In Touch with...
The best place to advertise your business services Delivered FREE to your door!
In Touch
™ ©© ™ ™©
with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market
Volume 5 • Issue No. 1 • NOVEMBER 2017
Skiphire www.collins-skiphire.co.uk
For a fast, efficient & price friendly local service
01473 327596
orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk
2
In Touch online:
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
NEWS
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
Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market
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: needham@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.
We also publish In Touch with... • NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •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...
© 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.
DECEMBERDEADLINE
© In Touch with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
20 NOVEMBER 2017
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
ALDER CARR’S PLASTIC CHALLENGE 2017 is the third year of the Marine Conservation Society’s Plastic Challenge. This is a growing community of people trying to say goodbye to single-use plastic, and the challenge usually runs for the month of June. While we have done this personally, we thought it was time for a long-term and more ambitious target: A challenge for the farm shop. What’s wrong with plastic? Despite a growing demand for plastics, it is thought that only 5% of plastics are recycled effectively, with only 40% ending up in landfill sites and as much as a third end up in fragile ecosystems such as the ocean. Even with the majority of our plastics going to landfill it is estimated that eight million tonnes of plastic leak into the oceans every year. In fact there is now more plastic in the ocean than plankton. What now? It would be impossible to stop people using plastic; we’re busy, we have all grown use to a lifestyle of convenience. But as a society, we do need to stop and think about our impact on the environment. With a little consideration, we could reduce our environmental impact, in particular, our impact through single-use plastics. After watching the amazing documentary A Plastic Ocean we thought is was time Alder Carr did more. So what is Alder Carr doing? Lots! It is amazing how much singleuse plastic there is in our lives. We are trying to remove this from our business or provide ways of reusing plastic for our customers. We have started our focus on plastic bags that we use in the shop, these are in the process of being replaced with paper or biodegradable bags. All our pots for olives or coleslaw are made of cornstarch. We have started offering a refill service for some items that we sell in plastic bottles such as washing up liquid and shampoo, reducing the plastic involved, and stocking alternative products to reduce your plastic usage such as bamboo toothbrushes and bio-degradable bin liners. It’s small steps at first. We’re doing what we can and we have a long way to go, but we hope to reduce significantly the amount of plastic involved in running our business. Will you join us in taking up a plastic challenge? You can find more information about how to find us and what we do on our website and we have a range of refills and eco products that can help cut down on plastic usage. www.aldercarrfarm.co.uk
CHRISTCHURCH CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL December 1-3 at Christchurch, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP Come and see the Knitivity Star and the creative displays of Bible Stories. Find the name of the last sheep in the High Street Sheep Trail. Refreshments and Children’s Corner. Entry free; donations to our church and charities. For more information contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk See page 18 for more details. 3
NEWS CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE & 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
CREETING ST MARY DIAMOND JUBILEE VILLAGE HALL Due to the sad recent closure of Creeting Nursery, our village hall now has a lot of daytime space for bookings. A look at our website will show that we offer lovely facilities, a large hall and a smaller lounge area, a good kitchen and lots of parking. Our rates are very reasonable too. For more details please contact our booking secretary Richard Hyde: 01449 720024 / creetingjubileehall@gmail.com
SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA) 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 – Planning Application no. 4494/16. For full details visit: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning 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. 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 SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume
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 4
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
5
NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM District Councillor for Creeting St Peter and Stowupland District Council Office Move The expectation that staff would have moved to Endeavour House has not been fulfilled. The delay is due to management and the staff union not reaching agreement on the terms of the changed working arrangements, notably compensation for the parking charges at Endeavour House. (At Needham and Hadleigh staff benefitted from free parking.) In response, staff were given redundancy notices. A compromise agreement has now been reached with the assistance of the government agency ACAS. The plan now is that staff will all be transferred from Needham and Hadleigh by Christmas. Most councillors found out very late in the day about the failure to agree terms and were still being briefed on the details of the September move. Then both the cabinet meeting and full council meeting in September were cancelled – the reason given was lack of business – so councillors have not been given the opportunity to debate the issue. The Green Party Councillors group posed a series of questions around the redundancies and called for an extraordinary cabinet meeting to be urgently held. We have received no formal response. Some of these questions have been answered verbally, but there has still been no public forum for discussion of how these problems arose. Merger with Babergh Out of the blue a merger of the two district councils appears to be top of the agenda of the two controlling Conservative groups. This appears to have been agreed in private meetings without any information being given to many of the councillors of both authorities and then leaked to the media by dissident Conservatives. Opposition members received a briefing from the chief executive just a week ahead of papers being published for the October cabinet meeting. This will be held on October 13, ‘simultaneously’ with that of Babergh’s cabinet. I hope to attend to see how two different councils can debate the same issue at the same time and then vote separately. Their preferred option is to dissolve the two councils and elect a single new council following a further boundary review. They propose that there will be public consultation about the merger, but no public referendum is planned.
SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE SITE New Apprentice
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 are 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 6
Boundary Review The Commission’s draft proposals have been published and show a new ward consisting of Stowupland, Old Newton with Dagworth and Gipping. In terms of number of electors, this will be a much larger ward than my preference of Stowupland with Creeting St Peter and Earl Stonham. Creeting St Peter is proposed to be part of an enlarged Needham Market ward served by two councillors, and would also include Badley, Baylham and Darmsden. At least the commission hasn’t accepted the Conservative group proposal of joining Stowupland with Stowmarket, nor have they suggested putting Creeting St Peter into a Stowmarket ward. The broader picture is that the recommendations focus too strongly on electoral equality (numbers of electors per councillor) while virtually ignoring the connections between local communities. There are a number of proposed wards which are difficult to understand, including grouping the Stonhams and other smaller parishes with Debenham to create a two member ward. Also, the commission have split Onehouse from Harleston and Shelland, three communities which share a number of common facilities. If the merger with Babergh goes ahead, there will need to be another ward boundary review within the next two years to reduce further the number of district councillors. All of this upheaval is not good for anyone and is distracting staff and councillors away from serving their communities. Locality Awards I have received a number of bids and most of the grant money has been allocated. The time limit has been extended and I will be happy to speak to a representative of any club or organisation within Creeting St Peter which has a project, new or existing, which aims to have a local community benefit. But I do need to hear urgently. Keith Welham Keith.welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 673185
energy-from-waste 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 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 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. 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. Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to contact the facility on 01473 839149. OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS To book a visit: 01473 836821 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
In Touch online:
ADVERTORIAL
Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.
Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number
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!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
Sporting greats at Uvedale Hall Uvedale Hall residential home in Needham Market, is delighted to be taking part in this year’s Suffolk Care Home Olympics. It is a six-week programme which involves a number of Suffolk care homes competing against one another in a bid to become the winning home. Run by the social enterprise Elatus Sports, and supported by Suffolk County Council, the Care Home Olympics consists of a number of sporting challenges, including Golf, Kurling, Fishing, Boccia (seated bowling/ petanque) and Archery to name a few.
Last year, Uvedale Hall finished as worthy runners-up out of seven participating homes and is hopeful of going one better again this year, as Karen Fox, activities coordinator says:
“It’s a great initiative to give care home residents an enjoyable sporting experience whilst also highlighting the importance of physical activity within a residential care home setting.
C are Home O lympics
As they say, it’s not the winning but the taking part that counts, and since we started everyone is really enjoying trying new sports. Residents are keeping mobile and stimulated, while also improving their confidence – watch this space for the results!”
Uvedale Hal l www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
Uvedale Hall - 01449 722250 Coddenham Road, Needham Market, Suffolk
C are Home O lympic
s
healthcarehomes healthcarehomes.co.uk 7
NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS MIKE NORRIS AND WENDY MARCHANT Reporting on October 18 NEEDHAM MARKET TOWN COUNCIL CIVIC SERVICE Congratulations to the town mayor, town clerk, town council and of course the clergy, for the well organisedthemed Civic Service, on serving the community. Having the band going up the High Street was great fun. An inspiring event, with an opportunity to socialise afterwards. BABERGH AND MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILS DISSOLVING AND CREATING A NEW LARGER DISTRICT COUNCIL This is the biggest decision which Mid Suffolk has made since it was formed in 1974. On Friday, October 13, there was a ‘simultaneous’ cabinet meeting at Endeavour House, Ipswich, with Babergh and Mid Suffolk cabinets to decide this. According to the rules you can’t have a substitute who would be able to vote in place of the councillor who was unable to attend, but any councillor can attend the cabinet meeting and ask a question. Wendy sent in a question in writing in advance of the meeting to the leader of council, which she was allowed to put at the beginning of the debate. Her question was: “In connection with agenda item 8, on page 13 – MCa/17/17 Future Options for Working Together between Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils – the recommendation on page 14 is described as an ‘endorsement’. Endorsement means confirmation of a decision already made. But isn’t this cabinet making the decision? Because it is described as an endorsement, and not a decision, it cannot be called into Scrutiny, nor will it go to Full Council. Isn’t there a democratic deficiency here? Some people might say the two councils merging together has come along by stealth?” The chief executive then gave a presentation of how the two councils have worked together since 2011, beginning with having one chief executive instead of two, and this reduction in staff cascading down all of the departments. After a debate the ‘endorsement’ went to the vote and Mid Suffolk’s cabinet was all in favour, with one against. The actual decision read: 1: To provisionally endorse the approach of formally dissolving the two district councils and creating a new larger district council. 2: To utilise Transformation Funding to jointly conduct stakeholder, public and staff engagement during autumn 2017. 1.2.a: Subject to the outcome of the public engagement a draft (DCLG compliant)business case for the dissolution of BMSDCs and creation of a new single district council for the area could be considered by each council. Reasons for decisions: In order to ensure that the two districts were in the
best possible position to respond to, and take advantage of, the emerging opportunities and challenges within local government and Suffolk. Reporting on October 19 LACK OF COMMUNICATION WHEN BUS SERVICES ARE DISRUPTED On Tuesday, October 17, together with fellow bus travellers, I had to wait 90 minutes for a bus from Stowmarket to Needham Market. One eventually arrived at 4.50pm and the bus driver said there had been an accident at Claydon which had caused the delays. This, of course, is very unfortunate, but if we could be given the information that this bus will not be coming for an hour and a half, we could make alternative arrangements – go by train, go shopping around Stowmarket, or whatever. Could there be ‘real time passenger information’ such as they have at Railway Stations, with a screen explaining what is happening? The following morning, BBC Radio Suffolk we were told there was a gas leak at Claydon, but public transport was running as normal. I went to catch the 10am bus from Needham Market to Stowmarket at the bus shelter near the council offices in the High Street. Fellow passengers informed me that neither the 9am nor the 9.30am buses to Stowmarket had arrived, so when the 10am bus hadn’t arrived by 10.10am I started to walk down the High Street towards the railway station. However, when I was about two thirds down the High Street, the bus arrived at The Swan bus stop, so I had to run to catch it. Again if bus passengers could be given the information about what is happening, it would be a great help, saving them from standing about waiting for buses which aren’t going to arrive, or will arrive late. Radio Suffolk is very good at giving out information, if they are provided with it. Recently this has happened such a lot, with elderly passengers waiting in residential areas for busses that don’t come. Information about disrupted bus services is desperately needed. In fact on Wednesday, October 18, the bus driver taking the bus to Stowmarket was telling bus passengers waiting at the other side of the road in Needham Market to go to Ipswich that they would have to get on the bus to Stowmarket, and then go back along the A14 from there to Ipswich. Improved communication about disrupted buses would be very much appreciated. If any bus passengers reading this have similar concerns, please contact: Iain Rankine, Network Manager, 1st Buses, Norfolk, Suffolk & E. Midlands, Raven House, Rowen Road, Norwich iain.rankine@firstgroup.com / 01603 218404 Mid Suffolk District Councillors Mike Norris: mike.norris@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720871 Wendy Marchant: wendy.marchant@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720965
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT STOWMARKET CHORALE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Friday, November 17, 7 for 7.30pm: Quiz Night at The Cedars Hotel
Regular networking opportunities for November 2017 Friday, November 3, 10am-noon: Coffee Morning Networking Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday, November 17, 6.45am: Networking Breakfast The Mix, Stowmarket For further details and to book visit: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk At the time of writing, places at the first Mid Suffolk Business Exhibition on 21 March 2018 were close to sold out, but you can register on the reserve list at: www.msbe.biz/exhibit 8
Teams of six, £14 per person to include a fish, sausage or veggie and
chip supper. To book contact: tickets@stowmarketchorale.org.uk Saturday, December 9, 7pm: Christmas Concert at Stowmarket Parish Church with the children’s choir from South Lee School, Bury St Edmunds. To book contact: tickets@stowmarketchorale.org.uk Sunday, March 18: We welcome Alexander L’Estrange and his jazz band, together with children from South Lee School, Bury St Edmunds, Rougham Primary School and Great Finborough Primary School to perform Alexander L’Estrange’s Zimbe (Songs of Africa) and John Rutter’s Mass of the Children at the Apex, Bury St Edmunds at 4pm. Contact the Apex for tickets. 01284 75800 / www.theapex.co.uk
In Touch online:
ADVERTORIAL
NEW EAST OF ENGLAND CO-OP FUNERAL SERVICE FOR NEEDHAM MARKET For more than 90 years families across East Anglia have placed their trust in the East of England Co-op Funeral Services and now more people can access their services when needed most, with the opening of a new funeral branch in Needham Market. With a welcoming reception area and friendly team, the new Meredith Greengrass Funeral Services branch in Station Yard is a private and peaceful space for families during emotionally difficult times.
The new Station Yard branch offers funeral arranging services, bereavement support and guidance on monumental masonry – crafted by Norfolk-based experts H L Perfitt Stonemasons. For those who feel planning ahead for their own funeral would give peace of mind, they’re also able to provide advice on pre-paid funeral plans. They will be with you every step of the way, taking care of the important decisions and helping with every detail so the day can be just how you pictured it. The East of England Co-op Funeral Service has been taking care of all aspects of funeral planning and arrangements for families across Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire for more than 90 years. As a local business, the East of England Co-op works hard to support the community in many ways, and the Meredith Greengrass team are no exception. Chris said: “We have done lots over the years to raise money for good causes, from skydives and abseils, to quiz nights and our recent 5km three-legged race to raise money for our local Special Olympics athletes. We will of course be continuing this charitable spirit at our new Needham Market branch and welcome ideas for local causes we can support.”
The new branch opened on Thursday, 14 September and is run by local experts, Funeral Manager Chris Sparkes and Funeral Arranger Molly Garrard. Chris said: “Meredith Greengrass is a local name with a local connection, being the longest serving funeral directors in nearby Stowmarket having been established many decades ago. We have continued to provide caring and professional services to local families and maintain our traditional values.”
The community is further supported by the East of England Co-op Funeral Service’s free bereavement support service, led by experienced Bereavement Support Counsellors. Held at Café 52 on Crowe Street in Stowmarket, the group meets the last Thursday of every month between 10am and 12noon, everyone is welcome. The new branch at Station Yard, Needham Market, is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm. The team are available to answer any questions at the branch or over the phone on 01449 798279.
His medals took pride of place, they helped us think of everything Here for you every hour of every day Meredith Greengrass 01449 798279 or visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
9
OUT & ABOUT NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY Our September meeting proved a most interesting experience when members of the audience had the choice of not one, but two entirely different topics each presented by our two enthusiastic speakers. Twelve members had the opportunity to peel off the main group to have their say about Mid Suffolk Council policies, while thirty of us had an entertaining talk on bookbinding and the love of books by Isabel Clark. Gordon Crosby writes: “An interesting and informative talk about the Planning System was given by a very enthusiastic, senior member of the MSDC planning team. A brief history of how the planning laws have developed since 1909 when the early acts were introduced to improve housing standards and public health was followed by an outline of how the laws and regulations have continue to evolve. Recent changes have imposed a presumption in favour of granting permission for development with only limited grounds for opposition. This makes it all the more important that residents of Needham Market express their views on the draft Local Plan which will set guidance on how Needham will develop over the next 20 years.” Our speaker on November 29 is Brian Cornell, a Thames Waterman and Lighterman now retired. It should prove to be a fascinating evening. Our meetings are held at 7.30pm in the Burton Room at Needham Market Community Centre. Visitors are always welcome (£2 entrance fee). For further details contact Andrea Davies: 01449 721056
SODS SNOW WHITE COMPETITION WINNER RECEIVES PRIZE Muddles and Fairy Fruitcake from the Snow White cast joined David Marsh, manager of The Regal, to present tickets for the show to Oriana Usher, the lucky winner of our colouring competition. SODS are presenting Snow White, a festive family panto full of laughter and song, from December 6-10 at the Regal Theatre, Stowmarket. Tickets are available online at www.regalstowmarket.co.uk or from the box office on 01449 612825. An early bird offer is available for opening night where all tickets are only £10. Regular price £13 adults, £11.50 concessions. Be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.
bRAVO! THEATRE WORKSHOPS
TRIANON FUNDRAISING CONCERT Proceeds to St John The Baptist Church Roof Appeal Trianon Music Group presents an evening of light classical music with singers and instrumentalists, conducted by Emeritus Professor Chris Green OBE, at Needham Market Community Centre on Saturday, November 18 at 7.30pm. Tickets (£8 including refreshments) from 01449 722202 or on the door.
CHELSWORTH CHRISTMAS FAIR All Saints’ Church, The Street, Chelsworth IP7 7HU Saturday, November 25, 10am-3pm Kick-start your Christmas shopping at our Christmas Fair in the beautiful 13th century church with around 30 stalls selling gifts, produce and crafts. Also raffle, bric-a-brac, refreshments, tombola, books, DVDs, jigsaws and carols from Serendipity choir. Entry £3, children free. Free parking. All proceeds to maintaining the church. www.chelsworth.org.uk Sponsored by The Peacock Inn, Chelsworth
At bRAVO! Theatre Workshops, Stowmarket and Newmarket, we wanted to celebrate our fifth anniversary in a special way so we decided to audition for a show at Disneyland Paris. They loved our performance and accepted us so we had to get busy fundraising to help with the expense of the trip. We had a quiz night, a chocolate bingo night, a psychic evening and a first aid CPR training course to name a few. We rehearsed and practised and finally we were ready. On August 5, 95 performers and supporters set off for Paris. We enjoyed a couple of days in the parks while we were there, but the highlight was our performance in The Videopolis Theatre. Forty-seven children aged seven to 17 sang their hearts out with a medley of 20 songs; it was a treat for their proud families and for the other theatregoers too. We have lots planned for the coming months – a performance at The Royal Albert Hall, our Christmas Variety Show and two musicals, our versions of The Wizard of Oz and Legally Blonde, all being performed at Needham Market Community Centre. We have a Halloween Workshop on October 26 (open to non-bRAVO! students also) where in addition to our usual mix of drama and singing we have a very special street dance teacher coming to teach two sessions. Lynn Bailey from LK School of Dance is an amazing teacher and her school has had massive success in the European Hip Hop Championships. If you would like to join in the fun, we meet every Friday evening at The Boys Brigade Hall, Combs Lane, Stowmarket. For more details, please contact Anna: bravotw@hotmail.com / 07908 724472
10
In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT www.linnetproperty.co.uk
CHRISTMAS FAYRE AND COFFEE MORNING St John the Baptist Church is holding a Christmas Fayre and Coffee Morning as a fundraiser and we look forward to welcoming all at Needham Community Centre on Saturday, November 25, from 10.30am-2pm. As well as Christmas treats with coffee, we will have a variety of stalls selling homemade Christmas puddings and cakes of all types along with a bottle tombola, Christmas draw, and Christmas cards. For the children, we have a colouring competition, balloon sculpture and ceramic painting. All this along with a host of other stalls and games. There is no admission charge.
MID SUFFOLK VIDEO CAMERA CLUB Film maker and storyteller Alex Laver recently came to talk to us about setting up equipment to film an interview. He began by telling us how to build up the required equipment, explaining how important it was to have a really good tripod as this was the base upon which all equipment would be attached, something we had never considered. We also learnt about the advantages of aluminium or carbon fibre. The idea was to build up the equipment by using rods attached to the tripod. First the camera was attached, adding additional lenses by using a universal attachment. Then a larger monitor was linked to the camera to make it easier to see the picture you are taking. An additional microphone was added and a small recorder that would pick up the sound as a back-up. All this attached to the tripod by using rods, block rails, extensions and plates. This approach was completely new to us and most informative. Lighting came next and two lights were used. Alex talked about using natural and artificial lightening and then testing the results. The talk was novel and a new approach for us as a club. We learnt a lot that hopefully we will implement in the future. We ended the session by watching one of Alex’s films. To find out more about Alex visit: www.alexlaver.co.uk We meet at 1.30pm on the first Tuesday of the month at Hill Side, Stowmarket IP14 2BD. Our next meeting is on November 7. For more information contact membership secretary Ann Evans: 01728 861566
SOMERSHAM CHURCH
NEW SEASON
NEW HOME?
LINNET HAS
GOT YOU
COVERED
The leaves are falling but our Boards are up! Whether it’s sales, lettings, valuations, floor plans or photos, you can trust in our outstanding customer service to ensure everything falls into place for you this autumn.
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Saturday, November 25, 10am-5pm Sunday, November 26, 11am-5pm Refreshments, free admission/parking, disabled access.
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
Call our friendly team on 01284 723332 Or email info@linnetproperty.co.uk Crescent House, 28 Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1UZ
Somersham Village Hall, Saturday, November 25, 2-4pm. Free parking, free admission and disabled access.
POP CHORUS CONCERT At Somersham Church on Saturday, December 2, 7.30pm. 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.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
Turning houses into homes
11
OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB The new season got off to a good start on September 11 with many old members and several potential members turning up. It was good to see so many new faces in addition to the familiar ones. For this season we have the usual five ‘open’ competitions as well as wildlife, portrait and audio visual (AV) competitions. We have three speakers giving talks on landscape, high speed photography and a travelogue entitled Overland through East Africa and the Americas. We also have club nights and an end of season photoshoot. On September 25 we held our cracked lens competition, which was a great success. This competition is for the best PDI (projected digital image) on the night and is judged by the members. Well done to Geoff Walker who won with Leopard. Monday, November 13: Instructional talk about AV by Chris Carne and Nigel Rea Monday, November 27: Open Competition (2) to be judged by Harold Mousley LRPS AFIAP New members are always very welcome; all you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras. Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Mondays of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30pm start. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us? www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net
12
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.
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.
In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT THE REGAL IN NOVEMBER While 2017 has been a good year for movies, us cinema managers have been looking forward to two massive films released at the end of the year, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which lands in December, but first November sees Murder on the Orient Express get its worldwide release. We’re really excited that we’re one of a select number of independent cinemas that have been chosen to show both of these films from the first day of release. There is even a midnight premiere for The Last Jedi in the early hours of December 14 for die hard Star Wars fans! The Snowman: thriller starring Michael Fassbender and Rebecca Ferguson. Based on the best-selling novel by Jo Nesbø, Detective Harry Hole investigates the disappearance of a woman whose pink scarf is found wrapped around an ominous-looking snowman. The Mountain Between Us: adventure starring Kate Winslet and Idris Elba. Stranded after a tragic plane crash, two strangers must forge a connection to survive the extreme elements of a remote snow covered mountain. When they realise help is not coming, they embark on a perilous journey across the wilderness. Murder on the Orient Express: mystery starring Johnny Depp, Judi Dench and Kenneth Branagh. Much anticipated star-studded remake of the Agatha Christie mystery. A lavish train ride unfolds into a stylish and suspenseful mystery. Murder on the Orient Express tells of 13 stranded strangers and one man’s race to solve the puzzle before the murderer strikes again. Happy Death Day: thriller starring Jessica Rothe and Ruby Modine. A college student relives the day of her murder with both its unexceptional details and terrifying end until she discovers her killer’s identity.
STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday, November 1: Guildhall Feoffment Trust and Feoffment Schools by Alan Bickerdike A brief history of the trust and schools from 1481 to the present. The trust is one of the country’s oldest functioning charitable trusts (if not the oldest). It has had much influence on many aspects of the history of Bury St Edmunds, education being but one part. The brass of Jankyn Smith and his wife Marion is in St Mary’s Church, Bury St Edmunds. He died in 1481 and left funds to the town to start the Guildhall Foeffment. Wednesday December 6: Stowmarket’s Hidden Gems by Steve Williams
Geostorm: adventure starring Gerard Butler, Abbie Cornish and Ed Harris. When the network of satellites designed to control the global climate start to attack Earth, it’s a race against the clock to uncover the real threat before a worldwide geostorm wipes out everything and everyone. Thor: Ragnarok: adventure starring Chris Hemsworth, Idris Elba and Antony Hopkins. After becoming imprisoned, the mighty Thor finds himself in a lethal gladiatorial contest against the Hulk, his former ally. Thor must fight for survival and race against time to prevent the allpowerful Hela from destroying his home and the Asgardian civilisation. The Death of Stalin: comedy starring Jason Isaacs, Michael Palin and Andrea Riseborough. Written and Directed by Armando Iannucci, follows the Soviet dictator’s last days and depicts the chaos of the regime after his death. My Little Pony: The Movie: animation voiced by Emily Blunt and Live Schreiber. A dark force threatens Ponyville and the Mane 6 embark on an unforgettable journey beyond Equestria where they meet new friends and exciting challenges on a quest to use the magic of friendship to save their home. It’s another brilliant month for live shows with The Carole King and James Taylor Story, Country Music with Stephen Smyth and Christmas Memories to name but a few. And don’t forget, it’s pantomime time from December 6 with Snow White (see page 15). On November 16, beamed Live from the National Theatre we have the Stephen Sondheim musical Follies, definitely one not to be missed. www.regalstowmarket.co.uk
STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB The Stowmarket team has continued to make good progress in the Suffolk Summer League Teams-of-Eight winning all four of its matches against other clubs. Only one match against Colchester remains, one of the strongest teams in the league. A win would not necessarily mean winning the league as the title is decided on the aggregate number of victory points gained in all five matches rather than the number of wins. Nevertheless, the team is to be congratulated on its performance so far in league one after promotion from league two last season. Also to be congratulated are David Willson and Simon Riley (club chairman and competition secretary respectively) who made up half the team that won the Swiss fours competition in this year’s Felixstowe Congress and who have also played several times for the County C team.
Walk around Stowmarket and you will find little sign of old timber framed buildings. Villages such as Lavenham are full of such buildings dating back to medieval times and similar old buildings do exist in Stowmarket. The prosperity brought to the town in the early 1800s by the new Gipping Navigation meant that there was wealth to modernise what were seen as old fashioned buildings and many were given a makeover hiding their ancient origins. Steve will reveal what lies behind these later facades with some surprising examples.
Congratulations to other club members Bim Wilson who playing with a member of another club won the Suffolk Ladies Pairs Competition and Barry and Trish McLoughlin who were runnersup in the County Senior Pairs Competition.
We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall (IP14 4BQ) where there is an ample car park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members.
The club welcomes new members and visitors. For times of play, venue and contacts visit: www.bridgewebs.stowmarket
On Friday, November 10 the club will be taking part in a National Simultaneous Pairs Event held in aid of Children in Need. It is hoped that there will be a good turnout to support this worthy cause.
Vice-Chairman Mervyn Pearson
For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
13
OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET & DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB On the first Tuesday of the each month, a meeting of retired professional and businesspersons takes place in Stowmarket. In October Steve Williams presented a talk entitled The Stowmarket Gun Cotton Explosion. The recent ‘sonic boom’ created by an RAF Typhoon Jet was big news, but paled into insignificance compared to the disaster that struck the town in 1871 when more than 30 people lost their lives, properties were destroyed and the shock waves felt as far away as Southwold. As I write members and guests are preparing for the excursion to Bournemouth. More about this in the December issue. Members start to gather at 10.30am and time is made prior to the presentation (speakers start at 11am and usually present for 45-60minutes) for members to meet and greet each other along with tea/coffee and a biscuit. Every quarter, a luncheon is arranged for members and guests, together with a number of visits to places of interest in the UK.
STOWMARKET FLOWER CLUB Mr John Chennell will present a demonstration entitled In Festive Mood when we next meet on Wednesday, November 22 at Needham Market Community Centre. Doors open at 7pm and there will be stalls selling plants, cakes, handbags, scarves, jewellery and items for the chairman’s charity, Arthritis Research UK. Tickets are £7 for members and £10 for visitors; for tickets contact Denise Shaw on 01449 737833. On November 1, the club is holding a fashion show at the United Reform Church in Stowmarket in conjunction with M&Co who will remain open after the show and ticket holders will get a 10% discount on any purchases made that evening. Tickets are £7 and can be obtained from Di Balaam on 01449 736374.
STONHAM ASPAL C OF E VA PRIMARY SCHOOL
Our programme for the remainder of 2017 is as follows: November 7: The Queen Bee by Alan Seagar December 8: Christmas Lunch at Needham Market Community Centre
The autumn term is well underway. Class R children have settled in very quickly and are really enjoying exploring their new classroom, getting to know each other and the staff, as well as the school routines. Their topics are ‘Harvest’ and ‘Light and Dark’. They have a cave in their classroom in which they use a range of light sources to explore and they have toured the school looking for sources of light.
During the next few months, the committee will be reviewing options voted for and put forward by members for visits in 2018. These include a tour of Bury St Edmunds Cathedral and Tower, Greene King Brewery and the Sugar Beet Factory and a day excursion to Chartwell House (Churchill’s residence). A trip to Beamish/Whitby seems the favourite for a longer four day/night outing in October.
Classes 1 and 2 are finding out about ‘Kings and Queens’. Class 1 have a castle in their classroom, and Class 2 have shared some amazing crown designs in our celebration assembly. Classes 3 and 4 have a theme of Incredible India. They have been very busy finding out about the geography of India, and will also be looking back at the ancient Indus Valley civilisation.
If non-members are prepared to provide members with a 45-60 minute presentation on their hobby, business, society, club or project, please let us know. Contact details below.
Class 5’s theme is ‘Time Travel’ which they have used to inspire their holiday homework creating amazing time machines. They have also used the theme with their writing and art work. Class 6 have the theme of ‘The Ancient Maya’ and have used this theme with their writing and art work, and to develop their historical research skills.
Annual membership will be £15 in April 2018. All trips are costed out to breakeven and a good deal is negotiated by a member of the committee. New members are very welcome and encouraged. Please contact David Robson (daviderobson@gmail.com) or any other member for details. Our monthly meetings are held at the RBL Club on Tavern Street, Stowmarket from 10.30am-noon.
The weather has been pretty good so far which has meant the children have been able to continue enjoying the field. The football goals have been put up and have been quickly put to use, and clubs and activities have got under way. On Friday, September 29 we hosted a Macmillan Coffee Morning and raised £130 which is a fantastic total. On Wednesday, October 4 we hosted a share afternoon for all our parents and carers, giving them an opportunity to see what the children have been learning so far this term and also to explore how Mathletics can support learning in maths both at school and at home. Then on Friday, October 6 we had a lovely Harvest Service in the church.
Walking at Orford Ness in October
If you would like to know more our website is a good source of information, or contact the office to arrange to come and visit us.
STOWMARKET RAMBLERS
Headteacher Mrs Sharon Waldron
Sunday, November 5: 5.8 mile walk to Harleston Church via Northfield Wood. Park and meet at the far end of Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre car park beyond Playworld at 10.30am / GR 038592. Leader: 01449 674763
www.stonhamaspal.suffolk.sch.uk
Sunday, November 12: 6 mile walk beyond the River Alde to Badingham. Park and meet at Dennington Village Hall at 10.30am / GR 281667. Leader: 01449 673131 Sunday, November 19: 5 mile walk around Old Newton and Ward Green. Park and meet at Old Newton Village Hall at 10.30am / GR 052625. Leader: 01449 673690 Sunday, November 26: 6 mile walk in the Swilland area. Park and meet at car park to the left of the Moon and Mushroom pub at 10.30am / GR 185524. Leader: 01449 675699 14
MINI MUSIC MAKERS Does your toddler love music? At Mini Music Makers our fun and friendly themed classes promote language development, co-ordination and social skills for all children aged 0-5 years. Join us at The Ark in Needham Market from 1.20-2.20pm on Friday afternoons during term time (not Tuesday afternoons as previously advertised). Contact Helen on 01449 722991 to join our small friendly group; sessions cost just £2 per week.
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
15
clourfence ad march2016 WIP_Layout 1 03/03/2016 09:25 Page 1
COLOUR F E N C E
Colourfence the smart choice for long lasting, low maintenance fencing
Attractive steel garden fencing, railings and gates professionally installed with up to a 25 year guarantee* C O LO U R F E N C E
DITED ACCRE
C O LO U R R A I L
ANCE INTEN LOW MA
PROFESSIONAL
INSTALLATION
Learn more about the innovative and long-lasting Colourfence range of products including satisfied customer video testimonials at www.colourfence.co.uk
Contact Charles Simpson now for a FREE no-obligation quote
The Limes Farmhouse, Saxtead Green, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 9QH
Tel: 01728 685019 www.colourfence.co.uk email: charles.simpson@colourfence.co.uk 16
*full details available upon request
In Touch online:
SPORT / CHURCH NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB Many NMBC members attended the Stowmarket League presentation evening to see captains Roger Last, Joyce Walton and David Hindley pick up the three trophies won by the club in 2017. Congratulations once again to all the bowlers involved. Not a lot of news at the moment, but more next month after the AGM when the dates and content of the winter social evenings have been decided. MEET AND GREET DAYS AT CROWLEY PARK These have been very successful and will resume with the opening of the 2018 outdoor season in April. Come along and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit, bowls and basic instruction. If you just want to watch and chat that’s fine. Although bowls is an ideal sport for the active older person, remember ‘YOU ARE NEVER TOO YOUNG TO BOWL’. Pat Hadden: 01473 831308 / Alistair Bailie: 01449 720759
STOWMARKERS JUNIOR NETBALL CLUB Stowmarkers Juniors have been quiet over the past few months, but that’s not to say that we haven’t been busy. We have been beavering away working on attracting new players into our club and our league players got off to a terrific start to the season in their first match winning by a massive 20-7. Thanks to different techniques used in the weekly training sessions the girls are increasing their stamina as well as bonding as a team which the club’s monthly newsletter reiterates. The club has reintroduced ‘Birthday Club’ where each player receives a gift on their birthday with an extra special present if their birthday happens to fall on a training night and they still attend. The club appreciates each individual and works hard at retaining their players through motivational newsletters to rewards for Player of the Match. Last month the club held its fourth annual awards ceremony with many players receiving awards, but what was most wonderful about that evening was the players were there for each other and not for themselves. Going forward we are continuing to focus on players’ fitness and working together so if you feel that you would like to become part of our club please visit: www.netballclubstowmarkers.wordpress.com
NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH A THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH One of the largely unrecognised consequences of our national downward slide into secularism is that we rob ourselves of the comfort of justice which is to be displayed in a world beyond this.
STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB With a bit of luck, a fair wind and lots of crossed fingers and toes, by the time you read this we’ll be indoors for the winter. At the time of writing we’re liaising with the company that assists with inflating our winter dome. Conditions need to be just right – certainly no high wind, which is often a challenge at this time of year, and ideally bone dry courts to make the job easier. We’ve installed the dome every autumn since 2001 and it’s made a huge difference to the amount of tennis played in the off season. Sure, we were always outside in the years before the dome, but it has enabled all of our winter league matches to continue uninterrupted as well as the entire coaching program. We attract several players from other larger clubs during the winter and they get their best quality tennis with us for five months of the year. We even offer a dedicated ‘winter only’ membership to reflect how attractive it is for many players to be guaranteed dry, calm conditions in which to play their tennis. Another huge bonus of having the indoor facility is that all our ‘showcase’ sessions can run all year round. We have two club mornings and two club evenings where everyone comes along and mixes in to play predominately doubles. These sessions are a great way to integrate into the club and to expand your circle of tennis friends. Lately we’ve seen a rise in court bookings from people who have met at club sessions and decided to organise another game during the week. The old saying that tennis can make you new friends is absolutely true! If you’d like more information on coaching, either as a junior or an adult, get in contact with me and we can get you started – probably indoors for the winter!
Sometimes we hear of the police force spending a large sum of money investigating allegations against a deceased person. Even if guilty, that person is beyond any human justice and so, from that point of view, the investigation seems utterly pointless. Yet the police force regards itself as having a public duty to pursue the investigation. Perhaps the rationale is to vindicate the victims, should their allegations be proved well-founded. But to what end? The culprit has still ‘got away with it’, death having put him beyond human retribution. This being the case, it is hard to see much in the way of return for the time, energy and expense invested in pursuance of the case. On the other hand, where there is a belief in judgement in the court of a perfectly just judge beyond this life, there is the very real comfort of knowing that those who have perpetrated evil in this life and escaped the wrath of man will have to answer for their deeds nevertheless. The subject becomes more personal when we ask how will I – and you – fare when we stand in that court, especially when the Judge has already declared: “There is none righteous, no, not one.” Peter Kinley SPECIAL DATE IN NOVEMBER Tuesday, November 7: Missionary Meeting, 7.30pm. Visit of Stephen Walker from the Faith Mission. REGULAR MEETINGS Sunday Services: 10.30am and 6.30pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting: Tuesdays at 7.30pm. All very welcome.
See you on court. Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham
For further information, if you require transport, or you would like a home visit, please contact Peter: 01394 271645 / phone or text 07570 558072 / peterkinley60@gmail.com
chris@chriscoaching.plus.com
www.needhamchurch.org.uk
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
17
CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist): 01449 612619 Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am, including crèche and Sunday Club Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday
I’ve already begun to make a list of things I mustn’t forget for us both. Currently her list is considerably longer than mine: bed, leads, food, toys, biscuits, bowls, etc, etc. Somehow it seems important to itemise her requirements in an attempt not to forget anything. This may work if I don’t lose the list between now and next week. However, I often find that if I’ve actually written things down I am quite likely to remember them, even if the paper has gone missing. Does that happen to you when you leave your shopping list at home? Please tell me I’m not the only one to leave my list on the kitchen table. Somehow I can picture the words and usually recall most of what I need to buy.
Tiddlers: For mums and toddlers 12 months to four years, every Monday in term time from 9.30-11am. Contact Hannah: 07969 482360
Later this month we will listen to a list of names in the Remembrance Sunday Service in Needham Market – a list which some will have heard dozens of times, names which seem familiar – family names, local names – all of whom were loved by someone – who were and are still missed. It’s important to remember those who made that ultimate sacrifice.
Scrabble Club: Monday, 2-4pm. New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871
A list is a great aide memoire as it enables us to remember, and just as importantly it helps us not to forget.
Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm. Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871
I wonder whether you would like to write a list – of things, people, special events that you never want to forget, and then maybe share that list, over a cup of tea perhaps, with your friends and family so you can each recall those special times and people. If you do this, I hope you have some interesting and enjoyable conversations.
WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS
Women’s Fellowship: Second Wednesday, 2.30-3.30pm. Contact Linda Hills: 01449 721258 Christians Together Ecumenical Group: Thursday 10am, Room 4 Christchurch (term time). Contact Ann Devereux: 01449 721575 Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon, always with a selection of cakes for sale. OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Monday, 7-9pm Moosical Fun for your Little One: Tuesday, 9.15am-noon (term time) Osteo Stretch & Exercise: Tuesday, 12.30-1.30pm
Reverend Mary Playford VISIT CHRISTCHURCH CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL We hope you will visit on December 1 (10am-7pm), December 2 (10am5pm) and December 3 (noon-5pm) and join in the High Street Sheep Trail*. Come and see the Knitivity Star made from your knitted stars. Enjoy the creative displays of Bible stories and find the name of the last sheep in the High Street Sheep Trail. There will be refreshments and a children’s corner every day at the festival. Entry is free, donations to our church and charities. *Look for the sheep hiding in the shop windows in Needham Market High Street and record them on your record sheet. You can pick up a record sheet in Needham Market Post Office. The sheep will be hiding in shop windows from November 10.
Karate: Tuesday, 6.30-8.30pm Karate: Wednesday, 5.30-7.30pm (term time) Karate: Friday, 6.30-8.30pm
It’s still not too late to enter a Bible Story display. For information contact: 01449 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk
Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday, 6.30-7pm (term time)
HALL LETTINGS: There are spaces available for hire. To arrange a visit to view or for further information contact: 07851 742847
Exercise Classes: Friday, 9-11am I’m going on holiday next week and for the first time I’m taking Martha, my young dog, with me. Time will tell as to whether or not this was a good idea!
CHURCH CONTACT: Ann Devereux, 01449 721575 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk
HOME WORSHIP Diana Perry from Needham Market Parish Church led our Home Worship for October. She is the Sacristan, looking after the communion cup and plate and vestments at the parish church. Diana talked about the power of prayer and how it had helped her through difficult times in her life. She quoted a prayer of Mother Teresa: “The fruit of silence is prayer. The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace.”
18
Elizabeth at Home Worship in November to tell us about the Children’s Society, but Mrs Tipping has to go into hospital for an operation and so they are unable to come. However, Val Jefferies, leader of the Mother’s Union at the parish church, is coming to the rescue to tell us of the work she does in Ipswich with children and families. As it is getting near Christmas, we thought it would be nice to have a theme about children.
We sang the hymns Father, hear the prayer we offer and Father I Place into Your Hands and quoted James 5. v. 13: Is any among you afflicted? Let them pray.
Home Worship always meets at 10am on the first Monday of the month at 137 High Street, Needham Market. All welcome. After the worship, we have tea, coffee and biscuits and a friendly chat. Do come along.
We had hoped to have The Rev Canon John Tipping and his wife
Wendy Marchant
In Touch online:
MID-SUFFOLK FENCING
SPECIALISTS IN QUALITY TIMBER FENCING
SUPPLY • ERECT • REPAIR
TIMBER & STEEL GATES DECKING PATIOS WOODEN BRIDGES FREE ESTIMATES 31 Alexander Drive, Needham Market IP6 8XG
www.midsuffolkfencing.co.uk
YOU GROW IT I’LL MOW IT
GROUNDS & GARDEN MAINTENANCE We offer the following services all year round: Grass cutting • Garden clearance Fences & Gates • Patios & Paths Hedge Cutting • Tree Cutting Sheds • Summer Houses Digger & Dumper work
For a free quotation please call Nigel Coton 01449 721025 or 07801 515505
Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning
Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation
call John Burch: 07870 347486
Tel: 01449 721441
To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
19