455

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