In Touch
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with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath Volume 7 • Issue No. 10 • AUGUST 2018
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR The game has just ended! I’m utterly devastated but have spent the last hour trying (unconvincingly) to persuade my eight-year-old son it’s not the end of the world. It’s all falling on deaf ears just now, but hopefully not for long. We will pick ourselves up and we will come back, and next time we will have experience on our side.
NEWS LOCAL LAW FIRM COMMITS TO SUPPORT SUFFOLK LAW CENTRE
Well done boys. Football might not be coming home today, but you will be given a heroes’ welcome when you do. As a Galway girl I have experienced a similar degree of disappointment more times than I wish to acknowledge. So much of the summer (every summer) in Ireland revolves around GAA fixtures and it’s impossible not to get caught up in the excitement. We grow up playing hurling and camogie and the rivalry is intense, especially at club level. Every game is analysed and every move dissected ad infinitum until the next game. Then it starts all over again. Sport can be cruel, but when it’s joyful, there really is nothing quite like it. When you support a team, you become a member of an extensive community. Even though I’m 500 miles from home I feel proud when I fly the Galway flag. That sense of heritage, that wonderful belonging, will stay with me forever. I shall forever be a Galway girl. Of course I’m now also a Suffolk girl and I’ve been as caught up in the excitement of the World Cup as everyone else. Even if you’re not a footy fan, I hope you have engaged with the World Cup in some small way and that the feel-good factor stays with you for a long time. I also hope it inspires you to appreciate the value of shared experience and to seek out opportunities to spend time with others without the expense of a longhaul flight. Whether you choose a sporting activity (either as participant or spectator), a coffee morning, a walk or a talk, there are opportunities aplenty in your local community and I hope In Touch motivates you reach out and grab the ball with both hands.
In Touch
with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins We also publish In Touch with... Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk • NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, 01473 400380 Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Send editorial copy to: Wetherden & Woolpit ipswicheast@intouchnews.co.uk •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations •C apel St Mary and photographs for publication. The publishers •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton reserve the right to amend such submissions and •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone cannot accept responsibility for any loss. & Washbrook ADVERTISING •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk & Stratford St Mary 01473 400380 •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew DISTRIBUTION •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley Tree Martin •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk •N eedham Market & The Creetings 01473 400380 •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, PRINTING Stutton & Woolverstone Colourplan Print •B urstall & Sproughton Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk •S towmarket & Stowupland 01473 400379 • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Disclaimer: Westerfield & Witnesham The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors •M elton & Woodbridge 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.
Ipswich law firm Prettys has donated £1,000 to Suffolk Law Centre to support the charity’s ongoing work in the community. Suffolk Law Centre provides a vital service for the diverse community in Suffolk to ensure they are aware of their legal rights and have the right support to access legal services that may be available to them. Prettys has been a long-term supporter of Suffolk Law Centre (formerly Suffolk Law Advice Centre, part of Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality), with solicitors and trainee solicitors from across the firm regularly providing pro bono advice at the legal advice drop in sessions held at Suffolk Law Centre’s Ipswich office. Peter Blake (pictured fourth from left), a partner at Prettys, commented: “We are delighted to support Suffolk Law Centre and the important work they do. We believe that everyone has a right to access legal services and the team at Suffolk Law Centre provide a valuable service to make sure people within the local community can get the help they need.” Audrey Ludwig, Legal Director, Suffolk Law Centre said: “We have had great support from Prettys’ staff with our free legal services for many years, so this excellent donation reinforces their shared commitment to access justice for all in Suffolk.” Following the donation, Prettys is now a founding member of Suffolk Law Centre. Suffolk Law Centre officially opened its doors on St Matthew’s Street in March 2018. During the initial stages the team will be working towards their vision to empower people in Suffolk to understand and assert their legal rights. The centre is looking to develop ways to make its legal advice services more accessible to more people. For more information about Prettys, please visit: www.prettys.co.uk If you would like to support the work of Suffolk Law Centre, you can donate at: https://mydonate.bt.com/events/suffolklawcentre To discuss other ways to support the charity, please contact Business Development Officer Sue Wardell: suew@iscre.org.uk
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NEWS NEW SCULPTURE TRAIL CELEBRATES THE SEAHORSES OF IPSWICH The trail map also includes the story of the Ipswich Coat of Arms (which features two Neptune’s Seahorses) and raises awareness of the growing issue of plastic pollution in our seas and waterways which is drastically impacting marine wildlife including seahorses. The ten colourful seahorse sculptures can be found in Quay Place, Old Custom House, DanceEast, LoveOne, St Peter’s Street, Ipswich Town Hall, Ipswich Museum, Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich County Library, Ohh Deer, in The Walk and Buttermarket Shopping Centre.
Ipswich Central, the town’s BID (Business Improvement District), have created a Family Trail for the 2018 summer holidays with the theme of seahorses; inspired by the Ipswich Coat of Arms. Ten 3ft tall seahorse sculptures have been created and painted by a local sculptor as part of the trail, and have been positioned in locations along the waterfront and across the town centre. In between the seahorse sculptures, the free trail map points out seahorses that are in the architectural details of the town’s historic buildings such as Old Custom House and the Town Hall.
The seahorse sculpture for LoveOne (St Peter’s Street) is being painted by local illustrator Boo Hamilton-Frost, while the seahorse for DanceEast has been painted bright orange to match the dance house’s reception. The free trail maps are available at the ten sculpture locations as well as in the Tourist Information Centre, the Reg Driver Centre in Christchurch Park and in shops and businesses across the town. Once families have completed the trail, they can visit the Tourist Information Centre to collect an Ipswich Explorer sticker and enter a competition to win four tickets to the New Wolsey’s Cinderella, this year’s rock ‘n’ roll panto. For more information visit: www.ipswichfamilytrail.com Images from All About Ipswich
ART IN THE ALTAR: AUGUST 13 – SEPTEMBER 8 Art in the Altar is the first series of pop-up exhibitions organised by We Create Projects Ltd which ordinarily works with artists and creative businesses in a mentoring, marketing and consultancy capacity. In line with Iona Hodgson, its founder’s passion for giving artists more exposure and selling opportunities, she is curating these art exhibitions, which she hopes will also encourage visitors to the town. Iona will continue to produce and curate pop-up exhibitions across East Anglia and beyond. The four shows are titled Flora, Sermo, Costa and Terra, Latin words for Flowers, Words, Coast and Land, and each one will host a small selection of artists working within these four themes, resulting in a fresh and cohesive series of exhibitions. There will be a range of artwork available, from large original oil paintings to limited edition unframed prints, catering for everyone from those looking for a statement piece for an interior to those looking for a unique gift for a special occasion. Alongside paintings, there will also be ceramics, sculpture and stained glass works on sale. The four exhibitions will be held in Ipswich Tourist Information Centre on St Stephen’s Lane and will be open to the public from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday. A launch evening will be held each Tuesday from 5.30-7.30pm, giving people a chance to meet the artists and be the first to see the work on display. The space will be furnished with professional exhibition panels, creating an elegant professional gallery-like space within in the venue with a view to increasing the calibre and the provision of visual arts in the town. Alongside the growing cultural and artistic scene in Suffolk, Art in the Altar hopes to help artists to promote and sell their work as well as enliven the interest and demonstrate a commitment to the arts in the area. Flora: August 13 - 18 Flora will launch the series with a celebration of summer colour with everyone’s favourite subject, flowers. So far confirmed for this show are painters Angela Horner and Arabella Shand, both producing bold and bright floral paintings, the intricate and characterful images of Bev Howe, the subdude and atmospheric oils of Christopher Good, the tropical
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floral watercolours of Karen Cooley, the stunning and mysterious floral paintings of Emma Green and the elegant and bright porcelaine pottery by Usch Spettigue. Sermo: August 20 - 25 Sermo, meaning ‘word’ in Latin, will bring together a cutting-edge selection of artists working with text, words, print and montage. We are thrilled to be including the humourous and iconic work of Alison Stockmarr as well as brand new prints from the Essex based children’s book illustrator Tom Knight, simple and elegant montage work from Steve Joyce, the bright and joyful work of Alex Vick and the abstract and bold work of Valerie Armstrong as well as unique letter and date-stamp art by Daisy Courtold. Costa: August 27 - September 1 Costa celebrates the beautiful coastal areas in the region, both sea and estuary. This show will include artists such as the painters Rodney Freeman, well known for his beautiful greeting cards sold in the regions Co-op supermarkets, the unique layered mono-prints of Sheena Clover and the colourful landscapes of the regions favourite places by Christopher Humphries as well as celebrated wildlife sculptor Stephen Henderson and the ceramicist who evokes the estuary landscape in her work, AnneMarie Jacobs. Terra: September 3 - 8 The final show of the series will be themed to celebrate the land and the natural environment and will include landscape artists such as the atmospheric forest paintings of Michaela Latham and Paul Zasadzki, as well as the intricate stained glass art of Naomi Brangwyn. Up-to-date information about the shows will be published online at: www.wecreateprojects.co.uk/artinthealtar For more information contact Iona Hodgson: hello@wecreateprojects.co.uk / 07719 281078
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NEWS MARTLESHAM BRASS Making music fun in East Anglia
NEW ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC AT TWO RIVERS MEDICAL CENTRE
We take a well-earned rest during August so our next event after the summer break will be our 22nd birthday concert on Saturday, September 29. Please put this date in your diaries. Tickets will be available in September – more details next month.
Residents of Ipswich and the surrounding areas can now treat aches and pains with the help of one of the world’s oldest and safest systems of medical care – acupuncture. Dr Hong has set up acupuncture clinic at Two Rivers Medical Centre and hopes to share his expertise with local people.
We would love to hear from new players, young and old, with or without experience. Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to come and have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and would like to come along and meet us, please contact us via the website or use the contact details below.
He says: “In China, acupuncture has been used for more than 2,500 years. It has been the first choice of countless millions of Chinese people.
Publicity Officer Liz Howard e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617 www.martleshambrass.co.uk
IPSWICH COUNTRY MARKET Did you know that we sell local honey? This month you can come and meet the beekeepers on Thursday, August 9, Honey Day. There will be honey tasting so this could be an ideal chance for you, your children and grandchildren to taste this pure product. Find out about products from the hive. Do you know the significance of the phrase ‘sweetness and light’? There will be some activities too so come and see us and find out more. As A A Milne wrote: “Isn’t it funny how a bear likes honey? Buzz! Buzz! Buzz! I wonder why he does?” Also on offer this month, seasonal soft fruit and vegetables, plants and cut flowers all freshly picked. Home cooked baking, preserves and chutneys. Our crafters have gift and practical items, with cards and gift bags too. We are open on Thursday mornings from 10.15-11.30am at Rushmere Village Hall on Humber Doucy Lane. We have free parking and home baked refreshments with a free tea or coffee on your first visit. Where else could you have a cheese scone or slice of cake and a hot drink for around a pound? We also have bacon rolls on offer on the first Thursday of the month for only £1.20! Come and try us out, we look forward to welcoming you soon. You can find more information about the market on our Facebook page (Ipswich Country Market) or at: www.ipswichcountrymarket.co.uk
DEMENTIA TOGETHER CALL FREE 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com
“It’s not seen as an alternative form of therapy, but is used in state hospital alongside modern medicine. With acupuncture you can improve the condition in the long term with no side effects.” Dr Hong from Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine of China, has trained in Chinese and western medicine and specialises in acupuncture. He has worked for more than 32 years including 14 years work-experience as a doctor, teacher and researcher in a university teaching hospital in China. Dr Hong can use acupuncture to treat many kinds of diseases or problems including; pain relieve such as sciatic pain, headache, migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, back pain, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow and arthritis; internal problems such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, chronic diarrhea, IBS, urethral syndrome and palpitation; women’s disorders such as irregular menstruation, infertility and menopausal syndromes; skin diseases such as eczema; other problems such as insomnia, anxiety, depression, paralysis, restless leg, ME, MS, sinusitis, rhinitis, hay fever and addictions. If you are interested in acupuncture treatment, you can phone the surgery on 01473 907788 to book an appointment and you will learn how this effective healing techniques can help you.
NEW ARGENTINE TANGO OPPORTUNITIES Tango Innominado, a local ensemble which meets to learn and perform tango music, is looking for instrumentalists and vocal soloists to join them. Their leader, David Faulkner invites any interested musicians to make contact (01473 625482), and in particular he would like to hear from accordion or bandoneon players who would like to learn more about Argentine tango music. The group perform at social dances for tango dancers in Suffolk. In addition, David says that there is also the chance for anyone to start learning to dance Argentine Tango with Suffolk Tango, a not-for-profit group run by volunteers. Starting on Monday, September 17, Richard and Mandy from Suffolk Tango are offering a new course to learn the elegant, evocative social dance of Argentine Tango on Mondays. The 10-week course (in two five-week blocks) aims to provide a solid foundation in the key elements of Argentine Tango in an enjoyable sociable environment. It concentrates on how to lead and follow the fundamental steps of Tango. The dance is improvised to the music so there are no long sequences to learn. Richard says that our current dancers are of all ages, some coming with a background of ballroom, salsa or modern jive, but many have never attended dance classes before. Once you try Argentine Tango you will soon get hooked and an exciting range of dancing opportunities near and far opens up. After this course you will be able to progress into our structured courses for improvers and intermediates. Prior booking is essential, but there is no need to book with a partner as we aim to match follower and leader numbers. However, it is better to come together with a partner if you can. What is more, we always rotate partners during the class to speed the learning process and to make the evening more fun. The course is held at the Richards Room at Martlesham Community Centre (behind Tescos) from 7.30-10pm on Mondays from September 17. You can apply via the online form at www.suffolktango.org.uk, or contact: Mandy@suffolktango.org.uk / 07766 694618
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OUT & ABOUT LIONS CLUB TO HOLD PRE-LOVED AND NEARLY NEW TABLE TOP SALE The Lions Club of Ipswich will be holding another one of their fantastic PreLoved and Nearly New Table Top Sales on Saturday, August 11, at Ropes Hall, Kesgrave Conference Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave from 10.30am-1pm. There are a few tables left at a cost just £5, so if you have items you wish to sell, this is a great opportunity to make some spending money for yourself. With refreshments available, free parking and free admission, if you’re the sort of person who likes a bargain, then why not pop along and spend the morning having a good rummage around the tables? This is also a fabulous opportunity to sell your own wares. You will not only be making some money for yourself, you will also be supporting this worthy charity. To book a table to sell your own items contact Maggie: 01473 259899 The Lions Club of Ipswich is run entirely by volunteers and raises funds for many local charities and good causes.
IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired business gentlemen. The primary objective is to provide fellowship between members and to share similar interests in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We meet monthly at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us.
ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCING Think you might enjoy it? Then come along to St John’s URC Hall, Cowper Street, Ipswich on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 8pm. For more information contact Helen: howefamily96@yahoo.co.uk / 01473 717979 John: johnaadams1942@gmail.com / 01473 710406
MARTLESHAM HEATH CONTROL TOWER MUSEUM Open every Sunday afternoon from 2-5pm with free entry. Situated at the rear of Parkers Place (off Eagle way), Martlesham Heath IP5 3UX. For more information visit: www.mhas.org.uk
ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY We are now taking our usual summer break, but why not join us when our new season starts on Wednesday, September 5, when Rosalind Whyte will be giving a talk entitled 250 Years of the Royal Academy.
If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com
In 2018, The Royal Academy of Arts celebrates its 250th anniversary. We will look at the position of artists in London before and after the formation of the academy in 1768 and some of the characters involved, including the first president, Sir Joshua Reynolds.
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Like any important institution, the academy has been embroiled in intrigue and controversy over the course if its history and no scandal or outrage will remain unexposed!
A craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere with refreshments, we meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in Rushmere Village Hall from 7.30-10pm. Thursday, August 23: Pom-Pom Pens with Emma There are always other projects available with assistance from the committee and other club members. New members are always welcome. For more details contact Emma: 01787 373850
IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, September 26: The Ipswich Transport Museum, an illustrated talk by Chris Turland We meet at 7pm for a 7.30pm start at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich. Entrance via the rear car park. Visitors £3.50, members £1.50 including refreshments. Details from: 01473 422145 / 01394 420490 / www.idhts.co.uk
MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday, August 13: The Baron, the Policeman and the Mayor – An Ipswich Riot 1863 by Linda Sexton. Did you know there was a riot in Ipswich? Come along and find out more. All meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.
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We shall be holding our second informal study day at Rushmere Village Hall on Friday, September 7, when the subject will be Feisty Ladies – Women Travellers from Victorian Britain. Roger Mitchell, the speaker who made last year’s study day so memorable, will once again be entertaining us with a fascinating look at those intrepid women from days gone by. We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SUPPORT GROUP Our next meeting will take place on Thursday, August 9, at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH from 7-9pm. Our guest speaker will be Malcolm Taylor from the charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. This is a social gathering for people who have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes to have the opportunity to talk to those in a similar situation and receive support. Family and friends are most welcome to join us too. Refreshments will be available free of charge. No admission charge or joining fee. For further information please contact: 07547 513730 (9 -5pm, Mon-Fri) / dsgipswichduk@gmail.com www.ipswich.diabetesukgroup.org
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OUT & ABOUT RAVENSWOOD BOOK GROUP For all those interested in reading and would enjoy meeting like-minded people, Ravenswood has a new book group. We will be meeting on Sunday, August 12, and every second Sunday of the month after that. For August we are reading Fingersmith by Sarah Waters. Fingersmith is set in London 1862 and is about a young woman, orphaned at birth, who grows up among petty thieves, but from the moment she draws breath, her fate is linked to that of another orphan growing up in a gloomy mansion not too many miles away. To get in touch, please phone 07843 444151 or visit: www.facebook.com/Ravenswoodbookgroup
SPEAKERS OF FELIXSTOWE A Million Clicks! – How to get the best out of YouTube Speakers of Felixstowe invites you to join us at the start of the new season to hear our guest speaker Grant Abbitt (digital 3D artist and teacher) of Martlesham Heath share his tips for a successful YouTube posting. We meet on September 20 at 7.30pm at the Marlborough Hotel with subsequent meetings on the third Thursday of the month. Free entry for first-time visitors. Whatever level of speaking skills and confidence you have, the club aims to help you to develop your skills, with both prepared and off-the-cuff speeches for entertaining or formal occasions. For more information visit: www.felixstowespeakers.org.uk
RSPB FLATFORD WILDLIFE GARDEN VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES Do you enjoy the outdoors? Want to make a difference for nature? Like being around people? Then you’re the perfect person to get involved with the RSPB’s wildlife garden in Flatford, near East Bergholt in Suffolk. We’re looking for people to help us welcome visitors to the garden for the summer months. This is a voluntary position, working as part of a friendly team. The role will involve the following: • Opening the garden in the morning • Being a smiling face to welcome and talk to visitors • Occasionally helping with children’s activities, such as pond dipping and owl pelleting • Some general simple tasks such as topping up bird feeders and tidying paths • Locking up at the end of the day You’ll be part of a team of volunteers who work on a flexible rota system, so you can give as much or as little time as you like. You will be fully trained and supported by staff and existing volunteers. This is a great opportunity to spend time in a friendly environment and a beautiful landscape, while knowing that you’re helping to really make a difference for nature. The garden is open to the public every day between 10.30am and 4.30pm, and is free to visit. For more information please visit: www.rspb.org.uk/flatford So if you’d like to find out more, please contact Clare for an informal chat: 01206 391153 / clare.westley@rspb.org.uk We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
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GRESHAMS PRESENTS BORDERLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL THIS AUGUST Join us for the birth of a brand new festival this Bank Holiday Sunday, August 26. Borderland transports you to a world filled with the best music, food, and entertainment that East Anglia has to offer and it’s entirely free of charge! We will be showcasing some of the best musicians from across East Anglia, with a mixture of genres throughout the day. There will be something for everyone. But it isn’t just about the music. We will also be playing host to a scrumptious street food fair, with everything from Mexican and Caribbean stalls, to a good old British BBQ. Savour every mouthful as you work your way around. With rides, stalls and plenty of other nuggets of joy, it’s a day you won’t want to end. The day will run from noon-10.30pm. Tickets are free and on-site parking is just £1 per car. For more information, please visit: www.greshamsipswich.co.uk
IPSWICH BRANCH, SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, August 23: Members Reveal All On previous evenings like this, our members revealed their favourite family stories, collected using their family history research skills. We heard fascinating stories, learning how stories were unearthed, with the surprises and hiccups on the way. If you have a tale to tell contact Howard on 01473 274300 who will help you tell it. We will also help anyone stuck with their research, so bring along the details. We meet at the Co-op Education Centre where the pedestrian entrance is at 11 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JW, and the car park entrance is in Waterworks Street IP4 1JG. Admission is £2 for society members and £2.50 for nonmembers, who are warmly welcomed. Tickets are not required. For more information contact Howard on 01473 274300 or visit: www.suffolkfhs.org.uk
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB What’s the connection between the World Cup and orphaned children in Zimbabwe? When we booked our stall at Sproughton Village Fete to raise money for the Palandaba Orphans’ Project we hadn’t foreseen the huge national significance of June 24. It was a lovely afternoon, the people who did come were interested in hearing about the inspiring project, but we had hoped to raise the school fees for at least one more child. The best laid plans of mice and women! Our June club meeting went well. Our speaker gave us a fascinating insight into the Ipswich scene at night and the huge variety of people that the Town Pastors support, listen to, help out and befriend in their quiet, nonjudgemental way. We were impressed and grateful. After that we had work to do. We voted on nominations for leadership roles in our federation, including candidates from the other side of the world. Soroptimism is expanding rapidly in developing countries and powerful women are emerging. We then voted to move to charitable status and had a quick look at draft resolutions for our autumn conference. Some members are really interested in these matters and have taken on some of the leadership roles themselves. Others are not keen to spend too much time on them. Still we are an independently minded lot of women, we would not put up with having decisions made at the top. Running a bottom up system, where the individual member and the local club have a voice, is not easy but we mostly get it right. The whole focus of Soroptimism is on action to improve the lives of women and girls. The ‘business’ is only there to make this possible. We are looking forward to August, a fun month with some days out and meals together.
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OUT & ABOUT
Reading back over previous articles it sees unbelievable that in the April article we were still getting sub zero winds and desperate to see some sunshine – and yet now we’ve had so much sun that we’re getting desperate to see some rain! The incredibly hot conditions in recent weeks mean the ground is baked hard – making it very difficult to dig and, of course, also making it hard for plants to thrive unless well watered. So the over-riding message for August is to keep on watering (and in case you’re wondering, my tortoise is loving the hot weather but even she has to be ‘watered’ by having a shallow bath every few days to enable her to drink and absorb water through her skin) At our allotment site in Playford Lane there’s a real sense of community and gardeners will often look out for each other’s plots and water them when people are away on hols or unable to get to their plot. We also have an annual social get together at the site in early September when we all bring lunches and picnics and generally chat and share tips and also vote for ‘best plot’, ‘most improved plot’, etc. So, some tips for August. Pinch out tomato plant tops and feed them, feed sweetcorn, pick French and runner beans and dig up carrots, dig up strawberry runners and pot them up for next year, start lifting onions at the end of the month (they’re ready when their stalks start to bend over – they need to be dried before storing), lift potatoes, carry out repeat sowings for lettuce and radishes, start pruning apple and pear trees towards the end of the month and finally, ensure fruit trees for stoned fruit (such as peach, apricot, plum and cherry) are pruned before the end of the month. As I said, we’re a friendly bunch so why not come and join us or ask to have a look around the site and see if you fancy having a go? You don’t have to take on a whole plot – we have half and quarter plots too. Contact our membership secretary, Angela Brown: 01473 612283 / membership@kesgrave-allotments.org.uk Sally Peckham
RSPB IPSWICH LOCAL GROUP It is now almost two years since RSPB Ipswich Local Group moved our meetings to Rushmere Church Hall where we were made very welcome. We meet at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of the month between September and April and invariably have a very enjoyable evening. We have welcomed a wide range of speakers offering interesting illustrated talks primarily focused on birds, but also covering other wildlife, conservation and travel. All are welcome, whether RSPB members or not for a very reasonable entrance fee.
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Recently we have enjoyed talks on the wildlife of Trinidad, Tobago and Australia, the status of the stone curlew in Norfolk and Suffolk, and the breeding success of the Norwich peregrines. Coming up in the autumn we have talks on Swifts with Edward Jackson (September), Raptors with David Darrell-Lambert (October), House Martins with Martin Tickler (November) and Scotland with our group leader Tim Kenny. Throughout the year we organise guided wildlife walks in various locations including Ipswich parks, areas close to Ipswich and further afield. All these walks are free and there’s no need to book. They are publicised on our website and also in local papers. Walks coming up include trips to Minsmere, Hollesley Marsh, Melton riverside, Freston, Pipers Vale and Holywells, Christchurch and Bourne Parks. For further information call 01394 809236 or visit: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ipswich Twitter: @IpswichRSPB / Facebook: RSPB Ipswich Local Group
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CHURCH NEWS / SCHOOLS BIXLEY FARM CHURCH AT TOWER HALL: SUNDAY@4 The hot summer seems endless as this goes to press and with the sport there is an additional feel-good factor. And then there are the long holidays! We seem surrounded by images of fun and happiness and we are told to consume it all; even if our own personal circumstances and daily struggles don’t just melt away. A prolonged heatwave also has its downsides. The Bible certainly encourages us to find pleasure and enjoy our “life under the sun”, but also reminds us there is “a time and season for everything” and that a life without a Godly purpose is just “chasing after the wind” and leads to utter despair in the end. So have an enjoyable summer and may God bless your holidays. Our parent and toddler group, Little Lambs, has had a great first term. These sessions run from 9.15-11am every Friday during term time at Tower Hall for a nominal £1 per family. Those who have come along have commented on the warm welcome they have received and that the children have enjoyed being there. Thank you to all who have supported us and we look forward to seeing you all after the summer break on Friday, September 7. If you would like any other details please contact Emma Allinson: families@mie.org. uk In addition to our Sunday services and parent and toddler group we also have a regular midweek homegroup in Foxwood Crescent and meet for prayer at Tower Hall on the first Thursday of the month at 7pm and again at 8pm. If you have anything or anyone you wish to pray for we are there for you. You just need to turn up or call us using the number below. As always, everyone is welcome to join us each Sunday for our regular weekly service at Tower Hall from 4-5pm. There are opportunities to speak to clergy or other members of the church, time for personal prayer and Holy Communion is celebrated every other Sunday. Bixley Farm Church (CofE) was initiated by St John’s, Cauldwell Hall Road and St Andrew’s, Britannia Road (collectively called Mission Ipswich East). For further information visit www.mie.org/bixley or contact: office@mie.org.uk / 01473 270978
Hope is something we all want and need. What, then, do we mean by hope? The dictionary says ‘to want something to happen or be the case’. For Christians it is an anticipation and expectation that comes from our belief that through Jesus we have a better, brighter future not only now but the ultimate optimism of a life that goes beyond today. It is like having a safety net that underpins life in which we do not merely exist but have life and have it in abundance. We know that we can put our whole trust and reliance in someone who knows our suffering but came through it to help and save us. It is more than a desire, but a faith that is outside our normal, everyday thinking, beyond what we see with our mortal, worldly senses to a place where love, grace and mercy are absolutely supreme. There is such a joy and peace of mind that comes from this hope that we have. As it says in Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future” – so we can have total confidence in God’s complete, undeniable and unconditional love towards us.
AUTUMN DATES AT BRIGHT STARS Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children with parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. These mornings are free and usually involve singing, games, making crafts to take home and telling stories from the Bible for the first half hour. We then have refreshments when the adults can chat and the children can play. You are welcome to come along to any of our mornings; just turn up, no need to let us know in advance. We look forward to seeing you this autumn! The autumn term dates are September 10 and 24, October 8, November 12 and 26 and December 10. For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196
MARTLESHAM & KESGRAVE PLAYSCHOOLS A huge thank you to everyone who supported us at our Fun Day on June 30 – fundraisers, stallholders, staff and attendees. Thank you also to our sponsors – Haart, Gilbert Heating & Plumbing, and Bates, Wells, Braithwaite Solicitors. We made a profit of £888! We shall be spending this on new resources for both our playschools. At Kesgrave Playschool the children have been supported in creating lots of plans, offering opportunities for critical thinking, speaking and listening, and knowledge and understanding of the world. We have been voting for our favourite stories, snack menu and making decisions about the things we would like to learn about. In preparation for school transitions, we enjoyed creating our very own school dinner, and loved having visits from the children’s new teachers. We wish our biggest children the very best of luck at their new big schools. If you’re looking for a playschool for September, we have spaces available. We are a small playschool nurturing outdoor learning experiences, next to the woods and overlooking the fields, a peaceful spot to enjoy. Call us on 07746 907060 to arrange a visit or visit: www.mandkplayschools.co.uk At Martlesham Playschool the children have been to Hollow Trees Farm for their summer trip. They had lots of fun in the sun, feeding and stroking the animals, finding out about the animals and wildlife. We wish all our school leavers the best for the future, you will all be missed. Thank you for having lots of fun with us. We are offering themed weeks throughout our summer holiday club, including a jungle week and a space week with lots of fun filled activities for the children to enjoy. Please check out our new Facebook page—Martlesham Playschool – or call us on 01473 635986 for more details or to book a visit. From September we only have morning spaces on Fridays, plus one or two on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. We have afternoon spaces every day except Tuesdays.
Join us on Sunday mornings at 11.30am (Café and Children’s Church 10.30am) at The Ark Church, The Drift, Nacton Road, Ipswich IP3 9QR. You can contact us via email at arkipswichuk@gmail.com and we can also be found on Facebook and on Twitter @arkipswich or online at: www.arkipswich.co.uk
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