In touch news with kesgrave apr18 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

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with Kesgrave & Rushmere

Volume 8 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2018

Spring has Sprung by Paula Irvine

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Some years ago I was invited to take part in a ‘Grumpy Women’ segment on Radio Suffolk. Each guest was asked to choose one topic, a task I set about with relish. When I met my fellow grumpy women in the green room before the show we chatted about how difficult it had been to choose. I was embarrassed to discover that while they had struggled to find a topic, I had struggled to select from a rather long list. I’d chosen people who eat from noisy packaging at the theatre or in the cinema, but the shortlist had included people who interrupt all the time, rude drivers who don’t acknowledge when you give way, the pseudoscience used to sell skin creams and cosmetics (just what is a free radical?), people who spit in the street… When I told my husband about the green room conversation he howled with laughter, until he noticed my silence. “Well you’re hardly surprised are you,” he said. “I’ve never known anyone who gets so easily annoyed about small things.” I’m sure you can imagine how that conversation went, but I’m making no apology for my grumpiness, though I prefer to see it as sensitivity! Of course this conversation took place at least 10 years ago and I think I’ve become a nicer person since I started working at In Touch. It’s impossible to be angry and judgemental when I’m constantly reminded of the good in people. Every month I hear from people who are raising funds for charity, organising local events (a significant and often thankless undertaking), setting up or leading support groups, promoting social opportunities for people who are otherwise isolated… the list goes on. We are so fortunate to live in a society where people care, where they look out for each other and give their time to make local communities stronger. The least the rest of us can do is turn up.

NEWS COMMUNITY TRANSPORT FOR KESGRAVE Please note the number published last month was incorrect: the correct number is 01449 614271. The town council is delighted that Kesgrave has been incorporated into the BSEVC Community Transport umbrella – a charity which has been running Community Transport for over 25 years. Sufficient volunteers have been recruited for the Kesgrave Community Transport scheme. However, residents now need to take advantage of this service, otherwise it will be lost. The vehicle used is fully accessible for wheelchair users and transport can be booked up to two weeks in advance. The service is designed for those local residents who are unable to access public transport due to mobility difficulties or where public transport does not meet their needs. The service is available for any age group and operates Monday to Saturday. If you would like to use this service please call 01449 614271, text 07493 866652, or email: bookings@bsevc.co.uk The journeys can be for health appointments, visiting relatives and friends, shopping, connection to onward travel by bus, coach or train, to and from day centres and services, funerals, weddings, etc. The driver is paid on the day; 1-5 miles for an adult is £2.20, free for under-5s, £1 for those aged 5-18. A minibus scheme also operates for group bookings.

Of course locally owned businesses are the beating heart of every strong local community, often supporting local causes, investing in the local economy and creating local jobs. Support each other and together we can look forward to a ‘grump free’ future!

Kesgrave In Touch &withRushmere

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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: kesgrave@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication.The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

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01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Kesgrave & Rushmere is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

We also publish In Touch with... • NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •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 •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

Local people can now sign up to the new Garden Waste Collection Scheme being provided by Suffolk Coastal District Council. Suffolk Coastal District Council is introducing a £43 a year charge for collecting garden waste this financial year (2018/19).The scheme is optional, with the first paid-for collections scheduled to start from the beginning of May 2018. It’s quick and easy to sign up, either: • Go online at: my.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/MyServices. You will need to register or login to your My Eastsuffolk account and then complete the form for garden waste. • Call Customer Services on 01394 383789 and choosing option ‘0’. • Pop in to see our customer service staff in the Customer Service Centre in Felixstowe and Woodbridge Libraries. You will need a debit or credit card to pay. The fee for one bin is £43 for a year (the equivalent of paying about £1.65 per fortnightly collection). You can place your order now and don’t forget to say ‘YES’ to the upgrade.

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MAY DEADLINE 10 APRIL 2018

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NEWS ELMERS TO SPONSOR ELMER Family-owned Elmers Hardware in Kesgrave has become the latest business to back St Elizabeth Hospice’s fundraising campaign, Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk, by sponsoring one of the 50 Elmer sculptures which will be on display in and around Ipswich during the summer of 2019.

SPARK AGM The SPARK charity will be holding its Annual General Meeting on Monday, April 9 (not April 8 as published last month) at 7.30pm in the Conference Centre at Kesgrave Community Centre. Residents of Kesgrave are welcome to attend. Due to current executive committee members standing down we will be election two new trustees. Chairman Charles Rayworth

WALKERS IN SUFFOLK ASKED TO UNITE AGAINST PARKINSON’S Suffolk residents are being asked to unite with thousands of people across the UK and Walk for Parkinson’s at Glemham on Sunday, June 10. The event will raise vital funds for the charity Parkinson’s UK, and is one of many walks taking place all over the UK throughout 2018. Two people are diagnosed with the condition every hour in the UK and Walk for Parkinson’s events aim to raise over £500,000 for research to step closer to a cure. There are longer and shorter distances to choose from, so whether you’re up for a challenging walk or a gentle stroll, there’s something for everyone. At Glemham Hall distances include a 1.5-mile, 3.5-mile and 5.5-mile walk to choose from. Last year, 180 people took part in the walk at Glemham Hall to raise £17,000 between them, and Parkinson’s UK hopes to raise even more this year. Sky Sports Presenter and Champion of Walking for Parkinson’s UK Dave Clark was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2011. He is a keen walker himself and is encouraging people to get involved. He said: “We want to make 2018 our biggest year yet for the Walk for Parkinson’s series. I’d like to invite everyone, whatever their level of fitness, to take advantage of the many different types of walks, scenic routes and distances available. Exercise can be really beneficial to people living with Parkinson’s. It is as important to me as my medication in helping me take control and manage my symptoms. “So please join us at Walk for Parkinson’s at Glemham Hall. Every step takes us closer to a cure and our goal of improving the lives of everyone affected by Parkinson’s.” The registration fee is £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s. Everyone who registers will receive a free Parkinson’s UK t-shirt, fundraising pack and at the end of the walk, a finisher’s medal. As the charity is hoping to raise over £500,000 from the 37 events it suggests walkers aim to raise at least £50. All the money raised from the event will fund research to help to find a cure and improve the lives of the 145,000 people in the UK living with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s UK is also looking for volunteers to help register people at the start/finish area, or to be a walk marshal at various points on the route during the day. To find out more, or to sign up to walk or volunteer at the event, call 02079 639367, email fundraising@parkinsons.org.uk or visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/walkglemhamhall

Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk, which raises valuable funds for Ipswich’s St Elizabeth Hospice, follows the hugely successful Pigs Gone Wild trail which took the town by storm in 2016. The parade will once again be run in conjunction with public art event specialists, Wild in Art, as well as new partner Andersen Press which owns the publishing rights to Elmer. Paul Elmer (pictured) of Elmers Hardware, said: “When I heard about the plans for Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk, it was clear we needed to be involved in some way! We are a family owned and run business, established 60 years ago next year, and this seemed like the ideal way to mark the occasion. I am pleased to be able to support the hospice and our town in this way and am looking forward to seeing what the artists come up with for our Elmer.” Norman Lloyd, Campaign Manager for St Elizabeth Hospice, was pleased to confirm Elmers’ involvement: “As soon as we knew that the trail was going to be based on Elmer, I knew I would need to speak to Paul, so I’m really pleased that he has agreed to come on board. We are sure that Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk is going to be a massive success, and it is thanks to our fantastic sponsors like Elmers Hardware, that we can make it happen.” Pigs Gone Wild attracted around 250,000 visitors to Ipswich and boosted the local economy by an estimated £1million. It raised £200,000 for the hospice – enough to fund one week’s care – and is a highlight of the hospice’s busy fundraising calendar. In addition to Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk, Elmer’s Great North Parade has been announced for Tyne and Wear, with others around the country to follow. Elmer the colourful patchwork elephant has been a nursery favourite since the first book was published by Andersen Press in 1989. A modern classic, this picture book is known to millions, and the entire Elmer series has sold over eight million copies around the world. The subtle inclusive message is that it is ‘OK to be different’.

BUS NOTES A comment has been made about the limited hours in which our new 68 bus runs. But it is clear that the bus is being used between school journeys, rather than having the bus lying idle and the driver not working. Even so, it is very handy, serving us in Kesgrave from 10.00 to 14.00, giving a service direct into the hospital grounds and enabling shopping in the mid-day hours along Woodbridge Road or right into town and back home. It is provided by First after a strong case was made by our council’s transport assistant. After a hesitant start, it is being used by increasing numbers of local residents, and I certainly hope that First will find it worthwhile to continue to run it. I might add that we in Kesgrave are extremely lucky to have all our bus services, for there are now large areas of England bereft of any buses, thanks to the government’s restrictions of funds to counties for supporting bus services. Enjoy what we have!

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.

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NEWS KESGRAVE TOWN COUNCIL NEWS Grainger plc – 1,300 New Houses Proposed – Longstrops, Land off of Bell Lane Thank you to all those local residents who have contacted the town council or the agents Turnberry Planning regarding the proposals of Grainger plc. At the time of writing there is no formal planning application. The town council will of course continue to keep local people updated via its website, Facebook and Twitter social media sites. Turnberry Planning are keeping a list of the issues that you have raised and they have advised that in due course, they will arrange a public exhibition for local people to see some of the proposals. Kesgrave Fun Day: Saturday, June 9, 11am-4pm Plans are underway for Kesgrave Fun Day on June 9. The full programme will appear in the May edition of In Touch with Kesgrave and Rushmere. There will be lots of things to see and do and we are trying to keep most things free of charge. This year we are running the Kesgrave Great Bake Off so why not enter and show off your skills? We are looking for a celebration cake/ cupcakes as the theme! Full details to follow. A BBQ and The Moving Plaice Fish and Chips will be there to offer some delicious food. If you as a local business would like to help with sponsorship of the event, or would like to volunteer to help on the day, please contact Jennie at the town council office: 01473 625179 You are invited to take part in the

KESGRAVE ANNUAL TOWN MEETING

To be held at the Millennium Jubilee Hall, Millennium Way, Kesgrave IP5 2EN on Monday, April 16 at 7.15pm The Annual Town Meeting is an occasion for members of the public, local organisations, clubs and groups to come together, to ask questions, make comments and raise any matters with the town council. We hope that many local people and organisations will attend this meeting. Everybody is welcome and light refreshments will be available. Dog Fouling and the Health Risks Some of our local residents have advised us that dog fouling is a real issue in the town at the moment, including near to our primary schools. A handful of local residents are really letting down the majority of us in our lovely town by not taking a minute to clear up after their dogs. The main reason for dog fouling laws is because dog faeces is unhygienic and a health hazard. Dog fouling is unsightly, unpleasant and can lead to toxocariasis in humans. Toxocariasis causes serious illness and even blindness. These parasites live in dogs’ digestive systems. Eggs are released in the faeces of infected animals and contaminated soil. If someone ingests infected material, the eggs may hatch into larvae and can lead to toxocariasis. It usually affects children aged between one and four years. Cases of toxocariasis have been reported in people of all ages. Symptoms of toxocariasis can include seizures, breathing difficulties, a very red and painful eye, and clouded vision, usually only in one eye. Left untreated, toxocariasis can cause permanent loss of vision in the affected eye.

Suffolk Coastal District Council deals with dog fouling matters in Kesgrave: 01394 383789 / customerservices@eastsuffolk.gov.uk New Model Youth Club – Thursday Evenings What do our young people think of the new model Thursday Evening Youth Club? The town council is working closely with Orwell and continuing to work with the young people from our town and high school via Orwell in order to provide a facility for young people which works well and provides a safe and designated space for them to meet, with the main aims and objectives being: • F or young people to feel they have a say over what activities are delivered in Kesgrave • Y oung people to feel positive about the youth club and provision for young people in the town • Y oung people attending the provision regularly, to feel safe, supported and positive about themselves •A more positive perception of young people among the adults in the community. Policing Matters PCSO Mike Sarbutts has advised that the police have continued to see burglaries occurring in the general areas of Ipswich and Woodbridge. The police advise local residents to please remain alert to any suspicious activity or unusual smashing noises, and call police on 999 if you believe a burglary may be in progress. PCSO Sarbutts has also advised that the Speed Watch partnership scheme is now active again. A temporary volunteer co-ordinator has stepped in to help with this important community scheme. A speed indication device has been purchased. If you have any particular speeding concerns about specific road/s in the town, please let the town council offices know and we will pass this information onto the Speed Watch scheme. There were some parking issues at the Millennium Jubilee Grounds on Saturday mornings. However, following PCSO Sarbutts attendance in this area, there have been no recent parking offences, but a few advisory notices have been issued. PCSO Sarbutts has been patrolling the area of Long Strops and near to Cedarwood as he has received reports of drug related paraphernalia. Senior Citizens Outing 2018 – Change of Date! Please note this year’s Senior Citizens Outing will now be on Tuesday, August 21. We will be going to The Hut, Felixstowe for a fish & chip lunch. Full details and how to book your place will follow in the next few months; please watch this space! Town Clerk/Press Officer Susan Clements Kesgrave Town Council, Ferguson Way, Kesgrave IP5 2FZ 01473 625179 / townclerk@kesgravetowncouncil.org.uk OPENING HOURS Mondays: 9am-1pm Tuesdays: 9am-1pm Wednesdays: 9am-3pm Thursdays: not open Fridays: 9am-1pm

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ADVERTORIAL

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

of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing

a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

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Life | Land | Business

Whatever life brings we’re always there for you For your life, land and business, Barker Gotelee is here to help. Our friendly, local solicitors are on hand to advise you on a host of legal matters, including buying and selling property, family breakdown, making a will or developing your business. 41 Barrack Sq, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RF Free parking

Visit barkergotelee.co.uk or call 01473 611211 www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

Equity Release This is the next in our series of articles. In this article we provide answers to some common questions. “We don’t have any money to pay the fees?” These fees will include a valuation fee, an arrangement fee, solicitor fees and advice fees when you use us. In the majority of cases these can be added to the loan. Frequently Equity Release companies have ‘fee free offers’ or other incentives.

Williams Farrall Woodward

“How will I know what all these costs are?” We will provide – up front - an itemised budget and personal illustration. In most cases this will be a fixed price.

Priority House, 8 Turret lane, Ipswich IP4 1DL

“What are the Redemption Fees?” Each lender has its own conditions. It is our job to check these details and discuss them with you in order that you get the best scheme for your needs. “I might need more money in a few years?” Most Equity Release schemes of the lifetime mortgage type offer a ‘reserve account’. Further sums can be accessed from the reserve – subject to the plan rules. You may also be able to extract more equity as you age. “Can I move home?” Yes. Most schemes are portable. If you downsize the scheme will be adjusted to suit the new valuation and may need part repayment which will come out of the sale price of your old home. “Can my home be repossessed by the Equity Release Company?” No. Under the conditions of membership of the Equity Release Council all Equity Release companies must give a no-repossession guarantee. “We are married and worried about entering a care home?” A single person would be expected to sell their property on permanently entering a care home. For married couples with one permanently entering a care home, the partner can remain in the property and the mortgage is only redeemed on second death, or if the second applicant also goes into care.

Tel: 01437 231 644 Email: Equityrelease@wfw.co.uk Equity Release: Key Benefits:• Stay in your home • No negative Equity Guarantee • No repossession guarantee • Flexible access to capital or income • Local Home Visits on request

“I still have a small mortgage but need additional funds, can I apply for a lifetime mortgage?” All principal mortgage lenders invariably require a first charge on your property. So if you take out an Equity Release scheme the sum released would have to include repaying the existing mortgage. “Am I limited to what I can spend the money on?” No. It’s your money and your choice. A frequent use is to fund modernisation or adaptation of the property, or perhaps replace a motor car, but you are not restricted. “Do Equity Release Companies pay you commission?” Yes. BUT. We tell you exactly what this is and allow it in full against our fees. • A cash sum or income from a Equity Release Scheme may reduce the borrower’s eligibility to State Benefits • Equity Release Schemes reduce the value of the estate and could leave nothing to pass on as an Inheritance • Lifetime & Reversion Mortgages are complex, to understand the features please request a personal Illustration Williams Farrall Woodward is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No 175614

Kevin Archer MLIFB (Dip FA) is a Kesgrave resident and has over 25 years’ experience advising on retirement income, estate planning, funding care and equity release schemes.

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT RUSHMERE ST ANDREW PARISH COUNCIL The Battle’s Over Beacon Lighting Event Sunday 11 November 2018, 5-7pm at Ipswich School Sports Club, The Street, Rushmere St Andrew Join in the nation’s tribute on Sunday 11 November 2018 to mark the day 100 years ago when the guns fell silent at the end of the First World War. At 7pm following a short ceremony conducted by the Rev Heather Marsden of Rushmere Baptist Church, and the reading out of the names of those from the parish who gave their lives, the beacon will be lit by the winners of a competition to design a bookmark commemorating the First World War. At the same time more than 1,000 Beacons of Light will be lit throughout the United Kingdom and beyond. From 5pm there will be an exhibition of local First World War history and local historians on hand to answer your questions, activities for children and displays from a local school. Hot food and drinks will be available. There will be plenty of singing including old First World War songs such as A Long Way to Tipperary and Pack Up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag… and don’t worry we will supply song sheets. Children are welcome to dress up in First World War costume. If you belong to a group or are an individual (a choir or band or a local and/or First World War historian) who thinks they could add to the First World War atmosphere of this event we would love to hear from you. Please contact the assistant parish clerk, Sarah Jenkins. This is a charity event involving the community and raising funds for good causes. The official charities are Royal Navy Association, Royal Airforce Benevolent Fund, ABF The Soldier’s Charity and The Merchant Navy. Limited tickets are available for this event from the Rushmere St Andrew Parish Office for anyone who lives in the parish of Rushmere St Andrew. To obtain tickets in the first instance please email your name, number of tickets required and address to the assistant parish clerk, Sarah Jenkins. Please look out for further details at www.rushmerestandrew.onesuffolk.net, the spring parish newsletter and In Touch. We look forward to seeing you at this very special community event. Please email the assistant parish clerk at: sarah.jenkins@rushmere-st-andrew.org.uk Allotment Vacancy We have an allotment plot available at the older part of the parish beside Chestnut Pond in Rushmere village. Please contact the parish office on 01473 711509 to enquire. www.rushmerestandrew.onesuffolk.net Over the next few months the Rushmere St Andrew website will undergo an upgrade. Please look out for new and exciting pages. We are planning on launching a new book group which will feature on our website and in the parish newsletter. So, any bookworms out there please keep an eye out for more details.

MARTLESHAM HEATH CONTROL TOWER MUSEUM NOW OPEN Martlesham Heath Control Tower Museum opens for the season on the afternoon of Sunday, April 1, and will be open every Sunday afternoon from 2-5pm until October 29. Learn the story of this fascinating airfield from 1917 to 1963. Entry is free but donations are appreciated. The museum is located at the rear of Parkers Place, off Eagle Way, Martlesham Heath IP5 3UZ. Special openings for school and club groups available by arrangement. For more information contact Ian (01473 611665) or Howard (01473 274300) or email: control.tower@mhas.org.uk

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SPRING OPEN DAY AT OAK TREE LOW CARBON FARM Spring is a wonderful time of year at the farm. The weather is warming up, the days are noticeably longer and everything is springing back into life after winter. The farm is a quiet sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of life. It’s an opportunity to re-connect with nature and to re-connect with food-growing. As a Community Supported Agriculture Scheme we grow food with and for our local community in a way which is sympathetic to the environment. We appreciate the wildlife at the farm, the birds, the bees, the butterflies and much more. When we work at the farm it’s not unusual to have skylarks performing their impressive territorial song-flights above us, industrious bees humming nearby or to spot summer migrants such as swallows perched on nearby bean poles or swooping low over the field with their beautiful tail streamers and distinctive song. We’re having an open day at the farm on Saturday, April 21 between 10am and 4pm and invite you to join us for a family friendly wildlife tour of the farm. You will also be able to learn about the Oak Tree Farm and sustainable food growing. Refreshments will be available. We will also have special guests at the farm, Tools with a Mission. If you’ve been doing any spring cleaning recently you may have discovered one or two unwanted tools hiding in a corner of the shed. If so, we invite you to bring them to the farm on Saturday, April 21 for Tools with a Mission, a charity that refurbishes unwanted tools and sends them to people in need across the world to support sustainable livelihoods. The charity’s main depot in Ipswich sends out 20 containers filled with over 300 tonnes of tools every year. TWAM will be at the farm during the morning to talk about their work and how your unwanted tools can help others. They provide a list of the specific tools which they are looking for on their website (www.twam.uk) or you can call them on 01473 210220. Oak Tree Farm’s low carbon ethos supports the re-use, repair and recycling of unwanted items and we are pleased to be able to help a charity that supports small scale farmers, similar to Oak Tree Farm across the world. The farm is located in Playford Lane, Rushmere St Andrew and we hope you will join us on Saturday, April 21 between 10am and 4pm. www.the-oak-tree.co.uk

KESGRAVE SOCIAL CLUB: APRIL 2018 The club has some fantastic acts planned this month and the committee and staff continue to work really hard to make the club a great entertainment venue. Check out our website for full details on our upcoming events along with information about the artists EVENTS IN APRIL Saturday 7: Martells Friday 13: Race Night Saturday 14: Declan Gaynor (C&W) Saturday 21: The Houseshakers Saturday 28: The Skittlez We also have line dancing, foxyrock rock ‘n’ roll dancing and salsa dancing at the club throughout the month as well as various darts, quiz nights, charity and snooker events. Ipswich Heartbeat also meets monthly at the club. Members and non-members are always welcome. You can also watch all the latest sports events as we have Sky TV and BT Sport available and free BT Wi-Fi on tap. 01473 622128 / www.kesgravesocialclub.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE LIBRARY Sunday Crafts (10am-noon): The following craft activities will be taking place during April. • Sunday 1: CLOSED • Sunday 8: It’s time for April showers and rainbows! Pop along and make your own rainbow cloud. • Sunday 15: Spring is finally here! Create a bouquet of flowers to brighten up your home. • Sunday 22: April 25 is World Penguin Day. Make a 3D penguin sitting on its own mini ice flow! • Sunday 29: If you look carefully you may be able to see caterpillars on leaves and trees. Design your own pom-pom caterpillar to take home. Activities are free. Parents must stay with under eights. There’s no need to book – just turn up and have a go. Free BookStart Sessions – every Thursday including all school holidays. Free activities for pre-school children and their parents or carers. Why not come along and join Maggie every Thursday for songs, rhymes and stories? • Tot Rock: action rhymes, songs and stories for toddlers, 9.45-10.15am. • BabyBounce: songs and rhymes for babies, 10.30am-11am Free Story Time Sessions – every Friday 9.45-10.15am including school holidays. Session combines stories and rhymes. All welcome. Why not pop along? Other Library Events for April 2018 Lego Club Re-Launch: Every Tuesday afternoon (term time), 3.45-4.45pm. We now have a volunteer who will lead this activity and each week will be a different theme. What will you design? Parents must stay with under eights. Wednesdays, April 4 & 18: Knit and Natter from 2.30pm. £1 donation with tea, coffee and biscuits provided. Now every other week; new members very welcome. You don’t need to knit, just pop along for a natter. Thursday, April 5: Afternoon Book Group, 2.45pm. Currently reading I Found You by Lisa Jewell. Thursday, April 26: Evening Book Group, 7pm. Currently reading The Underground Railroad by Colsen Whitehead. If you are interested in joining any of the groups, please ring or speak to a member of staff Lego Afternoons: Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 April, 2.30-4.30pm. Do you love creating Lego models? Why not pop along on one of these days and help create a Lego village for the library to display? You can build anything that you may find in a real village, for example a house, church, castle, car, tractor or a farm. We will have volunteers who can help and refreshments which are free. Parents must stay with under eights. Did you know? The library also provides the following services – A4 and A3 photocopying in both black and white and colour, A4 printing in black and white and colour, free use of computers, free public Wi-Fi, sale of stamps as well as loaning out books, DVDs, CDs (for a small cost) and audio books. We also have an e-library that you can borrow e-books, e-audio books, free e-magazines and download music from.

SPRING INTO EASTER AT THE CENTRE Looking for something out-of-this-world for your child this Easter? Following the success of the centre’s February half term science camps, bookings are now being taken for the Easter Holidays. The Little Scientist Company is a fun, interactive and engaging science camp run by Hannah, a fully qualified teacher who aims to engage learners in science to encourage curiosity. The Easter camps will run from 9.30am to 3.30pm from Wednesday 4 to Friday, April 6 for children aged five to 11, with additional breakfast clubs and after camp clubs on offer also. Your child will be able to choose from a selection of workshops which include forensic science, robotics, chemistry and geology. This is what parents had to say about the February Camp: “My son went to the science camp yesterday for the engineering day, he absolutely loved it. He came home so happy and proud of what he had made. Thank you.” “Tyler spent Monday to Wednesday at the camp and he loved it. Hannah is so welcoming and kind and made Tyler feel completely at ease. I was so impressed with what Tyler had made and he could explain what he had made and why. I’m definitely going to book him in next half term.” You can find further information on the community centre’s website and you can book by contacting Hannah: email@thelittlesciencecompany.com / 07540 379146 WE ARE RECRUITING Caretaker needed for holiday and sickness cover to join the existing team at the centre, must be able to work evenings and weekends. Please call Cheryl on 01473 612648 during office hours or call into the centre for more information. For bookings and enquiries please contact the centre on 01473 612648 or visit: www.kwmcc.co.uk / Facebook

ORWELL FLOWER CLUB

Don’t have a Library Card? If you would like a library card, please call in and speak to a member of staff. You just need to bring in some ID which has your name and address on it. Children can also have a card from any age, but need to be with their parent/guardian at the time of signing up.

On February 22 local demonstrator Alan Smith presented Winter Creations. The meeting certainly lived up to expectations; Alan always gives us a very enjoyable evening and this was no exception.

IT Help Sessions: Are you having trouble getting to grips with a piece of technology? Or would you like help downloading e-books to your e-reader? If you would like some help with your technology, please phone up or speak to a member of staff about booking one of our half-hour slots.

On March 22 we will be having an Easter Workshop tutored by Ann Marjorum instead of a demonstrator and we hope to have a full membership taking part. Visitors are welcome, but please contact the secretary for full details of the items you would need to bring to take part.

Maggie Lusher, Kesgrave Library Manager, Kinsey House, Kays Close, Kesgrave Tel: 01473 626103 www.suffolklibraries.co.uk NORMAL OPENING TIMES Tuesday: 9am-noon, 2.30-5pm Wednesday: 2.30-6pm Thursday: 2.30-8pm Friday: 9am-noon Saturday: 10am-5pm Sunday: 10am-3pm

The Orwell Club meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU. Our demonstrations start at 7.15pm, but the doors open by 6.45pm to allow you to browse at our sales table and to buy raffle tickets for the arrangement created in the demonstration. Yearly subscriptions are due at the AGM in April; they are £40 and visitors are always welcome at £5 per meeting. For further details please contact Delcie Corbett: 01473 623371 / gil.corbett@btinternet.com

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OUT & ABOUT YOUR LOCAL COUNTRY MARKET

PAMPER & SHOPPING EVENING

Country Market cooks keep traditions alive!

Friday, April 20, 6.45-10pm at Cedarwood Primary School, Kesgrave.

The word marmalade comes from the Portuguese word for quince paste and a box of this delightfully named “marmaladoo” was given to Henry VIII in 1524, perhaps to make him feel better after he’d had a jousting accident wearing a brand new set of armour. The suit was made to his own design, but he’d forgotten to lower his visor in a pre-breakfast jousting contest against Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, and he fell off his horse. “Here, rub this on,” someone said, but Anne Boleyn spread the paste on to a piece of toast and gave it to the hungry but uninjured king. Unfortunately, the love of marmalade was not enough to prevent Henry having her beheaded in 1536 after she had failed to produce a son and heir.

16+ years, £5 ticket to include a glass of Prosecco or juice on arrival.

Meanwhile the recipe evolved over the next 200 years and by 1714 a receipt for a preserve using whole oranges was published. The natural setting agent pectin found in the bitter lumpy Seville oranges makes the translucent jelly form after cooking. The Scots took to this pretty preserve for their breakfasts: after rejecting it in porridge, they enjoyed it spooned on top of a pale yellow fatty dairy substance smeared onto hot baked bread. According to legend, a Spanish ship laden with Seville oranges took shelter in the port of Dundee in 1797 and enterprising locals made marmalade with the fruit. Local shop-keepers James and Janet Keiller are credited with adding the characteristic slivers of peel. Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, enjoys marmalade on toast served with Darjeeling tea for her breakfast. Now you know – keep the tradition of marmalade-making alive, spoil yourself and choose your favourite preserve from the selection at your local Country Market. Various jams, chutneys and other delicious treats are available at modest prices along with cakes and savouries, gorgeous hats, gloves and scarves, crafty bags, baby quilts, bunting, cards, beads, knitwear, crochet delights and lovely wooden bowls all hand-made by our clever local Country Marketeers. Come and see for yourself every Tuesday morning, 9-11.15am in Martlesham Heath Pavilion.

Bar, live music, gift tombola, raffle and shopping stalls. Corn dogs, nachos with cheese and sweet waffles catered by The Hunger Buster. Pamper treatments to include massages, facials, reiki, henna tattoos, reflexology and more. For tickets and to pre-book treatments contact Fiona: 07739 848910 Raising funds for the Parents and Friends Association of Cedarwood Primary School.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON CONCERTS AT ST ANDREW’S, RUSHMERE The spring series of Sunday Afternoon Concerts at St Andrew’s Church, The Street, Rushmere St Andrew begins on April 8 with a sparkling selection of light music performed by vocal ensemble Musicology. On April 15 the newly-formed Phantom Wind Quintet perform works by Reicha, Damase and Hallam, while on April 22 young virtuoso pianist Zu Zhou Zhang makes a welcome return visit to Rushmere with a programme of music by Janáček, Schumann, Chopin and Ravel. On April 29 sopranos Julie Roberts and Daniela Bechly, accompanied by Alan Loader, give a concert of songs, arias and duets by Bizet, Delibes, Mozart and others, and the series ends on May 6 with an organ recital by Tom Cogan, organist of St Gregory’s Church, Sudbury. Each concert starts at 3pm and lasts approximately an hour. Admission is £6 (or £24 for the whole series – a saving of 20%), including delicious homemade refreshments. Under-18s are admitted free of charge. Full programme details can be found at: www.rushmerestandrews.wordpress.com/concerts www.facebook.com/rushmeremusic

SUFFOLK BOOK LEAGUE WELCOMES POET HELEN MORT Helen Mort is a multi-award winning British poet. She is five-time winner of the Foyle Young Poets award, received an Eric Gregory award from The Society of Authors and won the Manchester Poet Young Writer Prize in 2008. She was the Derbyshire Poet Laureate from 2013 to 2015 and has won many more poetry prizes. Her latest collection, No Map Could Show Them, is filled to the brim with poetry inspired by Mort’s two passions: mountaineering and running. Helen will be appearing at Ipswich Institute Reading Room, 15 Tavern Street, Ipswich IP1 3AA on Thursday, April 5. This is the Book League’s AGM event. Doors open at 6.30pm, the AGM starts at 7pm and the event starts at 7.30pm. Members free, non-members (welcome after the AGM) £8. Students (also welcome after the AGM) are free with ID. To avoid disappointment on the door, seats can be reserved by emailing: tickets@sbl.org.uk Cash payment required on arrival (sorry no cards accepted). Pop-up bookshop courtesy of Woodbridge Emporium.

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OUT & ABOUT SIDEGATE LANE COMMUNITY CENTRE Tuesday Tea Dance with Teresa Brown 2-4pm with refreshments, £3 for members, easy parking / 01473 42242 Wednesday Evening Classes 7-8pm: Continue learning, ideal if your class has closed down 8-10pm: Improvers ballroom and Latin dance steps and style, £3 for members, easy parking / 01473 422427 / 01473 723070 Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich IP4 4HZ www.sidegatelanecommunitycentre.org.uk/ballroom

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) or John (angelajohnadams@btinternet.com / 01473 710406).

KESGRAVE CANASTA CLUB Meets at the Royal British Legion Hall on Ropes Drive at 7.30pm and welcomes new players. Future dates: Wednesdays, April 18, May 16, June 20, July 18, September 19, October 17, November 21 and December 19. For more information contact Barbara Rose: 01473 622017

U3A HAS HAD TO STAY INDOORS RECENTLY! Well the snow certainly made life interesting for everyone, not just U3A members. We hope that April brings some sunny compensation and lives are back on track with gardens, walks and outdoor activities. There are some interesting talks coming in our four campuses and there will be a warm welcome to members and prospective members this spring. You’ll find membership details online, but if you don’t have internet access call 03001 233913.

JO DARBY THEATRE SCHOOL On March 3 the Jo Darby Theatre School in Ipswich held a fundraising day to help a sponsorship programme in Uganda which enables children to attend school for a year which otherwise they wouldn’t be able to afford. Jo teaches ballet and musical theatre to children aged three-16 years and everyone wore their pyjamas to their dance classes and brought in a donation. They all had a lot of fun dancing in their pyjamas and even more fun knowing it was for such a great cause. The children raised enough money to sponsor six-year-old Sierra to attend primary school which was amazing. Jo then kindly matched the donation so that they could also sponsor Allen to attend high school. The children were so excited to know they had sponsored two children and to see photos of them too. They can’t wait to write letters to the girls in the future and Jo said she’d love to go out and visit one day and maybe teach them some dancing. Jo was a professional dancer for 10 years before taking over the dance school in Ipswich and has recently filmed the new Mamma Mia 2 film which comes out in July. Jo has always wanted to give back to a cause like this so is thrilled that she and the children at the dance school were a part of making it happen. If you would like to enquire about dance classes or sponsoring a child yourself then please get in touch with Jo at: jodarbydance@gmail.com Jo teaches ages 18 months to 18 years at The Tower Hall in Rushmere. Find out more at: www.jodarbytheatreschool.co.uk

CAMPUS TALK DATES FOR SPRING 2018 Thursday, April 12, 2pm at Saxmundham Market Hall IP17 1AF: An Introduction to Gemstones by Jason Middleton. Refreshments follow. Friday, April 27, 10.30am at Woodbridge Community Hall IP12 4AU: Suffolk Estuaries and Scandinavian Ships by Paul Constantine. Why the Scandinavian Culture colonised this part of the East Coast and the evolution of their boats to provide transport for goods. Refreshments from 10am. Monday, April 30, 2pm at Kesgrave Community Centre IP5 1JF: Green Man – An Alternative to Eternity by Roger Green. The myths and legends behind this fascinating image, older than Christianity. Refreshments follow. Thursday, May 3, 10.30am at Felixstowe Salvation Army Hall IP11 7EL: The Way Holidays Used To Be by Richard Mann. A light hearted look at why we used to rush to the seaside, how we got there and what we did when we arrived. Refreshments follow. Thursday, May 10, 2pm at Saxmundham Market Hall IP17 1AF: Music Hall Memories by Bryan Thurlow, a pocket history of the music hall with songs and monologues. Refreshments follow. Please remember that visitors are welcome at one of our talks before becoming U3A members. Campus co-ordinators will be glad to give you joining details on the day. www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk

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IPSWICH COUNTRY MARKET Each week we have a tempting selection of sweet and savoury bakes, pickles, preserves and marmalades and local honey. There really is nothing like the taste of homemade produce. We sell seasonal plants and garden produce, freshly picked. You will find a wide range of craft items on offer, all locally made by our skilled crafters with many tempting gifts ideas that you won’t find on the high street. We have babies to ladies accessories and practical gifts, knitwear and sewing, beadwork and cards with designs unique to our producers. Our logo says ‘COOK, CRAFT, GROW’; if you like to do any of those and would like to be part of a local cooperative, please come along and see what we are about. We always welcome new members. You can find more information about the market on our Facebook page (Ipswich Country Market) or at: www.ipswichcountrymarket.co.uk We are open on Thursday mornings from 10.15-11.30am at Rushmere Village Hall on Humber Doucy Lane IP4 3PB. There is plenty of free parking, a warm welcome, and home baked refreshments too. We offer a free tea or coffee on your first visit so come and see what we’re up to and give us your feedback.

OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE CO-OP WOMEN’S GUILD On February 20 we were given a fascinating talk from David Phelan about St Audry’s Workhouse and Asylum. St Audry’s in Melton was originally a workhouse in the 1700s and continued as such until 1826 when it was sold and eventually bought by Suffolk County in 1829 when it became the Suffolk County Asylum for Pauper Lunatics. In 1832 John Kirkham became the new superintendent. He was an early advocate of non-restraint, moral treatments, which improved the lot of the inmates considerably. There was a very large estate with a bake house, butchers shop, stores, etc. The asylum closed in 1993 and very little of the hospital can be explored today as it is mostly private housing. The administration block with the main entrance has been a listed building since 11 June 1985, and the South Entrance Pavilion has been Grade II listed since 14 November 1997. Both have been tastefully restored. There is still a golf course in the grounds and you can see the former chapel and mortuary which have been converted into homes.

MARTLESHAM HEATH AVIATION SOCIETY Friday, April 6: Time flies at Old Warden The story of the world famous Shuttleworth Collection of flying veteran and vintage aircraft, all on a Great War Airfield and using original hangars. Debbie Land from Shuttleworth presents the history of this amazing collection and how it started, supported by audio-visual images of some of the most interesting aeroplanes. We meet from 7.30-10pm at Martlesham Community Centre on Felixstowe Road. Entry is £3 for members and £4 for non-members. To find out more on either of the above call Howard on 01473 274300 or visit: www.mhas.org.uk

MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday, April 9: A-Z of Curious Suffolk with Sarah Doig, an alphabetical cornucopia of strange, spooky and mysterious facts about the county.

David had many photographs of both the asylum and workhouse, which give us further insight into the conditions for patients.

All meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm. Admission fee is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.

Our speaker on March 6 was Professor John Midwinter, an electrical engineer and former researcher at BT. John gave us an in-depth talk on the science of climate change and what to do about it. Unless countries across the globe are to take global warming seriously the future does not look great for generations to come.

MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB

The members have agreed to change the venue for their Christmas Lunch this year and we will be travelling by coach to Hintlesham Golf Club on Friday, December 7.

Unfortunately our meeting on March 1 had to be cancelled due to the snow, but we hope to rearrange it at a later date.

NEXT MEETINGS Tuesday, April 3: Karen Kenny will be advising us on container planting for the spring and summer. Karen has a wonderful way with words and no doubt we will all be informed and entertained as she demonstrates her planting ideas and tips. Tuesday April 17: We will learn about the value of our treasured pieces of jewellery when a speaker from Hills the Jewellers in Felixstowe, an independent family business, is our speaker. Tuesday, May 15: Fresh Start – New Beginnings is a local charity which aims to ensure all children and young people who are victims of sexual abuse/exploitation have the opportunity to access help, advice, guidance and therapeutic intervention to aid their recovery, and to ensure that every child has the right to a childhood free from sexual abuse. Patsy Johnson-Cisse is their fundraising manager and will be explaining what they do. Tuesday, May 29: Wendy Butcher, a former ‘red coat’, will tell us about life in a holiday camp (The Connie) during the 1950s and 60s. We welcome new members who can visit for two meetings before joining. The annual membership is £15 and we charge £2.50 per meeting to including refreshments and raffle tickets. Meetings start at 7.30pm in the community centre. The guild holds 23 meetings a year plus other trips and events. Please contact Gloria Everett for more information: 01473 614991 www.kesgravecoopwomensguild.onesuffolk.net

Our bring-and-buy evening in February raised £80 for our chosen charity, Global Development Delay.

There are two meetings arranged for this month. On April 12 Sheila Dix is coming to tell us about the working life of a shepherdess and hopes to bring one of her lambs with her. Then on April 26 there will be another fashion show presented by Edinburgh Woollen Mill. Light refreshments will be provided. Looking ahead, on May 10 David Empson will present a talk entitled What Grandma and Grandpa did in the Great War. All ladies are welcome to join us to enjoy interesting evenings in friendly company. Meetings are held on alternate Thursday evenings at 7.15pm in the Richards Room. For further information contact Doreen Boar: 01473 622768

BROKE HALL WI We would be pleased to meet any new ladies who would like to come and see what we do and maybe join in. We meet at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) on the second Friday of the month at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH. We also have monthly clubs, walks, meals out, darts, crafts, theatre trips, outing and visits. FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Friday, April 13: Fused Glass Demo by Alison Mayston Friday, May 11: Resolutions and Bag Beetle Friday, June 8: Memories of a Career in Teaching by Ted Wheatley Friday, July 13: The Baron, the Policeman and the Mayor (an Ipswich Riot) by Linda Sexton For more information contact Sue (01473 414746) or Cynthia (01473 726068).

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OUT & ABOUT ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY In February Barry Venning kept us all spellbound with a talk on the local and world famous animator and cartoonist Carl Giles. Entitled Giles – His Life, Times and Cartoons, the humour and stories of the cartoons and captions had the audience both laughing and sometimes mulling over his reasoning. The cartoons were also interspersed with the life story of Giles from his schooldays until his death. A near full house enjoyed a thoroughly well rounded talk, excellently presented. On Wednesday, April 4, John Benjamin, familiar to all those who watch The Antiques Roadshow, will give a talk to mark the Golden Jubilee of NADFAS. A History of Jewellery from Elizabeth I to Elizabeth Taylor is a lecture close to one given in early 1969 which looked at the evolution of design in jewellery. We will see beautiful things. Why not join us and enjoy good company and interesting talks? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

IPSWICH BRANCH, SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, April 26 at 7.15pm: Black Teeth and Dirty Fingernails: The Great Unwashed of Victorian London London was a magnet for people from Victorian Suffolk, often thinking they were going to live in a better place. Imagine living in cramped, overcrowded, vermin ridden slums, with hunger, crime and filthy water. Set against London’s transformation to a grand capital city, with the privileged few contemplating which bonnet or shoes to wear that day, yet within spitting distance, thousands faced a grim, brutal struggle living in desperate poverty. In this entertaining talk David lifts the lid on the Victorian underclass. What was it really like being poor in Victorian London? 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 non-members, who are warmly welcomed. You can join the society at the meeting if you wish. Tickets are not required, just turn up and pay on the door. For more information contact Howard on 01473 274300 or visit: www.suffolkfhs.org.uk

DEBEN FLOWER CLUB QUIZ NIGHT Deben Flower Club is holding another of their now very popular quiz nights on Saturday, May 12 in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PU, 7 for 7.30pm. Once again this will be a light-hearted fun evening and will include a ploughman’s supper.

CRAFTERS UNLIMITED 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, April 26: Talk and demonstration on Screen Printing 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 PHILATELIC SOCIETY Our last two meetings have been very interesting and diverse. Ray How displayed and talked about Irish Airmail, but some of this spent little time in the air! Mike Birt gave an impressive display of stamps, covers and memorabilia all associated with the iconic Concorde, some signed by the pilots. April will be a very busy month as we have two major events in just 10 days. First we have our annual auction with approximately 500 lots on Wednesday, April 4. This will be held in Cedarwood Primary School, where we hold all our meetings, with viewing from 4pm and the auction starting at 6.45pm sharp. Non-members welcome as usual. Then on Saturday, April 14 we have organised a stamp fair open to all who would like to buy or sell stamps or postcards. We have invited 12 dealers who between them specialise in almost every aspect of the hobby. Entrance is free and refreshments will be available. This will be held at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Kesgrave IP5 1JF, 10am-4pm. All welcome. Finally, on April 18 we will be back to our normal meetings when Ed Hitchings will display some highlights from his collection. Meetings are held at Cedarwood Primary School, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave, 7 for 7.30pm, visitors welcome. For further information contact Mike Smith: 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com

IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired business gentlemen. The primary objective is to provide fellowship between members and to share similar interests in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We meet monthly at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us. If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com

IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, April 25: The 100 (Bomber Support) Group Radio Counter Measures (WW2), an illustrated talk by Wing Commander John Stubbington (Rtd)

Why not join in the fun and bring along a team of six? If you don’t have six people for your team you may be asked to share a table with other club members. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are £8 each including supper. Please bring your own drinks and glasses.

We meet at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich. Entrance via the rear car park. Visitors £3.50, members £1.50 including refreshments.

For information and tickets contact: 01394 411422 / wa@sandlings.co.uk

www.idhts.co.uk

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Details from Martyn (01473 422145) or Peter (01394 420490).

OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS Kesgrave Allotment Association Well I’m pleased to say that I have at least visited my allotment plot since writing the March article! However, I only managed 18 minutes in the subzero winds and had to retreat. Surely we will see the back of winter soon. So what did I achieve in my short stint? I checked all the beds over, weeded between my strawberry plants and dug up half a bucket of carrots – all of which (sadly but obviously) were riddled with holes and worms. It was heartening to see my rhubarb peeping through the soil though and delightful to see my winter sown broad beans up. But how disappointing that my autumn planted leeks are still only about the width of a pencil – oh dear! Who knew that running an allotment would be such an emotional rollercoaster? April is the month for sunshine and showers and the lengthening days mean plant growth – including weeds – can be rapid. If you dug over your plot in the autumn and small weeds are now emerging, wait for a windy day to dry the surface, then hoe the affected area. This will destroy the weeds and break down the soil. In May hoe again and the soil will be ready for planting or sowing and require minimal maintenance until the autumn.

PORTAL WOODLANDS CONSERVATION GROUP February’s Working Party was well attended considering the seasonal weather conditions; thank you to everyone who made it out. The volunteers concentrated on clearing and cutting back the hedges along the edge of the woodlands by the A1214 main road. This is done to encourage thicker plant growth which will provide prime nesting sites for the local birdlife as they start breeding over the next few months. In late February/early March (at the time of writing this article), Suffolk was in the icy grip of the ‘Beast from the East’ and Storm Emma with snow laying heavily on the ground during the first day of meteorological spring. In these cruel conditions we should try to remember the nature on our doorsteps and supply some clean water and a few seeds to keep the birds going while their normal food and drinking sites are frozen over or buried in snow. The Portal Woodlands Conservation Group AGM is on Monday, April 9 and all are welcome to see what we do, and congratulate this year’s young winner of the Nature Explorers Award. Additionally, please submit nominations to stand for the committee please via the group’s email by April 5. The group is dedicated to conserving the woodlands, encouraging the local wildlife and preserving historical sites of interest as well as inspiring people to enjoy the nature surrounding them. Everybody is welcome to join this friendly group. Training and tools are provided. DATES FOR THE DIARY Portal Woodlands Conservation Group AGM Monday, April 9, 7pm at Martlesham Parish Room Volunteer Work Morning (all ages): Sunday, April 15, 10am-noon Meet at the Education Area; tools, training and light refreshments provided. All ages welcome, no need to book. Nature Explorers (11-18 year olds): Saturday, May 19, 9-11am Please book a place via our email below. Nature Watch Club (5-11 year olds): Saturday, April 28, 9-11am Subject: Small Mammals, including trapping Please book a place via our email below. New volunteers of all ages and abilities are always welcome. No experience needed. For further information, please contact us at pwcg.martlesham@ gmail.com, phone 01473 612632, visit www.pwcg.onesuffolk.net or join our members’ Facebook Group by messaging Duncan Sweeting. Nature Explorer and Young Volunteer Sam Cork

Established asparagus plants require open and weed-free beds and the plants detest wet soil, so weeding is best by hand fork. A good tip is to mulch the bed with peat after weeding then leave for the spears to emerge in early summer. Asparagus beds will crop for 25 years, so weeding and thick mulching will, in time, raise the bed and improve drainage. Another good tip is to plant any spare tomato plants that you might have come May directly adjacent to the asparagus. Their smell wards off asparagus beetle and in return they enjoy nutrients that the established asparagus beds provide. This is the perfect time to take on an allotment – at the start of the warmer weather and the growing season – so if you fancy joining us at our beautiful Rushmere St Andrew site then please contact our membership secretary Angela Brown: 01473 612283 / membership@kesgrave-allotments.org.uk Oh – and never mind about my rotten carrots – the guinea pigs had a feast that day! Sally Peckham

HUMPTY DUMPTY PLAYGROUP Well done to everyone who braved the snow and joined us for World Book Day. We had princesses, a Gruffalo, a wolf, a cat, a knight and many more. We all had a wonderful day reading some of the lovely books the children brought in and playing party games. Thank you to all the lovely mums, nanas, grandmas and aunties who came and joined in the fun for Mother’s Day. The children made some wonderful cards and presents and decorated the buns for our afternoon tea. Spring term finishes on Thursday, March 29, and we return for summer term on Tuesday, April 17. You can see all the activities the children take part in on our Facebook page (Humpty Dumpty Playgroup) or visit: humptydumptyplaygr.wixsite.com/website Why not come and visit our friendly atmosphere? You will be greeted by fully qualified and professional staff, and very happy children. We are situated inside Kesgrave Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Bell Lane. At Humpty Dumpty Playgroup we have two qualified teachers and all other staff are CACHE qualified level three. We always have four/five staff in every session, which includes a teacher, therefore ensuring your child receives excellent care, support and attention. We are an Ofsted registered childcare provider for children from the age of two years onwards. As we are registered as ‘Good’, we can provide funded places for two-year-old children who have received Golden Tickets from Suffolk County Council. We can provide 30 hours of free childcare to children who are eligible the term after their third birthday. For more information regarding the government’s new Childcare Choices which offers parents tax-free childcare and 30 hours’ free childcare, visit: www.childcarechoices.gov.uk You can contact us on 07837 154081 (term time), Wendy Payne (manager) on 07816 505423, or email: wendy.adams@hotmail.co.uk

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Schools ROUNDABOUT DAY NURSERY With spring on its way with its lovely warmer weather we are looking forward to the summer months with many new activities planned for the children. We are a small independent family run day nursery on Grange Farm in Kesgrave and open 51 weeks of the year, Monday to Friday between 7.45am and 6pm.

MARTLESHAM & KESGRAVE PLAYSCHOOLS The beginning of March brought the ‘Beast from the East’ which meant lots of outdoor snow play on the Millennium Field next to Kesgrave Playschool. Great fun was had by all. Children enjoyed World Book Week and were encouraged to bring their favourite books to playschool. Parents were then invited in to share this experience. We also opened our doors to families looking for a playschool place; our open morning offered lots of Easter activities to join in with as well as being able to see what we get up to! The children participated in a sponsored Woodland Welly Walk raising much needed funds to buy new toys and equipment for playschool. Thank you for all for your continued support, we’ll have a grand total soon. As we go into the summer term we will be supporting our older children on their transition to school. At Martlesham Playschool we were busy making Valentine’s Day framed pictures to raise funds to enhance our new book area with comfy seating; we would like to thank all parents and carers for your support. We have been learning about Chinese New Year, making lanterns and dragons. The children took part in a sponsored bounce at the end of March; we are hoping to use funds raised to improve our outdoor area. And we were busy making Mother’s Day treats for the children to bring home.

We aim to provide a rich and varied educational experience for our children, enabling them to become confident and independent. You will be able to involve yourself in your child’s learning experiences as we use Tapestry, the online interactive learning journal which allows parents full secure online access at any time to their child’s development with us. Parents can also upload their own activities or holiday experiences while at home. Tapestry has proved so successful with our parents since we introduced this facility and is simply uploaded to their new school when the time arrives. We are able to offer funded places for children from the term after their third birthday, and two year funding is available if you are eligible. If you are interested in a funded place please contact the nursery for further information. From August 2018 we will have some children moving on to school so we will have availability once more for two to five year olds. We will be holding open days in the summer months. If you would like to attend one of these please ring with your contact details so we can let you know the dates once they have been finalised. We also provide childcare for six babies (three months to two years) per session should you be returning to work following maternity leave. We have a fully qualified team to cater for this age group to support the children settling in with a continuous routine as at home. We have a number of children turning two years of age soon moving up to the two plus room where we will have some availability. Our nursery is conveniently located at the entrance to the Grange Farm development in Kesgrave, just off the main road behind All Saints Church Hall along with a large car park. For further information please contact us on 01473 333733 or email via: www.roundaboutnursery.co.uk

We have made significant changes to our room, adding development areas. We have also focused our involvement on making sure that these new areas promote learning to give children the best possible start and opportunity to learn. These new areas explore creativity, encourage personal growth and a keen interest in the world around us. We are planning to develop more key areas in our outside environment such as new maths resources and a new cosy area.

You can also follow us on our Facebook page for regular updates and to arrange a visit.

We held two open days in March and prospective parents and children were able to join in cake decorating and making tissue paper flowers.

Fun activity sessions from 10.30am-noon for preschool aged children on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term times at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL.

If you were unable to join us at our open days please contact us for a visit. We are on Facebook (Martlesham and Kesgrave Playschools) or call us at Kesgrave on 07746 907060. Contact us for a chat about how we can offer 15 or 30 hours funded childcare, over both settings. Call Martlesham on 01473 625986 where we offer term time and all year round spaces. Spaces are available from September.

Kirstie Smith

SUMMER AT BRIGHT STARS

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 until approximately noon.

Martlesham Playschool: Martlesham Playschool, Deben Avenue, Martlesham IP5 3QR / 01473 625986

During the spring term activities included making Helpful Hangers (which involved drawing round hands and feet) and Easter crafts, and we had fun with other activities included singing with actions and joining in with percussion instruments.

Kesgrave Playschool: Millennium Jubilee Hall, Millennium Way, Kesgrave IP5 2EN / 07746 907060

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!

Facebook: Martlesham and Kesgrave Playschools

The summer term dates are April 23, May 14, June 11 and 25, July 9 and 23. For information please contact Sonya & Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196

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SCHOOLS / sport HEDGEHOG NURSERY AT GORSELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL

KESGRAVE CRICKET CLUB Our first league fixtures are only a few weeks away with our league campaign starting on Saturday, April 14. Our 1st team are away to Tuddenham CC and our 2nd team are at home to Yoxford CC.

At the beginning of March, it was magical to see so much snow! At Hedgehog Nursery, we wrapped up warm and enjoyed playing and exploring in the snow. We made igloos, transported the snow, made snow castles and some of us were snow angels!

See website for details; www.kesgravecricketclub.org.uk

The children have thoroughly enjoyed storytelling as part of our Traditional Tales topic. We have read the stories We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, The Three Little Pigs, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, The Gingerbread Man and The Enormous Turnip.

We are making preparations now for the junior summer coaching sessions. We are running ECB All Stars Cricket sessions this year for ages five-eight. This is for youngsters who are new to the game and will give them a short eight-week taster. Further details of all coaching sessions are on our website.

We have also been busy making cards for our mummies and thinking about three things that make our mummies special. The children’s drawings of their mums are lovely!

This year sees many changes to the laws of cricket so I thought I would just remind you how the game is played for those who are unsure.

We also had a successful walk to Duncan’s Bakery to buy a gingerbread man biscuit. We found signs from school to the bakery that gave us points for discussion. What can we see around us? What is this used for? If you have a child turning three and would like to attend one of our open mornings, please contact the school office to book your slot: Wednesday, April 25, 9.15-10.15am Thursday, April 26, 2-3pm Nursery Lead Teacher Mrs J Florey Hedgehog Nursery is open Monday-Friday, 7.30am-6pm for three and four year olds. If you would like more information please contact the school office on 01473 623790 or visit: www.gorseland.net

“You have two sides, one out in the field and one in. Each man in the side that’s in goes out, and when he’s out he comes in and the next man goes in until he’s out. When they are all out, the side that’s out comes in and the side that’s been in goes out and tries to get those coming in, out. Sometimes you get men still in and not out. “When a man goes out to go in, the men who are out try to get him out, and when he is out he goes in and the next man in goes out and goes in. There are two men called umpires who stay out all the time and they decide when the men who are in are out. When both sides have been in and all the men have been out, and both sides have been out twice after all the men have been in, including those who are not out, that is the end of the game.” So that’s clear now then! We are always looking for new members. Our facilities are excellent so why not give our club captain Mike Worne a call on 07843 898999 if you want to join or even help out as a bar person, coach or administrator.

THREE BEARS PLAYGROUP Over the last few weeks the children have read Aliens Love Underpants by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. This has led to the children designing their own underpants and knickers for the wall display, making rockets to fly to the moon and alien puppets to recall their own alien stories using the puppet theatre. The role play area has been transformed into an animal hospital with lots of bandages and plasters. The children have looked at information books to find out about the people who work with animals. All our soft toys are feeling better now! We are progressing with Jolly Phonics which all the children love to sing the songs to and have brought in pictures to make our ‘wall of sounds’. Outside we are preparing the ground in our vegetable plot so we can grow food to pick and eat later in the year. Three Bears Playgroup is an ‘Outstanding’ setting (June 2017) with a lovely indoor playroom and a large garden area, fully equipped with age appropriate resources. All out staff are qualified in Early Years and Childcare and work with enthusiasm and professionalism to support each child’s individual interests within our playgroup. If you are interested in a place for your child at a fantastic setting with amazing staff, it’s never too early to register with us. Put in your registrations for September 2018 now. Call in for a registration form, email us or visit our website: www.threebearsplaygroup.org.uk Three Bears Playgroup, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave IP5 2ES 01473 635255 / threebearsplaygroup@btconnect.com

Dickie Bard

KESGRAVE TENNIS CLUB NEWS Did you know Kesgrave Tennis Club has some of the best tennis facilities in the county? Founded in 1947, the club has seen many improvements over the years and we hope to see even more of the Kesgrave community using the excellent facilities. With GB tennis in great shape, now is a great time to get involved in tennis. Not only will it keep you fit and healthy but it’s also a fun, inexpensive way to do it. We even supply rackets! We run a full weekly coaching and social tennis programme for all players, from five tears through to adult improvers. The fantastic value memberships will give you access to all the facilities. As an example, a full junior membership is just £40 per year. This gives you discounted coaching rates and unlimited free use of the courts for your own play. We have regular social events as well and our mulled wine evening fun tournament is always well attended. Our courts and clubhouse are behind the library and Tesco; we are tucked out of the way so do come and find us. We guarantee you will be impressed with the tennis facilities on your doorstep! For more details of club membership visit www.kesgravetennisclub.org.uk or call Martin, our coach, on 07702 559412 with any questions.

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS KESGRAVE SHORT MAT BOWLS We held our annual charity bowls tournament on January 28 and raised £500 for the heart unit at Ipswich Hospital. A big thank you to all those who attended and donated draw prizes. We are a friendly club and always welcome new members. To find out more please contact Ann Masters (01473 624321) or Tina Beckett (01473 728987).

BIXLEY FARM CHURCH AT TOWER HALL: SUNDAY@4 We hope you have a happy Easter and are able to spend some time thinking about what Jesus’ resurrection demonstrates – that death is not the final word! Despite everything around us telling us that it is, and that we exist merely to consume goods and experiences, as Christians we believe that the resurrection proves that there is a glorious future ahead and that we can also make a difference right now in how we live and love, with purpose and enthusiasm. And that is one of our aims as a local church – to make a positive difference. Last month we had the pleasure of a visit from Bishop Vithalis from our link Diocese in Kagera, Tanzania. This was his first visit to the UK, for a bishop’s conference in Canterbury, and was marked by heavy snowfall which he bravely weathered. He spoke about his own journey from very difficult circumstances and the way the people in his diocese were embracing Christianity and how the church was growing. As he visits his parishes it is not unusual for their services to last five-six hours praising God and listening to the teachings of God. He was especially interested in the new church at Bixley Farm as he had noticed that within the UK church numbers are generally lower than he expected but was thrilled to see that this new church was developing and so welcoming. Life is of course very different in that part of the world as living standards are so much lower than ours, especially in regards to health, education and life expectancy. But on the other hand their community life means that they do not experience the type of loneliness that haunts many in our society, especially as we get older. So perhaps we can observe and learn from each other. When our churches spoke to local people in the recent Who Cares? survey looking at what hurts people the most, loneliness was one of the most common reasons identified. As Christians in Bixley Farm we are not only looking to worship locally but to work within the local area offering opportunities for people to join together to embrace community spirit and reduce loneliness. We are planning to start initially with a parent and toddler group. As always, everyone is welcome to join us each Sunday for our regular weekly service at Tower Hall from 4-5pm, whether you already have a Christian faith, whether you want to find out more about why Easter matters or if you just want someone to talk to. There are opportunities to speak to clergy or other members of the church, time for prayer and Holy Communion is celebrated every other Sunday.

Declaring God’s Way - Sharing His Love Welcome to spring! We sincerely hope this is so after the surprise week of heavy snow recently experienced countrywide. Now we are looking forward to the Easter Services at Rushmere Baptist Church. If you decided to give up something for Lent have you stuck to it? It’s a bit like our New Year’s resolutions; sometimes we can manage it for so long, then give up. The Lenten season began on Ash Wednesday and lasts until the Saturday before Easter Day. The last week of Lent is called Holy Week, which includes both Maundy Thursday and Good Friday (commemorating the crucifixion of our Lord). Reminiscent of Jesus’ fasting for 40 days in the wilderness, the Lenten season, not counting Sundays, lasts 40 days. Sundays are not included because of the anticipation of the celebration of the resurrection. Therefore, during Lent the Lord’s Days are listed as Sundays in Lent, not Sundays of Lent. EASTER SERVICES Easter Day, Sunday, April 1 10.45am Morning Worship led by Hazel Hunting (Minister-in-Training) 6.30pm Evening Worship including Communion led by Hazel Hunting OTHER ACTIVITIES Monday 6.15pm: FFaF (Youth Group for Years 2-6) 7.15-8.45pm: SPRING (Youth Group for Years 7+) Wednesday 2.30pm: Rag Tag Club (conversation, games) at on the first Wednesday 2.30pm: Friendship Hour (guest speakers, tea and chat) on the second Wednesday 7.30-9.30pm: Weekly Art & Craft Class Thursday

12.30pm: Luncheon Club 7.30pm: THIRST (discussion group for Year 10+)

Friday 9.15-11am: Rushmere Ducklings (babies and tots group) Saturday 10.30am-noon: Coffee Morning on the fourth Saturday of each month Sunday 10.45am: Morning Worship (with a crèche and groups for ages three-18) 6.30pm: Evening Worship (traditional style service once a month) Annual Holiday Club: Planned for Monday, July 30 – Friday, August 3 For more information visit: www.rushmerebaptist.org.uk Minister-in-Training: Hazel Hunting Secretary: Mrs Jean Cutting Church Telephone Number: 01473 721455

For further information go to www.mie.org/bixley or contact: office@mie.org.uk / 01473 270978

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CHURCH NEWS RUSHMERE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Rushmere Christian Fellowship 50th Anniversary Rushmere Christian Fellowship would like to invite all past and present members and friends to their 50th Anniversary Celebrations on Sunday, July 8. This will take place at St Alban’s High School, Digby Road, Ipswich IP4 3NJ, starting with a service of celebration at 10.30am when Victor Jack will be the speaker. Lunch (hog roast/paella) will follow the service and there will be other activities and refreshments throughout the afternoon including games, ice cream, bouncy castles, a photo display and a cuppa and cake. Everyone who has been a part of Rushmere Christian Fellowship over the last 50 years is welcome to attend so we need your help in spreading the word around so that everyone hears about this special event. However, for catering purposes, please do let us know if you are planning to attend. RSVP is essential by May 31 to Elaine Harper at: 01473 404261 / elaineharper@live.com

April sees us head into spring with the promise of a golden summer of sunshine and fun. In this country there is no guarantee of perfect summer weather, but we live in hope that it will be so, at least this year. Last month the Ark hosted two very successful events for our national organisation, Bibleway. On Saturday 17, men from all our churches in south east England met for a ReConnection Conference and on Good Friday and Easter Saturday we held the National Youth Congress, both wonderful but exhausting occasions. We saw people, young and old, praising, worshipping and thanking God in highly charged atmospheres, bringing the power of God to life and changing lives for the better. Pity you missed them; maybe next year! 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

Easter Fun Afternoon We have a fun afternoon of games, activities, crafts, Bible stories and music, all geared around the Easter story on Thursday, April 5 from 2-4pm. This is most suitable for children aged three to eight years old, although all ages are welcome. Parents/carers are required to stay with their children. To book or for more information, please contact Lucy: 01473 720401 / 07713 705751 This event is at Rushmere Village Hall and takes the place of our usual baby and toddler group, Toys & Noise, on this afternoon. Further information on Rushmere Christian Fellowship is available from Stephen French – 01473 431701 / sfrench@rcfchurch.org.uk – or at: www.rcfchurch.org.uk

~jubilee~

All past and present members and friends are invited to the

Ice cream Bouncy castles

50th Anniversary of

Rushmere Christian Fellowship

Games

on th

Photo display

Sunday 8 July 2018 Cuppa & cake

St Alban’s High School, Digby Road, Ipswich IP4 3NJ 10:30 am ~ Service of Celebration ~ Speaker: Victor Jack followed by lunch (hog roast/paella) and activities

Please bring a picnic chair and/or rug and also any photos of your time at RCF

RSVP essential by 31 May 2018 to Elaine Harper at: elaineharper@live.com or tel: 01473 404261

ALL SAINTS CHURCH Easter is undoubtedly the most important season of the church year. It has been described as ‘The Hinge of History’ – from now on everything needs to be seen through its lens. Death is ultimately defeated, evil has met its match and a new and dynamic power is at work in creation. Ephesians puts it like this: “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 1:19-21) In other words, the greatest power in all creation (what other power can overcome death?) is on offer to the Christian. It is also true that God offers us the promise that an Easter Sunday-like resurrection will follow all our experiences of crucifixion. God has laid that down as an eternal principle. Dare we trust him with our moments of testing and suffering? Dare we believe that, in his hands, they will know a transformation beyond our wildest imagination? Even if you are reading this after Easter Sunday (April 1 this year) we are always, from now on, on the Easter side of the hinge, so please do feel free to join us when you can. Our promise is to echo God in providing support for those in difficulty and share joy with those who are rejoicing. One of our hymns puts it like this: I will weep when you are weeping When you laugh I’ll laugh with you I will share your joys and sorrows ‘Til we see this journey through Happy Easter, Robin (Vicar of Kesgrave) SERVICES AT ALL SAINTS Our basic pattern is that every Sunday we have services at 8.30am (BCP Communion), 10am (Modern yet traditional service with AllAge alternative) and 6.30pm (Evensong). There isn’t enough space to mention our myriad of tweaks and alternatives, but please visit www. askegrave.org.uk or email Charlotte to receive our fortnightly notices: cha.markham@btinternet.com

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