In touch news with capel – october 2017 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

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CAPEL CAPERS

Volume 7 • Issue No. 11 • OCTOBER 2017

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Gosh life is a juggling act sometimes. I find myself running from one responsibility to the other at such a ferocious pace these days I wish I didn’t need to sleep and could use those hours to catch up instead. Add something extra to the mix, such as making an Iron Age costume for school, sewing on Beaver badges, ordering a guitar case which has no chance of arriving on time, feeding the neighbour’s chickens while they are away... well I don’t know which way to turn. But I cope, perhaps not to everyone’s satisfaction, least of all my own, and treasure the moments when I can hit the pause button, take a deep breath and just stop. Everything we do to relax has involved some degree of work or stress for someone else, whether it’s watching a movie (consider how many hours of planning and effort go into making a 10 second clip of a movie like Moana) or going to the football (imagine the paperwork required to run an Under 8 football team), but when I snuggle up on the sofa or sit on the side of the pitch with a nice cup of tea I really don’t care. It’s my turn to escape. I’m ashamed to admit I’m equally selfish when it comes to many local events. Of course I want them to happen, but I want to enjoy the experience without any of the responsibility. Thank goodness there are others who are far less selfish than I. Presumably they find other ways to escape, but as you read through this month’s edition consider those who do make things happen, who open village halls, who schedule speakers, who organise fundraising events, who make the calls, send the emails, get the quotes, who cajole and harangue others to help, who take the minutes, boil the kettles, buy the biscuits, put up the posters, complete the funding applications...

NEWS

QUIZ NIGHT GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS CAPEL VILLAGE HALL Saturday, November 11 Doors open at 7pm / Quiz starts at 7.30pm Maximum of six per team Entry including nibbles £5 a head HOW TO ENTER Entry forms available from Drayton Insurance Services, during opening hours, or call: 01473 312244 Join in and make this the best-ever quiz night.

FESTIVAL OF TREES AND LIGHTS: JANUARY 12-14

These are the people who provide moments of escape and fun and togetherness for the rest of us to enjoy. One day soon I will raise my hand and get more involved, but right now I need to make a torque!

In Touch with Capel St Mary Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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Send editorial copy to: capel@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

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DISTRIBUTION Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk

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PRINTING Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk

01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Capel St Mary is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

We also publish In Touch with... • NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton • Belstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Dedham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Baylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • Ipswich East • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Brantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Needham Market & The Creetings • Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone • Burstall & Sproughton • Stowmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham • Chattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Melton & Woodbridge

In January 2018 the Friends of St Mary’s will be holding another Festival of Trees and Lights. If any organisation, business, family or individual would like to dress a tree please let me know by Friday, November 3. The theme this time will be Countries of the Commonwealth. All previous participants should already have received a letter from me, but if you have not and wish to dress a tree please let me know. If you require any further information please contact Chris Terry at 2 Snowcroft or at: 01473 311102 / chrismterry@yahoo.co.uk See the December edition of Capel Capers for full details.

CAPEL COMMUNITY TRUST BONFIRE NIGHT Saturday, November 4, Capel Playing Field Gates open at 5.45pm Barbecue, tea, coffee, hot chocolate from 5.45pm Bonfire lit at 6pm / Fireworks at 6.40pm Novelty glow products from £1 Hot and cold drinks from 80p, burgers and hot dogs £2.50 ADMISSION Adults £3.50 / Children £2.50

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FREE FAMILY DISCO Capel Village Hall from 7pm In the interests of safety we regret we are no longer allowed to permit the lighting of sparklers at this event

10 OCTOBER 2017

We will be pleased to receive woody items for the bonfire from 9am on Saturday, November 4. For everyone’s convenience please do not dump anything on or around the field before the day.

NOVEMBER DEADLINE is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

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NEWS NOTES FROM THE CASE Suffolk’s first Co-operative Pub 01473 805575 / www.thecasepubbentley.co.uk Open Mic Following the success of our first two Open Mic evenings, it is now a regular event. The next one is on Tuesday, October 3 at 8pm. Come along and join in the music-making, whether as a performer or a spectator. Local author presents… On Sunday, October 15, amateur historian and author Nicky Moxey will talk about her new book, Sheriff and Priest, published this month. Set in the 12th century, it tells the story of Wimer who rises from lowly beginnings to be High Sheriff of Norfolk and Suffolk. A victim of the stormy relationship between Henry II and Thomas a Becket, he is excommunicated three times and is guaranteed a place in hell unless he can redeem himself with a spectacular act of penance. But no more spoilers! Come along from 7-8pm and hear Nicky talk about her book and the fascinating research that went into it. We guarantee you’ll learn something new about your local area and its history. Goodbye to Jay We are sad to report that Jay, our chef, left us on September 23. She has been very much a part of our pub ‘family’ and we wish her every success in her future career. We will remember her Jay burgers with affection and respect! And welcome to Becky We are delighted to welcome as chef Becky Stockdale, who many of you will already know and who has been a very able back-up – and standin – for Jay for some time now. We hope as many of you as possible will come along and give Becky your support by booking a meal. Watch out for updated menus on the pub website. Staffing a pub is never easy and we are constantly looking for staff, both paid and volunteer. Although we are still working through the implications of staff changes, it’s likely we’ll need some support in the kitchen and front of house. If you’d be interested in working in these areas, please contact the pub. More details on the website in due course. A reminder that our pub quizzes continue on September 30 and October 28. Food is available up to 8pm with the quiz starting at 9pm. For this and other meals, if you are a party of five or more, please book in advance. If eight or more, we will ask you to pre-order to ensure you get exactly what you want.

A friend contacted me this morning to ask my opinion as a parent and a nurse as to whether she should get her daughter vaccinated with the HPV vaccine at school. They had publicly asked on Facebook and had a variety of replies, including lots of negative ones. I thought I would debunk some of those for you all. Let’s play some true or false: Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer in women under 35 years old. False – it is in fact the second. Cancer Research UK says 2,900 women a year are diagnosed with cervical cancer – that is around eight women a day. Around 400 of these go on to die from it. HPV stands for Human Papilloma Virus. True – there are in fact over 100 HPV strains, 40 of which effect the genital area. The HPV vaccine only covers a few strains out of the 100. True – although it only covers HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18 – these make up for 70-80% of all cervical and anal cancers caused by the HPV virus and 90% of genital warts (medicines.org.uk). Your child needs to still have their smear test when they reach 25 years old. True – the vaccine does not prevent all types of cervical cancer so it is important that people still go for their routine cervical screening. Adolescent girls who have the vaccination will reduce their risk of getting cervical cancer by over 70%. True (NHS 2014). The vaccine includes weed killer, de-icer, mercury and faeces of aborted babies. Needless to say, this is false! This shocked me that someone would believe this when they were told it, but they did and it prevented them from having their daughter vaccinated. I have looked into the ingredients on the manufacturer’s website and it does not contain any of the above. A complete list of the ingredients for the vaccine is in the patient information leaflet (PIL) at: www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine/19033/pil/gardasil

LOST PROPERTY APPEAL

The benefits of the vaccine outweigh any potential side effect. Absolutely true. It is very common to get a sore red arm after any vaccination and this one is no different. Some people report a headache or mild fever – paracetamol can be taken if needed. However, more serious side effects are very uncommon and the benefit of protection against cervical cancer by far outweighs any risk of side effect.

On Friday, August 18 I went down to the village on my mobility scooter and also visited Bypass Nurseries. On returning home having successfully achieved all I had intended I discovered that my shopping bag had fallen off the scooter. I retraced my route and called in all the places I had visited, but no trace of the bag could be found. Someone must have picked it up, but unfortunately there was no identity in the bag.

If you are still sitting on the fence about whether to have your daughter vaccinated against HPV or not then I would encourage you to research it but research it with caution. I would advise against articles from newspapers, Netmums and other similar sources. Research it through NHS websites and medical ones. As a parent and a nurse, will I be vaccinating my girls when they are old enough? Absolutely!

Could I appeal to that person, please, to return it to Bypass Nurseries where I am well-known? It is a beige floral bag with tan colour handles and a zip fastening with personal things inside rather than shopping. I do hope to retrieve my belongings and thank you in anticipation of a favourable result.

Blessings, Capel Parish Nurses Team

Yours very sincerely, Stella Hyland

CERVICAL CANCER VACCINATION

Caroline: 07588 706869 / Caroline@CapelParishNurses.org.uk Wednesday and Friday, 9.30am-2.30pm Margaret: 07588 698284 / Margaret@CapelParishNurses.org.uk Monday and Wednesday, 9am-4pm www.CapelParishNurses.org.uk

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NEWS CAPEL ST MARY PARISH COUNCIL Report from meeting held on Monday, September 11 Present at the meeting were Councillors Bishop, Bryant, Harris, Kilby, Matthews (chair), Rogers, Thompson, Weaver, White, District Councillors Carpendale and Swan, County Councillor Jones, Julie Lawes (clerk) and four members of the public. A planning application for the Harvest Moon Café, London Road for a change of use from restaurant to restaurant and takeaway was recommended for refusal due to the increase in traffic movements. Orwell Housing has been contacted in regard to recent issues faced by potential buyers being informed they are not financially viable for the scheme due to having too many funds. Further details in separate article. Babergh and Mid-Suffolk are holding a consultation on a Joint Local Plan which provides a strategy for the growth of the districts, setting out what and where development will take place up to 2036 and sets out policies and land allocations. This includes Capel St Mary. Consultation is open for comment until Friday, November 10. A copy of this document is available to view in the parish council office, the library or online at: www.babergh.gov.uk/jointlocalplan The Capel St Mary Emergency Plan was approved and adopted by the council. The War Memorial Committee advised they are refurbishing Ben’s Garden at Capel St Mary Primary School and are looking to include names of those who attended the school and died in the war. A garage

sale was held with those taking part making a donation towards the War Memorial Trust. A general knowledge quiz night is to be held on November 11. The second edition of Capel Times is due out in November. Capel Community Trust advised quotations are being received for replacement paving round the village hall with an aim for completion by the end of the year. A quote is being obtained for a leak in the pavilion roof. It was reported that the trust attended a meeting with Scott Properties to clarify their position due to emergency access being shown crossing the playing field. There is an open session at each meeting when members of the public can air any problems. Julie Lawes The actual minutes of meetings are available for viewing at the parish council office at 27a The Street, Capel St Mary, which is open from 10amnoon on Tuesdays and from 1-3pm on Fridays. The parish clerk can be contacted on 01473 314103 during these times. An answer phone operates outside these hours and messages are picked up every day. Alternatively contact can be made by email: capel.parishclerk@btinternet.com www.capelstmary.onesuffolk.net Other key issues raised are detailed below.

DEVELOPMENT IN CAPEL ST MARY On July 5 Babergh District Council Planning Committee refused permission for 100 Hopkins Homes. However, an appeal has now been lodged on this application. In January this year Hopkins filed a duplicate application for this site. This application has now had some minor amendments which include reducing the number of houses to 97, and it is anticipated that this application will be heard by the Planning Committee on September 27. The National Planning Casework Unit continue to monitor this application As of September 11, Persimmon Homes are still exploring their options regarding an appeal for the 150 homes off Longfield Road. Feedback from the consultation received by Scott Properties for 450 homes adjacent to the A12, off Red Lane was as follows: The two main issues raised were in relation to the doctor’s surgery and highways. Doctor’s Surgery It was felt that the current facility would not cope with the additional residents, and that while the proposed new facility could address this, it is likely that it would be difficult to recruit GPs to new facility. Action: We have a meeting scheduled with the management at the surgery to discuss the issues in greater detail. Highways Concern was expressed regarding the potential impact of the development on the local highways network, particularly regarding the proposed removal of the existing junction onto the A12.

Action: We are liaising further with Suffolk Highways and Highways England to determine whether it would be acceptable to them for this junction to be reconfigured or retained. Housing Mix The type of housing people thought was most needed in the village is starter homes, followed by bungalows. Few saw the need for larger family/executive housing. Action: We are reviewing and adjusting our masterplan to take account of the feedback provided. Leisure and Recreation A number of useful suggestions were put forward regarding potential new leisure and recreation facilities which could be delivered as part of the development. Action: We are liaising with Capel Community Trust to discuss how any potential new facilities could be delivered. Employment A clear preference was expressed for offices over more intensive commercial or light industrial development. Action: We are reviewing and adjusting our masterplan to take account of the feedback provided. I have queried if residents were concerned about the proposed number of houses and am informed that the above were the main concerns. Chris Matthews, Chair Capel St Mary Parish Council

CAPEL ST MARY FLORAL DISPLAY In the past 31 years, with support of local groups and businesses we have brightened up the shopping precinct with our great display grown locally by our own allotments association. The parish council would like to thank the following sponsors without whom this year’s display would not be possible: Capel Mushrooms, Robin’s Childcare, Ausco Builders, St Mary’s Church, Capel and Lt Wenham Bowls Club, Capel Station Garage, Upstix Sales and Rentals, Vellacott Farms, Orchard Players, Capel Methodist Church, Beacon Coffee Shop, Capel Allotments Association, Capel Garden Club, Capel WI, Drayton Insurance Services, Capel Community Church, Capel Ladies, Capel St Mary Carpet Bowls, East of England Co-op, The White Horse, Capel Community Trust, CDC Dance, PLC Business, Goodwin & Gould, Orwell Housing, Dean & Co Interiors and SMY IT Services.

DOVE CLOSE It has been brought to our attention that over the past 18 months some residents have been refused a place at Dove Close because of financial restrictions which have been put in place. Our sheltered housing complex was intended for residents of Capel St Mary and the surrounding villages who are aged over 55 and are in need of the facility. We are working with Orwell Housing to establish how this situation has developed and to rectify the problem. Please contact the parish clerk if you have a problem to keep us informed of the situation: 01473 314103 / capel.parishclerk@btinternet.com Chris Matthews

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NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES, MID-SAMFORD WARD: SEPTEMBER 2017 BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR SUE CARPENDALE More about planning at Babergh There have been several complaints lately about the difficulty of contacting planning officers. I have taken this up with Babergh’s leader and the relevant portfolio holder and they have promised to investigate. It seems there was some unfortunate timing with both a change of software system and a backlog of stalled planning applications running concurrently. Extra resources have been provided now, but apologies to people nonetheless for their inconvenience, with an acknowledgement that it should not have happened. Babergh/Mid Suffolk are currently advertising for a Corporate Manager for Strategic Planning, three Principal Planning Officers in Development Management (these are the people who deal with planning applications) and two Area Planning Managers. This reflects the significant growth that is planned for our area. The job ad for the corporate manager, for example, states: “Suffolk is going places as it plans to deliver significant new housing and economic growth over the next 25 years, with new infrastructure and key projects proposed across the county. Babergh and Mid Suffolk Councils are crucial to the delivery of Suffolk’s growth plans and will be expected to deliver about a third of all the growth being planned for in the county.” Together, Babergh and Mid Suffolk are proposing the build-out of some 17,000 new homes in the next 20 years. Villages along the A12 corridor south of Ipswich are part of the Ipswich Housing Market Area. This means that we are in line to absorb many more homes

than those merely required by purely ‘local’ need. This will put substantial pressure on infrastructure of every kind. We need to do all we can as a community to influence the type and location of these homes, bearing in mind the needs of our aging population and the drive for economic growth. Endeavour House move This month, officers and councillors are being inducted into the new accommodation. We all have to go through some training to familiarise ourselves with the locations and health and safety requirements. The final council meeting to be held at Hadleigh HQ is scheduled for September 19. Babergh’s Council Chamber is possibly the finest in Suffolk. Both the original listed buildings and the new are very distinctive. They are part of ‘brand Babergh’. Many of us – officers and councillors – are reluctant to leave it. We are promised a change of culture towards more ‘agile’ working – hot-desking, teleworking, business Skype, being mobile, flexible and spending more time out of the office and in the community. There will be some ‘touchdown’ points for officers to work in while out and about, and a new customer/resident access point in Sudbury for people who want face-to-face contact appointments. The location was chosen to be nearest to the largest concentration of Babergh’s population. Casual drop-ins are no longer available. As more details about how these changes will actually work for all of us, we will report them to you. sue.carpendale@babergh.gov.uk

BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR FENELLA SWAN The consultation period for the Babergh and Mid Suffolk Joint Local Plan began on Monday, August 21. This consultation will be held over a period of almost 12 weeks, to end at 5pm on Friday, November 10. All addresses in the district will receive a mailshot in the week commencing September 11 and throughout September there will be a series of briefing sessions with town and parish councils and parish meetings. In early October public drop-in sessions will be held throughout the districts, details of which can be found on the councils’ websites. The Babergh and Mid Suffolk Joint Local Plan consultation document is the document which will provide the strategy for the growth of the districts, setting out what and where development will take place up to 2036. Once adopted, the new plan will replace the existing local planning policies for both Babergh and Mid Suffolk. The plan will set out a vision for the area and will include policies and land allocations. The plan is needed to address key social issues. The population is expected to continue to grow over the period 2014-2036. The official 2014 Sub-National Populations Projections identify an increase of around 8,000 people in Babergh. There will be fewer younger people and an increasingly aging population. As the population ages there will be different demands on services and facilities, in particular housing and medical care. National planning policy requires local plans to promote economic growth proactively and address barriers to investment. Babergh and Mid Suffolk sit within the Ipswich Functional Economic Area.

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The existing local plans for Babergh and Mid Suffolk protect existing employment sites from alternative uses. This helps to maintain a stock of offices, warehouses and factories. The councils will need to consider through the new local plan whether to continue to protect these areas and whether the areas currently protected are the right areas to protect in the future. The councils have commissioned an assessment to advise on the amount of employment land that needs to be provided and the sites that are best placed to meet these needs. The Retail and Town Centres Study identifies that the challenge for the main centres in both districts will be to maintain and strengthen their market share by increasing the range, quality and choice on offer. In particular the study recommends that the mix of leisure uses in Sudbury, Hadleigh and Stowmarket is strengthened. The NPPF requires planning authorities to apply a sequential test when planning for retail and town centre uses. Proposals should be located in town centres, followed by edge of centre if no suitable town centre sites are available, with consideration only given to out of centre if no suitable town centre or edge of centre sites are available. The full consultation document is online and can be viewed at www.babergh.gov.uk/JointLocalPlan with paper copies available in libraries and at the councils’ offices. fenella.swan@babergh.gov.uk

NEWS CAPEL YOUTH WORK

Elliott, Isla, Theo and Amalee have a message for staff at The Harvest Moon:

I’m Caitlan Mower, and I’m currently the youth worker at Capel Methodist Church. I’ve been working there for the past year and am starting a degree in Youth Work this year which involves placement work at the church. As part of my work I run a few different groups for young people. We have a youth club called Junction on Friday nights from 7-9pm during school term time. This is open to anyone in School Years 7-9. We have a Nintendo Wii, Xbox, badminton and a tuck shop, as well as other games and activities. Some weeks we have baking and art on offer too. I also run two Life Groups which also run weekly. One group meets on Wednesdays from 7.30-9pm and is for School Years 10 up to Sixth Form/College. The second group meets on Thursdays from 7-8.30pm and is for School Years 7-9. Both groups are a time to chat about different life issues, play games, eat snacks, and talk about Christian faith. All groups open to any young people in the right age bracket. If you would like to know more, feel free to contact me: 07465 414870 / caitlanmower.opp@gmail.com

CLASH AVOIDER This diary has been introduced to help avoid date clashes in the village. Every effort will made to keep this list up-to-date, but please be aware that sometimes dates may be cancelled, postponed or re-arranged at short notice. This diary is not intended to be an all-inclusive what’s on and will only highlight significant dates. If you want to add an event please submit in the following format (date, event, venue and contact) to sharon@intouchnews.co.uk with Capel Event Diary in the subject line. Sunday, October 8: Capel Allotments Association Autumn Work-in, 9am-noon October 21: Nearly New Sale at Days Road Church, Capel Saturday, December 2: Christmas Coffee Morning at St Mary’s January 11-13 2018: The Orchard Players Pantomime, Aladdin, at Capel Village Hall Saturday & Sunday, January 13 & 14 2018: Festival of Trees & Lights, St Mary’s Church. Contact Chris Terry: 01473 311102 Saturday & Sunday, June 23 & 24 2018: Village Scarecrow Trail. Contact Chris Terry: 01473 311102

“Thank you so much for all your lovely roast dinners and for being our friends. We will miss you so much.”

SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM Once again yet another month has rushed past and the year is running steadily onwards towards autumn and winter. As was mentioned last month, please do leave a light on when you go out; it’s getting darker earlier in the evenings now and it’s really obvious when no one is at home. And do remember to close and lock your windows and doors when out and that includes the windows upstairs. I know it sounds like we are nagging, but the alternative could be a lot of heartbreak, time and money. This month we appear to be having a few fly tipping incidents around some of the villages and in some of the more remote locations away from the villages and main roads. It’s very unsightly and sometimes a health hazard to the public and animals in the area so I would urge you to contact Babergh District Council to report any fly tipping if found or if seen being dumped to the Environmental Department. If you see people fly tipping – and if it is safe to do so – take the index mark and make/type of vehicle, but do not place yourself in a position of danger or possible conflict. Do report the time and place and any details taken to the council. Hopefully if the culprits can be found we can nip this one in the bud and stop others from doing the same. Now we come to gardens and the autumn rush to clear up and beautify before the rain and ice turn up during the next couple of months. Please lock away your mowers and tools; they are expensive and will cost you time, effort and money to replace if stolen. Fit a decent padlock and make sure you use it! Chain your mowers to something substantial and fit a shed alarm. Mark your tools and photograph them, and don’t forget to record the serial numbers, makes and model numbers as it helps us to find them if they do get stolen. You will need all these details if you do have to claim, so it’s best practise to have them to hand if you have to make a claim or tell us. Have a great month. PCSO 3041 Cooper, Hadleigh SNT As always, Hadleigh SNT is at Hadleigh Police Station and can be contacted at: hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk Emergency: 999 / Non-Emergency: 101

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OUT & ABOUT CONSTABLE SINGERS CONCERT

STOUR VALLEY ARTS & MUSIC

Constable Hall, East Bergholt Saturday, October 28 at 7pm Doors open at 6.30pm Raising funds for MIND Raffle, bar open during interval Tickets £7 including coffee/tea For tickets contact choir members or Mel: 01206 298628

CAPEL SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT Please make a date for our annual Christmas Concert which will take place on Tuesday, December 12 at 7.30pm. There will be that usual mix of carols by the singers, congregational carols and also Christmas readings from a very wide selection of sources. There will be refreshments afterwards in the hall. The singers have lost one or two voices this year due to house moves and commitments. We would welcome new sopranos and basses. If you know of anyone who might be interested please contact Chris: chris.yule2@tiscali.co.uk / 07723 333238

TEA & COMPANY Monday, October 16 at Wenham View, Dove Close All welcome to come along from 2.30pm £1.50 for tea/coffee and homemade cakes Raffle Supported by The Capel Ladies

Castalian String Quartet: Sunday, October 22, 4pm at St Mary the Virgin Church, East Bergholt Programme: Haydn’s Quartet op20 no2, Schumann’s Quartet in A minor op41 no1, Beethoven’s Quartet in A minor op132 Formed in 2011, this outstanding young quartet with its “richly romantic energy and passion” (Strad Magazine) is fast becoming a favourite of audiences in the United Kingdom and abroad. Almost immediately they were offered an award by the Elias Fawsett Trust and also the Countess of Munster Trust among others. In 2011 they achieved a Masters Degree in Chamber Music at the Hannover University of Music, Dance and Theatre, they then won first prize at the Lyon International Chamber Music Competition in 2015 and in 2016 they won third prize at the Banff International String Quartet Competition. SVAM’S 67th season continues with: Sunday, November 12: Trio con Brio Copenhagen, St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, December 3: Gold and Dirt – Reflections on an Architectural Journey, illustrated lecture by architect John Lyall, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, January 21: Bartosz Glowacki, classical accordion, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, February 18: Savitri Grier (violin) and Richard Uttley (piano), St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, March 4: Young Musicians Concert* with talented local musicians 16 and under, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm

TEA AND CHAT You are warmly invited for tea/coffee and cake at St Mary’s Hall (behind the church, opposite Pound Lane). We meet bi-monthly on the third Monday of the month. We are a friendly group and it’s a good chance to sit and relax and perhaps meet new friends. Refreshments just £1.50.

Sunday, March 18: Sacconi Quartet and Michael Collins (clarinet), St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm *not included in season ticket Tickets: 01206 298426 / svamtickets@btinternet.com / www.svam.org.uk

We hope to see you on November 20. For further details please contact Jean Yule: 310992

BENTLEY TODDLER GROUP FUNDRAISING JUMBLE SALE Saturday, November 11 from 2pm at Bentley Village Hall

THE ORCHARD PLAYERS Our next production will be Aladdin at Capel Village Hall from January 11-13, 2018. Watch this space for further details!

www.keepingintouchwith.com/capelcapers

If you have anything you wish to donate, please bring it along to the hall from 9am on the day or telephone Pam (01473 310283) or Aimée (01473 311311) and we will arrange to collect it from you. If you would like to come to our sale, the hall will be open from 2pm. Tea and coffee will also be available. We look forward to seeing you and thank you for your support.

OUT & ABOUT CAPEL LIBRARY We have had a very busy summer with children completing this year’s reading scheme entitled Animal Agents. 122 registered, 86 finished and 20 didn’t get off the ground. Our presentation was on September 24 with Councillor Gordon Jones awarding certificates and medals. The children are now looking forward to seeing Olly the Magician, courtesy of The Friends of Capel Library. We thank all our volunteers who have helped us over the summer, an amazing 112.5 hours of valuable time. We could not have run the scheme successfully without you. CLUBS THIS COMING MONTH Babybounce Tuesdays, October 3, 10, 17 (not 24 as it is half term holiday) and 31 at 2pm. Come and join in our little group of instrument shakers and movers. All are welcome, open to all children under the age of five accompanied by an adult carer. Minecraft Sunday 8 from 10.30am-12.30pm. Children under eight must be accompanied by an adult. Capel Creators Saturday 28 from 10.30am-12.30pm. Open to all children at a cost of 50p per child. This includes a drink and a biscuit. Under eights must be accompanied by an adult. Capel Library Book Group Friday 20, starting at 2.30pm. Come and join in our little group and suggest a title to read and share at the next meeting. Don’t forget that we sell stamps and book tokens of any denomination. We accept good quality second hand books to sell but please consider the condition before passing them over. We have had some books recently that haven’t made the grade. OPENING TIMES Monday: closed Tuesday: 9.30am-12.30pm & 2-5.30pm Wednesday: 9.30am-12.30pm Thursday: 9.30am-12.30pm Friday: 2-5pm & 5.30-7.30pm Saturday: 9am-3pm Sunday: 10am-3pm Contact: 01473 311699

FRIENDS OF CAPEL LIBRARY Thanks to all who supported and helped at Bentley Fun Day. It was good to have the sides back on the gazebo. Thanks too to County Councillor Gordon Jones for presenting the certificates to all those youngsters who completed the Summer Reading Challenge, and to the parents who supported their children throughout the challenge. This month we will be showing Churchill by popular demand. Make sure you book your tickets early to ensure you get a seat. Have you entered a team for our October quiz yet? This takes place in the village hall on October 21 at 7.30pm. It should be a good evening and the tickets include a ploughman’s supper The September winners of the 100 club were Kevin Austrin (£20), June Hall (£10), Isla Budgen (£10) and Bryn Hurren (£5). Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook.

In Touch online:

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CAPEL ST MARY & LITTLE WENHAM COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

IN THE VILLAGE HALL COMPLEX

BT SPORT Available on the Big Screen in the Vine Lounge!

“QUIZ NIGHT” SATURDAY 14th October DOORS OPEN 7.30pm In the Village Hall Maximum 6 people per Team £3.50 per person includes Nibbles “BINGO” THURSDAY 19th October DOORS OPEN AT 7.30pm In the Vine Lounge Books £1 Or 6 Books £5 EYES DOWN 8.30pm

FREE WI-FI In both Bars!

CARD PAYMENT SERVICE now available!

FREE TABLE TENNIS Subject to Hall availability! The Member’s Draw takes place every Friday night in the Vine Lounge. BIG CASH PRIZES The winning member must be present in the Village Hall Complex to win or have had a go on the FRIDAY NIGHT DRAW!

“CHILDRENS HALLOWEEN PARTY” SUNDAY 28th October 4pm - 6pm In the Village Hall Ages 6 & Under & 7+ Tickets: £4.00 Party Games & Disco, Nibbles & Goodies Best carved pumpkin & Fancy dress competitions! “BINGO” THURSDAY 24th November DOORS OPEN AT 7.30pm In the Vine Lounge Books £1 Or 6 Books £5 EYES DOWN 8.30pm “CHRISTMAS FAIR” SATURDAY 11th November 10am-2pm In the Village Hall Lots of stalls selling Christmas gifts! FREE ENTRY! To buy Tickets or book Quiz Teams, call in the Village Bar or ring Ruth - 07548130293 Tracy - 07917440459 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE EVENTS MENTIONED ON THIS PAGE VISIT CAPEL VILLAGE BAR FACEBOOK PAGE OR THE WEBSITE

2017 Association Membership Membership renewal is due in January each year. The costs for 2017 are: Junior 16-17 £2.50, Single including Over 65’s £6, Family £10

www.capelcommunitytrust.org

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT VILLAGE HALL DIARY, OCTOBER 2017 Sunday 1 Trampoline Club, 9.30am-noon, hall Monday 2 Blood Donating, all day, hall Tuesday 3 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Under 16s Ballroom and Latin, 6-7pm, hall Courses/private lessons Ballroom and Latin, 7-8pm, hall Ballroom and Latin dance for adults, 8-9pm, hall Wednesday 4 Carpet Bowls, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Thursday 5 Coffee Shop, 10am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Capel Ladies, 7-10.30pm, library Friday 6 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, library Saturday 7 Dog Training, 9.30-11.30am, hall Sunday 8 Trampoline Club, 9.30am-noon, hall Monday 9 Parish Council Meeting, 7.30-10.30pm, library Tuesday 10 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Under 16s Ballroom and Latin, 6-7pm, hall Courses/private lessons Ballroom and Latin, 7-8pm, hall Ballroom and Latin dance for adults, 8-9pm, hall Bereavement Counselling, 6-8pm, library Wednesday 11 Carpet Bowls, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Flower Arranging, 6.30-10.30pm, library Thursday 12 Coffee Shop, 10am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Women’s Institute, 7-10.30pm, library Friday 13 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, library Saturday 14 Dog Training, 9.30-11.30am, hall Quiz Night, 7.30-11pm, hall Sunday 15 Trampoline Club, 9.30am-noon, hall Monday 16 Community Association Meeting, 8-10.30pm, library Tuesday 17 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Under 16s Ballroom and Latin, 6pm-7pm, hall Courses/private lessons Ballroom and Latin, 7-8pm, hall Ballroom and Latin dance for adults, 8-9pm, hall Community Cinema, 7-10.30pm, library Wednesday 18 Carpet Bowls, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Thursday 19 Coffee Shop, 10am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Bingo, 7.30-11pm, Vine Lounge

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Friday 20 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, library Saturday 21 Dog Training, 9.30-11.30am, hall Friends of Capel Library Quiz Night, 7.30-11pm, hall Sunday 22 Trampoline Club, 9.30am-noon, hall Tuesday 24 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Under 16s Ballroom and Latin, 6-7pm, hall Courses/private lessons Ballroom and Latin, 7-8pm, hall Ballroom and Latin dance for adults, 8-9pm, hall Bereavement Counselling, 6-8pm, library Wednesday 25 Carpet Bowls, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Thursday 26 Coffee Shop, 10am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 6.30-10.30pm, hall Gardening Club, 7-10.30pm, library Friday 27 Strength and Balance Class, 10.30-11.30am, library Saturday 28 Dog Training, 9.30-11.30am, hall Halloween Party, afternoon, hall Sunday 29 Trampoline Club, 9.30am-noon, hall Orchard Players, 3-7pm, hall Tuesday 31 Beacon Coffee Shop, 9am-12.30pm, Vine Lounge Zumba, 9.30-10.30am, hall Zumba Gold, 10.45-11.30am, hall Carpet Bowls, 1.30-5pm, hall Under 16s Ballroom and Latin, 6-7pm, hall Courses/private lessons Ballroom and Latin, 7-8pm, hall Ballroom and Latin dance for adults, 8-9pm, hall A CELEBRATION OF LIFE If you would like to celebrate the life of someone you loved who has passed away, you can hire the Vine Lounge in the village hall complex most weekdays for just £75. All enquires to Mandy. FUNCTION ROOMS FOR HIRE If you are organising a party, social event or business meeting, or just want a get together with family and friends, why not book the village hall, Vine Lounge, library or stage? We can cater for parties between 20 and 200 people at very competitive rates. Rooms are available during the daytime or evenings. Facilities include a fully licensed bar and a kitchen preparation area with prices starting from as little as £10 an hour for the library, £15 an hour for the hall and the Vine Lounge is £88 for an evening. All enquires to Mandy. CONTACTS Village Bar: 01473 311766 Mandy Marshall (events and hiring): 01473 312026 / bookings@capelcommunitytrust.org ST MARY FUNCTION ROOMS: FREE ROOM HIRE SPECIAL OFFER FOR A TRIAL PERIOD Do you have a celebration coming up? If you are a member of the community association you may be eligible for free room hire on an adult party in the hall or Vine Lounge. For further details, contact Mandy on 01473 312026. Terms and Conditions apply.

OUT & ABOUT

DOVE CLOSE CHRISTMAS FAYRE CAPEL IRISH SET DANCE GROUP Capel Irish Set Dance Group meets at St Mary’s Church Hall on the third Sunday of every month (except August and the second Sunday in December) from 2-5.30pm.

Saturday, November 25, 10am-1pm Gift and cake stalls Tea and cakes Everyone welcome

We are a friendly group and it’s not necessary to have a partner. In fact you’re welcome to come along just to enjoy the music. The remaining dates for 2017 are: October 15, November 19 and December 10 Hope to see you, Hille and Trevor Peartree, 01473 310146 Chris and Marjorie Haste, 01473 311615

NEW ZUMBA & ZUMBA GOLD FITNESS CLASSES Weekly Zumba fitness classes will be starting on Tuesday, October 31 in Capel Village Hall at 9.30am and a Zumba Gold class will follow at 10.45am. Zumba is a Latin inspired dance workout that is lively, energetic and great fun! Drop the children off at school and come and start your day in the best way. Zumba Gold still has the lively Zumba music and moves, but at a modified pace with no impact. It is great for the older active adult or people new to exercise. It helps improve muscle strength, balance, range of motion and co-ordination. My classes are friendly, welcoming and fun! Come and give it a try on October 31. I look forward to meeting you. Sarah: sarahjlaflin@gmail.com www.sarahlaflin.zumba.com

ST MARY’S CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING A reminder that our Christmas Coffee Morning will be held on December 2 from 10am-noon in the parish church and hall. Refreshments including delicious cakes and hot bacon rolls with tea and coffee will be served in the hall. In the church there will be many stalls selling items to help your Christmas shopping with plants and festive wreaths, stationery, preserves, cakes, books and much more. Don’t forget the hamper raffle! Please note the date in your diary; you are sure of a warm welcome.

NEARLY NEW SALE Capel St Mary CEVC Primary School Saturday, October 21, 1.30-3pm Capel Community Church, Days Road, Capel St Mary GOOD QUALITY ITEMS ONLY Maternity clothes, baby equipment, clothes (aged 0-11 years), toys, books and games 50p Entrance fee (children free) For more details or to order a seller’s pack, please contact Lisa (01473 312248) or Jo (07709 724133)

ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, October 14, 9am-12.30pm. Fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items which make ideal presents. Get in some early Christmas shopping.

MANNINGTREE POETRY GROUP The next meeting of Poetry Plus will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, October 10 at the Red Lion, South Street, Manningtree.

East End Butchers are pleased to be the market’s resident meat supplier. If you would like to place on order with them it can be collected at the market each month. Their number for orders is 01206 392190.

All those interested in poetry are invited to attend either to listen to the spoken word or to read poetry themselves. Some people will read their own poetry and some will choose to read the work of other poets.

Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue.

There is no admission charge.

New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777

To keep up-to-date with this poetry group, please visit: www.poetryplus.org.uk

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/capelcapers

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OUT & ABOUT VILLAGE LINK CLUB

BENTLEY TUESDAY CLUB

On October 11 John Wrigley will present a talk entitled Jewel of the Canaries.

Since my last report we have had a number of speakers to entertain us. Pip Wright made a welcome return with an enlightening talk on the notorious Whistlecraft Family of Rickinghall.

Future talks this year: A Year as Mayor of Ipswich, Christmas Special Message and Carols, First Aid and AED, Dad’s Army Legendary TV Programme, History of Scarecrows, Pray Silence for ? and History of Butley Priory. Meetings are held at 10am on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall. Following the speaker we have refreshments (when there is time for a chat with other members) and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us. Roger Felgate: 01473 311684

This was followed by Dr David Healey with a fascinating talk on the flora and fauna of Bulgaria, and finally we welcomed a new speaker, Barbara Faulkner, with a history of millinery. Four of our members modelled a wide collection of hats from Victorian times through to the present. At the beginning of September we had our annual outing to the Flora Tea Rooms at Dunwich when 43 members and friends had a most enjoyable fish and chip lunch. We then journeyed to Southwold with some members visiting the town while others walked the pier before our return to Bentley. The month concluded with a session of chair aerobics, and a visit by The Coffee Caravan.

SUFFOLK BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

Dates for our future meetings are as follows.

Recently bereaved or experiencing a delayed reaction? Are you in need of help and support?

October 3: Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses by Jason Salisbury, 2.30pm

Why not join a small focused group, of five to 10, sharing bereavement issues? Groups are led by an experienced facilitator creating a warm, safe environment in which to explore the many aspects of loss. Groups are held in Hadleigh (afternoon) and Capel St Mary (evening) and are free to Suffolk residents. New members are welcome. For more details or to reserve a place contact Patrick or Margaret: www. suffolkbereavement.org.uk / sbsg246@gmail.com / 01206 299832 Talk to us at our pop up information event at Hadleigh Library on Tuesday, October 3, 11am to 3pm.

CAPEL ST MARY WI On August 10, due to inclement weather and heavy rain the previous day, we had no option but to hold our annual garden party in St Mary’s Church Hall. In true WI form the weather did not deter 63 WI members from Group 20 plus Chantry and Pinewood attending. There was a lovely ambience created by happy banter with everyone catching up while enjoying the delicious cream tea, raffle and the sale of cards. We were happy to participate in Capel St Mary’s Fun Day in June where we provided the refreshments. A total of £213.90 was raised which we donated to Capel Community Association. Should you wish to join Capel St Mary WI, we would be pleased to hear from you. Please contact Sue Dale for further details: 07773 042910

CAPEL COUNTRYSIDE CLUB In September we had an excellent speaker, Mr Kennell, talking on the bricks and brickwork of East Anglia. He presented slides of numerous buildings in Suffolk and Norfolk, each showing different ways of brick building. In Capel the Methodist Church has some Flemish bond bricks and the old chapel an unusual key brick. Dedham has some good examples of Georgian and Victorian houses which are worth looking at. On October 10 our speaker will be David Morton on The Wonders of Light. Please come and join us; we need some new members for the club. Doreen Parker: 01473 311267

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October 17: An Eccentric Look at Suffolk by Charlie Haylock, 2.30pm October 31: Some Stranger Aspects of Policing (Part 2) by Dick Leach, 2pm (note earlier time) All meetings are held in Bentley Village Hall. Margaret Blackmore: 01473 310655

AN ECCENTRIC LOOK AT SUFFOLK Bentley Tuesday Club invites you to a humorous afternoon with Charlie Haylock Tuesday, October 17 Bentley Village Hall at 2.30pm Guests £1 incl. tea/coffee

STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB Returning after our summer break on Wednesday, September 6, Tom Williams presented Everyone Has a Book in Them, and two weeks later on Wednesday 20, Philip Roberts talked about The Mary Rose. Both presentations were enjoyed by our members. Our first October meeting is on Wednesday 4 when Andrew Morton will talk of the work undertaken by Colchester Food Bank, followed on Wednesday 18 by David Ablewhite who returns to present The Royal Family. On November 1 Ted Wheatley presents Overland to India and on November 15 Dennis and Ann Kell will present Wildlife in the Falkland. On December 6 Paul Oliver presents his popular Christmas quiz and at the final meeting of the year Barbara Faulkner will tell us about The Man in Red. Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202

OUT & ABOUT STOUR VALLEY U3A

CAPEL LADIES CLUB

Our speaker on September 13 was David Whittle, vice-chairman of the Harwich Society, with a presentation entitled I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside. The presentation informed us how the Victorians were suddenly able to travel due to the harnessing of steam in the form of paddle steamers and railways, leading to the development of seaside resorts on the Essex and Suffolk coasts, including Harwich and Dovercourt. Being a woman racing driver and racing at Le Mans is the subject of our talk by Celia Stevens on October 11. She will talk of her experience of racing historic cars three times at Le Mans Classic, once at Nuremburg and all over the UK. And she is still racing! On Wednesday, November 8, event organiser Eve Regelous, who worked closely with Harrods, will give a glimpse of behind the scenes of day-today life in this world famous company, including its history. We do not have a speaker meeting in December, but have our popular Christmas lunch at the Constable Hall on Wednesday, December 6. This is always a popular event and so early booking is advised. Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. We have a wide range of groups including language study, country walking and computer studies and groups that visit gardens, churches and historic buildings. In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust, have over 260 members and 21 groups. For further information please visit www.stourvalleyu3a.org.uk where membership secretary Gillian Gibbs may be contacted. We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except August and December. It’s never too late to learn! Join the 361,477 members across 969 U3As throughout the UK today.

CRAFTERS UNLIMITED A craft club meeting on the first Monday of the month (except for bank holidays when it’s the following Monday). Saturday workshops (10am-4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) are held in Wherstead Village Hall Meeting Rooms. The AGM in September was followed by an entertaining evening with Heather Prince demonstrating and teaching us folk art painting. Monday, October 2: No Sewing Cushion Cover (Debbie) Saturday, October 7: Open day for all members and friends (10am4pm) to delve into the stock box with lots of past projects to try. We will also have a table with craft materials and items for sale, and a chance to say good luck to Debbie who will be leaving us for six months to work abroad. Refreshments will be available. Samples of each project are displayed the month before and other projects are available. Contacts: Ann 01473 780298 / Jill 01473 713534

Turkey and the Ottomans – Thursday, September 7 Capel Ladies were delighted to welcome back Jenny Gibbs, along with her partner Mustapha, to talk about The Ottoman Empire: The Hidden Treasures of Istanbul and a Glimpse into the Harem. Jenny wore a traditional costume and gave us a quick introduction as to how she came to live in Turkey for 24 years, having fallen in love with the country after a brief holiday there. The Empire was created in 1299, and from the 15th to 17th centuries was the largest empire in the world. The Ottomans came from Mongolia and while some went to Turkey others went to Finland, which is why there is a similarity in their languages. Eventually Istanbul became the centre of the Empire. The palace there is magnificent and covers 173 acres. All the roofs are domes, and the walls are covered in ceramic hand-painted tiles. The kitchens are vast as they would have served upwards of 10,000 people. Jenny has visited the palace several times as it takes many days to see it all. The harem in the palace was also very large. Harem means ‘women’s quarters’ and this is where all the women in the palace lived. The sultan was allowed four wives, while other men could have seven. These would all be Turkish, but his concubines, usually about 800 of them, would come from conquered nations. They would be the most beautiful girls, and in the harem they were well educated, taught to play music, dance, sing and do exquisite embroidery. Each girl would have her own servant and there were also about four hundred eunuchs to keep order, so you can understand why it was so large with that many people there! A sad fate awaited these women, however. When a Sultan died all his concubines would be killed, often weighted down with stones and thrown in the Bosphorus! Fortunately this practice died out as the centuries passed. Jenny went on to tell us about some of the buildings in Istanbul including the fabulous mosques. The Grande Hotel de Londres, built for the passengers of the Orient Express in 1892, remains unchanged to this day and is often used by film companies. She brought with her examples of Ottoman clothing as well as scarves, tablecloths and bags to sell, all very beautiful and eagerly bought by our members. We look forward to time Jenny’s next visit, she is always a delight to listen to. For the chance to hear more fascinating speakers, why not come along to one of our meetings? For more details, ring Di Barker on 01473 311870 or visit: www.capelladies.com

In Touch online:

Shimmy, Shake, Wiggle & Giggle Dance Fitness

FunDancing Classes St Mary's Church Hall The Street Capel St Mary

every Thursday 10am & 7pm spaces are limited to reserve yours

Call Janet on 07506 350 455

classes also in: - Boxford - East Bergholt - Nayland, & - Stratford St Mary

janet@fundancing.co.uk www.fundancing.co.uk FunDancing.Suffolk FunDancing

Wenham View, Capel St Mary Live with us Properties available for older persons in Capel St Mary  Self contained two bedroom properties  Dedicated staff team on site including night staff ensuring a safe and secure environment  Integrated alarm call systems for security  Guest room facilities —why not book a trial nights stay? Work with us We are proud to be Leaders in Diversity and Investors in People (Silver award) and offer benefits including:  Professional qualifications

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OUT & ABOUT CAPEL ALLOTMENTS ASSOCIATION’S GUIDE TO GARDENING IN OCTOBER 1977-2017 – WE’VE BEEN GROWING FOR 40 YEARS VEG PLOT Pick frost tender crops, clear ground and get started on your winter digging incorporating well rotted manure, composted garden waste or mushroom compost. Plant spring cabbage and onion sets. FRUIT Apply grease bands and grease. Remove fruited raspberry, blackberry and tayberry canes and tie in new shoots. Take cuttings of red, white and black currents and gooseberries. Order trees and bushes. GREENHOUSE Pick tomatoes, cucumber, pepper and aubergines. Empty greenhouse and wash down with Jeyes. Line with bubble plastic. Bring in frost tender plants. FLOWERS Plant spring flowering bulbs. Remove and compost summer bedding. Plant wallflowers, sweet williams, pansy’s, viola and heather’s by October 20 while the ground is still warm. Sow sweet peas. Mulch borders. Divide perennials. LAWNS Re-seed worn areas, spray with an Iron Sulphate solution to treat moss. Aerate and scarify. Apply sharp sand, an autumn feed and mow with blades set at medium height. ALLOTMENT NEWS The Hut is open from 10am-noon on Saturdays throughout October for our members. Membership is just £5 per annum. SEED SCHEME Potato orders to be in by October 15, paper seed orders by November 5 to Phil or online as soon as you are ready after contacting Phil for your personal access discount code.

AUTUMN WORK-IN The final work-in of the year starts at 9am on Sunday, October 8. Refreshments provided. 2017 SHOW Our 40th Annual Flower and Produce Show was up there with our best ever shows with new exhibitors generating great competition. There were more than 650 exhibits with amazing mammoth veg and loads of entries from children, handcrafters and flower arrangers. Thanks to all our brilliant exhibitors and all of our sponsors who allow us to continue and expand. Congratulations to our prize draw winners who shared over £800 of prizes: Mark Ward, Sam Warner, Ann Warner, T Smy, Mr Scott, Mrs B Rawthorne, Lewis Tyler, Celia Warr, Mr E Blacksell, Jane Sago, Ray Burwood, Brenda Green, Mr Subner, Sue Carpendale, E Titshell, Bill Cole and Lynn Knowles. The bottle of whisky was at Doncaster Rovers Football Club and was won by Eddie Cox. The teddy bear’s name was Olivia and was won by Iris Stock. And congratulations to all those who won one of the 150+ ‘Hearts Game’ prizes. Thank you for supporting the show. Thanks for all your surplus veg, fruit and flowers, we were able to send eight trays of veg to the food bank and 10 table arrangements to Blackbrook Care Home. Both parties were extremely grateful. FIND are struggling to fill the shelves at the food bank and would appreciate food, furniture or cash donations. Families In Need helps those living in Ipswich and surrounding areas who are deprived of a minimum standard of living. To volunteer, donate or for general enquiries, please visit their website, call 01473 833351 or write to FIND (Familes In Need), PO Box 1029, Ipswich IP1 9XJ. For a full list of the show trophy winners and runners-up, the show secretary’s report and photos and a more extensive version of this article please visit: www.capelallotments.co.uk

CAPEL ST MARY GARDEN CLUB

BENTLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

Our next meeting is on Thursday, October 26 when Karen Kenny will present a talk entitled Friend and Foe in the Garden. Karen is a very witty and knowledgeable speaker so we should have an entertaining evening.

Any queries, please let me know.

On Saturday, August 19, Bentley Horticultural Society held their annual show. This year we were delighted with a record entry of 315, with a third of our membership partaking. Enid Castle and John Mower – our two independent judges – complimented the society on both the high standard of exhibits and the quantities in each class. It was a full house during the afternoon when the general public viewed the exhibits and enjoyed a cup of tea.

Chairman Edwina Cox: 01473 311121

The cup winners in the various sections were as follows:

We are always happy to welcome new members (£8 a year or £2.50 if you want to just come to a particular meeting as a visitor).

South View Cup: Flower Section Mills Cup: Flower Section

Sandra Ford Pam Lovell

Carruthers Cup: Annual Competition

Anne Gibson

Farmers Cup: Vegetables

John Blackmore

Jensen Cup: Fruit

Bob Mawkes

Booth Cup: Floral Art

Sandra Mehen

James Cup: Craft Saward Cup: Domestic Arnold Cup: Best in Show Presidents Shield: Most Points in Show

Sandra Mehen Angela Ross

Sandra Mehen

Pam Lovell

Our next meeting is at 7.30pm in Bentley Village Hall on October 20 when Edward Martin will present a talk entitled The Lost Gardens of Suffolk.

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SCHOOLS / SPORT CAPEL PRIMARY SCHOOL

CAPEL ST MARY BOWLS CLUB

Welcome back to a new academic year. It was lovely to see all the bright and enthusiastic faces on the first day of term (and every day after that). It is great to welcome our new Foundation and Nursery classes and the extra new children we have joining us in other classes. We hope their time with us is great. This term children started learning about great new topics alongside their maths and English and everything else we fit in each day. In Unit 1, Moles, Fawns and Rabbits will be learning about amazing animals and what animals are like and they will also be learning about funny bones. Children love learning about animals and find them fascinating. In Unit 2, Squirrels, Hedgehogs and Badgers will be learning all about Ancient Greece after a short splish, splash splosh watery topic. In Unit 3, Owls, Foxes and Otters will be learning about ancient Egypt and ancient Islamic civilisation too – they will find out how people lived in the past before the internet! Gosh was there life before the internet! Over the summer a group of volunteers from the War Memorial Group renovated Ben’s Reflective Garden and it looks beautiful. There is a new bench, new plants and a new fence. We will also be getting a special First World War memorial and will be able to use the space for reflecting, thinking and class assembly times. Thank you very much to the amazing group of volunteers. We will still be having our Thursday Book Buddies morning so if you are free after drop off do stay for half an hour to hear children read and talk to them about their reading. Reading is key to good learning so all the help we can get is highly valued. It’s a bit strange not seeing some faces who are now Year 7 at East Bergholt High School; we wish them well on the next stage of their education. Do contact us on 01473 310386 if you would like to visit. We currently have spaces in Years 1, 3 and 4. Some year groups are full now which is very exciting, lots of families choosing to come to us. Mrs W Kelway

BENTLEY CEVC AND COPDOCK PRIMARY SCHOOLS What an exciting start to the new school year! Our topics are well under way already, including the Stone Age, All About Me and Africa. As ever, if you have any interesting artefacts that could help us in our projects, and you are happy for us to borrow them, we would love to hear from you. Years 5 and 6 from both schools are ever so excited about their upcoming residential trip to African Adventure. They will be taking part in exciting and challenging events throughout the course of the week and we can’t wait to hear all about their adventures.

That’s it then. Our playing season is now over and what a season it’s been! Well done to our three Kestrel squads who ended up champions of all three leagues in which they compete. The photo shows the three team captains, from left to right Jim Ross, Alastair Montgomerie and Dave Evans. Our Kites gained promotion too in the Samford League, finishing in second spot, and held their own or survived relegation in the other leagues. Great performances! On the social side, it’s been a busy season too, well supported in the main, good fun and with much needed funds raised. Well done to social secretary Pam Peers and to everyone who has contributed. Details of next year’s trip to the World Indoors Bowls Championships at Potters are now available. We head north into Norfolk again on Wednesday, January 24, 2018. Not only is this a great day out, it raises cash for the bowls club, so get your booking in soon. Our club competitions finals day was held on Sunday, September 3 in largely fine and warm weather. Thanks to the many members and guests who turned up to offer support and encouragement. All matches showcased excellent bowling, and the ladies singles match in particular was a close-run thing. FINAL RESULTS Bill Cook Trophy: Les Bryant beat Mick Howe (21-10) Open 4 Woods Singles: John Wright beat Jim Ross (21-18) Drawn Pairs: Jim Ross and Karen Montgomerie beat Alistair Montgomerie and Val Vertigans (21-12) Men’s Singles: Jim Ross beat George Mayhew (21-19) Ladies Singles: Carole Howe beat Elaine Wright (21-20) We have our presentations dinner and AGM to look forward to before we think about what bowls gear we want on our Christmas wish list! IMPORTANT DATES November 11: Social Evening December 25: Christmas Day Jack High

Online safety is an ever present concern for parents and schools and this term we are focussing on staying safe on the internet. We are being visited by the NSPCC who will be leading workshops with all the children across both schools, looking at how to keep safe and what to do if something goes wrong. There will also be a free workshop for parents, grandparents and carers to help adults understand the threats that are out there and how to support our children to keep themselves safe. The community are warmly invited to join us for our annual MacMillan Coffee and Cake fundraiser. This year we will be holding these events at 2.30pm on Friday, September 29 at both Bentley and Copdock Schools and you are very welcome to attend either. Please do come along to help raise money for this amazing charity. Finally, we are very pleased to welcome new children to our federation in both Reception classes and across other year groups. The Bentley and Copdock family looks forward to travelling on your learning journey with you.

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OUT & ABOUT CAPEL PLOUGH FOOTBALL CLUB

EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB

The season started for our Saturday First team on August 19 with a 2-2 draw at home to Grundisburgh. After being two goals down at the break the team did well to come back in the second half, especially as we had a player sent off with half an hour left to play.

The season has kicked off for the First Team and Reserves, albeit a limited schedule and a slow start for both teams. However, from September 8 there is a full fixture list.

Goals from Nick Middlebrook and an own goal gave us our first point of the season in the Senior Division of the Suffolk and Ipswich League, with the team having now been in the Senior Division for the last 20 seasons.

1st Team / Senior Division Sat, Sep 23: Grundisburgh (A) Sat, Sep 30: Bramford Utd (H) Sat, Oct 7: AFC Hoxne (H) Sat, Oct 14: Bramford Utd / Suffolk Senior Cup (A) Sat, Oct 21: Haughley Utd (A) Sat, Oct 28: Henley Athletic (H) Sat, Nov 4: Colpestonians (A)

Wednesday, August 23 saw us play away to Crane Sports with the side throwing away two points after playing well and leading 2-0 after 90 minutes play only to concede two goals in injury time and having to settle for a draw with both goals being scored by new striker Harry Parkes. August 26 saw us play our third game in a week when we played Ransome Sports at home with teenager Joe Whitley giving us an early lead in a game which we dominated, but were unable to add to our early goal and conceded an equaliser with two minutes remaining and ended up drawing our third game in a row in what was a frustrating start to the season. The Reserves started their league programme on September 2 and reports on their early games will follow next month. Refreshments (tea and cakes) are available at all First team home games and you can check the fixtures on the Suffolk and Ipswich website or on the posters displayed at the clubhouse. Bob the Ploughman

UPCOMING FIXTURES

Reserves / League A Sat, Sep 23: Mendlesham Reserves (H) Sat, Sep 30: Newmarket Town Res / Suffolk Senior Res Cup (A) Sat, Oct 7: Sporting 87 Res (A) Sat, Oct 14: Wenhaston Utd Res (H) Sat, Oct 21: Ipswich Athletic Res (H) Sat, Oct 28: Henley Athletic Res (A) Sat, Nov 4: Framlingham Town Res (H) A Team / League B Sat, Sep 23: Benhall St Mary Res (H) Sat, Sep 30: Claydon Res / Suffolk Primary Cup (H) Sat, Oct 7: Cedar Park Res (A) Sat, Oct 14: Trimley Red Devils Res (A) Sat, Oct 21: Haughley Utd Res (A) Sat, Nov 4: Stowupland Falcons Res (A) Fixtures are subject to change. To confirm visit: http://fulltime.thefa.com/Index.do?league=4358069 EVENTS Saturday, September 30: Quiz November 18 (provisional): Race Night We are always looking for people to help the club as committee members, either on the playing side or just in the background. If you would like to sponsor the club in some capacity we would also be delighted to hear from you. Steve Butcher stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

TRAMPOLINING: A SPORT FOR ALL Did you know there is a trampoline club running a class on Sunday mornings between 10am and noon in the village hall? We have with a fully qualified coach and good quality trampolines so a large range of moves can be taught in a safe and fun way. There is a friendly atmosphere with people of many abilities and you don’t have to be a great sportsperson to have a go and you may well surprise yourself on how well you can do. Don’t be shy come and have a go. Just come along on a Sunday morning for a free try. Trampoline Coach Sharon Haddock Club Chairman Richard Warr

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ON THE GRAPEVINE QUESTIONS ON CASH With Independent Financial Adviser, Nick Plumb Jeanette from Ixworth asks: “I read with interest an article that you published on a financial advice website, where you indicated how it is possible for a married couple to save inheritance tax by having an Interest in Possession Trust drafted in their wills. My husband passed away just over a year ago and we did not do this with our wills before he died. Is there anything I can do now to save the potential inheritance tax that my children will face?” A classic example of using an Interest in Possession (IPDI) Trust is that of a married couple, who want to reduce inheritance tax for their children. Under the will of the first partner to die an IPDI Trust is created, allowing the surviving spouse the trust income for life but preserving the trust capital for the children. When the surviving spouse dies the trust ceases and the capital will then pass to the children. The surviving spouse would be the ‘life tenant’ and the children would be the ‘remaindermen’ of the trust. Although the trust assets do not actually belong to the life tenant, for inheritance tax purposes, they would be treated as if they owned them. Thus, when the ‘life tenant’ dies, the assets of the IPDI are aggregated to their estate and inheritance tax is due on the whole amount (minus any Nil Rate Band allowances). However, the IPDI buys the surviving spouse and the wider family another two or seven years. The trustees of the IPDI trust can either elect to invest the assets of the trust into assets that qualify for Business Property Relief (BPR) or they can make gifts into other trusts or absolute gifts of capital to the remaindermen. If the trustees invested into BPR qualifying investments, the life tenant could take an income from the investments for life, but the capital value of those assets would be outside the inheritance tax regime after just two years. Thus, on the death of the life tenant after two years, the assets of the trust would pass to the remaindermen with no inheritance tax being due. The good news for you Jeanette is that there is still a window of opportunity for you to take advantage of an IPDI Trust for your inheritance tax planning. Believe it or not, you can effectively ‘turn time back’ to a point before the death of your husband and re-make his will to include an Interest in Possession Trust, as if he had done this himself. This process is called a Deed of Variation. Providing all the beneficiaries are in agreement, it can be effected within two years of the date of death of your late husband. A notional will takes this process a stage further, allowing you to create a will for someone who died without one. Again, this must be done within two years of the date of their death. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, The Old Police House, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham IP6 8JP, email nick at nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone him on 01473 830301. Nick’s answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary and without obligation initial consultation to discuss their own position and requirements. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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CHURCH NEWS CAPEL COMMUNITY CHURCH Why say grace before a meal? Have you ever thought about how lucky we are – though I reckon the word should be ‘blessed’, not ‘lucky’ – to have decent food on our plates, and to be able to have regular meals each day? The people of, for example, Yemen are suffering famine on an awesome – but here the word should be ‘awful’ – scale and there isn’t much that we can do about it, other than to donate, within our means, to the charities that are dedicated to providing food relief to the people of these countries, hoping that the money gets through to where it is needed. So why do formal dinners include grace before the meal begins? Or after the meal is finished? Well, there is a good example to follow in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 27:35) where Paul was involved in a shipwreck with 276 other men, none of whom had eaten for a couple of weeks. What did he do? He took some bread and gave thanks to God, or in other words, said grace, in front of them all. Then he broke it and began to eat. When I was a youngster, several decades ago, I was taught to be polite, do my best and tell the truth – three simple commands! Being polite meant, amongst other things, saying please and thank you. And now, saying ‘thank you’ comes as a natural expression of gratitude for whatever has been given to me or, especially now, whatever has happened to me. Having said that, I freely admit that I don’t always say ‘thank you’ for the food that has been provided, though I certainly think it silently. Given that, like you, I’m so fortunate to have been given food, in all sorts of different formats, I reckon I ought to say ‘thank you’ to someone for providing it! That could, and indeed should, be to the host or the hostess, such as my younger daughter, but it can always be to God. A simple ‘thank you’ can be quite enough, following the example of Jesus himself when, for example, he was feeding the 5,000 In St Matthew’s Gospel (14.19), and in St John’s Gospel as well (6.10), Jesus directed the people (5,000 of them) to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks (said grace) and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. These biblical examples remind us that saying grace means doing just that, saying thank you ‘for what we are about to receive’ but not making it into a general thanksgiving about everything, or the excuse for preaching a veritable sermon. To be practical and effective, a grace should be short. My own preferred grace is not a prayer, but a statement that indeed begins with ‘For what I am about to receive’ and ends with ‘may the Lord make me truly thankful’. Paul, again, in his first letter to his young friend Timothy (1 Tim 4. 4-5, 12), reminded Timothy that everything God created is good, and that nothing is to be taken for granted; thanks should be given to God for the food he is getting, even though in difficult circumstances. He went on to encourage young Timothy not to let anyone look down on him just because he was young, but to set an example for his elders and companions in his speech, (for example by saying grace before a meal) and by his general conduct. Answering the question at the start of this article: yes, we are lucky, or blessed. And if we try to be polite, I reckon we have a bit of an obligation to say ‘thank you’ for the food we are about to eat to the real person who provided it, quite quietly, or even silently, but definitely briefly. So why not let’s give thanks for being in that fortunate position? Frank Wells

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THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH There are at least four saints plus Halloween to mention for the tenth month of the year. They are set out below. St Francis of Assisi, Wednesday, October 4: He is one of the most venerated religious figures in history. Along with Saint Catherine of Siena, he was designated patron saint of Italy. He later became associated with patronage of animals and the natural environment, and it became customary for Catholic and Anglican churches to hold ceremonies blessing animals (in church!) on his feast day. In 1223 Francis arranged for the first Christmas live nativity scene. In 1224 he received the stigmata during the apparition of Seraphic angels in a religious ecstasy making him the first recorded person to bear the wounds of Christ’s Passion. He died during the evening hours of October 3, 1226, while listening to a reading he had requested of Psalm 142 (141). Edward the Confessor, Friday, October 13: Edward was born in 1003 and was the last Saxon king to rule (for more than a few months) in England. In Christian biographies, the term ‘confessor’ is often used to denote someone who has born witness to the faith by his life, but who did not die as a martyr. He died on January 5, 1066, leaving no offspring; and after his death, the throne was claimed by his wife’s brother, Harold the Saxon, and by William of 1066 fame. Edward is remembered, not on the day of his death, but on the anniversary for the moving (‘translation’) of his corpse to a new tomb, the anniversary of the eve of the Battle of Hastings, the end of Saxon England. St Luke, Wednesday, October 18: Saint Luke was born a Greek and a Gentile in Antioch, Syria. He was a physician, and it is believed that he may have also been a slave, as it was not uncommon in his day for slaves to be educated in medicine so the family would have a resident physician. It is believed Luke lived a long life and died circa 74 in Greece. He was the first Christian physician and was venerated by the Roman Catholic Church as the patron saint of physicians and surgeons. Luke is the only Gentile to have written books in the Bible. In the third Gospel, Luke emphasises Christ’s compassion for sinners and for those who suffer. One will also find in Luke’s account of the gospel, a strong emphasis on the role women played in Christ’s ministry. Saints Simon and Jude, Saturday, October 28: In later tradition, Simon is often associated with St Jude as an evangelising team; in Western Christianity they share their feast day. One tradition says he visited Britain – possibly Glastonbury – and was martyred in Caistor, modernday Lincolnshire. Doubtless inspired by his title ‘the Zealot’, a further tradition states he was a member of the group involved in the Jewish revolt against the Romans, which was brutally suppressed. Among some Roman Catholics, Saint Jude is venerated as the ‘patron saint of lost causes’. The Church wanted to encourage veneration of this ‘forgotten’ disciple, and maintained that Saint Jude would intervene in any lost cause to prove his sanctity and zeal for Christ. Halloween, Tuesday, October 31: It is widely believed that many Halloween traditions originated from Celtic harvest festivals with pagan roots. Today, Christian attitudes towards Halloween are diverse. In the Church of England, some dioceses have chosen to emphasise the Christian traditions associated with All Hallow’s Eve. Some of these practices include praying, fasting and attending worship services. ‘O Lord our God, increase, we pray thee, and multiply upon us the gifts of thy grace: that we, who do prevent the glorious festival of all thy Saints, may of thee be enabled joyfully to follow them in all virtuous and godly living. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.’ (Collect of the Vigil of All Saints, The Anglican Breviary) Whatever you do throughout October and on Halloween, may the Lord bless and keep you. Every blessing to you and yours this autumn, as ever.

CHURCH NEWS CHRISTIANS IN CAPEL The members of all the churches foster a closer fellowship and understanding between the respective Christian communities in Capel St Mary. They endeavour to co-ordinate common interests and where practical share common resources to meet specific needs. For times and details of Sunday services, Alpha and Home/Life Groups, please contact one of the following: The Parish Church, St Mary the Virgin The Rev Canon Jim Pendorf The Rectory, Days Road, Capel 01473 312225 / 07973 265037 The Catholic Church Father Christopher Smith, St Mark’s Church 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich 01473 684963 Capel Community Church David Owen, 18 Bushey Close, Capel www.capelcommunitychurch.org.uk 01473 310454 / 07752 921135 The Methodist Church The Rev Andrew Sankey 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary www.capelmethodistchurch.org.uk 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 INTER-CHURCH MIDWEEK ACTIVITIES The following church groups welcome new members: TREKKERS For ages 7-11, meets on Thursdays at the Methodist Church from 3.45 to 5.15pm during school term time. Contact Margaret Sankey: 01473 311178 YOUTH GROUP Junction Club: Fridays at the Methodist Church, 7-9pm for School Years 7-9. Contact Caitlan Mower: 07465 414870 Life Group: Wednesdays at the Methodist Church, 7.30-9pm. Contact Caitlan Mower: 07465 414870 PARENTS AND TODDLERS • Tuesday – 9-11.30am, Capel Community Church, Days Road Contact Margaret Beard: 01473 311219 • Wednesday – 9-11.30am, Busy Bees, Methodist Church Contact Maggie Boswell: 01473 310766 • Wednesday – 10am-noon, Twins & Multiples Group at CCC Contact Chris Matthews: 01473 311368

CAPEL ST MARY METHODIST CHURCH SURPRISE, SURPRISE! When I was 18, I went to a big youth gathering in the Potteries. There were about 150 young people meeting every week. I was struck by the number of young people who were saying “God said this to me”. I felt uncomfortable. I knew a story from the Bible of how young Samuel had heard God calling him, at night. He didn’t realise it was God and thought it was Eli, the elderly priest. Three times he went to Eli, in answer to the call. On the third visit, the penny dropped, and the priest said “it is God calling you”. Eli had grown so accustomed to God not speaking because many people were doing lots of wrong things – so even he was taken by surprise. As an 18-year-old, I had thought that it was just super good spiritual people who would hear God speaking to them. Here at the youth meeting ordinary young people like me were talking about what God was saying and doing in their lives. At the end of the session a 16-year-old girl got up and spoke and used the words of a very old hymn Whosoever Will May Come. I realised I had learnt lots of facts and stories about Jesus, but hadn’t ever ‘come’ to Jesus. I knew about Jesus, but didn’t know him. Like I know about the Queen, but I can’t say I know her. At that meeting, I didn’t leave my seat, but I knew something had changed in me. Jesus knew all about me and my mistakes and failures and still loved me. As I read some of the stories of Jesus again, I realised how Jesus’s friends made so many mistakes and got things wrong. I was in good company when I didn’t get it right. The invitation of the hymn is to all but we have to choose to respond. My prayer life began to change – not just talking at Jesus, but with him – giving him a chance to get a word in. At church yesterday we had a timely reminder of the importance of prayer and listening for God’s voice, both as individuals and together as a Church. As in Eli’s time, we can get used to silence from God and forget he wants to communicate with us. That’s blaming God! The fact is He wants to communicate, and we are bad listeners, we are taught independence and choose not to give God time. Whether you have begun that journey or not, or whether you are in the doldrums and not hearing, you can always start again. If I can help, please get in touch.

SENIOR CITIZENS’ LUNCH CLUBS • First Monday, Capel Community Church, 01473 311368 • Third Tuesday, St Mary’s Church Hall, 01473 310596 • Last Thursday, Methodist Church, 01473 310635

Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Capel Methodist Church 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG

NETWORK FELLOWSHIP Third Tuesday, from 2.30pm, Methodist Church. Anyone welcome to come to the meeting. Contact Judy Steward, 01473 310799

AT CAPEL ST MARY METHODIST

BEACON COFFEE SHOP EVERY TUESDAY 9am-12.30pm, in the Vine Lounge, Capel Village Hall

Sunday 1

10.30am

Worship with The Rev Bev Barclay

6.30pm

Prayer

Sunday 8

10.30am

Worship with Mr Victor Jack

AEROBICS AT CAPEL METHODIST CHURCH Fridays from 10.50-11.50am, Young at Heart (slower paced). Contact Jill Sharp, 01473 311546

apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 Home Groups on various days and times – contact the Minister

6.30pm

Worship with The Rev Andrew Sankey

PILATES • Tuesdays – 7pm and 8.10pm, Capel Methodist Church • Fridays – 8.30am and 9.40am, Capel Methodist Church Contact Jill Sharp, 01473 311546

Sunday 15

10.30am

Worship with Mrs Alyson Ellis

Sunday 22 10.30am

Worship and Communion with The Rev Andrew Sankey

R.O.M.E.O. Lunch for Men at Wenham View, Dove Close off Days Road: Third Thursday, 12.30pm. Book with Peter Ellis: 01473 310096. Also Coffee Drop-in from 10am on the first Wednesday at Dove Close.

United Prayer at St Mary’s

7.30pm

Sunday 29 10.30am

Worship with Mr and Mrs Tom & Lou Boswell

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