In touch news with ebergholt feb18

In Touch

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with Dedham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary Volume 5 • Issue No. 5 • FEBRUARY 2018

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NEWS

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I simply can’t avoid writing about words and language this month as unusual words and phrases seem to be coming at me from all directions.

I have just spent a week in Ireland where ‘press’ meaning ‘cupboard’ and ‘yoke’ meaning just about everything else, including people (as in “yer man with the féasóg is a right yoke”) are common parlance, but I’ve also just finished a book by Mike Smith from The Waterboys in which he writes about many of the Irish musicians and writers he has worked with. One is a poet from Co Galway called Tomas McKeown who had a habit of running his hand over his bald head and saying “once there used to be waves, now it’s all shore”. How lovely is that?

On my desk I have a word calendar which I received from one of my lovely colleagues. It introduces a new word every day. Today it’s ‘palisade’, but my favourites so far have been ‘algid’ meaning cold and ‘wiseacre’ meaning one who pretends to knowledge or cleverness, otherwise known as a smart aleck. I think we all know a wiseacre or two!

And just last night a wonderful clip about strange words the Irish use popped up on Facebook. ‘Haymes’ is one we all use to describe getting something wrong, as in ‘he made a haymes of it’, particularly used at hurling matches! Another I might use more frequently is ‘banjaxed’ meaning broken or in a bad way, as you might be after a ‘night on the lash’.

‘Me feiner’ literally translates as ‘me myself’. To be called a ‘me feiner’ is the ultimate insult, meaning you have no thought for anyone but yourself, commonly used to describe politicians in Ireland.

I’ll leave you with a wonderful phrase I spotted on a poster at Dublin Airport: Dance as if no one’s watching, sing as if no one’s listening, and live everyday as if it were your last.

In Touch

with Dedham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary

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Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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20 FEBRUARY 2018 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

www.keepingintouchwith.com/eastbergholt

STRATFORD ST MARY PARISH COUNCIL You can now follow Stratford St Mary Parish Council on Facebook where you will find updates about all things to do with the council and goings on in the village. The page name is: Stratford St Mary Parish Council

WE ARE LISTENING: HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHETHER TO CREATE A NEW COUNCIL Babergh and Mid Suffolk residents have until Monday, February 5 to submit their comments on draft proposals to create a new council in the heart of Suffolk.

The engagement, which was launched on Monday, December 11, asks residents and businesses in both districts to comment on proposals to dissolve both Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils and form a new, single council to cover the area.

Responses can be submitted online through a survey, directly via email to one.council@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk or in writing to the councils.

All of the views submitted will help inform a detailed business case, which will be drafted and considered by councillors later in the year. Every response received will be anonymised and attached, in full, to the business case.

An independent telephone survey of 4,000 residents is also being carried out by ComRes. This is a survey of a representative sample of residents in Babergh and Mid Suffolk by age, gender, geography, socio-economic grade and ethnicity. The anonymised results of this survey will be publicly available and will also inform the production of the business case.

Councillor Nick Gowrley, Leader of Mid Suffolk District Council, said: “We in Mid Suffolk have always worked hard to deliver the services our residents need, and with local government funding changing so radically over the coming years we need new and innovative ways to keep doing that. Our residents and businesses know best what support they need, and this is just the opportunity for them to tell us. With only three weeks left it’s time for everyone to take part.”

Councillor John Ward, who became Leader of Babergh District Council in January 2018, said: “There has already been a lot of debate and publicity about these proposals, but much of that has focussed on whether there will be a local referendum. I have resolved that aspect by making clear my commitment to holding a local referendum once a business case is available for residents to consider. This current engagement offers the chance to have your say on the future of public services in our area and what is most important to you. How people respond to this engagement and what they say will shape the future of local government and I encourage everyone to take the time to let us know their thoughts over the next three weeks.”

Additional information, including how to have your say online, is available at: www.babergh.gov.uk/the-council/onecouncil www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/the-council/onecouncil Anyone wishing to respond by post can send their responses to: One Council Engagement, Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road Ipswich IP1 2BX

PREMISES WANTED Janet Drake is looking to lease or purchase premises to accommodate her Mind Body Moment (Yogalates™) courses. Ideally exercise floor space of around 400 sq ft plus facilities (toilet, parking, etc).

Accessible from the A12 within the circular area between Capel St Mary and Stratford St Mary.Please contact Janet on 07506 350455 or email: janet@mindbodymoment.co.uk

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NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES, MID-SAMFORD WARD: JANUARY 2018 BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR SUE CARPENDALE The recent leadership fracas at Babergh all stemmed from cabinet re-visiting, without due notice and procedure, the issue of a merger with Mid Suffolk and an early telephone survey by way of public consultation. Regardless of arguments for and against a merger, many of us felt that given the resounding rejection by Babergh residents in 2011, the public should be properly consulted again. There is now a promise of a binding public vote.

Merger was one of five options listed in the original report to cabinet. Many members feel there is value in properly evaluating all options, and promoting a genuine consultation with residents about the future of local government in Suffolk. Key issues are not just costs and efficiencies – fair enough – but also about representation of residents, and when, why and how people need to interact with the council. Who do they turn to for help and information?

What would be the impact if local councillors represented a bigger area and more people? Would it help – or not – if a councillor had direct access to all council tiers, services and functions? Should residents be able to comment on a range of options and preferences?

With the removal of grants to councils from central government, local authorities are likely to face some radical changes in order to survive and to deliver essential services. Do they all need to have their own ‘back-office’ departments, e.g. HR and Finance? Suffolk already has a shared legal services team, and Babergh, Mid Suffolk and Ipswich have a Shared Revenues and

Benefits partnership. There may be other models for the future which are better than simply merging district councils, even though two such mergers are already on the cards elsewhere in the county.

Future of Babergh’s Hadleigh HQ buildings Some members have asked to inspect the current state of the Hadleigh offices. We are expecting to receive a confidential briefing shortly about future options for both HQ sites. A marketing consultancy, with a budget of up to £550K, has been hired to undertake the work necessary to get the best possible value from both sites.

Moves to decommission the offices were taken swiftly. Furniture and equipment not being taken to Endeavour House were put up for auction to staff, councillors, community groups, parishes and charities. This was reasonably successful as 28 different groups across both Needham and Hadleigh got involved, with 46 originally expressing an interest.

Babergh only donated furniture items and some unwanted small items and stationery. An initial closed-bid auction saw 280 items sold to staff and members, which raised £1,711. Other items deemed to have a reasonable resale value were sold commercially, including the kitchen equipment at Hadleigh and the integrated audio visual equipment. sue.carpendale@babergh.gov.uk

BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR FENELLA SWAN Following the resignation of Jennie Jenkins as leader of Babergh District Council at a meeting of the full council in December, John Ward was elected as the new leader on January 4. John has been the district councillor for the Lower Brett Ward which covers the villages of Higham, Layham, Polstead, Raydon and Shelley since 2015. Since becoming a councillor he has held two portfolios: the environment for six months prior to the new cabinet governance model, and the economy portfolio since then and he has built up a good understanding across other areas of the council’s business.

“For housing, we need to ensure more is available within the reach of people’s incomes. I want to see a substantial increase in the availability of social and affordable housing, which we are committed to do using the HRA. The recent acquisition of affordable housing in Holbrook is good news and I will work to ensure that it is followed by more in the coming months. We also, though, need to increase the supply of market value housing to try to reduce the high price/salary ratio in the district. And we must build more starter homes for first time buyers.”

In his speech to council John talked about the proposed merger with Mid Suffolk District Council and said that he accepts that there must be a more formal public consultation than the telephone poll and that the will of the council is to have a referendum.

John went on to talk about other council projects he wished to see completed, or substantially underway with a completion date in sight, before the next council elections in May 2019.

He has committed to holding a referendum once a full business case has been carried out, including benefits and costs of merger weighed against other options, to present to residents. There will also be a final debate and vote by the full council.

John went on to say that he wants to: “address the difficulties and challenges the district faces as highlighted in the recent social mobility report. We must concentrate on the two most important things that will improve this: housing provision and economic growth. We must do more for young people by providing homes and jobs.

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The first of these is the disposal of the vacated council building in Corks Lane, with a reuse plan that maximises the value of the property for Babergh and which provides benefit to Hadleigh.

The next is to ensure that projects are underway for Belle Vue in Sudbury – for both the land and the house.

Lastly, to see projects underway, in partnership with South Suffolk Leisure for the Kingfisher and Hadleigh Leisure centres.

These are all realistic and achievable within the time available until May 2019. fenella.swan@babergh.gov.uk

In Touch online:

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT NOTES FROM THE CASE Suffolk’s first Co-operative Pub FUN AND GAMES AT THE CASE! New for 2018 – Games Evenings: Saturday, February 10 Come and join a team to play some good old-fashioned board games with like-minded friends and neighbours and perhaps make new friends. Make an occasion of it by booking for a set meal at the special price of £6.50. Food served 6.30-7.30pm, games start at 8pm. If there’s enough demand, we plan to make this a regular mid-monthly event. See you there!

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW CHALLENGE?

Monthly Quiz: Saturday, February 24 Our monthly quizzes continue on Saturday, February 24. Curry served as usual from 6-8pm. If you’d like to guest-host a quiz, tell one of our bar volunteers or drop an email to Chris at cottage.garden@btinternet.com and we’ll put you on the rota.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN A VOLUNTARY ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY?

Open Mic Evening: Tuesday, February 6 The next Open Mic evening will be on Tuesday, February 6. All performers welcome – bring your instrument, PA provided. You’ll get a warm welcome!

(Qualification also covers First Aid at Work)

Why not train to become a Community First Responder in East Bergholt?

Full training given By East of England Ambulance Service

East Bergholt Coordinator Carol Moss 01206 298483 / carol-moss@uwclub.net

New Year, New Challenge Our community pub depends heavily on volunteers to keep it running. If you love the pub and want to see it continue to be successful, would you consider joining our team? You don’t have to pull pints (though that is the most popular job) – you could wait at table, wash up, clean, provide support in the kitchen… No experience is necessary: most of us had none when we started. Let someone behind the bar know or leave a note at the pub with your name and email address or phone number. We’d love to hear from you.

DOCTORS SURGERY ROTA

And if you’re a shareholder (there are over 200 of you out there) you might consider joining the management committee and having a say in how the pub is run.

Chris Yule

We apologise for the fact that this is temporarily suspended because we were advised that all our volunteers are obliged to take a DBS check. This is currently being done and we hope to resume normal service in the very near future.

01473 805575 / www.thecasepubbentley.co.uk

SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM BURGLARIES Recently across the county there have been a number of dwelling burglaries.

Please don’t make it easy for them. Burglars look for homes with no signs of life. Leave a light on, or the radio, or better still both. Think of PIR lighting for the outside which may alert you or your neighbours. There are a number of preventative measures you can take.

Remember to lock your doors, windows and gates. Make sure your valuables are not in view, are secured safely somewhere within your home, or placed in a place that you wouldn’t necessarily think to look for such items.

Burglar alarms and cameras are also good deterrents.

Marking your property and/or taking photos of valuables is also useful to you and to us should the worst happen. Keeping a note of serial numbers may help us reunite you with your items in the event of a burglary and the items being found.

Don’t forget the outbuildings either. These can be alarmed and should be secured at all times.

Theft from Motor Vehicles Unfortunately this type of crime is also very easy if you haven’t secured your vehicle. If your vehicle is left insecure you will probably not be covered on your insurance if items are stolen. Remove tools overnight, secure the vehicle and leave nothing that may entice someone to break in.

You can register your items/valuables at: www.imobolise.com 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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EAST BERGHOLT CINEMA The Constable Hall, Gandish Road Friday, February 2: The Happiest Day in The Life of Olli Maki (12A) The real life story of Olli Mäki who, in 1962, was preparing to fight to become the first ever Finnish world champion feather weight boxer. There was just one problem – he was madly in love.

Could this be the most romantic boxing movie ever made? Whatever it is, this film is charming, funny and warm. And don’t be put off if you don’t like boxing – it’s about much more than that. In Finnish with subtitles.

Friday, March 2: The Death of Stalin (15) The Soviet dictator lives out his final days, and chaos erupts after his death.

The Telegraph says: “Depending on your point of view, The Death of Stalin is either a sly, wintry satire on Armando Iannucci’s usual theme of squawking political idiocy, or an insidious attempt to destabilise the Russian establishment with relentless dagger-blows.”

One high ranking Russian official has called for this satire, made by the creator of The Thick of It, to be banned. Starring Paul Whitehouse and Michael Palin.

Tickets (£4, £2 for 18 years and under) are available from the Fountain House Tea Room East Bergholt, 01206 299774 or on the door. All films start at 8pm.

Doors open at 7.30pm. Bar and refreshments available. www.eastbergholtcinema.com

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ADVERTORIAL

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Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number

of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing

a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

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OUT & ABOUT CONSTABLE SINGERS

EAST BERGHOLT HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

Happy New Year to you all. This would be a good time to join our choir as we start on new songs for the coming season. We sing each Thursday at The Lambe School in East Bergholt and on the second Thursday of each month at The Congregational Church in East Bergholt starting at 7pm. No audition and words provided and the first session is free. Thereafter it’s £5 per session so come along and enjoy.

For further details contact Mel (01206 298628) or Yvonne (01206 298428)

Table Top Sale at East Bergholt High School Sunday, February 25, 10am-noon Admission 50p Indoor ‘car boot’ sale, refreshments and free car park available For sellers: tables in advance £5 or £7.50 on the day Doors open 9am to set up Contact: 07802 810080

SISTER ACT BY BRANTHAM AMATEUR THEATRICAL SOCIETY Tuesday, February 13 to Saturday 17 at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm A diva, a gang lord, a detective and a stage full of dancing nuns...

After the recent success of Little Shop Of Horrors, here at BATS we’ve set ourselves another sensational challenge and we are excited to announce our next production is the musical spectacular Sister Act, a feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet.

When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be a found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community, but in doing so blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood.

Already our cast are busy warming up their vocals and learning all their moves, while the construction crew and wardrobe team are busy beavering away behind the scenes. It’s definitely another exciting year and it’s going to be another fabulous feel-good evening for our audiences, so don’t forget to get your tickets.

Wednesday, February 21: Victoria and Abdul (PG13) Directed by Stephen Frears The extraordinary true story of an unexpected friendship in the later years of Queen Victoria’s remarkable rule. When Abdul Karim , a young clerk, travels from India to participate in the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, he is surprised to find favour with the Queen herself. As the Queen questions the constrictions of her long-held position, the two forge an unlikely and devoted alliance with a loyalty to one another that her household and inner circle all attempt to destroy.

Wednesday, March 21: Goodbye Christopher Robin (PG) Directed by Simon Curtis A rare glimpse into the relationship between beloved children’s author A. A. Milne and his son Christopher Robin, whose toys inspired the magical world of Winnie the Pooh. Along with his mother and his nanny, Christopher Robin and his family are swept up in the international success of the books; the enchanting tales bringing hope and comfort to England after the First World War.

Tickets (adults £8 / children £6) are on sale from Bakes & Blossoms or online at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/branthamamateurtheatricalsociety

Assembly Rooms, Dedham, tickets £4, admission from 7pm, films begin at 7.30pm. Refreshments available before screenings and in the interval. Tickets from Shakespeare House Gallery or: www.dedhamfilms.co.uk

Enquiry Line: 07891 974844

Contact: dedhamfilms@gmail.com

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OUT & ABOUT STOUR VALLEY ARTS & MUSIC Sunday, February 18, 4pm at St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt CO7 6TG: Violin Recital by Savitri Grier and Richard Uttley (piano) Music by Schubert, Messiaen, Poulenc, Beethoven and Bartok.

Generously sponsored by Grier & Partners, East Bergholt.

SVAM’S 67th season continues with: Sunday, March 4: Young Musicians Concert with talented local musicians 16 and under, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, March 18: Sacconi Quartet and Michael Collins (clarinet), St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm Tickets: 01206 298426 / svamtickets@btinternet.com www.svam.org.uk

STOUR CHORAL SOCIETY The programme for our next concert in Mistley Parish Church on Saturday, March 17 at 7.30pm will be some of the best of George F. Handel’s music with an abridged performance of Acis & Galatea and his Dettingen Te Deum. For tickets call: 01206 396790

FRIENDS OF CAPEL LIBRARY First things first, it is my privilege to take over the chair from Chris Yule and I would like to take the opportunity of thanking Chris for all his hard work over the last few years.

Now back to business, how are your New Year resolutions going? My guess is that you’ve given up some already. Well why not make a new one to visit the library at least once a month. Suffolk Libraries have bucked the national trend for closures, but we cannot take this for granted in these use it or lose it times.

The library is a central hub for the community and is used by young and old alike and everyone in-between. It’s not just about books, but is also a place to meet and take part in regularly organised events, such as our successful cinema nights where the audience have recently enjoyed films such as Churchill and Dunkirk.

Did you get a tablet PC for Christmas and are not sure what to do with it?

Well why not book into one of our popular computer classes to learn how to make the most of it?

While you’re making that resolution, why not become a member of the ‘Friends’ to help us continue improving facilities provided at the library?

Hopefully, by the time you are reading this, our new reception area will have been installed and we will already be well underway with our plans for 2018.

Lastly, we have vacancies for two new trustees, so if you can spare a couple of hours a month, why not join our dedicated team? If you are interested please contact us at the library.

CAPEL LIBRARY I have just seen some new snowdrops and winter aconites springing up from the ground. I think that spring is the best season of all because it shows new growth coming through after long hard winter months. My thoughts now turn to re-designing the garden and moving shrubs and bushes. The library has lots of books on garden design, allotment and garden planting ideas so if you too feel inspired then check out the catalogue to help you in your gardening needs. The catalogue can be accessed online (www.suffolklibraries.co.uk) using your library number and PIN code. You can then select a library of your choice to pick books up from. Don’t forget that you can return any Suffolk library books to anywhere in the county so if you have been to Felixstowe for the day you can return them to Capel. In many instances the book will then stay on Capel’s shelves for someone else to read and enjoy.

CLUBS MEETING THIS MONTH Baby Bounce: Tuesdays 6, 20 and 27 at 2pm. No meeting during half term week (Tuesday 13). Do come along and join in with singing and action rhymes and have some fun with other children. Suitable for Under 5s, no charge.

Minecraft: Sundays 11 and 25 from 10.30am-12.30pm. Under 8s to be accompanied by an adult. No charge.

Library Book Group: Friday 16 at 2.30pm. Come along and share the latest book with the group and help choose the next read. Open to all adults who enjoy reading. Recent books read and comments shared are: Conclave by Robert Harris, The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood and The Beekeeper’s Daughter by Santa Montefiore. Everybody’s taste in books is different and we may not like some but really enjoy others. No charge.

Capel Creators: This club meets on Saturday mornings from 10.30am12.30pm. You can come for the whole duration or just drop in. There is a charge of 50p which covers refreshments; creating can be thirsty work. Under 8s must be accompanied by an adult. Dates for the coming year are: Feb 17, Mar 31, Apr 28, May 26, June 23, July 21, Aug 18, Sept 29, Oct 27, Nov 24 and Dec 22. Themes will be announced on the day but may include creatures, gardens and wearable Lego. Do come along and see what you can create.

Libby, the One-Tap Reading App Thousands of eBooks and audiobooks for every reader. Borrow instantly for free on any device.

Step 1: Download the Libby app Step 2: Find your library Step 3: Enter your library card and enjoy.

Do you need help with your iPad, laptop or Android? Then make an appointment with Trevor on a Tuesday morning. He will give one-toone advice for one hour, free of charge. Pop into the library to make your appointment now. We also have iPads available for loan.

Gentle reminder: please bring your library card with you on each visit.

Thank you.

OPENING TIMES Monday: closed Tuesday: 9.30am-12.30pm & 2-5.30pm Wednesday: 9.30am-12.30pm Thursday: 9.30am-12.30pm Friday: 2-5pm & 5.30-7.30pm Saturday: 9am-3pm Sunday: 10am-3pm Contact: 01473 311699

Trevor Stevenson

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

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FORTY-SIXTH MANNINGTREE ART EXHIBITION The 46th Manningtree Art Exhibition will take place over the Easter weekend. Artists wishing to enter should request entry forms from Brian Cuthbertson: 01206 298635 / Brian@briancuth.plus.com

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/eastbergholt

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EST. 1881

REEMAN DANSIE Auctioneers & Valuers

Antiques & Fine Art Sale Tuesday 13th & Wednesday 14th February Commencing at 10am each day Presale viewing Saturday 10th February 9am-1pm, Monday 12th February 9am - 6pm and each morning of sale

THE COLCHESTER AUCTION HOUSE WITH AN INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION

8 Wyncolls Road, Severalls Business Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 9HU Tel : 01206 754754 Fax : 01206 754750 Email : auctions@reemandansie.com Web : www.reemandansie.com

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In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT

MANNINGTREE POETRY GROUP The next meeting of Poetry Plus will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, February 13 at the Red Lion, South Street, Manningtree.

All those interested in poetry are invited to attend either to listen to the spoken word or to read poetry themselves. Some people will be reading their own poetry and some will choose to read the work of other poets. There is no admission charge.

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

ROTARY CLUB OF MANNINGTREE STOUR VALLEY Manningtree Rotary has had another very successful year with our Santa collections. We were out with the sleigh touring the streets of Manningtree, Mistley and Lawford for 11 nights in the run up to Christmas.

We also took Santa to Manningtree Christmas Fayre, Manningtree Market and the Co-op for static collections.

As a result, we have raised more than £6,000 to distribute to local charities and good causes. The photograph shows Santa in his sleigh on one of the evening rounds.

MANNINGTREE & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

Rotary President Paul Leech said: “Once again we have been delighted with the response. Everyone loves to see Santa and the people of Manningtree have been very generous in their donations.”

Those dark December days seem a long way away, celebrated with our own Christmas Social complete with seasonal jollity and memorable party pieces by our very own stars of stage and screen. All made possible by Frank, Sue and helpers, for which society members are most grateful.

Rotary worldwide celebrates Rotary Awareness Week at the end of February and Manningtree Stour Valley Rotary Club has been very busy planting purple crocuses to heighten the awareness of the eradication of Polio in the world.

Rotarian David Shearmur assisted by Bethany Chamberlin are tidying up the floral boat display by the entrance to the Co-op Supermarket in readiness for a colourful spring and a show of purple crocuses around the area.

Towards the end of our first half season Tim Stott has hosted three useful informal training sessions. Although aimed at newcomers, they have been well attended by a good cross section of members, all interested in broadening their appreciation of the hobby. We discovered, for instance recently, that modern digital cameras have two ‘curtains’ that control the flash function!

The winter period did provide a brief opportunity to air some seasonal frosty and indeed snowy pictures on the members Facebook page, where we are pleased that Rachael Scott hosts an informal monthly challenge. Here is Richard Woolven’s entry for the recent Sunrise or Sunset collection.

The Rotary Club of Manningtree Stour Valley is a friendly club of men and women who meet every Thursday night at The Crown Hotel, Manningtree.

Our members work together to support local and international charities, and do hands-on local projects while enjoying the fellowship of friends in the club. We also enjoy social events throughout the Rotary year.

If you wish to know more about the club please contact David Willis on 01473 310076.

STOUR VALLEY U3A On Wednesday, January 10, we were entertained by Ancestral Voices who took us back to the festive season under Henry VIII and Elizabeth I using words, music and images, including instruments from the period. In fact many of today’s carols and Christmas traditions originated in the Medieval and Tudor eras. We heard carols as we’ve never have heard them before!

On February 14 Robert Burridge will speak on Scott, Amundsen & the Race to the South Pole. He will concentrate on their personalities, their leadership styles, the equipment they used and their epic achievements in the face of huge difficulties.

Nine further meetings comprise the second half of our programme and will include a number of visiting speakers, competitions and also a practical studio evening.

February 8: Audio Visual and How to Do It with Keith Leedham FRPS February 22: ‘People’ Competition (prints only) / Judge Mike Cowling ARPS

The Life and Times of Sir Alfred Munnings is the subject on March 14.

Marcia Whiting, Curatorial Associate at The Munning’s Museum will give an illustrated presentation exploring his life and wide ranging subject matter, including portraits, landscapes and rural scenes as well as the horse paintings for which he is so well known.

We meet twice monthly on Thursday evenings until May 2018 at 7.30pm at the St John’s Centre, Station Road, Manningtree CO11 1EB. New members are welcome to join (subscription £40) or may attend initially as a visitor (£3).

We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except August and December.

For details please contact our secretary, Margaret: 01206 396958 / madps@post.com

It’s never too late to learn! Join the 361,477 members across 969 U3As throughout the UK today.

www.manningtreeanddistrictphotographicsociety.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB We didn’t have a speaker meeting in January, but instead held our New Year Lunch for members, their spouses and Probus widows. This took place on Wednesday, January 17 at The Haywain in Little Bromley. Everyone much enjoyed the company and very good food and drink!

On February 7 Dudley Chignall talks on Journey to Paradise and on February 21 David Whittle will present How the Victorians Developed Dovercourt.

On March 7, Grant Elliot returns with The Life of Chic Murray and we hold our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, March 21.

Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed.

We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202

VILLAGE LINK CLUB At our January meeting, Colette Flude gave a talk on first aid in which she got us thinking about what to do if we found someone needing help. This starts with what to check for – consciousness, breathing, pulse, etc. – and how to get professional help. Most people knew the UK emergency number is 999, but few knew that the Europe wide 112 number also works in the UK. Colette then went on to demonstrate CPR and how to obtain and use the defibrillators being located in public access points should it be needed.

The talk on February 14 in on the legendary TV programme Dad’s Army and will be followed by our annual members’ lunch at a local hostelry.

Future talks: A History of Scarecrows, Pray Silence for ? and The History of Butley Priory.

Meetings are held at 10am on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall. Following the speaker we have refreshments, when there is time for a chat with other members, and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us.

Roger Felgate, 01473 311684

GOOD NEIGHBOURS Are there people living in your community who would benefit from a Good Neighbour? A Good Neighbour Scheme is a group of people who help others in their community. This could be by giving a lift, checking a smoke alarm, changing a light bulb, fixing a tap, tidying a garden, or perhaps befriending someone who is lonely or new to the village. It is run by a group of local residents who want to help their neighbours enjoy a better quality of life.

Each scheme is operated via a phone (normally a mobile) which is held in turn by a core group of volunteers. A duty period is usually one week but can be negotiated between members of the volunteer team. Anyone who needs help can call the number and speak to the duty officer, who will locate a suitable volunteer.

Would you like to be involved with setting up or volunteering for a scheme?

Are you already involved with a similar scheme and would like some support and to be part of a network?

Community Action Suffolk can support you in setting up a scheme, we can provide you with all the advice and guidance you will need.

Please contact Good Neighbour Scheme Development Officer Sally Connick: 01473 345359 / 07884 563370 / sally.connick@communityactionsuffolk.org. uk

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WINTER AT FLATFORD WILDLIFE GARDEN Sun shining? Crisp chill in the air? If you feel like a bit of fresh air, or somewhere to give the kids a run for an hour or two, why not visit Flatford Wildlife Garden? We’re open for two Snowdrop Weekends in February on 17/18 and 24/25. The garden is full of drifts of lovely snowdrops to enjoy at this time of year. We’ll also have potted snowdrops for sale, and seasonal advice on wildlife gardening for you to take home.

After a bracing stroll in the garden or along the river, repair to the National Trust tea room for a well-earned cuppa and to warm up!

Park at the National Trust car park at Flatford (£4 per day).

The garden at Flatford is designed to inspire people to help wildlife in their own gardens. Many people don’t realise that they could very easily be helping conserve local wildlife by thinking differently about their gardens. For creatures like honeybees, bumblebees, butterflies, and many birds, gardens can allow them to travel across the landscape with access to food and shelter, which is vital to their survival. Gardens are no less important for creatures without wings – many gardens offer ideal habitat for hedgehogs, provided that the gardens are all connected. Surprisingly, hedgehogs need to travel up to two miles per night in order to find sufficient food, and therefore they not only need to be able to get into your garden, but also into your neighbours’ gardens from there. Once they’re in, apart from being charming in their own right, they will munch on your slugs and snails!

Here are some ideas to transform your winter garden into a mininature reserve: Safe and warm in winter Don’t cut back the summer’s growth come autumn, but be patient and leave the summer’s bounty until spring. The dead plant material and autumn leaves will create an insulating blanket over the soil’s surface, creating a warm, dry haven for many small creatures hibernating away the winter months. You may then be lucky enough to have songthrushes and other hungry insect eaters rummaging in the leaf litter, searching for insect food in the depths of the winter.

You can then have a satisfying tidy-up in early spring, once the worst of the winter is over.

So mulch more Mulch your borders – choose something with an organic origin – homemade compost, well-rotted woodchips or bark chippings.

This mulch not only nourishes the soil and plants, but also provides a source of food for soil invertebrates. Healthy populations of earthworms and other invertebrates have real benefits for the soil, and hence the plants, but will also provide food for a long list of carnivorous garden friends, such as hedgehogs, all the amphibians, song thrushes, blackbirds, robins, and many more.

Winter hibernation sites Train a dense evergreen up your walls or fences, it will provide a safe haven for birds to nest, or butterflies to hibernate in winter.

The five common garden butterflies, namely the comma, the small tortoiseshell, brimstone, peacock, and increasingly the red admiral, all overwinter by hibernating as adult butterflies, and need somewhere dry and insulated to shelter. In many cases, a thick evergreen climber such as ivy up against a fence or wall, provides an ideal hibernating place.

For more information visit: www.rspb.org.uk/flatford Shirley Sampson

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ON THE GRAPEVINE SPORTING MEMORIES GROUPS – JOIN THE SQUAD AT SUFFOLK LIBRARIES IN 2018 Suffolk Libraries are teaming up with the Sporting Memories Network in the New Year to host Sporting Memories Groups in some of the county’s libraries.

Suffolk Libraries are also asking for helpers and volunteers to support these groups which are launching in February 2018. There will also be a special induction day providing full training for Sporting Memories helpers and volunteers on January 23 from 10am to 2pm at Quay Place (St Mary on the Quay) in Key Street, Ipswich.

Richard Hunt, Sporting Memories Suffolk Project Manager, said: “Sport is a powerful medium for many people, providing memories of great games, sporting legends and marvellous victories, but also the friendships made and the sense of community that playing or watching sports brings. Talking about sporting events and cultures of the time helps to give people their identity back and reconnect them to the people and generations around them. We think that libraries are the perfect place to bring people together to form new groups in Suffolk and we hope people will come forward to find out more.

We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer to help run the new groups.”

Sporting Memories Groups are for anyone over the age of 50 and are a great way of bringing people together, creating new friendships and enjoying a chance to revisit memories and share stories prompted by superb sporting images and memorabilia from local and national collections. Open to all, the sessions include games, quizzes and a fun activity, and welcome people living with dementia, depression and loneliness by bringing people together to talk about their memories of sport.

The new Suffolk Libraries Sporting Memories groups are due to launch on Tuesday, February 6, at Ipswich County Library where local Suffolk sporting ambassadors will be invited to share some stories from their sporting past.

As well as sharing memories, anyone can bring along their memorabilia or photographs as these are a great way of triggering people’s memories and starting conversations.

2018 marks 40 years since Ipswich Town won the FA cup so many people will have fond memories of the cup run from 1978. However, the project is not just about football and whether its speedway, local club cricket or visits to the Olympics or Paralympics, everyone is encouraged to share their sporting memory whether it’s taking part in sport when they were younger or witnessing an exciting sporting event. Anyone is welcome to come along to a session to find out more, whether it’s for themselves or a relative or friend.

Suffolk Libraries is launching groups at Ipswich County Library, Stowmarket Library, Lowestoft Library, Hadleigh Library, Sudbury Library and Newmarket Library.

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James Powell, Marketing and Communications Manager at Suffolk Libraries, added: “Suffolk Libraries are delighted to be working with Sporting Memories in 2018. Sport has touched all of our lives at some time, either at school, as an activity or in our leisure time. Using the Sporting Memories collections and resources are an excellent way to reconnect with those experiences, bring friends together and have fun.”

Anyone interesting in helping to facilitate or support the new groups can find out more by contacting Richard Hunt, Suffolk Project Coordinator for the Sporting Memories Network: 07704 977322 / richard.hunt@sportingmemoriesnetwork.com Sporting Memories Groups will run weekly at the following libraries: • Ipswich Central Library – every Tuesday from February 6 (2-3.45pm) • Stowmarket Library – every Wednesday from February 7 (10.30am-12.15pm) • Hadleigh Library – every Friday from February 9 (2-3.45pm) For more information about the new groups visit: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/sportingmemories Sporting Memories is a national project rolling out in Suffolk, supported by Sport England and Suffolk’s Most Active County project, bringing together anyone over the age of 50 to talk about sport and their recollections of great sporting occasions using collections of photo’s, film and memorabilia to engage people in conversation, and positive reminiscence, also with an opportunity for some gentle activity. For more information visit: www.sportingmemoriesnetwork.com

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ON THE GRAPEVINE

NEW RURAL CRAFT COURSES AT ORCHARD BARN New craft courses are planned over the coming months at Orchard Barn near Battisford as the centre’s hand-made craft room takes shape.

As a tree and wood orientated enterprise it was decided to make a start with a spoon carving course on Saturday, March 10.

What better way to spend some time than learning new skills carving small pieces of greenwood into beautiful and functional spoons?

Much of the greenwood is sourced from Orchard Barn’s own orchard, so with apple pruning coming up the bigger pieces will be saved for carving. The smaller sticks are greatly enjoyed by one of volunteer’s pet rabbits and the rest are chomped up and converted into compost for the vegetable garden.

Upcycling, repurposing and recycling are central to everything that Orchard Barn does.

If you are interested in spoon carving, restorative orchard tree pruning or compost making please have a look at our courses by visiting: www.orchardbarn.org.uk/calender If you’re interested in volunteering and helping develop the rural craft course programme please email: sarah@orchardbarn.org.uk

BECOME A BEANSTALK READING HERO IN 2018 Could you help transform the prospects for a child through the power of books and stories?

Local literacy charity Beanstalk has launched a new campaign for 2018 to highlight the extraordinary difference members of the community in Suffolk can make by volunteering in primary schools to support children who struggle with reading. The work Beanstalk’s ‘reading heroes’ carry out will improve the lives of children that need extra help to prevent them from falling behind at school and to bring enjoyment into reading.

For over 40 years Beanstalk has recruited, trained and supported reading helpers in primary schools to provide one-to-one support where it is crucially needed. Many children in Suffolk still leave primary school not having met the expected standards of reading which can lead to all sorts of problems in later life.

By working with children who have either fallen behind with their reading, lack confidence, or struggle with their fluency or comprehension, Beanstalk’s reading helpers can make a significant difference to their future prospects.

Their one-to-one sessions twice a week with the children they support will help them progress while also helping to encourage reading enjoyment. In 2016-2017 Beanstalk reading helpers supported approximately 840 children in the East of England with their reading.

“Beanstalk reading helpers really are local heroes within our communities and do so much more than just read. They develop confidence, self-esteem and very importantly help make reading fun and enjoyable. We regularly hear from volunteers who have had ‘breakthrough’ moments with a child because they found a particular book, poem or story which captivated that child’s interests. These moments are often the turning point for a child and happen as a result of regular and consistent reading opportunities,” explains Jo Burns, Area Manager for Beanstalk East of England.

Fraser Simpson has been a Beanstalk reading helper in the area for four years: “Firstly and very quickly after I started with Beanstalk I learnt that working with children is fun. I then realised that I got as much out of the sessions as the children. More recently I have learnt that the Beanstalk sessions have helped make a real difference to children’s performance in the classroom and at home.

“I would recommend anyone to consider volunteering. If you enjoyed reading bedtime stories it is very likely you would enjoy helping children find joy in reading and language. It is not teaching in a formal sense and it is not just about reading. If you enjoy playing Scrabble or doing crosswords, these are great activities to introduce children to, have fun with and develop their language.

“I would say as a Beanstalk volunteer you are going on a voyage of discovery with children to find what it is that they really enjoy amongst literature, poetry, word games, crosswords etc. The eventual rewards of finding you are regularly beaten at ‘Hangman’ or having a child ask to take their book home so they can continue reading, are immeasurable.”

Once trained by Beanstalk, reading helpers on the Beanstalk Reading 321 programme work with three children at a local primary school and spend 30 minutes with each child twice a week, during term-time, for at least one academic year. Each session is meant to be relaxed, informal and fun.

By having this one-to-one time with each child the reading helper can help tailor resources to the child’s interests and develop reading skills in a fun and engaging way.

If you would like to become a Beanstalk reading hero in 2018 and would like to help children in your community reach their full potential please: Visit: www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk Call: 0845 450 0307 Email: info@beanstalkcharity.org.uk

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SCHOOLS BENTLEY & COPDOCK PRIMARY SCHOOLS 2018 is set to be another exciting year for the federation of Bentley and Copdock Primary Schools, with a host of activities planned including a trip to London where a number of our older pupils will be performing in this year’s Voice in a Million event, singing live at the O2 Arena. We are ever so thrilled that we were able to secure places at this huge occasion and are already practicing the songs ready for the big day in March. Keep an eye on the website for reports and photos.

We’d like to say a massive thank you to all those families at each of our schools as well as friends and local community members who came along to our Christmas Fayres; overall, between the two schools, a grand total of just under £2,000 was raised. Thank you all so much.

Last term the children had a fab fun day focussing on the sport of lacrosse. Following on from the success and enjoyment of that day, Key Stage 2 children are taking part in a lacrosse club after school. Who knows, we may even find the next lacrosse champion!

Parents from both schools will be taking part in a free grammar workshop, helping to explain how grammar is taught across the federation and how children can be supported at home. The English Leader, Mrs Robinson, will be holding the workshop and we look forward to welcoming lots of parents, carers and other family members to the event. Just to whet your appetite: What’s the difference between a cat and a comma? One has claws at the end of its paws and the other is a pause and the end of a clause.

At Bentley, some of the children have been learning to play the ukulele, drums or guitar. At the end of the term we were treated to performances both at school and other occasions and local events. We are so impressed with how far the children have come in their playing and look forward to more performances soon.

At Copdock the children are busily fundraising for a new additional learning space. Each child is being given some money to ‘grow’ as part of an enterprise scheme to help with the project. We are looking forward to seeing what innovative business plans the children come up with – watch this space!

If you have any questions about the schools or are a prospective parent and would like to arrange a time to visit, please do get in touch.

Bentley: 01473 310253 / admin@bentley.suffolk.sch.uk Copdock: 01473 730337 / admin@copdock.suffolk.sch.uk

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ROBIN’S NEWS Baby Bears We are very excited about all the new activities and adventures planned for this year. We are currently focusing on the winter season and exploring natural elements such as the ice and frost by touching and talking about the colours and textures. Our morning walks on the frosty field has given us lots of ‘listen to’ opportunities such as our feet crunching on the grass, the wind in the trees and birds tweeting.

The warmth of indoors allows us to compare temperatures and we often enjoy warm water play, adding new and exciting objects into the water trays such as stones, shells and different sized boats to keep our imaginations and senses engaged.

This month we have noticed the ever-growing interest in small world sets and role play such as shopkeepers. We encourage the Baby Bears to be active with this type of play to encourage speech and relationship building skills. During all activities and tasks, we often ask stimulating questions such as “how does this feel?” or “can you smell this?”. Doing this encourages the Baby Bears to think a little more about what they are doing Toddling Tigers Tigers have been using their senses to explore the wonder of paint through sight, smell and touch. Each day a new element has been added to paint, for example printing using stickle bricks, Lego and play dough cutters, colour mixing using fingertips or hands. Adding a few drops of lemon, orange or mint essence to the paint really makes it come alive!

How high can you jump? The Tigers have had a bouncing good time on our new mini indoor trampoline. Using their maths skills and counting, the Tigers have been putting their turn taking skills to work, not to mention exercising their brain development through body coordination and movement control.

Gruffalos The Gruffalos started the New Year with a new topic, Healthy Me. They decided that being healthy means ‘eating broccoli’. We have tasted different fruits and even used fruits to paint with. We have made vegetable soup and tasted our delicious cooking; it was yummy! We have explored other ways to keep us healthy such as cleaning our teeth, washing our hands and exercising. We have also been very observant spotting birds in the garden as a part of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

If you would like information about Robin’s Childcare please contact us on 01473 310767, visit www.robinschildcare.co.uk or follow us on Twitter/Facebook.

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SPORT EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB December was very much an up and down month for the First Team. They started positively with victory over Westerfield, the third win on the bounce.

There was also a five goal success over Felixstowe Harpers, but that was sandwiched between two five goal reversals at Cranes and Henley and the team completed 2017 with a narrow 3-2 defeat at the hands of near neighbours Capel.

BRANTHAM FOOTBALL CLUB Brantham Athletic is a local football club who run a senior section, junior section, Sunday and Ladies teams. Our home ground is The Leisure Centre, New Village, Brantham.

However, 2018 started well. The Green Boys were pitched against the favourites for the League title in the eyes of many, Achilles, in Round 3 of the Bob Coleman Cup. An easy home victory was predicted, but the team put in a very gutsy performance to edge an exciting, end to end, game 4-3 after extra time. They will play Sporting 87 in Round 4.

The men’s senior section runs three teams on a Saturday, with the 1st Team in the Thurlow Nunn League Premier League (Step 5 of the Football National Pyramid), the highest level of football in the immediate area outside of the professional game. The Reserves are in the Essex and Suffolk Border Premier League while the A Team are in Division 2 of the same league. We also run an Under 18 team also playing in the Thurlow Nunn youth league.

The Reserves were also a little inconsistent with one win and two draws, with one of the draws having an amazing 7-7 scoreline. The A Team improved their results rather, recording one victory and two draws.

The 1st Team are currently in fourth place and through to the quarter final of the league cup and in the last 16 of the Suffolk Premier Cup, Suffolk’s most prestigious cup competition.

UPCOMING FIXTURES

The Reserves are through to the Suffolk County cup quarter final and the A Team lie mid table of the second division of the Border League, with the Under 18 mid table in the east division of the Thurlow Nunn youth league.

1st Team / Senior Division Sat, Jan 27: Sporting 87 Bob Coleman Cup R4 (H) Sat Feb 3: Grundisburgh (H) Sat, Feb 24: Haughley Utd (H) Sat, Mar 3: AFC Hoxne (A) Reserves / League A Sat, Jan 27: Ipswich Athletic Res (A) Sat, Feb 10: Framlingham Town Res (A) Sat, Feb 17: Sporting 87 Res (H) Sat, Feb 24: AFC Hoxne Res (A) A Team / League B Sat, Jan 27: Wickham Market Res (H) Sat, Feb 10: Cedars Park Res (H) Sat, Feb 24: Claydon Res (H) Sat, Mar 3: Stowupland Falcons (H) Fixtures are subject to change. To confirm, please refer to the fixtures website and chose the appropriate competition: http://fulltime.thefa.com/Index.do?league=4358069 Race Night: This will now be held towards the end of February. Again this is an open event, please email for details.

We are always looking for people who can help the club as committee members, whether it be on the playing side or just in the background.

If you would like to sponsor the club in some capacity we would also be delighted to hear from you. Club strips, dugouts, banners and boards on matchdays are all potential exposure for your business while supporting a local organisation.

EBUFC is a community club with very strong village traditions. The majority of the players either live in, or have links to, the village. Please come along and give us a look sometime.

Steve Butcher: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

There is also a thriving junior section with ages ranging from under sevens to under 16s. Our Sunday teams play their matches on Sunday mornings at the leisure centre while our ladies team play on Sunday afternoons at the centre, and they were last season cup winners, finishing second for the second year as league runners-up.

The 1st Team play their home matches at the leisure centre, kick-off 3pm on a Saturday and 7.45pm on a weekday evening.

The A Team play at Raydon. The Under 18s play on a weekday evening, 7.45pm kick-off.

Forthcoming home matches are will be publicised on the website and on Twitter.

Because of the league the 1st Team and Under 18s play in, there is an entrance fee to watch these games. For the 1st Team its £7 adults and £3 concessions and children under 16. For Under 18 games its £3 and £1.

There is a friendly atmosphere at all the matches and there is always a friendly welcome to anyone attending a home match, so if you would like to see a good standard of football come and support your local team. The Centre Bar is open during all senior games and the kitchen during 1st Team and youth football on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Any young or old players wishing to join a friendly, exciting, fun football club should contact the club via the details below or email our football club secretary There is a clubhouse at the leisure centre where food and drinks can be obtained. The leisure centre is also home to a lot of other activities including fireworks display, a fun run, 5-a-sides, bowls, cricket plus many other social events. There is a website for more information.

Plus the leisure centre has an excellent private function room with its own self contained bar for hire out for a multitude of events such as wedding receptions, birthday parties, children’s events, conferences and meetings. Just contact the centre on 01206 392506.

Fixtures for February 1st Team – Home Matches at Brantham Leisure Centre Tuesday, February 6, 7.45pm: League Cup v Coggeshall Town Saturday, February 10, 3pm: League v Histon Tuesday, February 13, 7.45pm: Suffolk Premier Cup v Bury Town Reserves – Home Matches None scheduled A-Team Saturday, February 3, 2pm: Cup v Connaught Red Star at Raydon Playing Fields branthamath@hotmail.com www.branthamathleticfc.co.uk www.branthamleisurecentre.com Twitter: @branthamath

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SPORT MISTLEY CRICKET CLUB December 2017 100 Club Winners 1: Matt Bibby (1) £110 2: Stuart Dove (83) £50 3: William McMillan (54) £50 The information coming from the League, and supported by Wisden, is that overseas players are unlikely to feature in the Two Counties League in 2018.

That will be a disappointment to many.

Mistley Cricket Club start their indoor nets for juniors and seniors on the following dates: • Juniors start on Friday, February 2 at Manningtree Sports Centre, 7.30-8.30pm. Ages catered for are from seven-17 year olds. Cost £2.

• Men’s and women’s nets start on Wednesday, February 21 from 8.159.30pm at the Royal Hospital School.

The club has plenty of cricket to suit all abilities, if you are new to the area and would like to join or know more about us then please contact us: mistleycc@btinternet.com

CAPEL PLOUGH FOOTBALL CLUB

Many years ago the club held an annual married against single game at the playing field on Boxing Day morning before retiring to the Plough Pub for some much needed refreshments where we were looked after by Ivor and Jill and a good time was had by all. We now play a charity game on Christmas Eve and this year a game took place between a Capel Plough 11 and a team from the Darius Laws Institute from Colchester. £150 was raised which will be put towards the cost of some new goalposts for the under seven team we are going to start.

The football rattle that my uncle in Manchester used to take to Old Trafford in the 1950s made an appearance at the game on Christmas Eve. It went down well with the players, but not with First Team manager Nathan Burrell’s hound dog which jumped about five feet in the air every time the rattle was used! Nathan told me that his dog had just about settled down when the fireworks started going off on New Year’s Eve! These rattles were banned by the Football Association in the early 1960s after a few spectators forgot to duck and got hit on the head with them.

Three league wins out of four for our Saturday First Team in December saw the side move up to fourth in the Senior Division, four points behind the leaders with two games in hand. A 3-1 win at Grundisburgh with goals from Daniel Alderson, Harry Parkes and a Sean Gunn penalty was followed by a 4-2 defeat against Coplestonians with Shaun Webb scoring both goals. The team then beat Leiston St Margarets 4-2 thanks to goals from Dan Alderson, Shaun Webb, Ant Jackson and a penalty from Kieran Lawler, before a crowd of over 120 spectators watched the lads win the local derby at East Bergholt by 3-2 with goals from Daniel Alderson, Nick Middlebrook and Shaun Webb on December 30.

Please check the SIL website for our next home games.

The Reserves beat Ufford 5-1 with goals from Matt Noble, Jake Debenham and a hat trick from Alex Parry before losing 3-1 against Ransome Sports with Daniel Hudson-Smith our scorer. Oliver Blew played well in midfield while Oliver Miller did well in defence.

Finally, our Sunday side beat Amboed United 7-0 with goals from Adam Moore, Bill Boosey, Oliver Miller, Stirling Mayes and a hat trick from Kaium Abdul. Next month should include a report from our Veteran side who had a couple of games called off in December.

Bob The Ploughman

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CHURCH NEWS

HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB

Parish Priest: Father Christopher Smith 01473 684963 / 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ We are part of St Mark’s RC Parish, Ipswich. For up-to-date information please visit: www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR FEBRUARY 2018 Sunday 4 9am

5th Sunday of Ordinary Time Mass

Tuesday 6 9.30am 10am

Morning Prayer Mass

Sunday 11 9am

6th Sunday of Ordinary Time Mass

Tuesday 13 9.20am 10am

Eucharistic Adoration Mass

Wednesday 14 Ash Wednesday See church newsletter/website for mass times Sunday 18 9am

1st Sunday of Lent Mass

Tuesday 20 9.30am 10am

Morning Prayer Mass

Sunday 25 9am

2nd Sunday of Lent Mass

Tuesday 28 9.30am 10am

Morning Prayer Mass

The weekly newsletter with weekly mass times is always displayed in the cabinet alongside the front door.

Catholic Commentary Older Catholics may remember ‘the penny Catechism’ a simple and concise booklet of Catholic belief in question and answer form. Following the General Council of the Church 1962-65 (Vatican II) it was necessary for the Catechism to be updated and presented in a new way. The result was a 600 page volume cross referenced to other documents with a

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comprehensive index. It was published in October 1992 and so has been in use for 25 years. There is a shorter, compendium version and many booklets on the Catechism, including ones for young people, particularly one called Youcat. The point to make is the Catechism is a wonderful resource for Catholics and others who want to know what Church teaching actually is on any number of interesting and important topics of Christian belief and understanding.

Events & Diary Date The 100 Club Draw took place on Sunday, January 21 when three lucky winners shared a record £151. The next draw takes place on Sunday, February 25. The club, set up to support the life and mission of our parish, has grown from strength to strength since its launch. New members are always very welcome and the newsletter, that includes an application form, can be found at the rear of the church or online at: www.stmarksparish.org.uk Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv & Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am to noon. We are raising funds for church maintenance and all are very welcome to join us. The next event is on Thursday, February 22.

The local community together with others from St Mark’s in Ipswich enjoyed a very festive Epiphany celebration meal at the Claydon Best Western Hotel in January. We also joined with other Christians for the annual Unity Service on the last Sunday in January at St Mary’s, East Bergholt.

Supporting our local hospice All parishioners are asked to collect used postage stamps, all year, not just at Christmas, and place them in the box at the rear of the church to help support the outstanding work of our local hospice.

Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital Father Adrian Gates is the Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital. Please contact him (01473 726701) if you or a Catholic is in or due to go into hospital and requires his services.

All are very welcome at Holy Family, Brantham All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services, it is not necessary to be a Catholic and enquiries about the Catholic faith are always welcome.

Please contact the presbytery, as above, or a local person whom you know is a Catholic.

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CHURCH NEWS BENEFICE OF EAST BERGHOLT & BRANTHAM Rector: The Rev Canon Stephne van der Toorn 01206 392646 / revstephvdt@googlemail.com

Parking at St Michael’s

www.constablecountrychurches.co.uk Sunday, January 28 8am BCP Communion 11am Benefice Communion and Candle Procession 3pm Ecumenical Service for Week of Christian Unity

East Bergholt Brantham East Bergholt

Sunday, February 4 8am BCP Communion 10am Benefice Communion 4pm Family@Church followed by High Tea

East Bergholt East Bergholt East Bergholt

Wednesday, February 7 9.30am BCP Communion (Healing)

East Bergholt

Sunday, February 11 8am BCP Communion 10am Communion 11am Family Service

East Bergholt East Bergholt Brantham

Wednesday, February 14 9.30am Communion and Imposition of Ashes 7.30pm Communion and Imposition of Ashes

East Bergholt Brantham

Sunday, February 18 8am BCP Communion 10am Communion 11am Communion and Baptism of India Lawson

East Bergholt East Bergholt Brantham

Sunday, February 25 8am BCP Communion 10am Choral Matins 11am Informal Service

East Bergholt East Bergholt Brantham

Friday, March 2 3pm Ecumenical Service at the Congregational Church

East Bergholt

Sunday, March 4 8am BCP Communion 11am Benefice Communion 4pm Family@Church and High Tea

East Bergholt Brantham East Bergholt

The rector and wardens of St Michael’s wish to thank Sarah and Peter Watson at Brantham Place for making their paddock available for church parking over many years. This has been a really useful facility as Church Lane can become terribly congested, and there has been a real concern that emergency vehicles could have a problem accessing the area.

However, recently, during the bad weather the paddock was damaged by cars becoming stuck in the snow and ice and our voluntary car park attendants feel that they are now unable to manage the parking. The wardens and I, after much consideration, have decided that we can no longer make use of the paddock for parking because of the damage caused and our difficulty in managing the parking. We remain very grateful to the Watsons for their kindness over the years, but realise that the church needs to find its own solution.

We are planning to apply to use the part of the churchyard along Rectory Lane where there are no obvious graves as a demarcated parking area for about 20 cars. This facility will have an entrance and an exit and will be monitored when in use. It will not be open to the public outside of service times. Until the relevant permissions are given, if they are, we ask for your patience and care in parking in Church Lane. Wedding couples and baptism families are advised to arrange for their guests to arrive by coach or to share cars. Parking in Rectory Lane is for residents only.

If anyone knows who has bought the ground opposite the Institute we would like to hear from you as a parking area in that field would solve many problems!

The Rev Steph

Check the website for details. In East Bergholt there is a BCP Communion every Sunday at 8am and Choral Matins is usually on the fourth Sunday.

This service schedule may change without prior notice if needed.

SABBATICAL (Extended Study Leave) I am going on extended study leave for three months beginning on March 1 and will return to work on June 1. During this period I will not be leading any services or be involved in ministry within the benefice. My out of office reply and voice mail will refer any queries to the wardens.

The diocese has given me leave to rest, enjoy spiritual refreshment and work on a project. The spiritual refreshment will be at Sheldon, the Society of Mary and Martha near Exeter where I will be for three weeks. They specialise in ministry to clergy and church workers.

The rest will take place around the project which will involve researching and writing Elijah: Issues of Faith, Justice and Politics, a resource for Key Stage 3 Belief and Ethics. I also hope to write The Adventures of Coco the Guide Dog or The Coco Capers which a kind friend is going to illustrate.

During my absence the ministry team and other clergy will officiate at services and I am very grateful to them all. There will be two benefice services a month and these will be advertised in the usual way.

Requests for funerals, wedding bookings and baptisms will be escalated to the wardens and ministry team as appropriate and funerals will be taken by colleagues.

Thank you to Joop who will be holding the fort at the Rectory during my absences.

)DPLO\#&KXUFK )DPLO\#&KXUFK First Sunday of every month @ 16:00 Dates of forthcoming services in 2018: 7th January 4th February 4th March 1st April – Easter Sunday Totally Family Friendly services at St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt Followed by tea and cakes!

For further details, contact Fiona Trott 01206 298205 or Liz Digby 01473 312281

Rev Steph

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CHURCH NEWS DEDHAM AND ARDLEIGH PARISHES www.dedham-and-ardleigh-parishes.org.uk Services and Events for February 2018 Sunday, February 4 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Dedham 9.30am Rise ‘n’ Shine, Dedham 11am Morning Prayer (CW), Ardleigh 5pm Evensong (BCP), Dedham Sunday, February 11 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Ardleigh 9.30am Holy Communion (CW), Dedham Wednesday, February 14: Ash Wednesday 6pm Holy Communion, Ardleigh Sunday, February 18 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Dedham 9.30am Matins (BCP), Dedham 11am Parish Eucharist (CW), Ardleigh Sunday, February 25 8am Holy Communion (BCP), Ardleigh 9.30am Morning Praise, Dedham 5pm Revive at 5, Dedham BCP – Book of Common Prayer / CW – Common Worship Midweek Services Tuesday Morning Prayer at Dedham at 10.30am Thursday Evening Prayer at Ardleigh at 5pm Men’s Breakfast: Saturday, February 10, 9am at The Vicarage, Dedham Retreat Day: Saturday, March 3, 10am-4pm at Elmstead Market Church An opportunity for a time of quiet away from the busy-ness of work, family and home.

KEY TO LOVE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Where Jesus is Love and Love is Jesus COME AND JOIN US IN OUR NEW FELLOWSHIP – EVERYONE IS WELCOME Hear the teachings of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus, with our lively worship and service. Refreshments served afterwards.

Every Sunday morning at 11am in The Ivell Suite at Venture Centre 2000, Bromley Road, Lawford CO11 2JE. If you or someone you know needs prayer for anything, please contact us.

David and Rosie Rhule 07787 572977 / 01206 397533 info@thekeytolove ministries.co.uk www.thekeytoloveministries.co.uk

BRANTHAM & CAPEL METHODIST CHURCHES MISTAKES Have you ever made a mistake? I think we must all answer yes! Have you ever tried to cover up a mistake and pretend it never happened, or at least that it wasn’t you? Again many of us may say yes. At the age of nine, while on school library duty, I randomly used the library rubber stamp all over one of the library registers. My form teacher asked the class who had done it. No one else had seen me, so I kept quiet. The whole class was assigned an after school detention. Late in the day I owned up and was marched off to the headmaster’s office. I was aware of my teacher’s sadness that it had taken me so long to own up – I had let him down. Standing outside my headteacher’s office waiting for him to deal with me, I had time to reflect. It had taken the threat of punishing innocent others to get me to admit my mistake. How I regretted not owning up sooner.

I see now that it was my conscience that at last prompted me not to allow 30 other children to suffer a punishment for my mistake. I don’t remember whether I had much of a punishment, but I knew the relief of admitting my mistake. I suspect the headteacher and teacher recognised the embarrassment and humiliation of a late confession was enough and that I did have a conscience.

Conscience is that inner sense that tells us whether what we are doing, or plan to do, is right or wrong. Conscience is something inside that bothers you when nothing outside does. A guilty conscience never thinks itself safe.

To have a good conscience is to know serenity and that you are living up to your own standards.

Yet our consciences can be ignored, and if repeatedly ignored, it can remain silent during the most evil acts, and can even be so distorted that it justifies them. King David (a great king of Israel 3,000 years ago) lusted after a married woman, committed adultery and then had her husband murdered in battle.

As King, he thought he could get away with it, but a prophet challenged him, his conscience was re-awakened and David describes the feeling of shame, embarrassment and failure to live to his standards. When he admitted his mistake, his sin, when he stopped trying to hide his guilt, he felt a huge burden lifted. God forgave and removed the guilt (he still had to live with the consequences of his sin). He knew God was doing an amazing thing in his life and he asked God to create in him a pure heart, for his relationship with God to be restored and his conscience sustained so he wouldn’t repeat the mistakes. (The story is found in 2 Samuel chapters 11 & 12 and Psalms 32 and 51) It is still tempting sometimes to try to brush mistakes under the carpet and not acknowledge them. David’s and my experience speak of the transformation and freedom we enjoy when we admit our wrongdoing.

The Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Brantham & Capel Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 FEBRUARY SERVICES AT BRANTHAM METHODIST Sunday 4 11am Worship with Mr Martin Ellis Sunday 11 11am Communion with Rev Andrew Sankey Sunday 18 11am United Service at East Bergholt Sunday 25 11am Worship with Mr Colin Westren AT CAPEL METHODIST Home Groups on various days and times – contact the minister for details Sunday 4

Sunday 11

Sunday 18 Sunday 25

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10.30am 6.30pm 10.30am 6.30pm 10.30am 10.30am 6.30pm

Worship with Rev Pauline Bailey Prayer Worship with Mr Eddie Vass Worship with Rev Andrew Sankey Worship with Mr Glyn Jones Communion with Rev Andrew Sankey United Prayer Time at Methodist

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