In Touch
™© ™©
with Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton Rural Volume 8 • Issue No. 5 • MARCH 2018
Image by Paula Irvine
Need More Space This Easter Let’s Talk
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NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Now don’t tell my boss, but on Tuesday mornings when I arrive at work before A Life Scientific on BBC Radio 4 has ended, I’m forced to sit in the car until it does. Professor Jim Al-Khalili talks to leading scientists about their life and work, finding out what inspires and motivates them. I particularly loved his interview with Eugenia Cheng on the mathematics of mathematics. Though it was never my strongest subject, I continue to love maths, desperate to understand and to find the right answer, though I seldom do. What’s extraordinary about many of the people featured on A Life Scientific is how often a childhood interest or passion has led to a fulfilling career and it’s clear that doing something you love is a wonderful privilege. I’ll be playing the podcasts to my son when he’s a little older because whatever he does in life I want it to be what makes him happy. You may have read about the letter a teacher in Singapore sent to parents the week before her students were to sit exams. Here’s a short extract: “I know you are all really anxious for your child to do well. But, please do remember, amongst the students who will be sitting for the exams there is an artist who doesn’t need to understand math, an entrepreneur who doesn’t care about history or English literature, a musician whose chemistry marks won’t matter. There’s an athlete whose physical fitness is more important than physics. If your child does get top marks, that’s great, but if he or she doesn’t please don’t take away their self-confidence and dignity. Tell them no matter what they score you love them and will not judge them. Please do this and when you do, watch your children conquer the world. One exam or a low mark won’t take that away. And please don’t think that doctors and engineers are the only happy people in the world.” I hope you have or have had the opportunity to do what you love and that you can inspire others to do likewise. Driving to work at 6am on a cold January morning is never easy, but it’s a whole lot easier if you’re looking forward to the day ahead.
In Touch
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
01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: claydon@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.
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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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CYCP PRESENTS CLAYDON YOUTHZONE: BEATZ THE STREETZ! CYCP (Claydon Youth Community Project) has a new identity! Our relaunch for Easter, after a little break since the summer, sees us take on the role of Claydon Youthzone. The Youthzone hopes to be bigger and better than ever, running holiday Beatz the Streetz activities for young people aged 9-16 years. It is open to all young people, their siblings, family and friends aged 9-16 in the local area and beyond. Claydon
Activities run for five days at Easter and 10 days during the summer holiday. Most of the activities take place at Claydon High School, but we do have activities off-site in the local area. The cost of each activity is subsidised by the generous funding and donations we receive, including from the local parish councils, Suffolk Foundation, lottery and locality funding. This makes them affordable to you and gives the young people a chance to try something new and maybe find a new hobby or interest, or perhaps even a future career! Activities have included scuba diving, karting, drama, decopatch, ceramics, mosaics, fused glass, cookery, trampolining, tennis, archery, football, canoeing, quad biking, street running, climbing, golf and much, much more!
DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES Easter: Monday, April 9 – Friday, April 13 Summer: Monday, August 13 – Friday, August 17 Monday, August 20 – Friday, August 24 The programme for Easter is currently being finalised but we are hoping to include a gaming bus as well as all the usual crafts, sports and fun activities you are used to. Keep an eye out for the booklets that are distributed via the local schools, or check out the posts on our Facebook page @ClaydonYouthzone and contact us to book. We are always looking for new ideas for activities, volunteers and sponsors, so please get in contact if you think you can help in any way: cycp_bookings@yahoo.co.uk / 01728 860125
HENLEY WW1 FESTIVAL Over the weekend of Friday, June 22 to Sunday, June 24, Henley Church will host a WW1 Commemoration and Celebration, marking 100 years since the end of the First World War. St Peter’s Church will be decorated with beautiful flower displays, but we’re also asking if people have any war memorabilia, photos or items from the war that might also go on display over the weekend. If members of your family died in the First of Second World Wars, we’d also love you to share your stories and photos in the display. You don’t have to be a Henley family or have a connection to Henley – we’d love to hear from you. In the first instance, please contact The Rev Carl Melville (01473 833542 / 07554 014695) or The Rev Cathy Austin (01473 830100). As well as this, we’ll also be holding a Henley War Time Street Party on Saturday, June 23, with games and fun for families and villagers from 3-5pm. More details to follow, but book the dates! This month’s cover image is the second from Paula Irvine in our ‘My Life in…’ series of images by local residents. Paula is from Claydon but this picture was taken in Bramford. Paula says: “It caught my eye amongst the melting blanket of white, standing strong and beautiful with the promise that spring is on the way.” Thanks Paula.
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NEWS CLAYDON FOOTBALL CLUB SALUTES ALAN BALLARD Alan sadly passed away in January and I personally and on behalf of the club extend our condolences to his wife and family at this time. The family has been part of the community for many years and Alan an immense part of Claydon Football Club in its long 64-year history. Alan’s funeral was on Thursday, January 25 at Barham Church. I got to know Alan when we were playing Veteran football at Claydon recreation ground. He would be in the middle of a run and we would exchange pleasantries, usually along the lines of some football banter. I was aware that he was managing the Saturday side at the time and impressed with him keeping fit through running, a particular pastime of mine. It wasn’t until I was ‘invited’ to become involved with the club that I got to know him more. He had retired from the management by that time, but assisted Kenny, the then Reserve team manager, as ‘worldly wise wingman’ and we would engage in regular discussions about football ‘today’ compared to ‘yesterday’! Looking back at some of the old photographs of past teams I see a younger Alan with his teams and I know there were other ‘Ballards’ figuring strongly in them. Therefore the club has figured strongly in the ‘Ballard ’dynasty’ and vice versa and we are very thankful for it.
COACH TRIP TO OULTON BROAD
We are organising a coach trip to Oulton Broad on Friday, June 8, leaving Alasdair Place at 9.30am and returning at approximately 6pm. There will be time to look around the park, town and enjoy lunch prior to boarding the boat for a two-hour cruise through the Waveney Valley enjoying the sights and the wildlife. The cost of the coach and the two-hour cruise will be no more than £22 and less if we can get a full coach. The coach has disabled access as does the cruiser. If interested please contact Colin Dedman (01473 830776) or Gail Cornish on (07932 478878) to book your place. A £10 deposit required at time of booking.
WOMBLES OF BARHAM ARE AT WORK AGAIN
It only remains for me to salute Alan for the incredible part he has played in Claydon FC and his association with the successful years and the club’s ascendancy to big club status in local football. To Alan! Tim Carr, Chairman Claydon FC We are a group of people who hate litter.
HISTORY FROM THE FIELDS Please help me out if you are a landowner in and around Claydon/Barham. As a retired gentleman with the passion for metal detecting, I am desperately seeking any suitable area, with permission, to carry out some careful detecting. My hobby, which I started many years ago, has given me a wealth of experience and pleasure. I am a fully insured member (No. 14964) of the NCMD, and all required conditions of detecting would be observed. Time slips away and history is lost and more is covered by the concrete jungle.
Unfortunately there is a lot of it about marring our beautiful countryside and our enjoyable walks. We come together to collect litter regularly. The photo show Sheila and Daphne at work and the litter collected on a recent Tuesday morning along Old Norwich Road and Sandy Lane. This included two hub caps, a purple bed sheet and several glass bottles, as well as the usual plastic rubbish. I don’t think we will ever stop it, but we can keep it under control. Come and join us or set up your own group. Sarah Carter at Mid Suffolk will supply bags, grabbers, bag labels and fluorescent waistcoats and register your group.
Once again I respectfully request permission from any understanding landowner for the opportunity to switch on and go detecting.
To join the Wombles contact Anne Douglas: annedouglas0875@gmail.com
If you can help please contact Marc Fowle on 01473 835860 in the evenings or email: callericarda@hotmail.com
HAVE YOU SEEN BILLY?
However small I’ll find it!
Little Bill has not been seen since September 30 and is very much missed. He’s a friendly, inquisitive boy, so may have sneaked into your house for fuss, or a shed to be nosey. He lives on Church Lane, Baylham
ALASDAIR PLACE RESTARTING Alasdair Place residents are restarting bingo on Thursday afternoon every fortnight starting at 2pm. If you like a few games of bingo (£1.50 per book) and having fun with tea/coffee and a biscuit or two then please come and join us. The dates for March /April are March 8 and 22 and April 5 and 19. If you need further information please contact Gail Cornish: 01473 830140
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We are very worried about him, especially since the weather has turned. He’s just 19 months old. Please call/text Katie on 07875 273676 or Jon on 07810 356907 (please leave a message if no answer) if you have seen him or know where he is. He is microchipped, but not yet neutered due to having a retained testicle.
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www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
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NEWS GALA DAY: SATURDAY, JULY 21
CLAYDON & BARHAM HISTORY WANTED We are in the early stages of planning this year’s annual Church Fete in the grounds of Barham Church on Saturday, June 16 and are thinking of having a weekend-long exhibition of the history of Claydon and Barham. I would be pleased to hear from any person or organisation that would like to prepare a display or has items of interest, photos maps, etc. that tell the history of the two villages and the immediate surroundings. We would like to include the history of companies, shops, employment, buildings, voluntary organisations, schools, pubs, etc. If we have enough to put together an exhibition we would have the church open for viewing over probably three days. At this stage we are only seeking information and offers, not actual items.
Yes, this year is a Gala Day year! Please come and join in the fun at our joint communities Gala Day on Saturday, July 21. Because of the increase in our shared connections with organisations in Great Blakenham, this year we thought it appropriate to invite them to join in. This should mean a bigger and better event and be of mutual benefit all our community organisations. Initially we are looking for local organisations to run a stall, display crafts, display their skills or take part in some way. This day is often a good way to increase membership or attendance at your own individual weekly/monthly meetings or events. We have already booked a bouncy castle, ice-cream seller, donkey ride, Punch & Judy show and a carousel and are now looking for your local group and/or individuals to join in. As in previous years, all the money raised after costs will be pooled. To this we add the profit from our major raffle and every community organisation involved will get a share of the total profits raised. The idea is to give an excellent event for the local villagers to support while raising money to support the organisation that work so hard in your community. So if you are active in the community get involved and help us help you. Additionally we would love to have local craft societies showing their talents and/or selling their wares both at inside stalls or outside on the school field. So if you are or know of any local craftspeople then get in touch and consider coming along and showing the community the talents we have in our midst. We also need helpers happy to set up from 8am and help clear away from 4pm to assist the small organising team. For more information contact Jonathan Dedman: 1 Drury Road, Claydon IP6 0ED / 01473 830890 / jo-nd@hotmail.co.uk
Please contact Roger Colthorpe: 01473 831079 / rogercolthorpe@aol.com
FUNDRAISING COFFEE MORNING Burstall Village Hall on Saturday, March 17, 10am-12 .30pm Delicious homemade cakes and fresh tea and coffee, served on beautiful vintage china. Do come along and join us and find out more about this vital Suffolk charity. Fresh Start – New Beginnings is a charity working across Suffolk and Norfolk, set up to help child victims of sexual abuse and their families recover from the associated trauma. We provide one-to-one therapy to the child victims as well as groups for children and their carers. Fresh Start – New Beginnings use a clinically evaluated treatment model which is proven to help children recover from the guilt, blame and shame many feel following sexual abuse. The children are offered a safe place to unravel their thoughts and fears with a worker who will not judge or be shocked by what they hear. The children are helped to process their abuse and given strategies to deal with the effects of the abuse. The charity’s vision is ‘to ensure all children and young people who are the victims of sexual abuse have the opportunity to access help, advice guidance and therapeutic intervention to aid their recovery’.
We sincerely hope you can help us make it a successful day by offering your support.
In Suffolk, Fresh Start – New Beginnings get some statutory funding (Health and Police) but this only covers half of the costs. The charity has so far received over 980 referrals and our service is free at the point of delivery.
Claydon & Barham Local Community Trust Ltd
www.fsnb.org.uk
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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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www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
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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
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
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NEWS
IPSWICH GANG SHOW IS 80 YEARS OLD THIS YEAR Have you ever been a member of the show, on stage or behind the scenes? We are celebrating our 80 years with a dinner/dance at Trinity Park on Saturday, September 1 and would love to see anyone who has been connected to the show. For further details email: gangshow80@outlook.com
BRAMFORD GUIDE & SCOUT HEADQUARTERS NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT Bramford Guide & Scout HQ on Ship Lane in Bramford has been the HQ for Guides and Scouts in the village since the 1980s when the parish council gave them permission to use the old Bramford Primary School. The parish council is responsible for the up-keep and maintenance of the exterior of the building and the Guide and Scout Groups are responsible for the inside. As a charity we currently have six volunteers who are responsible for management of the building, including fundraising. However, there are some areas of the HQ that need refurbishment to bring it up to spec. We have identified the following: replacement kitchen, refurbishment of boys and girls toilets including provision of a disabled toilet, renewing skirting tiles around the main hall, repainting of the HQ throughout and some sound proofing to improve acoustics in the main hall. We anticipate that this work will cost approximately £12,000 to enable us to meet the needs of everyone who uses the building. We have £3,000 so need to raise a further £9,000. We are currently looking into grants under S106 and the Community Infrastructure Levy plus MSDC and SCC locality funding. If anyone is able to support this project in any way, either with knowledge of available grants and applications, monetary donations, building experience, labour or donations of equipment required from companies that you work for, it would be much appreciated. In order to complete the much needed works, we are looking to undertake the following fundraisers: • Create a lasting legacy brick wall whereby past and present Guide and Scout members and their families can buy an inscribed brick to go on a wall in the entrance hall to the HQ. Small bricks will be available for £30 each or businesses can advertise their services on larger bricks for £60. • Car wash on Sunday, April 29 with refreshments including bacon rolls, homemade cakes and beverages, so please spread the word and send all your friends and family to get their cars, vans and motorbikes cleaned by section members between 10am to 3pm. • Duck Race on July 7 at the annual village fun day. If you are able to help support this project in any way, please contact us at the following address: bramfordgandshq@gmail.com If you would like to purchase a brick to go up on our lasting legacy wall, please contact us by May 1.
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350
ST PETER’S CHURCH HENLEY – FLOODLIGHTING SCHEME Would you like to mark a day which is important to you and your family? Do you want to celebrate a birthday or an anniversary, or remember a loved one? You could light up our church for an evening. It’s a great way to remember a special day and bring light to the village. Why not support your local church and celebrate your particular day by joining our Floodlighting Sponsorship Scheme. It’s easy to do – just collect a sponsorship form from the church porch or contact the organiser, Chris Dawkins: 01473 831423 / cdawks@gmail.com
CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE & CHARITY SHOP March 24 is our Easter Chocolate Bingo. Do remember that this was sold out in 2017 so get your tickets early. It’s not your normal bingo! Using a big screen all bingo numbers are called by celebrity voices such as Michael Cane, Victor Meldrew, Ozzie Osborne and others. Prizes are given for one line, two lines and a full house and everything is chocolate related. That doesn’t mean to say it’s all edible chocolate; many prizes are chocolate themed but not necessarily edible. There are six games played, cards for games one to five are £1 each and for game six they are £3 each as the full house prize is £100! During the interval a hot meal is provided followed by scrummy deserts. There will also be a free competition with a prize for the winners. We have a magnificent raffle with over 30 prizes, all Easter and chocolate themed. If you want a really good family night out, where children are welcome, a full bar is available and you get fed as well, all for only £6 (half price for under 10s), tickets are now available from the charity shop on Coddenham Road, Needham Market, from Stowmarket Tourist Office or by calling 01449 760343 or 07974 424374. Can you help us to help our children? As many of you may know the children arrive with only the clothes they are wearing. We are busy collecting ‘nearly new’ items which we give to the children on arrival. They take clothes not only for themselves but also for siblings at home. If you have any children’s clothing, and in particular suitable for ages six to 13, that you would like to donate we would be extremely grateful. We are now collecting clothing for all ages as any surplus to requirements for the summer group will be taken to Belarus on our group trip at the end of August where a group of volunteers from our area will be visiting several different social shelters (a cross between orphanage and foster home) and will take clothing for the children there. Donations can be left at the charity chop or collected by calling the numbers given above. If you are interested in finding out more about the charity in general, or maybe you would like to help in our charity shop, please do get in touch. Thank you to everyone for your support as always. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / enquiries@ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help.
www.facebook.com/ccllmidsuffolk
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NEWS CLAYDON & WHITTON PARISH COUNCIL
From the last parish council meeting: • Gerald James was co-opted as a parish councillor and we wish him all the best in his new role. • Councillor Mary LeMay has resigned. We thank her for her service to the council over a number of years. • There are still vacancies for parish councillors that we would very much like to fill. Please contact our parish clerk if you are interested in finding out more. • It was agreed not to increase the Parish Precept in 2018/19 and to set a budget of £43,695 and a Precept of £56.22 (£1.08 per week) for a Council Tax Band ‘D’ equivalent property. Although it had been necessary to add or increase some budgets it had also been possible to make some budget savings to offset the additional expenditure. Annual Parish Meetings The Annual Parish Meetings will be held on Monday, April 16 in Claydon & Barham Village Hall. The meeting for Claydon will be held at 7pm, followed by the meeting for Whitton Rural at 8pm. These meetings are not parish council meetings, although parish councillors will be present, but are organised on behalf of residents to give them the opportunity to ask for any issue about which they are concerned to be included on the agenda so they can attend the meeting to put their views publicly and to hear the views of others. This might include stopping further development in Claydon and Whitton or the lack of dedicated policing in the village and the recent increase in crime and anti-social behaviour. The meeting will also hear annual reports from the various organisations in the village. If you have anything to say about any aspect of village life we want to hear it; please come to the meeting. Please contact our parish clerk if you would like any item added to the agenda by March 31. Agendas will be available prior to the meeting from our parish clerk. Unauthorised entry to local construction sites We have been asked by the construction company working to bury cables from an off-shore wind farm to Bramford (locally working in Papermill Lane) to draw your attention to a recent incident at one of the Horizontal Direct Drilling (HDD) sites when two members of the public made their way on foot through the construction area and walked to the location of an HDD compound where they were challenged by security staff. Access is only allowed to HDD compounds by staff who have received specific training and wear compliant work clothing. All visits to any of the construction sites must be authorised in advance and visitors are required to sign in on arrival. An unauthorised site visit to any of the project sites, therefore, is potentially extremely dangerous and members of the public are asked to stay away at all times. Meetings in March The next parish council meeting will be held on Monday, March 12 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 meeting 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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DON’T BECOME THE VICTIM OF A TELEPHONE SCAM We take regular reports from members of the public who have fallen victim to various scams and cons which start off with a phone call or an email. Unfortunately, some victims are defrauded of large amounts of money – sometimes their entire life savings. Over the years we have heard of various tricks and ruses, as the fraudsters come up with increasingly convincing ways to gain the confidence of their victims. Sometimes victims are contacted by someone purporting to be from the fraud department associated to their bank and makes claims that their account/s are being targeted by rogue bank employees. They also claim that such ‘rogue employees’ are currently being internally investigated, but to safeguard the victim’s money they need to transfer their savings out of their account into an apparent ‘safe’ account. The fraudulent callers will apply a time pressure and the need to supposedly keep secret the transfers out of the account. The victim is either asked to make instant transfers online or to go to their local branch to carry out the necessary transfers. During the phone call the victim is guided on the mobile phone as to what they should and should not say to others, especially bank staff. DC Joanne Smith from Safeguarding and Investigations said: “The fraudulent caller will sound very convincing, and claims to know the banks procedures and even information about the victims account to gain their trust. The fraudulent caller may also build the trust over a couple of days before asking to make the transfers, as well as providing genuine telephone numbers and passwords that will correspond to the legitimate Bank / Building Society. Some fraudsters have the ability to mask their telephone number so what appears on the caller display conveys the impression it is a genuine phone number.” Residents should remember the following: Your bank or the police will never ask you to withdraw money or purchase items. Your bank or the police will never ask for your PIN, bank card or bank account details over the phone – never give these details out. If the victim has any concerns about what the caller is asking then they should end the call and report to their branch and or fraud department Never download any software suggested by caller. Do not rush into complying with the scammer’s demands/requests. If you receive such a call leave the landline for at least five minutes to make an outside call. Fraudsters will keep the line open and have been known to play ring tones, hold music and a recorded message down the phone so the victim believes they are making a call to a legitimate number. Use a friend or neighbour’s telephone instead. Friends, family, carers and neighbours are asked to spread the word to ensure everyone is aware of this scam and what they should do. You can report incidents of fraud to Action Fraud by calling 03001 232040 or using their online reporting tool: www.actionfraud.police.uk You can also sign up to the Trading Standards weekly email alert on rogues and scams targeting Suffolk: www.suffolk.gov.uk/JoinTheFight Until next month, if you any queries or questions please contact Hadleigh SNT at Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD / hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk EMERGENCY: CALL 999 NON-EMERGENCY: CALL 101 FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @HadleighPolice POLICE CONNECT: suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect
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NEWS HENLEY PARISH COUNCIL The village website – www.henley.onesuffolk.net – has had a wash and brush-up. Our site, in common with those of many other parishes, is hosted by Community Action Suffolk (CAS), which decided recently to update the operating software. Aha, I can hear you thinking, I bet that didn’t go very smoothly.
There’s a good calendar function and I’ll be very glad to publish details of any village event. There’s a news section where we can publish any snippet that’s of interest. I’ve added a feed of the parish council Facebook page. I publish the HAFC match reports and fixture list every week. There’s church information, history, all kinds of similar material.
Well it was never going to be straightforward – launching an update which simultaneously changes the websites of all the parishes in Suffolk which use the same system; that has the potential to cause the odd glitch.
There’s nothing stopping us having an opinion forum as well. Do you want to have a say about the future of the village? Send me an article and I’ll publish it. Want to air a complaint or a compliment? Send it in and if it’s legal and decent, that can go on the site as well.
Sure enough, the website updated overnight, and sure enough, the result was initially very strange. Things moved around, disappeared altogether or stopped working the way we are used to. A very calm and patient guy at CAS (thanks Matthew) received a large number of puzzled, grumpy and urgent emails (and those were just the ones from me) – and, of course, most of the problems got ironed out in the end and we now have a shiny new site which looks quite nice and seems pretty easy to work. Which made me think: we don’t use the site enough. It’s a great resource for village information, news, services, events and opinions. There’s no reason to just use it for official parish council paperwork, though we do have to do that in order to comply with the government’s transparency code so you can find all the agendas, minutes, accounts and reports there.
Mothering Sunday is March 11 and we’re offering lunch from noon-4pm. Book early to avoid disappointment! March heralds a busy time at the Duke of Marlborough with the launch of our events programme. Every Wednesday there will be something different going on, something interesting and entertaining for you to get involved with. The idea is to feature particular types of events on each of the four Wednesdays in a month. There will be a quiz, something music based, a food and drink related event and a charity night. Charities wishing to use the pub (free-of-charge) as a venue for their fundraising or awareness building events on the fourth Wednesday of the month should contact Kevin on 01473 831283 to discuss details and dates. EVENT DIARY FOR MARCH Wednesday 7: Quiz Night Entry £1 per person (minimum of four people per team), winners take the prize pot. There will be chilli and rice to buy on the night for £5. The quiz will be six rounds with various rounds of questions. Booking is required by contacting Kevin: 01473 831283 / kevin@thedukeofmarlborough.com Wednesday 14: Music Night We welcome Unit 99, playing a mixture of rock and blues – to see them in action visit: www.facebook.com/unit99band. The evening gets underway at 7pm, free admission and food will be available Wednesday 21: Richard’s Cookery Night Our fantastic chef will be demonstrating three dishes which have proved popular from his chef’s menu recently. You will watch him in action and then enjoy each dish throughout the evening. Owing to the viewing capacity in the kitchen, spaces will be very limited, so we will only be able to accommodate 12 delegates. There is a drinks reception at 6.30pm, and the first course will be demonstrated at 7pm. The evening will conclude around 8.45pm. The cost is £20 per person, which includes your welcome drink and three food dishes.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
Are you planning an event? Send me the details. The more useful stuff there is on the site, the more people will use and value it. So, CAS, in spite of my initial grouchiness, thanks for updating the software and giving our website a new lease of life. 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. Parish Clerk Rod Caird: 07785 331217 www.henley.onesuffolk.net
Richard will be demonstrating (all home made from locally sourced produce) • Bacon Jam with Toasts • Wild & Chestnut Mushrooms on Brioche Toast • Cinnamon & Orange Crème Brulee Booking is essential with payment in advance – again telephone or email Kevin to book your space. The pub will also be open to drinkers on Richard’s Cookery Night! Wednesday 28: Charity Quiz Night An evening of fun with Grandmentors, a project run by the charity Volunteering Matters which supports disadvantaged young people leaving the care system. There will be a chance to hear a bit about the work they do and to join in the food and quiz. Again, you need to book! Pizza Night Returns The other big news for March is that Pizza Night returns on Thursdays from March 8. We are delighted to be welcoming Clinton and The Mobile Pizza Co serving freshly prepared and cooked wood-fired pizza from 6pm (initially for March, times may vary during the summer). He has a range of sizes. Costs start at £5. Opening Times From March the pub opening times will be Wednesday to Sunday from noon. We look forward to welcoming you for light lunches, events, pizza night, chef’s menu and Sunday lunch – or just a coffee or a drink! For all the latest news, follow us at: Twitter @DukeofMarl www.facebook.com/marlboroughsomersham www.thedukeofmarlborough.com Contact us on: 01473 831283 / enquiries@thedukeofmarlborough.com
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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: FEBRUARY 2018 Highways: At last Great Blakenham’s Zebra Crossing at Mill Lane is under construction, but disruption from works by utilities and developers still disrupt the area, particularly at Hackneys Corner. After our last Scrutiny meeting the committee chair is to write to the government calling for new guidance strengthening the powers of planning and highway authorities to place tougher conditions on developers and utilities. These should minimise the impact of their activities on residents and businesses. £21m to pay for road resurfacing: The county council plan to borrow an extra £21m over the next three years to pay for resurfacing of 1,000 miles of roads, 25% of those in Suffolk. This should reduce reactive maintenance costs. However, it is concerning to see a £300,000 cut in the highway maintenance budget which will reduce the amount of gritting carried out. It may cost insurers more than is saved and make it harder to get to work.
Barham and Claydon Planning; The application for 312 houses at the Whitton end of the Old Ipswich Road is at planning referrals on February 14. I will be taking part in the decision, so I must keep an open mind. Local opinions will of course be considered and given substantial weight, but planning law must be followed and there is a need for housing. Education, highways and environmental considerations will be important. The county is becoming aware of the overall numbers of houses proposed in Gipping Valley, which hosts a large part of the Mid Suffolk Ipswich Fringe.
Council confirms budget proposals: The Conservative councillors have confirmed the final budget proposals for 2018-19. Since Scrutiny when I reported last, there has been a detailed change to the increases: Council Tax will now rise by 2.99% following a seven-year freeze and the Adult Social Care Precept by a further 2%. The total stays at 4.99%. However, the change brings the opportunity to increase Council Tax by 3% and the Social Care Precept by a further 1% next year. Regrettably, with no end to government cuts to local authority grants in sight and increasing demand and cost of care for the elderly and the disabled, such tax rises will continue to be necessary or the NHS will suffer the knock-on effects.
Comment from County Highways often appears muted, but the government defined threshold for harm that drives substantial highway improvement or the blocking of development is high.
Adult Care: The adult care budget is already much stretched and heading for a £3.47m overspend this year. In 2018-19 the budget is increased by inflation and the Social Care Precept then reduced by £12m leaving it £3m above last year. To achieve that figure ‘demand will be managed’.
District Council Mid Suffolk, who have a substantial Transformation Fund gathered from past New Homes Bonus payments, are limiting this year’s Council Tax rise to 0.5%. They are concerned that a problem looms for the district as the government shifts cash to the county via the Better Care Fund. However, past payments have not been used so the change is hardly a surprise.
Rural transport: £150,000 will be cut from the sponsored bus services budget, resulting in a reduced number of rural bus services. I am concerned that this will target some of our most vulnerable residents and increase rural isolation. There is currently no more information on which services could be affected. However, the council has pledged to work with local councillors and I will keep you updated. Home to School Transport: You will have noticed the intense interest that home to school transport is provoking in areas where many children travel but not to their nearest school. Costs can be a real challenge for parents. I reported the details in December, but final decisions are yet to be made. Police and Crime Panel: We agreed the PCC’s proposal for a £12 increase in the police precept having listened to their budget difficulties. There are major challenges, a larger than expected police pay rise and increased pension fund payments. However, we were told that the large tax increase will fund extra staff. We asked for details but must wait until staff have been informed. The Hold – a new heritage centre in Ipswich: The Development Control Committee has approved a scheme to build a new heritage centre near the Ipswich Waterfront. It will house the bulk of Suffolk’s archival
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collections and will also include teaching spaces for the University of Suffolk. The project is expected to cost £20m funded by the county council, the University of Suffolk, the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Wolfson Foundation. There is concern that all records from Lowestoft and Bury St Edmunds could be moved to Ipswich, but that was not the intention when the plans were first formulated.
There is a Re-Advertisement Outline Planning Application for the proposed development on Barham Church Lane for the erection of up to 300 homes. In Bramford there is a new outline application with access and all other matters reserved for residential development of up to 225 homes on Lorraine Way adjacent to the CEMEX development.
I am concerned that we again appear to have a problem spending the government’s Disabled Facilities Grant. This funds low cost adaptions, preventative measures such as grab rails which help keep people in their homes where they want to be. It improves people’s lives and reduces the cost of care. The problem is in the approvals process that requires skilled staff. The county and district must work together on this to reduce delays. The district’s Investment for Purpose programme aims to make a profit from investment of low interest Public Loan Board money in commercial property. This profit may compensate for the reductions in government grants and we are told it is low risk. I hope that is correct. Sajid Javid, Secretary of State, does not appear to agree and he has just released ‘guidance’ discouraging such investments. If you have any queries, please phone me on 01473 831306 (you will need to say your name and press #) or 07545 423808 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
In Touch online:
NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA) 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 Paper copies of the newsletter are available on request by contacting: 01473 839149 / suffolkefw@sita.co.uk 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, which will include a tour of the facility and time to explore our visitor centre. Places are currently available on the following days: Tuesday, March 20, 6-8pm Wednesday, June 20, 10am-noon Tuesday, June 26, 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. We also organise trips for interest groups and schools so get in touch if your group or class would like to come and have a look around. Book your school for a visit The new term is now in full swing, so it’s a great time for schools to come and visit our specially designed visitor centre and have a site tour. Classes of up to 30 students in Key Stage 2 and above can come to the site and explore how we make good use of Suffolk’s waste! During the tour we explore topics across the science curriculum including materials, units and states of matter and highlight the use of science in the workplace. We can also tailor visits to suit the topics you’re covering in school, meaning the experience is suitable for students in Key Stage 2 all the way up to university level. If you would like to discuss what we can offer your school please email: c.davies@suez.com. Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to contact the facility on 01473 839149. OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS To book a visit: 01473 836821 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
CHARITY CONCERT IN AID OF SANDS AND FIND The Three Chordettes are joined by the band It’s Fete in a charity concert in aid of SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death charity) and FIND (Families In Need, Ipswich). The concert will take place at Barham Church (IP6 0PT) on Saturday, March 17 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12 (includes interval refreshments) and are available online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/thethreechorsettes or in person from Choices Clothes Ltd (IP6 0PU) which is open Tuesday to Friday 9am4.30pm and Saturday from 10am-4pm. For more information about The Three Chordettes, visit: www.thethreechordettes.co.uk / www.facebook.com/thethreechordettes / Twitter @ThreeChordettes / Instagram #TheThreeChordettes Please note that there is a small charge when booking online.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
In the autumn of 2016, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no. 4494/16. Full details can be found at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning 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. As you are no doubt aware, Onslow Suffolk has finally submitted the missing information for the SnOasis Reserved Matters application. By the time you read this, the deadline of February 2 will have passed and comments from residents will no longer be accepted. Now this stage is over, the council’s planning committee will be considering the application. At the time of writing, no date has been announced for this. Whatever the outcome, the SPA will continue to monitor the progress of the application and activities at the site. We will keep the focus on the needs and concerns of residents who will be affected by whatever eventually happens with the site. To this end we have arranged a meeting in mid-February with the planning team to consider the responses by the developer to the queries we raised on the Reserved Matters and also to plan a way forward that brings the most benefits for local residents. For further information, please email Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume
Easter Chocolate Bingo! Saturday 24th March Fantastic Family Night Out! A CHARITY EVENT FOR CHERNOBYL CHILDREN LIFE LINE REG. No. 1014274
F
A CHA
Community Centre Needham Market 7:00 pm Full Bar Open Entry £6.00 - Under 10’s half price To include Supper with dessert Bingo with a real difference!
Six exciting games
Chocolate related prizes and raffle ££££
Ch
Final Game Cash Prize ££££ Tickets from CCLL Charity Shop Needham Market
(adj. to Rampant Horse public House)
Mid Suffolk Tourist office Stowmarket (Opposite Asda) Or call 01449 760343/07974 424374
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT 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. The Knitting Group Do you enjoy knitting or want to learn how to? We meet 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. The Book Club Do you fancy reading something different to what you would usually choose? We have a few places left for new members on the last Thursday in the month at The Crown at 10.30am. The Gipping Valley Art Society This small, friendly group meets every Tuesday afternoon at Great Blakenham Parish Rooms. We take our own materials and have our own projects for painting in various mediums. Membership is free, but we pay a weekly subscription to cover room hire, refreshments and so on. We are now taking contact details only as the group is at capacity. Contact: Ann 01473 831031 / Margaret 01473 830135
CLAYDON AND BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE We have a few vacancies for bar staff and also for a cleaner; please apply to the community centre on 01473 831805. Friday, March 16: Cactus Jack and the Long Horns Come on down and stamp on the floor. Entry 7pm-late, £5 at the door or at the centre when open. REGULAR ACTIVITIES Monday: Short Mat Carpet Bowls / Bar Open Tuesday: Karate (all ages 4-7pm), Carpet Bowls, Ladies Darts / Bar Open Wednesday: Bingo / Bar Open Thursday: Street Dance for Young People, 6.30-8pm Friday: Karate (all ages 4-7pm) / the hall is available in the evening for your suggestions / Bar Open Saturday: Bar open from noon-3pm and from 7pm Sunday: Bar open from noon-6pm The bar is fully stocked with popular lagers, cask ales and spirits and the hall or Compton Bar are available for hire. The pool table is fully operational; come in and play a frame or two.
4 Ever Young Men’s Club Meet on the third Wednesday of each month at 10.30am in The Crown. We are looking for new members to both join the club and lend a hand in helping to run the group, arrange and organise activities, speakers and events and make the club what you want it to be. Pop in and meet us for a chat, the chance to make new friends and maybe a pie and a pint at lunchtime!
At the time of writing, The Money Box is half way through the 15 keys and the prize is currently £253. We play every Friday at 10pm.
Meet ‘n’ Eat Lunch Club Unfortunately, the Meet ’n’ Eat Lunch Club is unable to continue at the present time. We are actively looking for volunteers who would be able to take on some of the responsibility of running the event every month, covering the administration, food safety training, preparation and service and the inevitable washing up! For an informal chat, please contact Mike on 07805 507497 or email: 4CAG@bigvax.co.uk
The Friends of Bramford Church are holding a jigsaw evening on Thursday, March 22 in Bramford Church Room at 7pm for a prompt 7.15pm start.
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5
Stewart McGinty
Route 5 Town/village Location MIP/5A Sproughton Church Lane MIP/5B Sproughton Wild Man MIP/5C Bramford St Mary’s Close MIP/5D Bramford Paper Mill Lane MIP/5E Great Blakenham, Chequers MIP/5F Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park MIP/5G Baylham Post Box MIP/5H Claydon Crown MIP/5I Claydon Edinburgh Gardens MIP/5J Barham Bacon Road MIP/5K Bramford Packard Place
Time 9.10-9.25am 9.30-9.45am 9.50-10.05am 10.10-10.25am 10.35-1055am 11-11.15am 11.25-11.45am 11.55am-1pm 2.05-2.20pm 2.25-3.50pm 4-4.30pm
2018 DATES: March 13, April 10, May 8, June 5, July 3 & 31, August 28, September 25, October 23, November 20, December 18 Please note that Mobile Library Route 13 stops off at the Sorrel Horse in Barham from 11-11.10am on the following dates: March 23, April 20, May 18, June 15, July 13, August 10, September 7, October 5, November 2 & 30, December 28
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JIGSAW EVENING
This popular event will include refreshments and a draw. Entry is £3 per person. Come either as a team of four or as an individual; we can make teams up as necessary. Proceeds go towards the upkeep of the church building.
COFFEE MORNING AT ST PETER’S COURT, CLAYDON First Tuesday of every month There are table top sales and raffles and all the money raised go to Air Ambulance. All welcome
EASTER BRIC-A-BRAC SALE 1st Sproughton Brownies are holding their Easter Bric-a-Brac Sale in Sproughton Church Hall on Saturday, March 24, from 2-4pm. The sale is in aid of Save the Children, HOPS (Holiday Opportunity Play Scheme for children with disabilities in Suffolk) and Brownie funds. Stalls will include bric-a-brac, toys, books, next-to-new, clothes, games, cakes, tombola, a draw and refreshments. Please come and support us and get a bargain. Every welcome; admission free.
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
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OUT & ABOUT CLAYDON & BARHAM VILLAGE HALL
HENLEY WI We began 2018 with a visit from Jo Salter who runs her own ethical clothing business, Where Does It Come From?, here in Suffolk. We felt it was a very relevant subject as everyone is much more interested nowadays in where their clothes originate and what they are made from. She began her business in 2012 and it took quite some time to become established. Every item produced has a code which means it can be traced from source to the point of sale. Everything used is totally organic, no electricity is used – cotton is spun and woven using pedal machines, it is dyed and starched in large vats and the printing is block or screen printing done by hand. Her main suppliers are from India and the project for 2018 is to extend the business to Africa. The speaker for our second meeting of the year was Horrie Parsons with further stories from the Millennium Project. It was Harry’s second visit to our WI and he wanted to update us on the installation of the vaulted ceiling in the Millenium Tower at Bury St Edmunds Cathedral. Harry was the project manager for the building of the tower and was delighted to return to manage the installation of the ceiling. European oak was chosen for the construction and the best joinery firm around, a Bildeston enterprise, was chosen to make it. The joinery firm insisted on computer measurements and, after using two million beams of light, felt confident about tackling the project. The ceiling was first completely constructed in the workshop. It all went perfectly. It was then transferred to its final home in the tower. This was much more difficult but again everything went perfectly. The many pieces were painted in vibrant colours using a lead based paint. The ceiling is a triumph. The tower was completed by the addition of shields of every diocese in the country. One shield remains white and blank as the Isle of Man has not yet decided on an acceptable design. Harry recounted how Prince Charles has visited the Cathedral three times and how he, Harry, appreciated his interest and humour. Obviously the Cathedral is well worth a visit. Perhaps we should follow the Prince’s example.
GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB Open to anyone living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. The club meets from 2-3pm every Monday (other than Bank Holidays) in Great Blakenham Parish from February to December. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House. The building is fully accessible with parking at the rear. Members pay £2 per meeting to cover hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Alternatively, if you would just like to come and bring your own project to work on, enjoy our company and make new friends without doing the workshops the charge is £1.50 per meeting. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The club restarted on Monday, February 5 and we were pleased to welcome Tina Dale from Bramford as a new member. February being our charity projects month, we had started making mother and baby bonding squares to pass to the hospital baby unit and drainage bag covers to pass to St Elizabeth’s Hospice. Our picture shows some of the items that were brought in on February 5. At the meeting we had a
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Thursday 1 Friday 2 Saturday 3 Monday 5 Thursday 8 Friday 9 Monday 12 Tuesday 13 Thursday 15 Friday 16 Monday 19 Thursday 22 Friday 23 Tuesday 27 Thursday 29
Silver Surfers Slimming World Stowe School of Dance Private Hire Craft Addicts Claydon PC Barham PC Meeting Young Families Silver Surfers Slimming World Stowe School of Dance Claydon PC Women’s Institute Silver Surfers Slimming World Stowe School of Dance Craft Addicts Young Families Silver Surfers Slimming World Stowe School of Dance Table Tennis VHMC Meeting Sunshine Service Silver Surfers Slimming World
11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm 4-5.30pm 1.30-5.30pm 1-4pm 2-5pm 7-10pm 9.30-11.30am 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm 4-5.30pm 7.30-9.30pm 7.15-10pm 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm 4-5.30pm 1-4pm 9.30-11.30am 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm 4-5.30pm 7.15-10.15pm 7.30-9.30pm 10am-noon 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm
Because of work on the Claydon and Barham website it may not be possible to make bookings online. If you have a problem please phone Geoff on 01473 836972 or email: cbvillagehall@btinternet.com
visit from Sarah from St Elizabeth’s Hospice to tell us about the crafting group she looks after who upcycle donated items for sale at the hospice shop and at fayres and events throughout the area. Some of our members are already involved in this group. We then had a celebration tea as we wished Alison Milton all the best as she becomes Mrs Paul Newman on February 14. Our programme for 2018 continues as follows: March 5 A Taste of the Orient April 9 Take a Piece of Card May 1 Layers for the Lads June 4 Bag Ladies July 2 Felting August 6 It’s a Jungle out There September 3 No Tune on this Accordion October 1 Christmas Stockings November 5 Christmas Card Making December 3 AGM and Christmas Party If you have been interested in our entries to the magazine over the past year and think it all sounds interesting, there is currently room for new members so if you would like to join us please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome. Unfortunately I cannot accommodate children. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50’S CLUB The club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet 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, which is fully accessible and has parking at the rear, is the building with the green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House.
ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY On Wednesday, March 7, Louise Schofield will present a talk entitled Rescuing Zeugma from the Floodwaters of the Euphrates. On Wednesday, April 4, John Benjamin, familiar to all those who watch The Antiques Roadshow, will give a talk to mark the Golden Jubilee of NADFAS. A History of Jewellery from Elizabeth I to Elizabeth Taylor is a lecture close to one given in early 1969 which looked at the evolution of design in jewellery. We will see beautiful things.
March 28 Beetle Drive with Jean
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.
April 11 A visit from Andy Malcolm from the Fisherman’s Mission
For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
On February 14 with the Winter Olympics taking place we had a talk about Korea and my visit there and some of the sights and places I visited. On February 28 we have a bring-and-buy sale. Our programme for the next six months is: March 14
What do you know about Suffolk?
April 25 Social Afternoon May 9 A visit from Andrew Bingham, Independent Funeral Service May 23 Social Afternoon with Brenda June 13 TBA June 27 A visit from Malcolm Crowe, Capricorn Crafts Toymaker July 11 Social Afternoon with Sandra July 25 Summer party before our summer break New members are always welcome, but if you would just like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon
IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, March 28: The Southwold Railway Past, Present & Future, an illustrated talk by John Ridgeway 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
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OUT & ABOUT BRAMFORD TREFOIL GUILD Our February meeting was well attended even though the weather was very cold. Members told us about their hobbies and holidays. The hobbies included quilting and card making and there were beautiful examples of both on show. Holidays included China, South Africa, Canada and many other farflung countries, and members gave good accounts of their experiences. Our next meeting is on Monday, March 5 at Bramford Scout and Guide headquarters near the Loraine Victory Hall on Ship Lane. If you would like to join us please come along.
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
EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust, then we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Ropes Hall War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave IP5 1JF. The start time is 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on March 22 when Luke Potter, the new East Suffolk General Manager for the National Trust, will give us an insight into the current work and future plans of the trust for our area. This will be preceded by a short AGM. The talk on April 19 is by Veronica Bennett, a volunteer speaker for the National Trust, who will tell us about Felbrigg Hall in Norfolk, popular for its architectural variety and beautiful garden and woods. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome, entrance fee £3 each. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 a year (£12 a couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary – membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 – or visit: www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
Henley Mothers’ Union One of the highlights of our programme this year will be to welcome Councillor Roger Fern who will talk about the Dementia Friends programme. This will be an open meeting so anyone is very welcome to join us to learn about dementia and how we can help those people living with it and their carers. The talk will be on Monday, April 9 at 7.30pm in the vestry of St Peter’s Church, Henley. At our February meeting we heard about Byumba Mothers’ Union in Rwanda from three of our members who visited Byumba last October and shared their photos. The Mothers’ Union there is a really strong organisation and achieves amazing things. They help to run a nursery school and a project for orphans living with HIV. Local handicrafts are sold in their shop which gives women in the community a chance to support themselves. The whole country seems to be moving forward in such a positive away after the horrors of the genocide, and is even ahead of us in banning plastic bags completely – your baggage gets checked on entry! If you would like to know more about Mothers’ Union please come along to one of our meetings or visit: www.musuffolk.org.uk Future Meetings March 12, 7.30pm: Bible Study with The Rev Carl Melville at the Rectory, Claydon March 26, 2pm: Afternoon Meeting – bring and share your favourite Bible verse or prayer at 14 Church Lane, Henley April 9, 7.30pm: Roger Fern on Dementia Friends For more details contact Clare Thomas: 01473 832808 / clare.thomas@btinternet.com
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BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB In March the group will meet on Wednesdays 7, 14 and 21 from 10am-noon in the upstairs room of Bramford Methodist Church. Entry is by the second door on the right-hand side of the building. The club will be closed from March 28 for the Easter holidays and will meet again on Wednesday, April 18. We have no formal teaching, but offer help on an individual basis. We are here to help you to get the most out of your computer, so why not give us a try? Membership for the school year is £1, plus £3 for each two-hour session.
SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB The next meeting of the gardening club will be on Monday, March 12 at 7.30pm in Offton and Willisham Village Hall. After a short AGM, Bernard Revans will give a talk on geraniums. If you would like any further information please contact: 01473 254941 / 830600
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB The March meeting will be held at Woolpit Village Hall on Wednesday 28 at 7.30pm. The demonstrator is Sandra Price from Walton on the Naze and her title is Wouldn’t it be Lovely. All demonstrated designs will be raffled at the end of the evening. Visitors welcome for only £6. We look forward to seeing you there.
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB In January we had 53 entries in the 100 Club draw, raising £26.50 for Claydon Pre-school. The winners were: 1: Beverley Fenn (60) 2: Lesllie Vinyard (68) 3: Lisa Robinson (6)
£15.90 £7.95 £2.65
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. 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.
CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL Despite last half term being very short, we have been busy with various trips, visits and activities including debating and student leadership training, as well as some successful sporting achievements in cross-country and athletics. At the end of January, in preparation for their upcoming exam, Year 11 GCSE Art students visited the Tate Modern in London, getting inspiration from the many artists on display as well as enjoying the fantastic panoramic view of central London from the viewing floor. The set exam theme for this year is Fragments so students focussed on pieces that were fragmented, broken or dismantled, taking photograph and making sketches to use as inspiration for their own work. On February 5 a group of students were joined by a fantastic band from Guildford called Kissed and Crowned and a team from IEM (Industry Education in Music) to take part in a rock band workshop and concert. Students from across all year groups split into groups to form eight separate ’bands’ and spent the day composing original pop music from scratch. With a very tight deadline this was a huge challenge, but our talented students worked extremely hard, using advice and guidance from the professionals to come up with some impressive and original material that was performed at a concert on the very same evening. Year 11 continue to prepare for their exams and on February 23 and 24, 110 students travelled to the Outdoors Centre in East Mersea to take part in an intense GCSE Bootcamp. This overnight event was a chance for Year 11 students to get together to learn vital revision strategies to take away with them, as well as taking part in structured Maths and English revision within a classroom setting and enjoying some outdoor challenges, such as the climbing wall, assault course and high ropes. It was really good fun (despite the mud and chilly temperatures!) and the revision process should now start in earnest. We have a small but dedicated PTA committee who work tirelessly for the benefit of the school and our students. They have organised a quiz night on Thursday, March 22, 7-9pm. If you would like to join us for this fun and popular evening, please contact Lisa, the PTA chairperson: lisa.lj60@googlemail.com As I write this article, we still have so much to look forward to including our annual fun run, an art exhibition featuring work from our feeder primary school students alongside Years 7-9, a music recital by Year 10 students, giving them an opportunity to perform their GCSE pieces to an audience, and BBC School Report Day. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The date of the next one is Wednesday, March 21. To book a place please telephone my PA, Mrs J Saunders: 01473 836110 Headteacher Maéve Taylor
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CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL Well the evenings are getting lighter and everyone is feeling very spring-like now. The children are busy making Easter bonnets at home for the Easter Eggstravaganza on Thursday, March 29. They will also be busy with lots of Easter themed crafts as well as playing outside lots more and hopefully enjoying lots of sunshine! The children had lots of fun dressing up for World Book Day, over the whole week. There were lots of very good costumes and a good time was had by all. We have a Stay & Play week starting on March 19 where we invite parents and carers to come in and spend some time with the children while they are playing and doing lots of creative activities. 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. The next bookings are for the Easter holidays (Tuesday, April 3 to Monday 16 inclusive). Please contact the administration assistant for more details. Don’t forget that from September 2017 the government introduced an additional 15 hours funding for working parents of three- and four-year-olds. This means that parents who both earn the equivalent of 16 hours at National Minimum Wage (£115.20 per week) or more per week and less that £100,000 per year (or just one carer if a single parent) are eligible to claim up to 30 hours of funding. You can register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible and also register for the Government Childcare Vouchers Scheme. If you are using the 30 hours you must provide a code to us with the 30 hour code (given once registered) and your national insurance number. 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: Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk /01473 831648
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 27 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 Thursdays, March 8 and 22 from 9.30-11.30am in Claydon and Barham Village Hall. At our regular sessions 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. For parents and carers it is 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 Oakley and Olivia who both celebrate in March. 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
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SCHOOLS / ON THE grapevine HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL The pre-school is keeping very busy this term. In January we had a visit from a fireman, this month the community police will be coming to see the children and a spring trip is planned in April to visit Easton Farm Park. We will also be celebrating Valentine’s Day, Chinese New Year and Mother’s Day. Many thanks to everyone who supported and sponsored our quiz and curry night which raised a staggering £1,100 for the pre-school. Our sessions are currently full, but we will have spaces for those children who wish to start in September 2018 and would encourage parents/carers to apply as soon as possible. For further information please call 01473 833848 during session time (9am3pm) or email our manager, Bridget Wyatt; info@henleypreschool.co.uk Bridget and the team
STONHAM ASPAL CEVAP SCHOOL It seems hard to believe that we are almost at the end of the first half of the spring term. The stormy weather and the road works have been rather challenging, but the days are slowly getting lighter which is much appreciated. Back on Thursday, January 11, most of the school went off to see the pantomime Red Riding Hood. The children were fabulous and everyone enjoyed the experience: oh yes we did! Well done to one and all. This half term Class R have used their topic of Frozen to create ‘Elsa’ castles which are on display near the hall. Classes One and Two have shared with the whole school the spaceships that they designed and created in our celebration assembly. Their spaceships were amazing with very well thought out designs. Classes Three and Four have used their topic about Rainforest to inspire their writing, for example producing non-chronological accounts about what rainforest animals eat, designing their own miniature rainforest, and creating amazing backdrops for their rainforest displays. Class Five are busy writing persuasive letters to me about a range of topics which I am looking forward to reading! Class Six are working extremely hard to make sure they can do their best in their SATS in May, as well as exploring Evolution and Inheritance for their topic.
On Wednesday, January 31, we took a team of five children from Years 5 and 6 to play in a hockey tournament at Hartismere High School. It was a very chilly afternoon, although the sun did appear briefly. The children played four matches and while we didn’t get through to the next round, all the children played extremely well, especially as most were new to hockey. Goals were scored and there was excellent defending as well. Huge congratulations go to the whole team; you made me very proud. A big thank you also goes to Mrs Daynes for running the Years 5 and 6 Hockey Club and for helping with the tournament. If you would like to know more, our website is a good source of information, or contact the office to arrange to arrange a visit. www.stonhamaspal.suffolk.sch.uk
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IPSWICH AND DISTRICT KIDNEY ASSOCIATION Ipswich and District Kidney Association – more usually referred to as IDKA – is a registered charity set up about 25 years ago by a group of patients who wanted to give something back to the hospital that had made such a difference to their lives and also to help newly diagnosed patients come to terms with their situation. Our aim is still to help improve the lives of people suffering from kidney disease and we try to achieve this through providing items of equipment not available through the NHS, providing entertainment systems and heaters to make time on dialysis more bearable and by providing welfare grants where financial hardship is as a direct result of kidney disease. Les Talbott, vice-chair of IDKA, is pictured presenting a cheque for £5,998 to Dr Richard Smith, renal consultant at Ipswich Hospital, to fund a research programme at a local level for dialysing patients in conjunction with the renal unit at the University of Suffolk. IDKA also organises social activities and our AGM has developed into a spectacular family fun day. Local Kidney Patients Associations similar to IDKA formed all over the country and from these grew the National Kidney Federation which promotes best practice in renal medicine and treatment at a national level, getting involved directly with the government and the NHS. The NKF also provides support and advice services and IDKA works closely with them and similar national organisations to stay abreast of current developments. Membership of IDKA automatically provides membership to the NKF and access to their publications. IDKA realises that kidney disease has far-reaching effects, not only on the patient but on their carers and family too and sometimes it is difficult to know where to turn. Many people are reluctant to ask for help or think that they are in some way ‘beyond’ help. Rest assured that is never the case so please contact us. Whether the problem is financial, medical, emotional or whatever, if we are not in a position to deal with it ourselves we have access to a variety of specialists who will be able to so please do not suffer in silence. Although we do know a great many very clever people, none of them are clairvoyant so they will not be able to help you unless you make them aware. All contact will be treated in the strictest confidence, but if you are still unsure and would prefer first contact to be with someone anonymously over the telephone please contact The British Kidney Patient Association on 01420 541424. The BKPA operates an excellent advocacy service and their regional officer pays frequent visits to Ipswich. In cases where someone is suffering hardship as a direct result of kidney disease, IDKA may be able to provide a welfare grant. As with other organisations who provide similar services we are obliged to ask a few questions so we can demonstrate that we are using our resources correctly and in-line with Charity Commission guidelines, but personal information is never shared with anyone else and is always treated in the strictest confidence. If you, or someone you know, is suffering hardship under these circumstances please contact us or speak to one of the renal nurses. Similarly, if you are aware of a problem with the care provided for kidney patients please contact us and we will investigate whether anything can be done to improve the situation. IDKA is run on behalf of its members by a dedicated committee of volunteers who are keen to hear from patients, including home dialysis patients. We are also keen to hear from anyone who would like to support out fundraising events, such as our forthcoming quiz night at Kesgrave Social Club on Friday, May 4. Please contact Doug Swayze, chair of IDKA – chair@idka.org.uk / 01449 612090 / 20 Bures Close, Stowmarket IP14 2PL – or vice-chair Les Talbott – 01473 635749.
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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS
TALES FROM THE 19th HOLE My January article predicted that Paul G would once again be on the winning team at our post-Christmas meeting. I couldn’t make this event so I contacted former scribe, Bandit Bill, for a precis of the day, ahead of the February submission date. He reminded me that the day’s weather was persistent rain and having received a call from Keith advising of a trolley ban and six temporary greens, he was consulted on whether to play or postpone (a wonderful gesture by Seckford Golf Club). Steve returned to bed and dreamt of more leftover turkey instead of a threecourse meal. Those turkeys sure take some getting rid of don’t they? The latest meeting was not on a golf course, but at our well-attended AGM in mid-January. The election of officers saw some significant changes. Although not in attendance, Roland Addicott had indicated that 2017 was likely to be his last year in the role as his attendances were becoming limited due to a persistent elbow injury. He was thanked for what he had brought to the role over the past two years and wished well in his newly found passion of road running and marathons (coincidently I share his liking of marathons, or Snickers as they call them these days). Brian Shaw was unanimously voted captain, having previously been Roland’s wingman. Steve Brock uniquely now holds two roles as having been re-elected competitions director he has also become vice-captain.
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Hola amigos! Yes you’ve guessed it, I have just returned from sunnier climes after a week of R&R sampling the quality of the local hop and vine production (all up to standard, thanks for asking). Consequently there is little of note to report from the tennis club this month… sorry, I was waiting for the usual derogatory comments about there being no change then! Nick, my erstwhile tennis partner, informs me that he has played in a couple of matches since Christmas (makes a change as he usually stands about getting in the way while I play). Graham and Nick have managed to notch up a couple of wins to keep themselves in contention for the top spots; their form normally drops off after the Yuletide excess, at least until the hangover has cleared, so this is quite encouraging. All thoughts are turning towards the AGM and Graham has been busy trying to source some new cattle prods to help with recruitment to the committee (only joking; we have to be a lot more subtle since Amnesty International got involved last year). The date of the AGM hasn’t been agreed yet so I will include it in next month’s rubbish… I meant news! The membership fees for the year are set by the committee, as is my fee for writing this piece every month. Graham assures me that my cheque will be in the post just as soon as the chap in Nigeria who contacted him via the internet has released the funds (upon receipt of the money in the tennis club working account). Apparently once our cheque has cleared the hefty commission we get will pay my bill easily; it’s good to know the club is in safe hands. JOKE OF THE MONTH A man goes into a local car dealer to make a complaint about the car he recently bought from them. The man wants to return the car; the dealer asks him what’s wrong with it. “It’s no good, it won’t go beyond 60 up Larch hill where I live,” said the man. “That is a very steep hill, what’s wrong with that?” asks the dealer. “Well,” said the man, “I live at number 83.”
All other officers were re-appointed: Keith Lawrance as club secretary (by popular consent a position he will not be able to step down from, whether he wishes to or not, as nobody else’s feet are large enough to fill his shoes); Simon Fisher as treasurer (we hope that we don’t lose him to Number 11 after the terrific job that he has performed with our funds over the past 12 months), and subscriptions officer Grahame Hughes. I remain press officer, although, like many of today’s job titles, e.g. Education Centre Nourishment Consultant (Dinner Lady), Gastronomical Hygiene Technician (Pot Washer), Field Nourishment Consultant (Waiter), my new title is Director of Communications! I think my femur is being elevated somewhat! Statistics showed that Steve had scored the most points in 2017, helped by attending all eight events. Of those with at least 75% attendance, the highest average was Peter Cleave with 30 points per round, one ahead of Terry Aldiss and Paul Challener. Keith went straight into the hard work of planning this year’s programme and managed to get this issued in just over a week, a tremendous effort. Our first outing will be at Ufford Park on February 23 and an early diary note that our quiz night will be held on Saturday, October 20. Here’s to a great year’s golfing.
PLEASE ASK AN EXPERT FOR ASSISTANCE When the remote on my car key stopped working I endeavoured to fix the problem by putting in a new battery. Once done I proceeded to try it out only to find that not only did it still not work but now the car wouldn’t start either! I went to the manual to find out how to change the battery where I read, ‘Please ask an expert for assistance’. The following morning I made use of my breakdown cover and explained the situation. I was asked if I had put the key back correctly, including the chip, as that’s what communicates with the car. I had noticed a small black piece of plastic and thinking nothing of it threw it into the log basket, thankfully not the fire! What I had thrown away was the chip, but thankfully I found it and had it put back in the key. A locksmith was recommended who came and reprogrammed the key back to working order again. Because of sin we are like the key without the chip that didn’t work, we have lost communication with God. Where I tried to fix the key problem I should have asked an expert for assistance. My efforts did not work, even making it worse and in the same way I cannot solve my sin problem. Jesus came to restore our friendship with God and to open the way to communicate with God again. Sunday, March 18, 4-5.30pm: Discover and Do, family time with craft, songs and a Bible story, followed by hotdogs. All welcome. 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
I think the jet lag is still affecting my jokes. More guff next month. Mick Russ
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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 MARCH Henley Church: every Sunday at 9.30am Barham Church: every Sunday at 10am Gt Blakenham Church: every Sunday at 11am Sunday, March 4: Third Sunday of Lent 8am Holy Communion Barham Church 9.30am Holy Communion Henley Church 10am Holy Communion Barham Church 11am family@blakenham GB Church Sunday, March 11: Fourth Sunday of Lent (Mothering Sunday) 8am Holy Communion Barham Church 9.30am Mothering Sunday Family Service Henley Church 10am Mothering Sunday Family Service Barham Church 11am Mothering Sunday Family Service GB Church Sunday, March 18: Fifth Sunday of Lent 8am Holy Communion Barham Church 9.30am Holy Communion Henley Church 10am family@barham Barham Church 11am Holy Communion Gt Blakenham Church For Palm Sunday and Holy Week Services see the blue panel below. All our Easter Day services will have an Easter egg hunt for the children. Lent: God’s Vision for the Church During Lent we prepare ourselves to make room for that something special. Great Blakenham Church, March 4, 11am Henley Church, March 11, 9.30am Barham Church, March 18, 10am Refreshments are available at all of our services. Everyone welcome! NEWS Claydon Church: currently open during daylight hours thanks to our volunteers. If you can spare a few minutes one day a week to open/close the church, please contact The Rev Carl. Sunday’s Cool: Meets on the second and third Sunday of every month in Great Blakenham Parish room from 10.30am (March 11 and 18, April 8 and 15). Stories, games, songs and loads of fun! It’s free – no need to book. Contact Irene for more info: 01449 676567 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. Henley Church Services: Please note the new time of church services at Henley (every Sunday at 9.30am) Tots’ Groups: We have tots’ groups attached to each of our churches. Henley Tots meet in Henley church on the first and third Fridays, the Claydon group meets on alternate Thursdays in the village hall and a new Gt Blakenham group meets on the second and fourth Fridays in the Parish Room. See our website for more details. Church APCM (AGM): The annual APCM for Claydon, Barham, Henley and Gt Blakenham will be held on Thursday, March 22 at Henley Community Centre at 7.30pm. The annual report will be on the website the week before.
OTHER SERVICES AND EVENTS MARCH Thursdays 1/8/15/22 Lent Lunch, Barham Church Hall, 12-1.30pm Tuesday 6 Holy Conversations, Rectory, 7pm Saturday 10 Beetle Drive, Henley Church, 6pm Thursday 22 Joint APCM, Henley Community Centre, 7.30pm Saturday 24 Easter Fayre, Gt Blakenham Parish Room, 10am Sunday 25 Palm Sunday and Holy Week (see below) APRIL Sunday 1 Tuesday 3 Saturday 21 Saturday 28
Easter Day Holy Conversations, The Rectory, 7pm Vestry Café, Henley Church, 10.30-1pm Pudding Night, Henley Church, 7.30pm
Further services can be found at: www.claydonchurches.com Letter from the vicar I don’t know what you are planning to give up for Lent this year, but I am giving up giving something up! The idea of giving something up for Lent came from the days when Christians would fast during daylight hours in order to spend more time praying or serving the poor and those in need. Today we just give up coffee or chocolate for a short time! I wonder what spare cash we find we have, or what extra time we find ourselves with? How will you use the money or extra time to help others or to draw closer to God? Seriously, I’m giving up Facebook this Lent. I have found I spend a lot of time on it and I’ll be directing that time to reading or praying more. Whatever you’re giving up, don’t do it alone. Come and join us sometime over Lent, Holy Week or Easter and let’s #LiveLent together. The Rev Carl Melville: carlmelville@hotmail.com Facebook & Twitter: The Claydon Group of Churches
EASTER SERVICES AND EVENTS 2018 Palm Sunday, March 25 8am Holy Communion, Barham Church 9.30am Café Church, Henley Church 10am Holy Communion, Barham Church 11am Elevenses@GB, Gt Blakenham Church 4pm Evensong BCP, Henley Church Maundy Thursday, March 29 6pm Agape Meal, Gt Blakenham Parish Room 8pm Holy Communion (optional vigil until midnight), Gt Blakenham Church Good Friday, March 30 9.30am Children’s Workshops, Henley Church 10am Children’s Workshops, Barham Church 3pm Hour at the Cross, Gt Blakenham Church 7pm Candlelit Reflections, Henley Church Holy Saturday, March 31 7pm Easter Vigil with Fire, Barham Church Easter Day, April 1 8am Holy Communion, Barham Church 9.30am Easter All Age Communion, Henley Church 10am Easter All Age Communion, Barham Church 11am Easter All Age Communion, Gt Blakenham Church www.claydonchurches.com
Celebrate with us! #LiveLent
HALL BOOKINGS Barham Church Hall: Zoe Groom, 831804 Gt Blakenham Parish Room: Paul Corbett, 830201 Henley Church Vestry: Margaret Gerrard, 831463
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