In Touch
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with Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton Rural Volume 8 • Issue No. 3 • JANUARY 2018
A Perfect View by Charmian Berry
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Ipswich: 01473 396296
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NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR When I was much younger, New Year’s resolutions seemed to be quite important. I remember feeling I had to come up with some genuine pledges to do one thing or another, or to not do one thing or another. Of course, they all fell by the wayside, but I thought it would be fun to share a few I have failed to keep over the years.
A14 TRAFFIC NOISE
1: I will stop biting my nails (every year since I was five)
Copies were placed in One Stop and Claydon Pharmacy. This, plus some door-to-door visits resulted in 261 signatories. The petition was sent to our MP on September 7 asking for his support for onward transmission to Highways England.
2: I will run 5K (last year) 3: I will learn a new language (every year since I married into a family where everyone else does) 4: I will not watch daytime TV (rarely happens, but does feel like a treat when I get 10 minutes – got to love those housewives!) 5: I will eat less sugar (a daily failure) 6: I will not buy any new shoes or clothes for an entire year (I tried this and it made me completely miserable. A girl needs an occasional treat, or at least the possibility of one!) 7: I’m going to do face yoga every morning (recommended by a friend in 2014 – we don’t see much of each other anymore) 8: I’m going to drink six glasses of water every day (oh the guilt!) 9: I’m going to listen to less Leonard Cohen and be more positive about everything (can’t do it – Leonard truly holds the keys to my miserable heart) 10: I’m going to make time for a weekly date night with my husband (turns out he would have to make the same resolution and get home from work before 9pm) So I’m going to skip the resolutions this year and just get on with living, always trying to do better, to be healthier, more appreciative, more thoughtful… all of which would be easier if I got more sleep. I’ve just talked myself into a resolution, haven’t I? Failed again!
In Touch
After consulting Claydon and Barham Parish Council and having had a meeting with our MP, Dr Dan Poulter, it was agreed that a few of us in the village would organise a petition to go via our MP to Highways England.
In our submission we pointed out that at times the noise levels were unbearable, some residents saving they were even considering having to move house if no action could be taken. We asked if some measures, such as noise reduction surfacing and fencing at the edges of the road could be installed. We have now received a reply, extracts from which are as follows: • Defra have published strategic noise maps for England’s roads, which established the locations of ‘important areas’. • Properties stated on the petition send n have not been identified as being within important areas by Defra. • Whilst were are unlikely to provide specific noise mitigation measures, such as noise barriers, at these locations in the near future, we are developing resurfacing schemes in the vicinity of Claydon and Barham. These will be located on the A14 between junctions 50-51 on both carriageways. We expect these schemes to be delivered during 2018-19. We are considering placing petition sheets in January at One Stop and Claydon Pharmacy for signatures of any residents who have not signed before if you wish to do so. These will then be sent as an addendum. We thank everyone involved in this matter and all who signed the petition. Submitted by Graham Beeby gnpbeeby@gmail.com
with Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton Rural
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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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 Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton Rural is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: DECEMBER 2017 Highways At a councillors’ visit to the Highways Depot we met the staff and discussed the plans to deliver work councillors and local people want. The Network Assurance and the Flooding teams were particularly interesting. Network Assurance, which must authorise work to the highway, has 10 people dealing with 190 issues per day. It has a heavy work load negotiating with utilities and other contractors to agree realistic and safe plans, then monitoring progress. They do, they say, fine companies who don’t get work done on time, but there is a risk that just leads to the overestimation we have suffered. Hackneys Corner We have had a surfeit of works in Gipping Valley where the safety criteria appear over restrictive, diversions are long and progress appears glacial. The recent work at Hackneys Corner did not appear to be staffed continuously although there was no apparent shortage of expensive equipment on site. The signed closure of Bramford Road would have been highly inconvenient, diverting heavy traffic through Claydon or along Chapel Lane. The parish gained a plan which appeared to show Stowmarket Road closed at Hackneys Corner, a disaster. After calls and emails to the cabinet member, the assistant director and the person controlling the signing, I established that was not the case. In fact, the task was completed without closure. Good work, but this process must improve. Flooding The Flooding team was fully aware of the issues on Station Road, Chapel Lane and Addison Way and are seeking solutions. However, the need to agree work with others, such as Highways England, is causing delays. There is a long backlog but priority tasks, such as those involving flooding of houses, are being delivered. County Budget Proposals 2018/19 Government grants to the county are reducing by £22.08M and costs will rise in Social Care by £8.9m and inflation of £7.53m. This year’s £8.5m use of reserves will reduce to £3m. Income increases from business rates, a 1.99% rise in Council Tax, a 3% increase in the Social Care Precept, and the Government’s Better Care Fund up by £5.22m will partially compensate, but leave £23.9m savings to be found, particularly from social care. Increases in social care are necessary to ensure services, particularly to elderly and vulnerable people, are sufficient to prevent a severe knock-on effect in the health service. At £8.9m they are much less than the 19.78m required. I am concerned that there is a £1m cut to the sheltered housing budget, that
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Trading Standards, a service that prosecutes rogue traders who prey on the elderly and vulnerable, is to suffer a £170k cut and Citizens Advice, a charity who give low cost high value advice, will lose £20k. School Transport Policy The administration’s vision is to establish a set of legally required school and post-16 travel policies which are complemented with buy-in from local parents, carers, schools, colleges, communities, and parish councils. Examples from a menu of local solutions for partners to fit to their local area and school or college are: • Moving students on taxis to larger vehicles • Increasing acceptable journey times • Hub collection points in villages • Drop off points further away from schools • Parents to ‘opt-in to’ the travel offer • Increase ‘loading of transport by 20% • Plan additional level of capacity for non-eligible pupils • Parental payments – for eligible children Local solutions would be brokered through the new Suffolk Travel Choices Service on a local basis. Opt-in would remove the automatic provision of travel places for all children eligible whether their parents want it or not. That is what causes the empty spaces we see on school transport. They would then be available for others to purchase. Why don’t we do that now? Mid-Suffolk There is a trend for more controversial issues to be classified as ‘commercially confidential’ where to reveal intentions or figures would damage taxpayer’s interests. This makes it difficult to give full reports. For the current year we appear to be heading for an under-spend of £932k. There are too many reasons to list here, but some items were entered twice. For next year, changes to new homes bonus is a significant area where government intentions are not yet clear. The grant period has reduced from six to four years and now bonus is only received for growth above a 0.4% threshold. This will reduce the sum received from £2.03m to £1.38m next year and £0.89m by 2020/21. The council would have to reduce transfers to its Transformation Fund. If you have any queries, please phone me on 01473 831306 (you will need to say your name and press #) or 07545423808 or email me at: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk. I do have Twitter @JohnFieldjd and Facebook/fieldjd accounts and my website is at: www.johnfield.suffolk.libdems.org
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NEWS FOUR COMMUNITIES ACTION GROUP The Four Communities Action Group (4CAG) was created in 2010 by members of the churches of Barham, Claydon, Great Blakenham and Henley. We aim to work together as four parishes to develop new activities and support networks and provide spiritual support and encouragement with a view to enhancing the lives of all members of the community. We currently have five organisations under our umbrella. Meet ‘n’ Eat Lunch Club Meets at noon on the first Friday of each month at Great Blakenham Parish Rooms. In the new year, we’re back to our regular programme of delicious soups and bread rolls, and an amazing variety of puddings, along with the chance to sit and chat with old friends, make new friends, play a game of bingo, win the raffle and have a bit of fun. All this for just £4! If you need more information, contact Mike on 07805 507497 or just come along on the first Friday of the month with your friends. Book Club Do you fancy reading something different to what you would usually choose? We currently have a few places for new members on the last Thursday in the month at The Crown at 10.30am. Just come along and join us for a light-hearted discussion on the book we’ve chosen to read. Gipping Valley Art Society We meet every Tuesday afternoon at Great Blakenham Parish Rooms. We are a small, friendly group who enjoy art. We take our own materials and have our own ‘projects’ for painting in various medias, including watercolour, acrylic, oils, pastels, pencils and ink. Membership is free, but we pay a weekly subscription to cover room hire, refreshments and so on. We hold a local exhibition of our work once a year and also show our art at other exhibitions and attend small shows and galas. We are now taking contact details as the group membership is almost full for the size of the room. Please contact Ann (01473 831031) or Margaret (01473 830135). 4Ever Young Men’s Club In 2018, the 4Ever Young Men’s Club will meet on the third Wednesday of each month at 10.30am in The Crown at Claydon. For more information contact Mike on 07805 507497 or just pop in on the third Wednesday of the month. Knitting Group Do you enjoy knitting or want to learn how? The Knitting Group meets in the lounge at Alasdair Place on the first Thursday in the month from 10.30am-noon. We pay £1 towards refreshments. Do come along and see us there.
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CLAYDON & WHITTON PARISH COUNCIL Presentation to John Williams
Parish Councillor John Williams, who retired earlier this year, was recently presented with a certificate to mark his 46 years as a Claydon & Whitton Parish Councillor. The presentation was attended by many of John’s excouncillor colleagues, past and present, and also friends. The picture shows Council Chairman Chris Studd presenting John with his certificate and also a voucher for an overnight stay with his wife Mary at Hintlesham Hall. New Parish Councillor At our last meeting we were pleased to co-opt Alex Thomas as a parish councillor. We welcome Alex to the council and wish him all the best in his new role. Grit Bins With the onset of winter, we are all aware of the need to keep our local roads free of snow and ice whenever possible. To assist with this the parish council has installed a number of yellow grit bins around the village. These will need to be kept topped up with grit which should only be used on the public highway or footpaths. Please note it is an offence for grit to be used on private property. Please look out for your nearest bin and if you are prepared to spread grit on public roads please register with the parish clerk so that you can be covered for insurance purposes. If you become aware that a bin needs replenishing please also inform the parish clerk. Claydon Pottery Class A pottery class for beginners will begin in the new year on Thursday evenings at Claydon High School IP6 0EG. The cost will be £100 per five sessions. Those interested should contact Phil on 07793 820046. Meetings in January The next meeting of Claydon & Whitton Parish Council will take place on Monday, January 15 at 7.30pm in Claydon & Barham Community Centre, Church Lane, Claydon. The next meeting of Claydon & Whitton Finance Committee will take place on Monday, January 29 at 7.30pm in Claydon & Barham Village Hall. Members of the community are very welcome to attend and opportunity will be given at the beginning of the meetings for them to speak on items included on the agenda or other issues about which they have concerns. Agendas will be available prior to the meeting from our parish clerk, Mrs S Eagle: 01473 687384 (answer machine available) / claywhit@btinternet.com / 7 Leicester Close, Ipswich IP2 9EX. For the very latest news and information about village life and other items of interest, please visit: www.claydonandbarham.onesuffolk.net / Twitter @claywhitpc
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ADVERTORIAL
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of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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ClaydonTiling Ltd CERAMIC TILER Shaun Richardson 4 Rowan Close, Claydon, Suffolk IP6 0RD
Tel: 01473 831247 Mob: 07810 291157
E: claydontilingltd@btinternet.com 8
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NEWS HENLEY PARISH COUNCIL This is the time of year when the parish council is able to make small donations – known as section 137 grants – which are intended for “a direct benefit for the area or part of the area or to some or all of the inhabitants”. Anyone in the village can apply for these grants simply by writing to the clerk explaining the purpose of the spending. Section 137 refers to the 1972 Local Government Act which gives powers to councils to spend in this way. The money of course comes from the public in the first place in the form of council tax, and the parish council can redistribute a fixed amount (currently limited to £7.57 per person on the electoral register, or less) as it sees fit. Traditionally the parish council has made donations to groups such as Henley Senior Citizens, Henley Pre-school, the Air Ambulance, Suffolk Carers, etc. This year we are again asking for suggestions and proposals, to reach the clerk by no later than Monday, January 8. The council will make decisions at its meeting on Monday, January 15. The payments can then be made immediately. If you are part of a local organisation which could benefit from a particular new piece of equipment or you are looking for funds to cover the cost of a planned event, you should consider applying. The parish council’s decisions on this are final and groups given grants will be expected to account for their spending as part of the process of openness and transparency. Please send proposals and requests to the clerk (details below) as soon as possible. Meanwhile here’s some advance notice of our early spring litter pick, which will be held on Sunday, March 4. Do come along. Coffee, tea and snack will be provided together with all necessary equipment.
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR BUS AND TRAIN SERVICES Summarised below are the local bus and train services over the holiday period. As the main holidays fall on weekdays this year and there are no substitute ‘days off’ the pattern is fairly simple. Tuesday, January 2, sees normal services resume. Ipswich – Stowmarket Bus Service (First Eastern Counties 88/89 & Galloway 87) Normal timetables except that there will be no service on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day. Ipswich – Diss Bus Service (113/114 Galloway) The same as for services 88/89 above and no Sunday service on this route. Ipswich Buses Early finish by 18:30 on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. No service on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day. Saturday timetable from December 27-30. Greater Anglia Train Services (Telephone Enquiries: 0345 600 7245) From Saturday, December 23 until Monday, January 1, mainline services to London will terminate at Ingatestone with bus connection to Newbury Park Underground Station for Central Line connection into London to allow engineering work to take place – all tickets will be valid for use on the Central Line. Services on all lines will finish by about 22:00 on Christmas Eve. No service on Christmas Day or Boxing Day. Slightly modified normal timetables on all lines from December 27-30. New Year’s Day Sunday timetable. Transport Representative Barry Moore
Also if you see fly-tipped litter anywhere in or near the village, you should report it to Mid Suffolk District Council who will come and pick it up. The best way is to use their website: Google ‘Mid Suffolk Fly Tipping’ to find the right page. If you happen to know who the fly-tippers are, don’t hesitate to pass that information on as well.
SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA)
We hope you had a great Christmas!
Full details can be found at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning
If you are not on our village email list and would like to be, just send a simple request to henleyparishcouncil@gmail.com or rodcaird@yahoo.co.uk and we will sort it out. And don’t forget to keep an eye from time to time on our own website where we publish all sorts of useful (we hope) information and contacts. Parish Council Clerk Rod Caird: 07785 331217 www.henley.onesuffolk.net
BARHAM PARISH COUNCIL We hope all our parishioners have had a happy and healthy festive season. Now, it is January and a time when many of us reassess what we could accomplish during the next year. With that in mind, Barham Parish Council have been discussing the need for more grit/salt bins and would like to take this opportunity to ask our local residents for their input. Bins are usually placed at important locations, such as the bottom of hills or at junctions on minor roads. What locations in Barham do you feel would benefit from this provision? Please contact our parish clerk with any location ideas you may have. Best wishes for 2018 from Barham Parish Council. Parish Clerk Jo Culley 07958 402335 / barhampc@outlook.com
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.
It is 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 in the summer as the comments from the SPA and all it’s 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. Yet again I have to report that there is no date for Reserved Matters to be considered by BMSDC due to the ongoing failure by the developer to produce the information that Planning and the SPA have asked for. The SPA is very concerned, as I’m sure many of you are, by the fact that these crucial pieces of information are still outstanding, well over a year after the initial deadline for Reserved Matters to be considered by BMSDC. We believe that this suggests unwillingness on the part of the developer to engage with the concerns and opinions of local residents and we feel that this is attitude is extremely concerning. However, at this stage, there is nothing the SPA can do but wait and monitor the situation and continue to work with BMSDC Planning to ensure that the views of local residents are kept at the forefront of any consideration of Reserved Matters. We are hoping to arrange a series of meetings with Planning on specific issues, such as traffic and roads to make sure crucial areas are regularly reviewed. For further information, please email SPA clerk Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume
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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY
SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM
Want more Suffolk energy-from-waste facility news? You can now sign up for our twice-yearly e-newsletter. The e-newsletter is packed full of news, from how much waste we have processed to visitors we have welcomed on site. If you would like to receive these then sign up at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/suffolkefwnewsletter
I never cease to be amazed at the danger that some drivers put themselves in each winter. I often see people driving with windscreens totally frozen or misted over, often so badly they can’t see through. Rather than spending a few extra minutes clearing their windscreen before they set of, they would rather put themselves and others in danger by driving with their head out of the driver’s window or squinting to see through a small patch in the windscreen.
Paper copies of the newsletter are available on request by calling: 01473 839149 If you would like to keep in touch more regularly, Suffolk energy-from-waste is now tweeting site updates and tips on how to reduce, reuse and recycle your waste. Follow us on Twitter: @suffolkefw Come and have a look around The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is holding a series of open days in January and February which will include a tour of the facility and time to explore our visitor centre. Places are currently available on the following days: Thursday, January 18, 2-4pm Tuesday, January 23, 6-8pm Tuesday, February 6, 10am-noon Thursday, February 15, 2-4pm There are 20 spaces on each day and you must pre-book. To book your place, please email suffolkefw@sita.co.uk with your preferred dates 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. SUEZ Communities Trust The SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding to projects that improve community life and the natural environment. It distributes money donated by SUEZ Recycling and Recover UK, although it is independent and has its own board which decides which projects to support. Funding is available for projects within a three-mile radius of the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility and applications can be made online. If you know a project that could be deserving of the funding do look on the website: www.suezcommunitiestrust.org.uk 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 836 821 Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262 910
Dear Readers,
A safe journey starts in the preparation the night before. Check the weather forecast; if it’s going to be frosty, put a protective sheet over the windscreen (available online or from most good vehicle accessory shops). Alternatively, get up 15 minutes earlier to allow enough time to fully defrost your car before you set off. Please don’t pour hot water on your windscreen; although the windscreen companies will love all the extra business from the shattered / cracked windscreen, I’m sure you can think of better ways of spending your time and hard earned money. Think carefully if your journey is really necessary. If it is, please allow a greater stopping distance between you and the car in front, especially on apparently wet (potentially black ice) or icy roads. Hopefully, you find these tips useful and will help you have a safe and enjoyable start to the New Year. If you would like any detailed advice on road safety or crime prevention, please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on either our new telephone number of 101 or email us at: Hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk EMERGENCY: CALL 999 NON-EMERGENCY: CALL 101 FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @HadleighPolice POLICE CONNECT: suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect Until next time, Best wishes for prosperous New Year PC 1220 Garrod, Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh, Ipswich IP7 5AD
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB The club will meet at Woolpit Village Hall on Wednesday, January 24, 12.30 for 1pm for a workshop entitled Out of the Box and a soup and bread lunch. Members £6, visitors £11. For details contact chairman Vicki Hease: 01449 770900
It was the chat with them over a cuppa that got me through the day Here for you every hour of every day
01473 851731
or visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
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Fri 5th - Thurs 11th Jan
Bar-Clay Music Makers
JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE (12A)
present
Fri 5th & Sat 6th: 2.30 & 7.45, Sun 7th: 2.30 Mon 8th - Wed 10th: 5.15, Thurs 11th: 7.45
BATTLE OF THE SEXES (12A)
Fri 22nd - Thurs 28th Dec
STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI
(12A)
Fri 22nd & Sat 23rd: 2.00, 5.15 & 8.30 Sun 24th: 2.00, Tue 26th: 2.00 & 5.15 Wed 27th & Thurs 28th: 2.00, 5.15 & 8.30
PADDINGTON 2 (PG)
Fri 5th & Sat 6th: 5.00, Sun 7th: 7.45 Mon 8th - Thurs 11th: 2.30
THE DISASTER ARTIST (15)
Sun 7th: 5.15, Mon 8th - Wed 10th: 7.45 Thurs 11th: 12.00 & 5.00
Fri 22nd - Thurs 28th: 11.30am*
FERDINAND (U)
Fri 29th Dec - Thurs 4th Jan
PADDINGTON 2 (PG)
*No Showing on Christmas Day
THE JUSTICE LEAGUE (12A) Fri 29th & Sat 30th: 7.45 Tue 2nd - Thurs 4th: 7.45
Sat 6th & Sun 7th: 10.00am Sat 6th & Sun 7th: 12.15
OKLAHOMA! (1955) (U) Wed 10th: 11.30am
PADDINGTON 2 (PG)
Fri 12th - Thurs 18th Jan
DADDY’S HOME 2 (12A)
Fri 12th - Wed 17th: 2.15 & 7.45 Thurs 18th: 11.30am, 2.15 & 7.45
Fri 29th - Sun 31st: 5.00
Sun 31st: 7.15, Mon 1st - Thurs 4th: 5.00
FERDINAND
(U)
Fri 29th - Thurs 4th: 12.15 & 2.30
Thurs 22nd February at 7pm - Tickets £12.50 National Theatre presents a recorded LIVE screening of
CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF
THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (PG) PITCH PERFECT 3 (12A)
Fri 12th: 11.30am & 5.15 Sat 13th - Thurs 18th: 5.15
JUMANJI (12A)
Sat 13th & Sun 14th: 12.15
FERDINAND
(U)
LIVE ON STAGE Monday 22nd January at 7.30pm - Tickets £17.50
Sat 13th & Sun 14th: 10.00am
Monday 29th January at 7.30pm - Tickets £17.50
GREAT FAMILY FILMS, KIDS £2.50, ADULTS FREE!*
Monday 5th February at 7.30pm - Tickets £17.50
Fri 22nd - Sun 24th: 9.30am, Wed 27th: 9.30am
BOB BROLLY UNION GAP
RAYMOND FROGGATT
www.regalstowmarket.co.uk / 01449 612825 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1AY
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Adult £7
A new pantomime by Linzi Hall
Claydon Village Hall
CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS (U)
Friday 19 Jan at 7.30pm Saturday 20 Jan at 2.30 & 7.30pm Friday 26 Jan at 7.30pm Saturday 27 Jan at 2.30 & 7.30pm
THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE (U)
To order tickets phone 01473 830538 or email Webbfamily1@ gmail.com
POCKET MONEY MOVIES
Fri 29th - Sun 31st: 9.30am
Child £3
*1x free adult per paying child. Under 10’s must be accompanied.
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OUT & ABOUT CLAYDON & BARHAM VILLAGE HALL
CLAYDON AND BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE
Dates for January Tuesday 2
Bar-Clay Music Makers
9am-5.30pm
Wednesday 3
Bar-Clay Music Makers
6.30-10.30pm
Thursday 4
Sunshine Service Silver Surfers Slimming World
10am-noon 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm
Saturday 6
Private Hire
1.30-5.30pm
Sunday 7
Bar-Clay Music Makers
1.30-5.30pm
We have updated many of the light fittings to LED units in order to reduce running costs and provide improved illumination with more coloured down lights. Ceiling fans have also been repositioned to have better effect and walls have been repainted. This will continue on our scheduled refurbishment programme.
Monday 8
Craft Addicts Barham PC Meeting
1-4pm 7-10pm
The café is currently closed. Please note this is a separate business venture not controlled by the community centre.
Tuesday 9
Women’s Institute
7.15-10pm
Monday: Short Mat Carpet Bowls, bar open
Wednesday 10
Bar-Clay Music Makers
6.30-10.30pm
Tuesday: Karate (all ages) 4-7pm, Carpet Bowls, Ladies Darts, bar open
Thursday 11
Young Families Silver Surfers Slimming World
9.30-11.30am 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm
Wednesday: Bingo, bar open
Friday 12
Stowe School of Dance Private Hire
4-5.30pm 6-10.30pm
Friday: Karate (all ages) 4-7pm), bar open The hall is available on Friday evenings for your suggestions.
Sunday 14
Bar-Clay Music Makers
1.30-10.30pm
Saturday: Bar open from noon-3pm and reopens at 7pm
Monday 15
Bar-Clay Music Makers
6.30-10.30pm
Tuesday 16
Table Tennis
7.15-10.30pm
The bar is fully stocked with popular lagers and cask ales, plus spirits and the hall or Compton Bar is available for hire.
Wednesday 17
Bar-Clay Music Makers
6.30-10.30pm
Thursday 18
Silver Surfers Slimming World
11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5
Friday 19
Stowe School of Dance PANTOMIME PERFORMANCE
4-5.30pm 7.30-10pm
Route 5
Saturday 20
PANTOMIME PERFORMANCE PANTOMIME PERFORMANCE
2.30-5pm 7.30-10pm
Monday 22
Craft Addicts Claydon PC
1-4pm 2-5pm
Wednesday 24
Bar-Clay Music Makers
6.30-10.30pm
Thursday 25
Young Families Silver Surfers Slimming World
9.30-11.30am 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm
Friday 26
Stowe School of Dance PANTOMIME PERFORMANCE
4-5.30pm 7.30-10pm
Saturday 27
PANTOMIME PERFORMANCE PANTOMIME PERFORMANCE
2.30-5pm 7.30-10pm
Monday 29
Claydon PC Meeting
7.30-9pm
DATES: January 16
For more information on village hall activities visit the Claydon and Barham website and follow the links. Hall bookings now only online.
We have a few vacancies for staffing; please apply to the community centre by calling 01473 831805.
Thursday: Street Dance for Young People 6.30-8pm
Town/village
Location
Time
MIP/5A
Sproughton
Church Lane
9.10-9.25am
MIP/5B
Sproughton
Wild Man
9.30-9.45am
MIP/5C
Bramford
St Mary’s Close
9.50-10.05am
Paper Mill Lane
10.10-10.25am
MIP/5D
Bramford
MIP/5E
Great Blakenham, Chequers
MIP/5F
Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park
11-11.15am
MIP/5G
Baylham
Post Box
11.25-11.45am 11.55am-1pm
10.35-1055am
MIP/5H
Claydon
Crown
MIP/5I
Claydon
Edinburgh Gardens 2.05-2.20pm
MIP/5J
Barham
Bacon Road
2.25-3.50pm
MIP/5K
Bramford
Packard Place
4-4.30pm
Please note that Mobile Library Route 13 stops off at the Sorrel Horse in Barham from 11-11.10am on the following dates: January 26
You’re invited to make an appointment at our Wherstead Park office to discuss:
Powers of Attorney Wills
Probate Court of Protection * We also offer a range of other services
Our out of town Ipswich location is very convenient for parking and has Contact us for an appointment today: excellent disabled access. www.ellisonssolicitors.com enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ 01473 556 900 Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336
www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
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OUT & ABOUT
CLAYDON & BARHAM WI 2017 was a good year, with interesting speakers and plenty of extra activities. Our book club, lunch club and walking group continue to be most enjoyable. We had jumble and plant sales and attended the WI Federation meeting at Trinity Park, which is always a good day. The next one is on March 6, 2018. Our year came to its conclusion with our Christmas Party on December 12. Earlier in December we had our Christmas Lunch at Claydon Hotel, and our carol concert which was at Burstall.
IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, January 24: Harwich for the Continent illustrated talk by Chris Turland We meet at 7pm at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich. Entrance via the rear car park. Visitors £3.50, members £1.50 including refreshments. Details from Martyn (01473 422145) or Peter (01394 420490) www.idhts.co.uk
Our best wishes to all for a happy and prosperous New Year! Should anyone wish to join our happy group, please contact Linda: 01473 839948
HENLEY MOTHERS’ UNION Mothers’ Union supports the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign every year, with members around the world helping and praying for those affected by this type of abuse. In Suffolk Mothers’ Union supports the women’s refuges in Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds by collecting toiletries, underwear and gifts for the women and children. Our Henley branch has donated a large bag of toiletries and £90 in Christmas gift tokens. Recently we had a very interesting talk about Emmaus from Claire Staddon, and heard how Emmaus helps homeless people get back into employment which can be such a difficult transition. We are proud to be helping with the Emmaus Sox Appeal, a target of 5,000 pairs of socks for the homeless this year! Our branch in Henley meets once or twice each month, with an interesting programme of speakers, activities and visits. Visitors and new members are always welcome, so why not come along and find out more? Our next meeting will be our AGM on Monday, January 27, at 7.30pm. For more details contact Clare Thomas: clare.thomas@btinternet.com / 01473 832808
HENLEY 100 CLUB By the time you read this, Christmas will be over and 2018 will be upon us (where did 2017 go?). Many thanks to all of you who supported Henley 100 Club throughout last year. Please join us again this year, new members are always welcome to join us and help support your village church. You may even have a win. All are welcome, the more who join the greater the prizes will be! If you are interested please contact me, Richard Self: 07836 522355 /rselfhomefarm@gmail.com
BRAMFORD TREFOIL GUILD Our December meeting was a lovely Christmas meal, and I hope that everyone had a truly wonderful Christmas. Our January meeting is our Annual General meeting followed by a quiz and board games. Once again, a really happy and healthy 2018 to everyone. Anyone interested in joining us is welcome to come to the Scout and Guide HQ in Ship Lane, Bramford on the first Monday in each month at 2pm.
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IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired business gentlemen. The primary objective is to provide fellowship between members and to share similar interests in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We meet monthly at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us. If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com
ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY Happy New Year to all our members and guests Our first ever study day, Art and Architecture of the American West with Roger Mitchell MA, held on November 17 was a resounding success, so much so that we shall certainly try to arrange another one in the near future. After our lecture on December 6, we have a break until Wednesday, February 7 when Barry Venning will be presenting Giles: His Life, Times and Cartoons which we are sure will be a very popular subject. We would remind guests to call the membership secretary to add your name to the booking list for non-member seat allocation. Why not join us and enjoy good company and interesting talks? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE & CHARITY SHOP On December 3 we collected our Christmas group from Gatwick airport. The children who had never been to the UK before all said “England is lovely” as soon as they got off the plane! This is going to be a very exciting month for the children who have not only never been away from home, but have never experienced Christmas before either. After the children return home at the end of the month I will be leaving for Belarus for our Father Frost Program. As previous Christmas parcels have been returned or just haven’t arrived at all, a friend and I decided this year to go to Belarus to deliver them personally as the Belarusian equivalent to December 25 is January 7. Having intended to just take presents in our personal luggage we asked if anyone else would be interested in sending a present to a child who would receive nothing for Christmas and we were amazed and touched by the response. We are now taking 150 presents to needy children and will deliver to 39 families in three days, as well as holding a party for the children who we will be unable to reach during that time. We will bring back photos and updates after the trip to share with everyone who has so kindly contributed to this program. A very big thanks must also go to those people who have sponsored part of the trip allowing us to be able to take this many presents to the children and also to leave gifts for those in the local hospital. We are now looking towards the summer group visit and would ask anyone interested in hosting who we have not yet spoken to, to get in touch now as we have to start processing the invitation to the authorities in Belarus by January 2018. The children will be with us for four weeks from July 1-29. All that is needed is a minimum of a mattress to sleep on and a loving home with people who care, financial circumstances are immaterial. Age is not a barrier – single parents considered, families may or may not still have their own children at home. Hosts are able to follow their own occupation and interests as the children meet at least four days a week Monday-Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm and helpers are on hand to collect or look after children at other times if needed. We are very aware that there are now more charitable causes than ever all needing support. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supports us; you may think you only do a little but without you we could not survive. May 2018 bring you everything you wish for. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / enquiries@ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB We had a very successful and enjoyable year in 2017. We had speakers giving talks on a variety of subjects which included Suffolk butterflies, orchids and hyacinths. There were also two garden visits, one of which included a strawberry cream tea. The programme for 2018 is looking just as good, starting with a visit from Debra Hart who will be demonstrating the art of willow making. The meeting will be on Monday, January 8 at 7.30pm in Offton and Willisham Village Hall. Please come and give us a look, you will be made most welcome. For further information please contact: 01473 254941/830600
www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL We hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a lovely New Year. We are all ready for the spring term and the children will be well rested and hopefully looking forward to an exciting term ahead. There will be lots of crafts to look forward to and the staff are already planning and getting extra crafts ready for the children to enjoy. As we are now open throughout each of the school holidays we will have the option to take children up to five years old for additional sessions during these weeks, subject to availability. Please contact the administration assistant for more details. Don’t forget that from September 2017 the government are introducing an additional 15 hours funding for working parents of three and four year olds. This means that parents who both earn the equivalent of 16 hours at National Minimum Wage (£115.20 per week) or more per week and less that £100,000 per year (or just one carer if a single parent) will be eligible to claim up to 30 hours of funding. You can register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible and also register for the Childcare Vouchers Scheme. If you are using the 30 hours you must provide the 30-hour code (given once registered) and your National Insurance Number to us. Once we have checked these details you can book sessions (subject to availability) for the following term. If you would like an application form or any further information please contact administration assistant Lisa Read: admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk / 01473 831648 Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ
Monthly prize draw ──── Win money whilst helping improve your pre-school ──── Three prizes drawn each month ────
100 CLUB
Only £1 a month to play
The 100 club is a type of lottery.
────
You pay a monthly entry fee of £1 and in return are allocated a draw number.
many goes a month
The draw takes place once a month and three
November Prizewinners 1: Beverley Fenn (60) 2: Anthea Welham (26) 3: Peter Keeble (69)
£11.40 £5.70 £1.90
New members are welcome at any time. Entry is just £1 per month and the draw takes place on the last Thursday of each month from September through to July. The more entries we get the greater the prize money and all money raised is used to enhance the lives of our children within the pre-school. For an entry form please contact Claydon Pre-school: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk
CLAYDON & BARHAM YOUNG FAMILIES Claydon and Barham Young Families is a Mothers’ Union project, which has been run by Mothers’ Union members and supporters for 26 years. We welcome mums, dads, carers and grandparents from Claydon, Barham, Great Blakenham and the surrounding villages with babies or children under five. Entry is just £1.50 per family. This month we meet on January 11 and 25 from 9.30-11.30am in Claydon and Barham Village Hall. Our Christmas Party was a huge success. A big thank you to Father Christmas who, although very busy, came along to distribute gifts to the children. Our ladies raffle went very well, as always, raising more funds for the group. Many thanks to everyone who helped make this event such a fantastic success. At our regular sessions we welcome anyone with babies or children under five for imaginative play, song time and lots of fun. Families can enjoy a themed craft activity where children can be creative and try out different materials to produce an individual masterpiece. Playdough and all sorts of toys that encourage children’s imaginative play and physical and social development are available. We also enjoy singing together. For parents/carers it’s a good opportunity to meet others with pre-school children or babies. There is also a prize draw for the children. This month we would like to wish a happy birthday to Poppy and Jacob who both celebrate in January. Why not come along and join in the fun? You can make friends and enjoy some valuable play. Hope to see you there. For more information contact me on 01473 833788 or check our listing on Netmums.com. Michelle
You can have as as you like
numbers win cash prizes. 50% of the funds go to improving pre-school, 1st prize gets 30%, 2nd prize gets 15% and 3rd gets 5%. The more people playing the greater the prize.
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL Recreation Ground Thornhill Road Claydon IP6 0DZ 01473 831648 www.claydonpreschool.co.uk admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL As we look forward to starting the spring term, which brings with it lighter evenings and warmer weather, I am delighted to share with you the events, activities and news in school during the very busy and festive month of December.
and the way they conducted themselves throughout the day. Many employers commented that they would have no hesitation in considering some of our students for future employment and also noted how smartly dressed they were.
On Tuesday, December 12, our talented musicians and poets gave stunning performances to a packed audience at the Church of St Mary and St Peter, Barham, where we held The Sounds of Christmas concert. It was a very festive evening, interspersed with traditional carols and an opportunity to warm up with some hot winter punch and mince pies. The dedication, commitment and hard work from students during rehearsals was certainly rewarded with some notable performances as well as some joyful vocal pieces from the school choir.
Our ex-Year 11 students who left us in the summer returned to Claydon High School on the last week of term to join us for a presentation evening where they were presented with their GCSE certificates and special subject achievement awards, recognising individual commitment and progress. It was really lovely to spend the evening with them and to hear about how they are getting on in this next phase of their lives. We are all extremely proud of all aspects of their success and achievement and wish them all the very best for whatever the future brings.
Students surpassed expectations for the seventh year running and created an amazing range of Christmas hampers which were donated to a local charity The Chapman Centre, part of IHAG (Ipswich Housing Action Group) who provide relief for people in the community suffering from extreme financial poverty or homelessness. It seems that students consider it a challenge to come up with even more creative and individual designs than the previous year and they certainly didn’t disappoint! It makes me very proud to see them making an extra special effort for people less fortunate than themselves and I would like to thank parents and carers for their help and contributions from home.
I would like to take this opportunity to announce and congratulate our newly appointed Head Boy and Head Girl, Daniel Hibbins and Josefina Santa de Lapaz. Both students were interviewed for the posts and delivered very well prepared presentations as part of the process. Congratulations also go to our two deputies, Jack Johnstone-Moffat and Phoebe Hill. These students will lead our team of Year 9, 10 and 11 prefects. This is an exciting opportunity for students to make a real positive contribution to the school and the faculty areas they have an interest in and will develop their leadership and communication skills. We appreciate that the roads around school seem to be busier than ever especially at the start and end of the school day when school buses and lots of parents/carers are trying to get in. We do not open our car park until 2.45pm for the safety of our students on the school site and ask parents/ carers not to arrive earlier than this. We also regularly talk about road safety with our students. We appreciate support from everyone who lives locally in driving carefully in the area especially in the dark weather. As I write this article I am looking ahead at all the exciting activities planned for this term, including a readathon, maths challenge, battlefields trip, Paris trip, Year 11 bootcamp, music day and much more! Please watch this space for details in due course.
Year 11 students took part in their annual Learning about Work Day. Employers from local businesses were invited into school to act as business mentors and to work with small groups of students for the day, teaching them about employer expectations when applying for jobs. In preparation for the day, students were asked to find an apprenticeship, complete an application form and these were forwarded to the employers before the day. Having spent the morning taking part in ice-breaking activities, a workshop related to writing letters of application and a paired task, our guest business mentors then put students through nerve racking job interviews for the posts that they had already applied for. The day concluded with the distribution of certificates for the students who had been selected as successful candidates for the job from each group. Year 11 impressed our visitors with their maturity, participation
www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
We are hoping to recruit some new members to our local governing body and will be holding an informal drop-in information session on Thursday, January 11, between 4.30pm and 6pm. Please drop in at any point if you would like to find out more about this role over a cup of tea from one of our governing body. We are currently requiring both parent governors and trust appointed governors from the local community. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, then please come along to one of our open mornings. The date of the next one is Monday, January 22. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Saunders on 01473 836110 to book a place. Contact Mrs Saunders if you would like to know more about the role of governors. Headteacher Ms Maéve Taylor
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SCHOOLS / ON THE GRAPEVINE
CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL
TREATING HEARING LOSS CAN HELP KEEP YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS
Hello from the School Council
By Karen Finch
We hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year. The School Council have been really busy as we have signed up to the Junior Road Safety Officer Scheme so we have been meeting to share all of our ideas, as well as meeting Martin Andrews (our local Road Safety officer). We will be running competitions in school, as well as doing some work in the community to help make the roads near our school safer. LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS Years 1 and 2: To celebrate the end of our Kings and Queens topic we had a Royal Tea Party. We all got to dress up as Kings and Queens in our very best party clothes. We got to eat cakes have lovely drinks – blackcurrant and orange juice. We designed bunting ourselves to decorate the hall and our parents also came in to help and enjoy the tea party. We even had a visit from the Queen! Year 3: We have had fun creating our own water creature, linked to our Rivers topic. As well as designing and drawing it, thinking about its appearance and features, we then got to write a non-chronological report about it. There were some amazing creatures with some very strange names! Year 4: Luckily, this year both Year 4 classes get to learn to play a musical instrument. 4P are learning to play the violin and 4S are learning to play a brass instrument. Both classes have a special music teacher come in each week to teach them to play the instrument, as well as learning to sing lots of different songs. We even get to take our instruments home to practise them. We are all really enjoying it. Year 5: As part of our Vikings topic, Years 5 and 6 had an truly amazing Viking Day in school. We got to dress up as Vikings, play games (Tug of War and Kubb – an ancient Viking game), make broaches, bake oat cakes and learn lots more fun Viking facts. It was great fun! Year 6: This term year 6 pupils have been able to take part in a cycling proficiency course, called Bikeability. First of all we had to carry out various checks on our bikes to make sure that they were safe to ride. It was then time for Level 1. To pass Level 1 we had to practise riding around the playground and stop quickly; luckily we all passed! For our Level 2 we had a range of activities we had to pass, including preparing for on road cycling, indicating when turning, know where to ride on a road, turning in and out of side roads and understanding the Highway Code. It was a real challenge, but we all passed and received certificates and badges in assembly. We had a great time. Mile a Day: This year in school we have started to run a mile a day, but you don’t have to run, you can walk as long as you keep moving. It’s to help keep us all fit, healthy and active as this is very important. Next time our sports representatives will be telling you much more about what they do and sport in our school. Thank you for reading our article. The School Council
Every New Year brings with it a sense of renewal. For many, this renewal may include New Year’s resolutions pledging that the next year will prove better than the last. The challenge is not making these resolutions, but making sure they do not melt away with the snow as winter turns to spring. Some common resolutions might include reducing stress levels, staying in touch more regularly with family and friends, and being more socially involved. For those who struggle with hearing loss, keeping these and other perennial resolutions may prove challenging. Here are a few examples of how treating your hearing loss in the New Year can help you achieve your resolutions and improve your life. Reducing stress Staying stress free in the New Year may seem like an insurmountable task, but we can all do a few things to make sure stress doesn’t dominate our lives. Hearing-related stress can present itself in everyday situations with the potential to significantly increase your overall stress level. If you have become nervous to speak up when clarifying what was said in a conversation, or avoid loud places for fear of being cut from the conversation, it may be time to address your hearing issues. Finding a solution could help you reduce some of your daily stress. Staying in touch with family and friends Staying connected with family and friends is difficult whether loved ones are spread across the country or live just around the corner. If keeping in touch with the important people in your life tops your list of resolutions, addressing your hearing concerns may be a step in the right direction. Being able to communicate with family and friends without worrying about what was said by a loved one over the phone, on Skype, or face-to-face is of the utmost importance. Not only does it put your mind at ease, it makes conversations with loved ones that much easier. Branching out Hearing loss may hinder you from branching out and meeting new people. If you are nervous to extend your social circle because of your hearing loss, addressing the issue in the New Year could be the push you need to make new friends and experience new adventures in the coming year. Have you always wanted to volunteer with an organisation or join a club but have been too self-conscious about your hearing loss? Don’t let apprehension and worry keep you from meeting new people and enjoying all the sights and sounds that the world has to offer. Starting a new hobby Starting a new hobby, whether by yourself or in a group setting, can be both challenging and entertaining. If you would like to learn how to play a new instrument and want to better hear the notes, or if you are taking a class at your local college and want to be able to contribute to the discussion without feeling nervous, having the confidence to address your hearing issues can lead to new talents and friends. Taking action If any of the above scenarios resonate with you, your hearing loss could be a barrier to accomplishing your resolutions. It may be time to add another resolution to the list: book a hearing assessment. Seeking help, advice and ultimately treating your hearing loss will benefit not only your physical health but your mental and social health as well. Placing priority on your hearing health will not only help you to achieve your New Year’s resolutions, but will give you a renewed confidence in your hearing and social life. Invest in your hearing. Invest in yourself. Karen Finch is the Managing Director and lead audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre in Ipswich. The multi-award winning, family-run company has 25 centres across Suffolk and Norfolk. Karen is offering free hearing assessments at her Ipswich practice between January 24 and 26 (normally £20). Appointments are essential. For more information 01473 230330 or visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk
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ON THE GRAPEVINE / SPORT GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB
KRISSY AND FRIENDS REFLECTION
The club is open to anyone living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet every Monday other than bank holidays in Great Blakenham Parish Room from 2-4pm from February to December. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House and it has its own parking area at the rear. The building is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. Members pay £2 per meeting to covers hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Alternatively, if you would just like to come and bring your own project to work on, enjoy our company and make new friends without doing the workshops the charge is £1.50 per meeting. Members take it in turns to make the tea.
As one year closes and another opens, Krissy and Friends Foundation have been reflecting on what an exciting and amazing 12 months we’ve had. With your support and donations we have been able to provide therapy through music to many local charities, organisations and causes including Ipswich Hospital Children’s Ward, specialist schools, 4YP, Musica (young people’s workshops) and South Street Kids.
Out AGM was held early on the last meeting in November as we went out to The Chequers for Christmas Lunch on December 4 which was very enjoyable.
This has enabled Krissy and Friends Foundation to reach more East Anglian children with therapy through music than ever. Your generous and growing support has meant that moving into 2018 we hope to meet our target of supporting even more of our communities most vulnerable young people.
The club will restart on Monday, February 5, and the programme for 2018 is as follows:
Thank you to everybody who has made a difference and we look forward to seeing you at our events in the year ahead.
February 5 March 5 April 9 May 1 June 4 July 2 August 6 September 3 October 1 November 5 December 3
www.krissyandfriends.org.uk
Charity Projects A Taste of the Orient Take a Piece of Card Layers for the Lads Bag Ladies Felting It’s a Jungle Out There No Tune on this Accordion Christmas Stockings Christmas Card Making AGM and Christmas Party
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Greetings from Mystic Mick, the oracle for 2018. Here, as usual, a preview of what to expect this year. January: Concern in the USA as an enormous milk bottle is seen under construction in North Korea prompting fears that a new rocket launch may be imminent.
If you have been interested in our reports over the past year and think it all sounds interesting, there is currently room for new members. If you would like to join us please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome. Unfortunately I can’t accommodate children.
February: Fears for Brexit by UK negotiators walking out of meetings 10 minutes early are proved unfounded when it transpires that the team are Ipswich Town season ticket holders doing what comes naturally.
Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
April: Theresa May calms fears over the economy with the announcement that the government plan a nationwide planting campaign of a network of money trees.
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB Open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet from 2-4pm on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in Great Blakenham Parish Room. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. Our second meeting in November was a visit from the Rural Coffee Caravan. Gary came along with a big selection of leaflets providing all sorts of information about services and advice available to help older people. He was assisted by a representative from Sue Ryder Staff who gave an insight into the work they do to help those living with dementia, including those caring for someone. It was a most useful and informative afternoon. The club continues to prosper and our programme for 2018 will follow in due course. New members are always welcome, but if you would just like to come along in the New Year and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB The Monday group (7.30-9.30pm) will meet on January 8 and 22, while the Wednesday group (10am-noon) will meet every week from Wednesday 10. School year membership is £1, and £3 per session. We don’t have a set programme; we are here to help you to get the most out of your computer. Why not give us a try? All meeting are in the upstairs room of Bramford Methodist Church.
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March: Joy in Norwich as the Canaries hold an open top bus tour of the city to celebrate scoring more than one goal in a game.
May: Royal Wedding chaos as the groom discovers that his intended is being held by Border Force officers for investigation of marrying a UK National in order to get a visa. June: Local tennis star Nick qualifies for Wimbledon! His joy is tempered when he finds that he has been allocated Trap 1 nearest the hare. He is last seen checking the address he sent his entry form to. July: Iceland win the 2018 World Cup! They close all of their stores for the day to allow the staff to celebrate August: Swingeing defence cuts announced by Whitehall. The government allays the public fears by buying 70 million white flags, one each for every person in the country. September: Excitement among rare coin collectors as Graham buys an after match round of drinks. Some of the coins held in the cash register are believed to have not been seen for over 1,000 years . October: Ipswich Borough Council awarded the Gold Medal for innovation in the field of transport by the British Association of Traffic Light Manufacturers . November: Donald Trump raises fears of his competence as he places Guy Fawkes on the FBI Most Wanted list as a known terrorist who has been linked with conspiracy to cause explosions. December: The Home Secretary denies Santa Claus an entry permit to the UK as he is an economic migrant and not able to work until his status is confirmed by Border Force officials. Back to normal next month when Mick Russ returns with his joke of the month (and I don’t mean his bet on Norwich City to get in the play offs). Mystic Mick
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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS TALES FROM THE 19TH HOLE
NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB
Happy New Year! A strange statement as I’m writing this in late November, but it allows me the temporary illusion that Christmas has been and gone, and I need not stress about my lack of preparation for the ‘big day’ with under four weeks to go – aaargh!
After a very successful outdoor season, many of our bowlers are enjoying indoor bowling at the Meadlands. Any member wanting information about indoor bowling can contact me, David Hindley, on 01449 613144.
The HOGS will have recently enjoyed our post-Christmas Bash at Seckford Hall on December 27 and be preparing for our AGM in mid-January. More about the golf next month, but I will make a prediction now that Paul G will have been in the winning team; not long odds as fittingly his name has been on the trophy every year it has been competed for. However, instead of the golf I thought I would write a few words about our fundraising quiz night held at the end of October 2017. Several teams were made up of ‘non-HOGS’ who read this magazine, so hopefully they will find this mildly entertaining too. One of the things I love to do after the event is to read through the answer sheets as some wrong answers can be quite amusing. In fairness the standard of competition was high this year, so there weren’t too many funnies, but a few that did make me chortle, like Shrove Tuesday being seven days before Easter Day. Who knew that the newly crowned King of England uniting the Scottish and English Crowns in 1603 was Mary Queen of Scots? And finally, if you’re dining at an Indian Restaurant, don’t be surprised if you are served something unexpected. Quizzers were asked what ‘Kulfi’ was – it is a type of ice-cream. Answers however included lamb, bread, potato, yoghurt, coffee and tea – pretty much anything on the menu. This is just the third year that we have run this event, and it’s becoming more popular each year. It has twice been won by a Henley based team – Quiz Akabusi – but they couldn’t make it a hat-trick, being pipped into runner-up position by just half a point by Great Blakenham rookies Charlie’s Angles (not Angels). We hope to see them again next year to defend their crown. Quiz Akabusi didn’t go away empty handed though, winning both table quiz prizes with just one incorrect answer out of 60. As I mentioned earlier, the overall standard was high with 11 of the 15 teams scoring 75% or more, hopefully keeping most people engaged. On behalf of the HOGS, thank you for supporting our event – we look forward to hosting you again in 2018.
CHARITY CONCERT FREE ENTRY Henley Community Centre IP6 0RP
3pm Sunday 14 January th
Windjammers Band and singing group Felixstowe Harmonies Retiring collection Free car parking Bar Info - 01473 833226 20
Music for all the family to welcome in the New Year
I would also like to say that not only have we achieved success on the green this year, but that the atmosphere in the club and the camaraderie between teams and bowlers has been excellent which makes for a welcoming and very happy bowls club. The green was successfully put to bed and the green team will be busy throughout the close season ensuring it will be in good condition for the 2018 season. The team has been reinforced, but can always use extra help. Anyone interested in joining the green team should contact Alastair Bailie on 01449 720759. Our winter social events got off to a good start with carpet bowling on our not quite perfect carpet! The competition was won by Shirley Eaton with runners-up Rita Robertson and Charlie Lawson just one point behind. Thanks to everyone who took part. By the time you read this we will have had our Christmas social with fun and games for all. Our social on January 19 will see the return of the Stowmarket Strummers ukulele band with games between sets. February 23 will be the ‘Big Quiz’ which is getting to be a very competitive event, but always played in good spirit. The date and content of the March event is still to be decided. Although bowls is an ideal sport for the active older person remember ‘YOU ARE NEVER TOO YOUNG TO BOWL’. Contacts: Pat Hadden 01473 831308 / Alistair Bailie 01449 720759
TO SATISFY THE DOUBLE At our coffee morning these past few months we have been playing the Mexican train game, which has been a lot of fun. In any game there is the ‘object’ of the game: to be the first to play all your dominoes and the lowest score after all the rounds wins. Then there is the ‘preparation’, which includes turning over all 91 tiles and, depending on how many players, a number of tiles are taken by each player. Starting the game: the player with the highest double starts. One of the rules, there are not too many, is if you play a double you have to play another tile onto it of the corresponding number. No one can play a tile anywhere else until the double has been played on to. The correct terminology is to ‘satisfy the double’. Once a player has satisfied (played on) the double, all players are then free to play on any eligible train. There are similarities to the Mexican train game and the birth of Jesus, which we have just celebrated. First there is the object of the game or the reason why Jesus came. The Bible tells us why, ‘to save us from our sins’, and that forgiveness of sin is possible because Jesus died and was raised to life again. The preparation began in the beginning after Adam and Eve disobeyed God. God is just and must punish sin, but through Jesus’ death and resurrection God is satisfied that the price for sin has been paid. Jesus has made it possible to have friendship with God restored, free from the penalty of sin and to live for Him. What good news this is to hear at the start of this New Year, but what will we do with it? Perhaps you’d like to join us for coffee, a chat and a round or two of the Mexican train game. We would love to see you! WEEKLY EVENTS Monday fortnightly: Little Owls Toddler Group, 10am-noon Tuesday: Weekly Prayer Meeting, 7.30-8.30pm Wednesday: Coffee Morning, 10am-noon. All welcome. Thursday: Home Group, 10-11.45am Friday: Children’s Club (primary school age), 6.30-7.30pm Sunday Morning Service: 10.45am-noon For more information contact Michael: 01473 839785 admin@blakenhambaptist.org.uk www.blakenhambaptist.org.uk
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CHURCH NEWS THE CLAYDON GROUP OF CHURCHES The Church of England in Claydon and Barham, Henley and Great Blakenham We offer you a warm welcome to all our events and services. For enquiries about baptisms, weddings and funerals contact Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Carl Melville 01473 833542 / carlmelville@hotmail.com Services in January Barham Church: every Sunday at 10am Henley Church: every Sunday at 9.30am Gt Blakenham Church: every Sunday at 11am Sunday, January 7: The Baptism of Christ 8am Holy Communion 9.30am Holy Communion 10am Holy Communion 11am family@blakenham
Barham Church Henley Church Barham Church Gt Blakenham Church
Sunday, January 14: Epiphany 2 8am Holy Communion 9.30am family@henley 10am Holy Communion 11am Holy Communion
Barham Church Henley Church Barham Church Gt Blakenham Church
Sunday, January 21: Epiphany 3 8am Holy Communion 9.30am Holy Communion 10am family@barham 11am Holy Communion
Barham Church Henley Church Barham Church Gt Blakenham Church
Sunday, January 28: Candlemas 8am Holy Communion 9.30am Café Church 10am Holy Communion 11am Elevenses@GB 4pm Evensong BCP
Barham Church Henley Church Barham Church Gt Blakenham Church Henley Church
Sunday, February 4: 2 before Lent 8am Holy Communion 9.30am Holy Communion 10am Holy Communion 11am family@blakenham
Barham Church Henley Church Barham Church Gt Blakenham Church
Further services can be found on our website: www.claydonchurches.com Hall Bookings Barham Church Hall: Zoe Groom, 831804 Gt Blakenham Parish Room: Paul Corbett, 830201 Henley Church Vestry: Margaret Gerrard, 831463
EPIPHANY: DIRECTION FOR THE CHURCH
Baptisms December 3: Mimi Grace Page December 16: Vinny Halls December 17: Theo NEWS Sunday’s Cool: Meets on the second and third Sundays of every month in Great Blakenham Parish Room from 10.30am (January 14 and 21). Under 5s should be accompanied by an adult. Older children can be left unattended. Stories, games, songs, loads of fun! It’s free – no need to book! Contact Irene for more info: 01449 676567 P Party: As it’s Epiphany, we’re holding a P Party on Saturday, January 6, at 6.30pm at Henley Church Vestry. All welcome! There’ll be lots of food and games for all the family. No charge, donations welcome. Come dressed as something beginning with the letter P. Epiphany Lunch: Sunday, January 7, after church. Come along and relax. Bring the leftovers from Christmas and share them in good company. Holy Conversations: A relaxed home group that meets once a month at The Rectory in Claydon. All are welcome and the group is particularly suitable for those new to church or faith. We discuss all sorts of things from faith to prayer, as well as chat and meet others. Lent 2018: No sooner are we over Christmas do we look to Lent and Easter! Ash Wednesday kicks Lent off on February 14. We’ll be holding the traditional Ashing Service at 7pm in Gt Blakenham Church. Henley Church Services: please note the new time of church services at Henley, now every Sunday at 9.30am. Other Services and Events January 6 P Party! Henley Church Vestry, 6.30pm 7 Epiphany Shared Lunch, Barham Church 9 Barham Care Centre Communion Holy Conversations, Rectory, 7pm 12 Alasdair Place Communion 24 St Peter’s Court Communion 26 Night Out, Henley Church Vestry, 7.30pm February 6 Holy Conversations, Rectory, 7pm 11 families@4.30, Barham Church Hall, 4.30pm 13 Pancakes!! Gt Blakenham Parish Room, 6.30pm 14 Ash Wednesday Service, Gt Blakenham, 7pm Letter from the Vicar I don’t like the few weeks after Christmas. It always seems to be a bit of a letdown after the excitement of decorations, food and carol singing! However, celebrations don’t have to stop yet! Epiphany is one of the overlooked seasons in the church’s calendar. The arrival of the Wise Men, or Magi, means that we have reason to continue celebrating throughout January. Our P Party at Henley and Epiphany Shared Lunch at Barham are just a few examples of how we celebrate.
We celebrate the coming of the Magi with their gifts of Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. Gt Blakenham Church: Sunday, January 7, 11am Henley Church: Sunday, January 14, 9.30am Barham Church: Sunday, January 21, 10am Refreshments available at all of our services. Everyone welcome!
The arrival of the Wise Men to see Jesus opens up the possibility of experiencing Jesus regardless of race or wealth. The Wise Men were not Jews and came from distant lands. The message of their visit tells us that we are all welcome to find and love Jesus. Remember, Jesus didn’t stay a baby in the manger. He grew and became a man. He died and rose again that we might know God’s love. The Wise Men knew this in their hearts. Do you? Why not celebrate with us?
Happy New Year from the Claydon Group of Churches
The Revd Carl Melvill – carlmelville@hotmail.com
Weddings December 16: Jazmin Hawes and Liam Halls
www.claydonchurches.com
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/The Claydon Group of Churches
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