In Touch
™ ™ ©© ™©
with Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell,
Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit Volume 1 • Issue No. 9 • DECEMBER 2017
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CHARRINGTONS FURNISHINGS
Everything for your home
www.charringtonsfurniturewarehouse.co.uk charringtonsfurniturewarehouse@gmail.com 01449 675845 Open: Monday to Saturday, 9am - 5pm; Sunday, 10am - 4pm
Charringtons Yard, Stowmarket, IP14 1EQ (near the train station / the old coal yard)
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR It has been a rather hectic month. I think the much overused term ‘rollercoaster ride’ might apply! My ability to cope when emotions are raw and tensions are high has been well and truly tested. I’m an organiser. I tend to dive in, determined to fix the problem, whatever it may be, by facing up to it. This often works, but when the problem is beyond fixing or not within my ability to fix I struggle to cope. Nobody likes to feel powerless, but there are times when we are all forced to place our trust in others whether we want to or not. How others respond can make this more or less tolerable, but don’t ever underestimate the power of a kind word or a smile. The ability to make others feel at ease is often referred to as ‘good bedside manner’, but in everyday life isn’t it just ‘being nice’? The festive season can be a time of great happiness, as I hope it is for you this year, but it’s also often stressful, frequently lonely and almost always exhausting. ‘Being nice’ may not change things significantly, but surely it can’t hurt. A smile when a weary shop assistant asks if you need a bag, stepping aside to make way for a buggy, holding a door open, ‘sincerely’ asking someone how they are and actually waiting for an answer, all simple acts which can turn a lousy day around. I’m no angel. I have grumpy days, days when I feel much sorrier for myself than I possibly could for anyone else, days when even my own son knows not to mess with me, but I’ve seen first-hand the astonishing effect a genuine act of kindness can have in even the most challenging circumstance and that’s who I want to be. I want to be the person who makes others feel better. Can I do it 365 days of the year? Possibly not, but I’m going to try and it starts now.
NEWS ELMSWELL THROUGH A BLACK AND WHITE POSTCARD Paul Peachey has recently published an 84-page book of Elmswell postcards titled Elmswell through a black and white postcard which is due to be released in early December. The book started with a collection of postcards of the village over the past 30 years and the realisation that the collection contained some very interesting social history prints of the village. As Paul explains: “The book will take you on a journey through the village of Elmswell, showing you the many changes that have taken place over the past 100 years. Illustrated by rare picture postcards and prints from the early part of the 20th century, it shows many street scenes, industrial settings, village organisations, images of the railway, church and individual homes, along with other places of interest. The earliest postcard is from 1903.” Paul intends to donate any profits to Elmswell Library Friends. The book is £8.50 plus postage if you cannot collect. Contact Paul to place your order: 07768 535111 / paul.peachey@live.com
Christmas is a lovely time for most of us and those of us who are in a good place this year can make it better for those who are less fortunate. Whether it’s a smile, a donation to a food bank, carol singing for charity, volunteering, visiting an elderly neighbour, taking someone out for coffee and a mince pie… simple acts, extraordinary effects. Happy Christmas from everyone at Mansion House Publishing and, in the words of Aunt Lucy in Paddington 2, remember “If you’re kind and polite, everything will come right”.
In Touch
with Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell,
Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit
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: elmswell@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk
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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 Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
We also publish In Touch with... •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge
WOOLPIT TO BETHLEHEM THE WALK ABOUT NATIVITY Saturday, December 8 Recreating the joy of the nativity in Woolpit with you as the cast! Starting from the Plough, Green Road at 11am Travel through Woolpit with Mary and Joseph, meeting inn keepers, Herod, shepherds and some very wise people along the way. This will be followed by the Christingle Celebration in St Mary’s Church, Woolpit at noon. For more information contact: Rev Ruth 01359 242244 / ruthfarrell391@googlemail.com Come dressed as your favourite character in the nativity – angels, shepherd, wise men or animals. Some simple costumes available.
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JANUARY DEADLINE
12 DECEMBER 2017 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
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NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLOR RACHEL EBURNE HAUGHLEY & WETHERDEN WARD Local Plan The consultation on the Joint Local Plan for Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Councils ended on Friday, November 10. The next stage will be to take all the comments into account and publish a “Regulation 19 Draft” which will be in the first part of 2018. My group at the council have submitted a response including the general points that the plan isn’t taking into account changes in how we live and work in order to plan for development, it does not put enough weight on sustainability and must show how we are mitigating climate change and enhancing the environment for the benefit of residents. Merger Babergh District Council are re-considering the ‘endorsement’ of a proposal to merge Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Councils. Until this happens any work on a consultation is on hold despite a telephone consultation having been held with some residents in the Mid Suffolk area. Local Government Association (LGA) This organisation is the national voice of local government (representing all councils in England and Wales) and aims to ensure local voices are heard at a national level. It is politically proportionate and I have been appointed to the Environment, Economy, Housing and Transport Board. We influence, and liaise with, national government on matters relating to those areas. A key area at present is housing delivery (such as with our own Joint Local Plan). Rachel Eburne 01449 774647 / rachel.eburne@midsuffolk.gov.uk http:/racheleburne.com
COUNTY COUNCILLOR PENNY OTTON THEDWASTRE SOUTH DIVISION Including Thurston, Beyton, Hessett, Drinkstone, Felsham, Gedding, Rattlesden (also Onehouse, Buxhall, Harleston, Shelland and Gt Finborough) CHILDCARE At the meeting of council on Thursday, October 19, I supported a motion which called on the council to (1) lobby central government for more funding in Suffolk and (2) pass the full amount of funding received on to providers. Since September 2017, working families are entitled to 30 hours of free childcare, while all families are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare. Suffolk is one of only 37 local authorities which this year had a reduction in Early Years funding, receiving a total of £31,987,186. This equates to £4.41 per hour. However, childcare providers receive a base rate of only £3.87 per hour, and many are struggling to run their businesses on this low rate. The motion highlighted the difficulty faced by childcare providers across the county, and questioned why the council did not pass through a higher rate of funding to providers. Home to School Transport In September, I successfully called-in the cabinet’s decision to go to consultation on changes to the Home to School Transport policy. We questioned the nature of the pre-consultation period and argued that more research needed to be done. The Scrutiny Committee agreed with us and voted to refer the decision back to cabinet for further consideration. It has not yet been announced when cabinet will reconsider the proposals, although I am guessing December. Suffolk County Council has announced that two workshops will be taking place this month to further discuss the challenge and help develop proposals for cabinet to consider. Suffolk Fostering Service launches recruitment campaigns Suffolk County Council’s Fostering Service will launch a series of campaigns over the coming months to encourage more Suffolk residents to become foster carers. Eight hundred and twenty children currently live in care in Suffolk and there is an urgent need for more people to come forward to foster. The first campaign will focus on the need to recruit more foster carers for teenagers. For more information visit: www.fosterandadopt.suffolk.gov.uk More houses for Thurston Mid Suffolk planning committee has approved more than 800 new homes in Thurston. I wrote to all councillors on the committee setting out my worries about the problems with roads, schools, the station and impact of the local health service Scams Suffolk trading standards has discovered scams which are targeting people with Netflix accounts, also a fake RSPCA website which has premium rate phone numbers and another which appears to come from the Crown Prosecution Service. Contact Suffolk Trading Standards on their website or ring 0345 040506. penny.otton@suffolk.gov.uk
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NEWS CHRISTMAS DAY INVITATION FROM CHARRINGTONS FURNISHINGS One of Stowmarket’s biggest shops has a revolutionary plan to open on Christmas Day and they won’t sell a thing. In fact Charringtons Furnishings will be giving stuff away!
CONNECTING COMMUNITIES Can you find the transport you require? This is the story we often hear. “I’m cosy in my room, legs up on the recliner, TV on and a cuppa beside me, but I’m feeling lonely and isolated. My life could be so much richer and happier if only I could get to the local coffee morning and chat with real live people. I worry so much about imposing on busy relatives to get me to my health appointments. I want to visit friends and wander at leisure round the local supermarket. I want some independence.” Here at BSEVC we can help with that transport. From Monday to Saturday we operate four easily accessible vehicles in Mid Suffolk, Ipswich and Kesgrave. Trips can be booked up to two weeks in advance, longer if it’s for a health appointment. We also provide a volunteer car service. We have a team of volunteer drivers who use their own cars to transport you from your home to wherever you need to go. If it’s a health appointment our driver will wait for you for up to two hours. Our services can be used by families, individuals, young people and older people. It is for almost everyone. For local groups and organisations we also have a 15 seater minibus which can be used for your outings. We also provide a fully qualified and experienced driver. Our minibus can also be used by schools and colleges for sports fixtures or day trips. To provide these services we rely on volunteer drivers, it’s a very rewarding thing to do and even a couple of hours a month can make such a difference to those who use our services. Drivers are needed to drive our minibus or small people carriers or our two standard cars and we provide training and induction sessions. If you have a few hours spare and want to find out more please give us a call, there are people in your community who really need your assistance to get from A to B. If you are interested in joining the team or if you wish to find out more about travelling with us please contact us: bookings@bsevc.co.uk / 01449 614271 We’d be very happy to talk through all the options with you and tell you a bit more about what we can do.
After two years refurbishing and relaunching the giant store, new boss Cameron Kerr is throwing wide the doors to welcome the town’s old folk, the needy and the lonely for a free yuletide feast of food, fun and good company. “I had a hard start in life and know what it is to go through tough times,” said Cameron. “But thanks to the help of some good people I’m now doing OK and really want to give something back. I’ve lent a hand at soup kitchens in the past and know just how much pleasure it gives guests, and volunteers too. So if anyone wants to chip in with some help or grub they’re very welcome! “The plan is to open up at 10am. There’ll be all the usual seasonal party snacks, a nourishing hot soup, lots of good chat, reminiscing and hopefully a sing-song or two. We’ve got three massive floors of furniture and room layouts so there’s plenty of room for people to sit back, relax and enjoy the day. And I’ll make sure there’s a TV on hand so nobody misses the traditional Queen’s speech before we wind the afternoon up at 4pm. “It’s easy for townspeople to get to us as we’re slap bang in the middle near the station, but we’re laying on a free minibus taxi service to pick up folk in the surrounding villages, and to take them home again if they need it. “Why be on your own this Christmas when you could be having fun, making new friends and memories with us?” For more information or to offer help contact Cameron at the store in Charringtons Yard, Stowupland Street or at: 01449 675845 / charringtonsfurniturewarehouse@gmail.com
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. The Suffolk Dementia Helpline can support anyone who needs to talk. Perhaps you have memory worries yourself or even a recent diagnosis and want someone to talk to. Maybe you have concerns about a loved one, or need support in your caring role. Perhaps it’s just information you are after, or a confidential chat with someone. The line can help anyone who is looking for practical support and is able to provide you with local information and get you in touch with organisations that can help.
www.bsevc.co.uk
Bumper Christmas Local Veg Boxes Enjoy local fresh veg delivered to your door with your Christmas dinner this year! may vary Potatoes 4kg Leeks 500g Cauliflower Contents and are subject to Parsnips 1.5kg Mushrooms 200g Red Cabbage availability. Carrots 1.5kg Sprout stalk Swede Onions 750g Based in Claydon
Only £20!
Please order by Monday 4th December.
We provide products and services that create opportunities for people with disabilities and/or disadvantages to succeed in work, learning and life.
01473 831224 www.growingplacessuffolk.co.uk 6
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NEWS ELMSWELL LIBRARY CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE & CHARITY SHOP Our charity shop is ready for Christmas with many items as new at knock down prices so do call in and pick yourself up a bargain. Presents, party wear, winter clothing and, of course, Christmas decorations – there really is something for everyone. WIN A BRAND NEW SPECIALIZED BIKE FOR ONLY £1 This brand new bike, worth over £450, has kindly been donated by Specialized UK and the winner can select their chosen size from small, medium, large or extralarge and the bike will be assembled by a Specialized UK technician and supplied with full warranty. A limited number of tickets are to be sold and the winner will be drawn at our Chocolate Bingo event on December 16 at Stowmarket Football Club. Tickets at only £1 each are on sale at our charity shop in Needham Market A big thank-you to everyone who donated a present for us to take to Belarus in January. We will be back with a full report and photographs and will share all our news in the next available issue of the newsletter. We are still welcoming the donation of small cabin bags for the children to use when travelling home. The airline dictates that the combined size of all three sides should not exceed 115cms. A reminder that we have a limited amount of high quality brand new baby buggies available that usually retail at nearly £800 but are available for less than half that price. These have been donated to the charity to help our fundraising efforts. Jump online and look for an Icandy Peach Buggy, available as just a buggy or with a carrycot unit as well. If you are interested please let us know and we will be happy to arrange for you to see one. As always we are extremely grateful for your support of our children and we can assure you that every penny raised stays in Mid Suffolk to use for the benefit of our local Link and the children and families we support in Belarus. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker, 01449 760343 www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
We think a lot about the community we serve and throughout the festive month of December we want to welcome more people into our library. We know that it isn’t all tinsel and Jingle Bells for everyone; Christmas can be a lonely and isolating time for some people, so we have teamed up with the East of England Co-Op to do something a bit different this year. Throughout December you are welcome at Elmswell Library whenever we are open for free tea, coffee, biccies or mince pies, sadly not warmed, but a very warm welcome. Bring your friends or come along for a chat with our staff. We will also be collecting for Gatehouse Foodbank in Bury St Edmunds, taking non-perishable items with plenty of time on the date stamp and also toiletries. There will be a box in the library to put your donations in and we will make sure they’re taken to the Foodbank where they will be distributed to people in need over Christmas. Our Community Café, now in its new home at The Fox pub in Elmswell, will be at 10.30am on Wednesday, December 13, which is also the date our last Family History group will take place until after New Year. The history group is totally free and a great way to get started on your family tree and make use of the library’s free access to Ancestry and Find My Past. Just come along to the library at 2.30pm and meet our volunteer Julie. And our popular Baby Bounce and Tot Rock group continues throughout term time at 9.45am on Fridays; just come along, it’s completely free. OPENING HOURS Tuesday and Thursday: 10am-1pm & 2-7pm Wednesday and Friday: 2-5pm Saturday: 10am-1pm Sunday: 10am-3pm May all the staff at Elmswell Library wish In Touch readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Thursday, December 7, 10am-noon: Coffee and our Annual Christmas Bazaar Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday, December 15, starting at noon: Christmas Lunch at Stonham Barns Please check the online events page for further details and to book: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk At the time of writing, the first Mid Suffolk Business Exhibition on March 21 was fully booked, but you can register on the reserve list at: www.msbe.biz/exhibit
They helped us remember Dad at Christmas It’s the little things that count Here for you every hour of every day
01449 798023
for your local funeral director www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/elmswell
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OUT & ABOUT WOOLPIT & DISTRICT MUSEUM The museum is now closed for the winter and will open again at Easter 2018. Firstly, a reminder that the museum’s AGM will be held on Monday, December 11 at 7.30pm in Woolpit Memorial Institute and anyone who has an interest in Woolpit and its history, or would like to become a museum volunteer, is very welcome to attend. In November our museum article was about the 25 men from Woolpit who were casualties of the First World War and are remembered on the village war memorial. Within the last year or so a notice has appeared outside St Mary’s Church, placed there by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, referring to war graves at this location. This has been put up because the CWGC has now decided to mark the resting places of men who died while in the service of their country but whose deaths occurred at home, and whose graves have not previously been marked in any special way. There are two of these graves in St Mary’s churchyard and both men were casualties of the Second World War. The first, Wilfred Ashton Southgate, is remembered on the village war memorial along with his brother Bernard who died in Thailand in 1943 while a prisoner of war. Wilfred was the youngest son of Philip and Agnes Southgate who ran the Wheatsheaf Inn at Woolpit Heath. He was a telegraphist in the Royal Navy, serving on HMS Victory. He came home on leave, was taken ill, and when his condition worsened he was transferred to the West Suffolk Hospital where he sadly died on Tuesday, May 20, 1941. He was aged 19. His father Philip had died towards the end of 1940 and Wilfred was buried with him. The second man, Robert John Curry, is remembered on the war memorial at Norton as that is where he lived and worked for most of his life. However, his wife Joyce came from Woolpit and when Robert died she moved back to the village and chose St Mary’s churchyard as his final resting place. Robert served as a gunner in the Royal Artillery and died from injuries received as a result of enemy action on April 17, 1942. Joyce died in 1996 and was buried with her husband.
EARLY BURNS NIGHT We are holding a Haggis Supper with entertainment and dancing from 7pm on Friday, January 12 at Woolpit Village Hall to raise money for St Mary’s Church, Woolpit. Tickets are £17.50. If you would like to join us please contact Jennifer Baker (01359 240119) or Mary Hughes (01359 240811) for further information.
CASTLETON BRASS CHRISTMAS CONCERT The Castleton Brass Christmas concert will take place on Sunday, December 3 at 3.30pm in St John the Baptist Church, Needham Market IP6 8BB. Tickets on the door are £5 and children are free. There will be refreshments and a raffle.
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NATIVITY SCENES FROM AROUND THE WORLD Holy Trinity Church in Stowupland IP14 4BQ will be showing a collection of nativity scenes from around the world as well as nearer to home. This was so popular last year that many people have asked for it to return. The church will be open for viewing at the following times: Wednesday, December 13, 2.30-5pm & 6.30-8pm Thursday, December 14, 2.30-5pm & 6.30-8pm Friday, December 15, 2.30-5pm & 6.30-8pm Saturday 16 and Sunday 17, 1-4pm Light festive refreshments will be available.
OUTSTANDING I.S.T.D EXAM RESULTS FOR DANCE STUDENTS
Cara-Lea Dance School achieved some outstanding examination results at their last I.S.T.D exam session. There were a mix of dance styles and levels on the day, all of which impressed the examiner. A new group of students were taking their Grade 1 freestyle exam, an in-depth and unique dance exam for those students taking their dance to the next level. Thirteen young dancers were examined, all of whom passed with a grade A results which was brilliant, and four students were awarded 100%. A massive well done to Millie Wright, Frankie Pratt, Lotti Barrell and Sophie Rushworth. Local student Izzy Zarkos (13) has for the second year gained a place as a dancer in the professional pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk at Ipswich Regent over the Christmas season. We are all very proud of her and hope to go along and support Izzy on stage. Discorama fun! This was yet again a great evening and a celebration of why we all love to get on the dance floor. It’s a local friendly dance competition between our school and another in Ipswich and a great chance for lots of the new and young dancers in the school to come along and gain a medal or two. We had great energy and encouragement from all our parents too. Remembrance Celebration The school took part in a showcase at The Regal Theatre to help mark Remembrance Day on Saturday, November 11. They made up the first half of the live performance organised by the The Royal British Legion, such an important day to mark and we were delighted to be involved. As Christmas draws near the school have two more events on its calendar before the end of the year, an exciting Day of Dance workshop with slow lyrical, stretch technique and musical theatre, and an I.S.T.D exam session. Classes for ages three plus are held at Stowmarket and in the surrounding area. For information contact: caraleadance@hotmail.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT SODS PANTO ON TRACK Last chance to buy tickets to our family friendly, festive pantomime, Snow White. The photo, taken at a recent rehearsal, shows that preparations are on schedule and this looks to be another great panto from your local drama group. It will be a festive and fun show with lots of laughs, popular songs and plenty of chances for the audience to get involved! Tickets are available online from www.regalstowmarket.co.uk or from the Box Office on 01449 612825. There are a few discounted tickets available for the opening night, but tickets are selling out fast. The production runs from Wednesday, December 6 to Sunday 10 with weekday performances at 7.30pm and weekend performances at noon and 5pm. Don’t be disappointed, book today!
THE REGAL IN DECEMBER
Christmas is finally upon us, which at the Regal means one thing… PANTO! Stowmarket Operatic and Dramatic Society brings a new take on the classic Snow White pantomime to the theatre from December 6-10. Tickets will be in short supply so don’t leave it too late. We have the wonderful Simply Swing at Christmas visiting us as part of their UK tour on December 13 and Fat Old Dad will treat Stowmarket their brand of 60’s music and comedy with Once upon a Christmas Time on December 1. National Theatre Live bring us a recorded live screening of Young Marx from the South Bank Theatre on December 12. This comedy starring Rory Kinnear has received five-star reviews. Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool: drama starring Jamie Bell, Julie Walters and Annette Benning. Romance sparks between a young actor and an ageing Hollywood leading lady, based on the true life story of Oscar winner Julia Graham and Peter Turner. Paddington 2: family adventure starring Hugh Bonneville, Hugh Grant and Sally Hawkins. Paddington, now happily settled with the Brown family and a popular member of the local community, picks up a series of odd jobs to buy the perfect present for his Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday, only for the gift to be stolen. Bad Moms Christmas: comedy starring Mila Kunis, Susan Sarandon and Kristen Bell. As their own mothers drop in unexpectedly, our three underappreciated and over-burdened moms rebel against the challenges and expectations of Christmas. Breathe: drama starring Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy. The inspiring true love story of Robin and Diana Cavendish, an adventurous couple who refuse to give up in the face of a devastating disease. White Christmas: musical starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The 1954 Christmas classic is back on the big screen for one special showing. Star Wars: The Last Jedi: adventure starring Daisy Ridley, Mark Hamill and Adam Driver. Having taken her first steps into the larger Jedi world, Rey joins Luke Skywalker on an adventure with Leia, Finn and Poe that unlocks mysteries of the Force and secrets of the past. Don’t miss our Midnight Premiere on Thursday, December 14. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET ARTISAN MARKET MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded a grant by the Association of Industrial Archaeology to restore the Empress of Britain, the museum’s iconic and much-loved steam engine.
Our November market was a tremendous success, with our biggest footfall to date and in spite of the inclement weather. The cafe was continually busy and made £175 profit, the Scouts kindly donating proceeds to the Royal British Legion. Hopefully our next market on Saturday, December 2 can surpass. We will have 18 stalls with the usual eclectic mix: up-cycling, wood-crafts, textiles, candles, pictures and frames, steam punk and decorated hats, knitting and crocheting with a twist, jewellery, book art and a cornucopia of Christmas delights. We are situated at the Scout Centre, Milton Road North, Stowmarket IP14 1EX. Doors are open from 10am-1.30pm and admission is free. Tea, coffee and cake is only £1 and there is accessible parking opposite. Do come and see us, you are assured of a warm welcome and just might find that elusive Christmas present. Facebook: Stowmarket Artisan Market suedelf@btinternet.com / 01449 613224
At the end of 2016, the Empress failed her boiler inspection, taking her out of action for the 2017 season and leaving us to raise funds towards the extensive restoration work needed to fix her. We are very pleased to announce that a successful application to the Association of Industrial Archaeology has been made and we have been awarded £16,500 towards the restoration of The Empress. “The Association for Industrial Archaeology is delighted to be able to grant aid the refit the boiler of the Empress of Britain in this the 50th anniversary year of the Museum of East Anglia Life,” explains Keith Falconer OBE. “The AIA has long been a champion of the involvement of volunteers in the restoration and operation of historic machinery, and The Empress embodies just such dedicated involvement. Through the generosity of two anonymous donors, the AIA Restoration Grant scheme makes such involvement possible for this and for many other, similarly wonderful, projects around the UK.” The Empress, which was made by Charles Burrell & Sons of Thetford, Norfolk in 1912, is a general purpose agricultural steam traction engine. The Empress represents the story of the mechanisation of farming and is important to industrial heritage in the region. We still need to raise £4,000 towards the restoration project and have launched a crowd-funding campaign, which is being supported by JustGiving: www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/ museumofeastanglianlife/empressofbritain
CHRISTMAS AMONG THE TREES WITH STOWMARKET CHORALE Saturday, December 9, at St Peter & St Mary’s Church, Station Road West, Stowmarket IP14 1ES from 7pm. Featuring Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols and selections from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio. Conductor Leslie Olive with the children’s choir of South Lee School. Tickets (adults £10, children £3, including refreshments) available online, on the door or from: tickets@stowmarketchorale.org.uk / 01359 240676
Lisa Harris, Collections and Interpretation Manager says: “The Empress of Britain is the museum’s showcase steam traction engine and we can’t wait to see her in action once again. Whether demonstrating traditional farming techniques such as steam threshing and chaff cutting, being part of the Stowmarket Carnival, or taking centre stage at our hands-on driver training experiences, the sight, smell and whirr of the Empress helps us bring our region’s heritage to life.”
www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk
Stowe Veterinary Centre
Moreton Hall Veterinary Centre
Ipswich Veterinary Centre
The Mustard Pot Veterinary Surgery
The Old Tea Room Veterinary Surgery
54 Bury Road, Stowmarket
2 Boldero Road, Bury St. Edmunds
Scrivener Drive, Ipswich
Coddenham Road, Needham Market
Station Road, Elmswell
Tel: 01449 613 130
Tel: 01284 747 000
Tel: 01473 555 000
Tel: 01449 722 198
Tel: 01359 241 761
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OUT & ABOUT HAUGHLEY ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
STOWMARKET RAMBLERS
TO THE MEMORY OF THE FALLEN AND THE FUTURE OF THE LIVING
Sunday, December 3: 5 mile walk in the Cotton area. Park and meet at Cotton Village Hall at 10am / GR. 067676. Leader: 01449 781917
Chairman: Mr Bernie John, 01449 614170 Secretary: Mrs Margaret Buttle, 01449 707353 We last met at the Scout Hut on November 7. Chairman Bernie read the exhortation and welcomed everybody, especially a new face, Ian, who was a submariner. Once the meeting had concluded our very own Ashley Sargent gave a talk on the history of war memorials and the significance of them today. Remembrance Sunday saw more than 200 people in the church which was amazing for a village of our size, many being the ‘younger’ generation. The most poignant part of the service was when Roy said the name of a soldier on the war memorial, a member of the local Beavers and Cubs laid a poppy at the altar while a Scout or Explorer extinguished a candle. After the service the congregation headed to the war memorial to lay wreaths. For photos please head to our website. Do you know of a veteran in the Haughley area who needs our help? We provide lifelong support for the Armed Forces community – serving men and women, veterans, and their families. If so please get in touch via our website or call 01449 614170 and speak with Bernie. Remember everything is discussed in complete confidence. Roy’s monthly quote: “Man will never behold a finer sight nor sound than the smiling eyes and laughter of a child.” We are now beginning to put the wheels in motion for the centenary to the end of the Great War. We can confirm there will be an event held on June 9 on the playing fields. From all of us at Haughley Royal British Legion we wish you a joyful Christmas and a wonderful New Year! December 1: we shall be at the village Christmas lights switch on December 5: our next branch meeting at the Scout Hut, 7.45pm February 6: branch meeting at which Trinity House shall be providing a talk To view our latest newsletter or our full calendar of events visit: www.britishlegion.org/branches/Haughley
STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday December 6: Stowmarket’s Hidden Gems by Steve Williams Walk around Stowmarket and you will find little sign of old timber-framed buildings. Villages such as Lavenham are full of such buildings dating back to mediaeval times, but similar old buildings do exist in Stowmarket. The prosperity brought to the town in the early 1800s by the new Gipping Navigation meant that there was wealth to modernise what were seen as old fashioned buildings and many were given a makeover hiding their ancient origins. Steve will reveal what lies behind these later facades with some surprising examples. We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall where there is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members. Please note that we do not meet in January. Our 2018 year will begin with Robert Halliday’s talk entitled Unusual Gravestones in Suffolk on February 7. For more information on any of the above, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386
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Sunday, December 10: 5 mile walk from East Bergholt followed by Lawford Carol Service for walkers and cyclists. Park and meet near Red Lion Public House in East Bergholt at 10am / GR. 0683347. Leader: 01449 673690 Sunday, December 17: 4 mile walk around Thornham Estate. Park and meet at Thornham Walks car park at 10.30am / GR.105719. Leader: 07919 350170 Sunday, January 7: Festival of Winter Walks. 5 mile walk around Tinker’s Marshes near Southwold. Park and meet in York Road, near the water tower in Southwold at 10.30am / GR. 503763. Leader: 01449 673131
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB On the first Tuesday of the each month, a meeting of retired professional and businesspersons takes place in Stowmarket. At our November meeting, members were enlightened on the subject of the queen bee by Alan Seagar, a vital element of the natural environment and essential to our need for pollination and our food supplies. Thirty-four members and guests of the club travelled to Bournemouth on October 9 courtesy of Angus Coaches for a four night stay at the Durley Dean Hotel and Spa. On Tuesday 10 our coach took us to Portsmouth where we spent the day visiting the historic dockyard before returning to our hotel in time for our evening meal. On Wednesday 11 our driver took us to Beaulieu for the day where we were able to visit the house and gardens, the secret army museum and, of course, the National Motor Museum before returning to our hotel via Lymington. Thursday morning saw us in Poole where we had free time before our afternoon visit to the RNLI College. There we were split into three groups for our tour of the college and its training facilities, the highlight being to crew the simulator in a rescue mission from Dover Harbour. Highlights of the visit varied for each member of our group with every day out deemed to be excellent! Members start to gather at 10.30am and time is made prior to the presentation (speakers start at 11am and usually present for between 45-60 minutes) for members to meet and greet each other along with tea or coffee and a biscuit. Every quarter, a luncheon is arranged for members and guests, together with a number of visits to places of interest in the UK. On December 8 we will enjoy Christmas Lunch at Needham Market Community Centre. The committee will soon firm up options voted for and put forward by members for visits in 2018. These include a tour of Bury St Edmunds, a visit to Greene King Brewery and Sugar Beet Factory and a possible day excursion to Chartwell House (Churchill’s residence). A longer trip to Beamish/Whitby seems the favourite for a longer four day outing in October 2018. If non-members are prepared to provide members with a 45-60 minute presentation on their hobby, business, society, club or project, please let us know. Contact details below. Annual membership will be £15 in April 2018. All trips are costed out to breakeven and a good deal is negotiated by a member of the committee. New members are very welcome and encouraged. Please contact David Robson (daviderobson@gmail.com) or any other member for details. Our monthly meetings are held at the RBL Club on Tavern Street, Stowmarket from 10.30am-noon.
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB The club presents a workshop at Rattlesden Village Hall on Saturday, December 2 from 10.30am-3.30pm. Learn how to make two fabulous festive designs. Members £25 plus materials, visitors £30 plus materials. For details contact chairman Vicki Hease: 01449 770900
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS SUFFOLK PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION CALENDAR IN AID OF CHARITY The winners of a local photography competition, raising awareness about untreated hearing loss, have been rewarded with their photos being featured in a 2018 charity calendar. The Sounds of Suffolk competition was created by family run hearing care specialists, The Hearing Care Centre, who have local clinics in both Stowmarket and Needham Market. The competition has helped encourage those struggling with hearing loss to seek help, as well as highlighting some of the incredible sounds that can be found in and around our county. During a prize giving presentation organised at the company’s headquarters on Upper Brook Street in Ipswich, the calendar was officially unveiled, along with a series of greeting cards which are both to be sold in the run up to Christmas. Competition winner James Stannard and second place runner-up Stephen Squirrell attended the presentation, along with Brian Platt and his hearing dog Elton. Karen Finch, The Hearing Care Centre’s managing director, said: “We were incredibly touched by how many people entered the competition and told us just how much they would miss their favourite sounds if they couldn’t hear. Producing this stunning calendar and beautiful cards will hopefully prolong the message of seeking help if you are struggling with your hearing.” All sales from the calendar and cards will be donated to the company’s chosen charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Hearing dogs not only help deaf people by alerting them to sounds they would otherwise miss, but they also give a deaf person a newfound sense of independence and confidence with their loyal companion and true friend at their side. The Sounds of Suffolk calendar and greeting cards can be purchased for £4.99 and £3.50 respectively from The Hearing Care Centre’s website or by calling 01473 230330. www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk/shop
GLOW DAY AT OLD NEWTON CE PRIMARY SCHOOL
As the dark nights draw in our attention is drawn to road safety and getting to school safely. Children at Old Newton CE Primary School kicked off their Glow Day with a walking bus from the village hall. It was fantastic to see so many families joining in. The non-uniform day had a ‘Be seen, not hurt’ theme and the children rose to the occasion. This theme is also the key message of the Child Brain Injury Trust who came into school and delivered an interactive assembly which encouraged the children to look after their brains through a healthy diet and wearing helmets when participating in key sports and activities. Money raised from non-uniform donations will be paid to the Child Brain Injury Trust.
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SPORT BURY & DISTRICT BADMINTON LEAGUE The Bury & District Badminton League recently held their AGM and was pleased to welcome a new club from Haverhill. League team matches for ladies, men’s and mixed players are organised during the winter season and various league clubs are situated in Rattlesden, Stowmarket, Debenham, Bury St Edmunds, Brandon, Newmarket and Haverhill. If anyone is interested in playing badminton please contact Mary Hughes on 01359 240811, who will put you in touch with clubs or advise on coaching opportunities available for both adult and junior players.
DO YOU HAVE A SPRING IN YOUR STEP? Just as we’re hanging up the mistletoe, putting the baubles on the tree and planning the food and drink menus for the Christmas festivities, anyone running a Spring Marathon (London, Brighton, Manchester to name just a few) should be thinking of putting their trainers on, braving the outside elements and beginning their marathon training.
STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB Training for a marathon is a marathon task and generally takes between 12 to 18 weeks and is made up of at least 350 to 1000+ miles of running. That’s a lot of compression through the knees and ankles and a lot of stress through our bodies. Fortunately, as long as training is done sensibly and we are starting from a healthy position, our bodies are designed to absorb the force and should adapt to the pressures we put them under and grow stronger.
As ever, at this time of the year, we have been at the mercy of the weather. Luckily it has been unseasonably warm and dry so all the tennis activity has continued uninterrupted. Everyone’s matches, club sessions and coaching has been completed without getting wet or too cold. We have been waiting for a calm day or two to appear when the specialist contractor can visit and erect our winter dome. It would be lovely to just lift the phone and request their attendance, but unfortunately, with every other dome club also requiring their help, we have had to wait a little. So, with a bit of luck and a fair wind (or not, as is appropriate), by the time you read this we should be safely under cover for another five months. This means that we can guarantee tennis to everyone without being affected by the rain, wind or frosts. The coaching program is also set to continue throughout the winter months with renewed and revitalised content focusing on movement and fitness as the weather turns gradually colder. A great example of this is our cardio tennis class which runs every Tuesday evening from 6-7pm. No tennis experience is required as you are sure to burn several hundred calories with this mixture of fitness circuits and tennis drills. We have music playing at just the right tempo to keep you going plus you can borrow heart rate monitors and a racket if required. Cardio tennis was imported from the United States a few years ago and is the perfect way to get people out of the gym and into a club environment without having to be good at tennis first. With Christmas approaching there are many ways to get involved at the club – there are club mornings and evenings, coaching sessions for juniors and adults, boys and girls, ladies and gents. The keener players are well into their winter league campaign and a couple of brand new pairs are already winning their first matches having taken the plunge! If you’d like more information on the coaching program just drop me a line. See you on court! Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham: chris@chriscoaching.plus.com
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Once we’ve learnt to walk, generally there’s no stopping us – we want to run, and often as very young children we run with excellent technique. Sadly though, as we move through life it is highly likely that our running technique will suffer and for many reasons (sitting for too long, poor posture, labour intensive jobs, accidents, illnesses and surgical procedures for example) we will develop weaknesses and imbalances in our bodies that result in poor running technique, that in time may cause a preventable injury. As a UK Athletics qualified coach I am often asked for help with training plans; how often to run, how far for each run and how fast. However not many runners also consider the importance of how to run – surely it’s just a case of putting one foot in front of the other one right? Well, maybe for the few genetically blessed runners that might be true, but for the majority of us we should consider getting in the gym and strengthening ‘appropriately’ and conditioning our bodies to take the onslaught of all those miles. Even then, even when we’ve strengthened and conditioned, we may still cause injury if our running technique needs improving, or we’re wearing trainers that are wrong for us. Running is a skill, and like most sports, being taught how to do that skill correctly can help improve efficiency, speed and hopefully help reduce the chances of becoming injured. Most people though haven’t been taught how to run effectively and even more are probably blissfully unaware that there are professionals who can teach running as a skill. The 26.2 miles that make up a marathon should be respected. It’s not a walk in the park, it’s the culmination of 100s of miles of hard training. Actually reaching the start line injury free is a huge challenge, let alone reaching the finish line. The euphoric feeling of crossing the finish line is one of the best feelings and well worth all the training. However we should not embark on the challenge without a pre-training MOT. Have a running analysis or a physiotherapy assessment to find out where your running weaknesses are and how your running form can be improved. Don’t just hit the gym and start pumping iron, get advise on where you need to strengthen and consider having regular sports massages to keep your muscles supple and moving well. Jo Stephenson UK Athletics Coach in Running and Fitness Clinic Running Coach PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic Robert Grainger MSc MCSP HCPC CSCS Practice Principal PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Sports Physiotherapist
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ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET CATS PROTECTION This month we are looking for a home for Stacey, a beautiful black girl aged about two years. She does like a fuss and having attention, but it is on her terms as she does like her independence as well. Stacey came into our care with two kittens who have now been rehomed so now we need to find the right home for her. We think she would be best suited to a home without any pets and either with older children or an adult only household. Stacey is neutered, microchipped and vaccinated. If you would like to know more about Stacey or any of the cats in our care please ring Marina on 01449 674584. For more information visit our Facebook page or: www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need financial help towards the cost please ring Margaret on 01284 851055 and leave a message. We are having a table in Needham Market Community Centre on December 3, 10am-3.30pm, and will be selling Christmas cards and calendars. We look forward to seeing you there.
ELMSWELL BAPTIST CHURCH December is perhaps the busiest month of the year for Christians, starting on December 3, the first Sunday of Advent, when we begin thinking about the birth of Jesus, we light the first candle on our Advent Crown and the children open the windows on their chocolate advent calendars. At our church we start our Christmas celebrations on December 11 when our Ladies Friendship Group hold their Nosh and Natter evening when us menfolk are invited guests. The group is open to all ladies whether committed Christians or not; please contact Margaret on 01359 241541 if you would like to join them. They meet on the first Monday evening of each month at 7.45pm for a chat, a coffee and usually to hear a speaker. Then on December 14 at noon our Food and Friends Lunch takes place. This event started some years ago in conjunction with Age Concern as it was then, and is aimed at the older folk of Elmswell and surrounding area. December’s lunch will be a Christmas lunch. Anyone wishing to join us for the first time should contact Jackie on 01359 241581 to book a place. Our services held at 10.30am each Sunday will be led in December by: December 3
Paul Kemp (includes Communion)
December 10
Stephen Spurgeon
December 17
Rev David Thompson
December 24
The congregation choose the carols (10.30am)
December 24
Stephen Spurgeon – Carols by Candlelight, 5pm
December 31
The congregation share leading the service
Thank you for leaving food throughout the year in our cat food collecting baskets in Needham Market Post Office and Cedarwood Vets and special thanks to the management in both locations for their support. Your kindness is much appreciated by the cats in our care.
Our Carols by Candlelight Service on Christmas Eve will be followed by tea, coffee and mince pies. So why not give us a visit, everyone is most welcome?
A very Happy Christmas and a Purrfect New Year to you all.
Dave Hollings
OLD NEWTON METHODIST CHURCH CHRISTMAS CAFE CHURCH
Sunday, December 10 at 10.45am. Coffee and nibbles from 10.15am A different, informal way of celebrating Christmas. Do come and join the fun. CAROLS AND CANDLES
Sunday, December 17 at 6.30pm A celebration of our Lord’s Nativity in poetry and prose, story and song in our beautifully decorated and candlelit chapel, followed by a Christmas finger buffet supper. Old Newton Methodist Church, Stowmarket IP14 4PP
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CHURCH NEWS ST ANDREW’S, NORTON AND ST ANDREW’S, TOSTOCK
NORTON SALVATION ARMY
Part of the Benefice of Pakenham, Norton & Tostock, with Great Ashfield, Hunston & Stowlangtoft
Captains Andrew and Jackie Jarrold: norton@salvationarmy.org.uk / 01359 240787
Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Katherine Valentine 01359 235095 / katherine@kavalentine.plus.com
REGULAR ACTIVITIES
Our beautiful and ancient churches are both open daily for visitors and for private prayer. SERVICES IN DECEMBER Sunday, December 3 8am Holy Communion, St Andrew’s, Norton 9.30am family@church Christingle at Pakenham (see below) Sunday, December 10 3pm Carol Service, St Andrew’s, Tostock 6pm Evensong, St Andrew’s, Norton Sunday, December 17 10am Morning Prayer, St Andrew’s, Tostock 6pm Carol Service, St Andrew’s, Norton Sunday, December 24: Christmas Eve 3pm Crib Service, St Andrew’s, Tostock Monday, December 25: Christmas Day 9.30am Family Festival Communion, St Andrew’s, Norton 10am Family Festival Communion, St Andrew’s, Tostock Sunday, December 31 10am Benefice Communion, St Andrew’s, Tostock Countryside Church at The Croft, Tostock Monday, December 18: 10am Carols & Mince Pies
Woolpit Road, Norton IP31 3LU
Sunday Worship: 11am & 6pm Family Service & Breakfast: First Sunday in month at 10.45am – relaxed, informal family worship with refreshments. Tea and Toast Community Fellowship: Monday and Wednesday at 8.45am. All welcome. Toddlesong: Mondays, 9.30-]11.30am (term time only) Music, refreshments, play for toddlers (and parents and carers!) 610 Club: Tuesdays, 6-7pm (term time only) Games, fun, craft and much more for ages six-10ish CAMEO (Come and Meet Each Other) Lunches: Thursdays, 11.30am-1pm Everyone welcome! Enjoy fellowship over a meal. Bible Study: Tuesdays, 7.45pm fortnightly Enjoy God’s word in a relaxed way at SA Hall, 37 Blackbourne Road, Elmswell Band Practice: Thursdays, 8pm Songster Practice: Tuesdays, 7.45pm (fortnightly) Games Night: First Friday in each month, 7.30pm Carpet Bowls, board games and more! Craft Night: Third Friday, 7-9pm Informal crafting for all abilities www.nortonsalvationarmy.co.uk Facebook: Norton Salvation Army
An informal service of prayer and praise for everyone is held at The Croft every month. Come and sing your favourite carols, chat with friends and enjoy the refreshments. CHRISTMAS CONCERT BY NORTON SINGERS THE CHOIR OF NORTON SCHOOL Saturday, December 8, 4pm at St Andrew’s Church Norton Get ready for Christmas and enjoy this fun concert of carols, Christmas songs and readings. Christmassy refreshments too! Donations in aid of St Andrew’s Church and The Children’s Society. CAROL SINGING WITH THE NORTON SALVATION ARMY BAND Thursday, December 14, in St Andrew’s Church, Tostock at 7pm. All welcome, with Christmas Refreshments! In aid of St Nicholas’ Hospice. CHRISTMAS DECORATION ACTIVITY MORNING Saturday, December 16, 11am-noon at St Andrew’s Church, Norton. Christmas crafts, tree decorating and preparing the crib. Christmassy refreshments!
9.30am for 10am on the first Sunday of the month at St Mary’s, Pakenham Starting with the Christingle on December 3, all our churches will join together for a Benefice Family Service for all ages on the first Sunday of every month at St Mary’s, Pakenham with ‘breakfasty’ refreshments available from 9.30am. Get there at 9.30am on December 3 to make your Christingle before the service starts. This new venture is run by the whole benefice and is the opportunity for all our villages and families to join together in worship and get to know each other. Look out for the invitation coming through your door!
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Norton Salvation Army
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CHURCH NEWS Breakfast Church 3rd Sunday of the month
9am at St John’s, Elmswell
ST JOHN’S CHURCH, ELMSWELL Merry Christmas from St John’s! Details of our Christmas services are below – we’d love to see you over the festive period. Everyone is welcome. If you’d like to know about our church, or enquire about getting married or having your baby christened, please get in touch. The Rev Peter Goodridge: 01359 240512 / elmswellrector@gmail.com www.stjohnselmswell.org.uk / Facebook
November has been an eventful month with Christmas fairs, men’s breakfasts, ladies lunches, concerts, Remembrance Services and more. We have been busy! On top of ‘normal activity’, our church was thrown into the spotlight following the theft of several tons of lead from our church roof. We had two visits from the BBC and one from ITV! Many thanks to all for your messages of support. Will December be a calmer month? Notoriously, the ‘busy’ season for any church... we don’t think so! So, what are we up to? We are celebrating Jesus’ birth, and we’re inviting you to come too! December kicks off with our Christingle Service at 9.30am on Sunday, December 3. Come along if you fancy placing a candle in an orange, then surrounding it with a ribbon and sweets on cocktail sticks… and most importantly learning what this has to do with Jesus! The church always smells beautiful during Christingle and the children (and adults) have a lovely time. We are very much looking forward to welcoming Little Elms and Elmswell Community Primary School for their various Christmas activities. It’s always good to see the church packed full of children (and doting relatives). Our Nine Lessons and Carols Service takes place at 6.30pm on Sunday, December 17. We love this service; our church is cozy, warm, brightly lit with decorations and jam-packed with people singing their favourite Christmas carols. The story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah and the birth of Jesus is told in nine short Bible readings, interspersed with the singing of Christmas carols. Simply lovely! “I can’t wait for Christmas!” is at 3.30pm on Christmas Eve. This slightly frenzied, fun, family-orientated service is the perfect way to kick-off your Christmas celebrations. If you don’t have a Christmas Eve tradition yet, why not start one this year? We will be bringing in Christmas Day in spectacular style. Our late-night communion on Christmas Eve, starting at 11.30pm, is a more dignified celebration of the nativity of Jesus. We welcome Christmas Day as soon as it starts and get to wish one another “Merry Christmas” first. On Christmas Day we’re celebrating again – our all-age celebration at 10am is a lovely way to rejoice in the happiness of Christmas Day and celebrate with other members of the community and church family. Everyone is welcome. Also, if Santa brings you anything nice – why not bring it with you? We hope to see you at one of our Christmas events and share the true meaning of Christmas with you! God Bless. Sunday, December 3 9.30am All-Age Christingle Service 11am Holy Communion (BCP) Sunday, December 10 8am Holy Communion (BCP) 10.30am Parish Praise Morning Service Sunday, December 17 9.30am Breakfast Church (breakfast from 9am) 11am Holy Communion 6.30pm Nine Lessons and Carols Sunday, December 24 10.30am Short Morning Service 3.30pm I can’t wait for Christmas! 11.30pm Late Night Communion (BCP) Monday, December 25 10am Christmas Day All-Age Celebration Sunday, December 30 10.30am Informal All-Age Communion Sunday, January 7 9.30am All-Age Service 11am Holy Communion
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