In Touch
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with Martlesham Volume 8 • Issue No. 5 • APRIL 2018
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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. 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!
In Touch
with Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham
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Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
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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 Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham 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 •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •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
NEWS
MARTLESH AM VILLAGE FETE SATURDAY, JULY 14 Welcome to our latest update. We have been working on the entertainment and amusements as well as on the stalls. It looks like we have a great programme taking shape with music and dance displays, and possibly more, from local performers. Charities will be well represented with fundraising activities and many local groups will be showing off their interesting work. We will also be having arts and crafts on display... the list goes on. There will be three closely linked venues – Martlesham Heath Green, The Pavilion and St Michael’s Church Centre – all of which are being offered free of charge, so thank you to those sponsors. Old Martlesham will not be forgotten as we will run a veteran bus supplied by the transport museum to and from the venues. Make sure you keep the date free in your diary. What’s in a name? We have been asked why it is ‘Martlesham Fete’ and not ‘Village Day’ as it was years ago. Our thinking is that ‘Village Day’ was a well organised and highly popular event, but that it got too big for Martlesham and many local residents felt crowded out and some outsiders made a nuisance of themselves. So we are pressing the reset button to achieve an event by and for the village. We are also pleased to announce we now have a presence on the Martlesham Parish Council website: www.martlesham.onesuffolk.net/martlesham-village-fete
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE PARISH Wednesday, April 25, 7.30pm Parish Room, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Martlesham Parish Council Chairman Mike Irwin welcomes all members of the parish to this meeting which gives parishioners an opportunity to hear about and discuss what is going on in Martlesham. There are annual reports on the activities of the council and its committees, and also on village organisations. The parish extends from the southern edge of Martlesham Heath right up to Seckford Hall Road and California and east to Martlesham Creek and the River Deben. The council presents its grant cheques for 2018/19 which have been awarded to Greenways Countryside Project, Martlesham Conservation Group, Martlesham in Bloom and The Saplings. We didn’t receive many grant applications last year so all who applied were successful; the grant application process starts again in the autumn – details will be in the newsletters and on our website from the start of September. All welcome. Stay, chat and enjoy light refreshments! For further information please contact Martlesham Parish Council Clerk Susan Robertson: 01473 612632 / clerk@martleshamcouncil.org.uk
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SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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NEWS 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.
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:
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.
• 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 choose option ‘0’. • Pop in to see our customer service staff in the Customer Service Centre in Felixstowe and Woodbridge Libraries.
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.
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.
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.
MARTLESHAM HOLIDAY AT HOME 2018
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.
Martlesham Holiday at Home 2018 is taking place from Monday, June 11 to Sunday 17.. Holiday at Home is a holiday with a difference; a week of activities organised specially for the over 55s who live in Martlesham and the surrounding areas. An interesting programme has been arranged to include entertainments and outings, plus lots of tea and cake. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet others and you are welcome to come to just one event or as many as interest you. Programmes and booking forms will be available from mid-April in The Runway Café, the foyer of St Michael’s Church, Martlesham Heath and at Martlesham Post Office, Blacktiles Lane, Martlesham. For more information contact Hazel: 07896 728332
WOODBRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKETS Woodbridge Farmers’ Markets will be held on April 14 and 28, 9am-12.30pm at Woodbridge Community Hall. We have local, seasonal produce and food made by hand, with care in small batches. We always have a friendly cafe selling hot drinks and brunch. Here are some of our lovely stallholders: Olga Owen of Quince Tree, Ray Kent of Wild Meat Company and Poppy Smith of Sutton Hoo Chicken.
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
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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
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NEWS MARTLESHAM PARISH COUNCIL Still seeking a Parish Councillor • Are you over 18? • Do you live within three miles of the parish or work in it? • Are you on the Electoral Roll? • Are you interested in helping to improve the quality of life of your community? • Do you want to be involved in making important decisions in your community? If you answer yes to these questions, your parish needs YOU! Martlesham Parish Council has many functions and powers which can affect the quality of life of your community. We look after open spaces, footpaths, play areas, bus shelters and litter and dog dirt bins. We organise practical working parties, respond to planning applications and consultations, liaise with the principal authorities to raise matters of local concern such as traffic issues and getting about Martlesham Retail Park, and work with local organisations. Don’t worry you don’t have to get involved in everything or be an expert. If you think you could be a councillor, please contact the clerk for more information and also to check whether you are eligible. Please come along to a meeting and find out what we’re like – we’d love to meet you! Volunteer Opportunity: Public Transport Representative The council is seeking an enthusiastic user (or users) of public transport who would be willing to give up some of their time to act as a public transport representative. We envisage that the volunteer(s) would act as a focus for seeking service improvements for Martlesham and represent the parish’s interests when shared services are under discussion. If you are interested, please contact the clerk for more details. Martlesham Neighbourhood Plan You may be wondering what has happened to this! In the last few months the
plan has been with an examiner verifying whether it meets all the necessary criteria. Although the process isn’t quite finished at the time of writing, we are getting nearer to the referendum which is likely to take place at the end of May. Look out next month for more details and please turn out to vote. Martlesham Neighbourhood Plan will be the end result of several years of consultation and hard work by a number of dedicated volunteers in our community representing what you have said you want to see for Martlesham up to 2031. Money to Play With – What Do You Want? Martlesham Parish Council, Martlesham Heath Householders and Suffolk Coastal District Council are working together on a project for sports facilities in Martlesham. There is still time to let us know what you think by completing the survey at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/martlesham The closing date is Friday, April 6. You’ll find more information on our website. FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Wednesday, April 4: Parish Council Wednesday, April 11: Development Plans Committee Wednesday, May 2: Annual Parish Council Meeting All meetings start at 7.30pm in the Parish Room on Felixstowe Road and are open to the public who are welcome to ask questions or make comments to the council during the adjournment. Contacting the council Clerk to Martlesham Parish Council, Parish Room, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham, Woodbridge IP12 4PB / 01473 612632 / clerk@martleshamcouncil.org.uk For latest news and events visit: www.martlesham.onesuffolk.net Parish Office opening times: 9am-noon, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays, but please book an appointment in advance.
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
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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: www.the-oak-tree.co.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
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Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number
of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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OUT & ABOUT 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
YOUR LOCAL COUNTRY MARKET
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.
Country Market cooks keep traditions alive! 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. 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.
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SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY MALE VOICE CHOIR 50th Anniversary Concert: Saturday, April 14 To mark their 50th Anniversary, the Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir are performing a charity concert in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices at St John The Baptist Church, Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich, commencing at 7.30pm on Saturday, April 14. They will be joined by their friends from the Essex Police Choir, the Hertfordshire Constabulary Choir and the St Edmundsbury Male Voice Choir. The concert is being compered by Rachel Sloane and Jeffries of Bacton has kindly provided sponsorship. Tickets are now on sale. Tickets purchased before the day cost £8 each. Subject to availability tickets costing £10 each can be purchased on the door. For further information and to order tickets contact: 01449 672600
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OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE LIBRARY S unday 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.
THE STRUMPETS ARE AT DANCE FOLKUS
We had to cancel our March ceilidh because of the weather so we hope to bounce back on Friday, April 6 with a lively evening of barn dancing at Woodbridge Community Hall from 7.30pm. Our caller, Chris Pitt, is travelling up from Billericay in Essex. Chris has called at many folk festival ceilidhs and in his spare time also dances with Seven Champions Molly Dance Team. We are pleased he has agreed to call for our Dance Folkus evening and expect some fun dances. Our song spot will be filled by The Strumpets. These are a group of seven local ladies who all play the ukulele and sing a range of entertaining and sometimes risqué songs. These ladies all learned the ukulele with the University of the Third Age (U3A). It’s amazing nowadays how people can take up an instrument later in life and be performing in front of an audience within a couple of years. The U3A is responsible for changing the lives of many by developing new skills, talents and interests that had previously been unexplored. Don’t miss their performance! The dance band will be led by local ceilidh band Harbour Lights with additional musicians making up the Dance Folkus Come All Ye band. Discounted tickets can be booked by emailing Dancefolkus@aol.com (no payment in advance) or you can simply come along on the night (£6). Students or children are half price. Telephone Rob on 01473 610951 if you need further information. New band musicians and dancers are very welcome
GORSELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL POP-UP CIRCUS
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. 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. 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. 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
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This year the circus as we know it is 250 years old. In the late 1700s, Englishman Philip Astley started performing his trick riding show in a circular arena, later adding acrobats, tightrope walkers, jugglers and a clown to fill in the pauses between acts, and so the modern circus was born. And with The Greatest Showman a huge hit in the cinema at the moment, what better time could there be for Gorseland Primary School to have its very own big top right in the school grounds? All 500 Gorseland pupils will have the opportunity to take part in circus workshops in the big top to help build confidence and learn new skills, and the pop-up circus visit will be topped off with three shows open to the general public on Thursday, May 24 from 4pm onwards. Each show is 45 minutes long with aerial feats, juggling, clowning, magic and more. Ticket sales for these shows fund the workshops for the children. Local estate agents Austwick Berry are also proud to be sponsoring the event, and there will be hot food, candy floss, popcorn, face painting and more to make this a real family event. Headteacher Darron Jackson comments: “We are very excited to have a circus in our school – it’s right after the SATs finish, so what a fantastic opportunity to reward the children for all their hard work, learn some new skills and bring together the local community. Having a big top in the school playground is the sort of experience the children will remember forever.” Tickets are available now for £6 each from the Gorseland Pop-Up Circus Facebook page.
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OUT & ABOUT MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY
MARTLESHAM HEATH AVIATION SOCIETY
Monday, April 9: A-Z of Curious Suffolk with Sarah Doig, an alphabetical cornucopia of strange, spooky and mysterious facts about the county.
Friday, April 6: Time flies at Old Warden
All meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm. Admission fee is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.
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.
EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Ropes Hall War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave IP5 1JF. The start time is 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on April 17 when John Field will be talking on the historic buildings of Ipswich. John will be aiming to create greater awareness of the many buildings and features of national importance within the town. He will review over one hundred buildings and features, explaining their historical and architectural importance. Many of the town’s listed buildings, churches mansions, parks and halls will be included. A must for those who love our county town. On May 15 Peter Lawrence will talk on stately homes in England, explaining how they reflect the power, wealth and influence of their owners. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome, entrance fee £3 each. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 a year (£12 a couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary – membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 – or visit: www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
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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
THE LIONS’ CLUB OF WOODBRIDGE & DISTRICT As the weather warms up, so does our activity. February saw us join with other Lions’ Clubs in South Suffolk and the New Century Lions Club of East Anglia in hosting a swimming gala at Crown Pools. This annual event for any swimmers with physical or learning challenges is always a delightful event, with the huge grins of the participants testifying to their enjoyment and for us the chance to renew acquaintances with other clubs. Our thanks to the Life Saving Club of Ipswich who ensured that every competitor was closely accompanied in the water and to the management and staff of Crown Pools. Quay Time, our joint project with Woodbridge Quay Church, is becoming firmly established with a good balance of members and helpers. A visiting speaker has been booked for a future meeting and the project will shortly be launching its own website and newsletters. Two social events are in the offing, one to the waste facility at Great Blakenham and another to Sizewell C. Our popular Art Show and Sale returns to the Salvation Army Hall on Saturday, May 19, doors open at 9.30am. Works of art generously donated by the art clubs of Rushmere and Kesgrave will be on show and for sale. Every painting is framed and nothing costs more than £25, with many prices well below that. Tea, coffee and our renowned homemade cakes and savouries will be on sale. To mark the centenary of the Lions movement a reception was held at Buckingham Palace, hosted by our patron, The Countess of Wessex. Lion Keith Palmer, a Lion for over 48 years, represented the club, braving the snow, bitterly cold winds and uncertain public transport of the coldest day of the year in order to take part. Despite the freezing weather and a fourhour journey home, Keith reported that the event had been greatly enjoyable and an opportunity to meet Lions from across the country. Peter See
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
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OUT & ABOUT dEBEN ROTARY SEEKS YOUNG LEADERS
MARTLESHAM HARD OF HEARING GROUP An independent social group for people with any type of hearing loss. Partners and hearing dogs welcome. Our group meets from 10.30am to noon on the first Thursday of the month at Martlesham Pavilion. We charge £4 per session and frequently have a speaker. Last year we had everything from a local historian speaking to us about Prettys corset making in Ipswich to running a bed and breakfast in Colchester, as well as a lady who told us about her trip to Iceland (the country, not the shop!). We always have time to chat over coffee/tea and biscuits. We are very sociable and always welcome new people to the group. The pavilion has an excellent hearing loop and a lady voluntarily text types so even people with the most severe hearing loss don’t feel left out, something lots of people with hearing loss suffer. There is also free parking.
The Rotary Club of Woodbridge Deben is seeking a young person between the ages of 18 and 26 who would be interested in being sponsored to attend a national youth leadership training scheme. The East Anglian course, called RYLA, will be run at Graffham Water between September 1 and 8 this year. RYLA, the Rotary Young Leadership Awards scheme, is now in its 23rd year and is a seven-day intensive fully residential course run by professional tutors, instructors and lecturers, designed to develop qualities of self-confidence, leadership, teamwork and communication. The development of leadership skills is achieved through a range of physical activities, team building exercises and business projects. Candidates receive a certificate of attendance, valued by many employers, and a certificate of Continuous Professional Development detailing the week and hours spent on each discipline. Rotarian Jamie Abbott (pictured with several other attendees), a young member of Deben Rotary, attended RYLA last year and said: “RYLA was an invaluable opportunity to be challenged mentally and practically. I developed my public speaking and presentation skills, and improved my team leadership skills both in the classroom and during adventure training.” The course is open to young people from any background, either in employment or job seeking. If you are interested in this opportunity, or are an employer who has an employee you think may benefit from it, please contact our Community and Youth Services Chairman, Rotarian Monty Guest to arrange an interview: rmguest74@gmail.com / 01473 625838 www.deberotary.org.uk
IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY Our last two meetings have been very interesting and diverse. Ray How 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.
Why not give us a try – we would love to see you? For more information please contact Steph Moon: 07741 310480 / steph.moon@hhas.org.uk
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) 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. Details from Martyn (01473 422145) or Peter (01394 420490). www.idhts.co.uk
WOOLLY WONDERS The Woolly Wonders, a group of sociable knitters, continue to enjoy meeting in The Runway Café every Thursday from 10am-noon. Recently we have been supporting St Elizabeth Hospice by knitting farm animals to sell at farm shops and at Hadleigh and Suffolk Shows in aid of hospice funds. Meanwhile our own projects continue. It’d be good to see some new faces. Don’t be shy; do come and join us any Thursday.
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
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE ROTARY CLUB Club welcomes Agrieneth Masule from Botswan It was inspirational to meet Agrieneth when she gave a talk on her studies as a Hilary King Scholar and the impact she hopes these studies will make not only to her life but also to her community in Botswana. Woodbridge Rotary Club is one of several Rotary clubs in the 1080 District that helped to fund her studies for an MSc in International Social Welfare based at Anglia Ruskin University. She is being hosted by Irene Childerley, a member of the Rotary Club of Cambridge Sawton. Agrieneth, pictured here with our president Ron Whitaker, worked as a teacher in Botswana for eight years, spending time in both public and private schools. She has worked where there are scant resources and initiative and determination were vital to provide teaching and learning materials for her classes. Private schools tended to be well supplied with teaching materials, but had different challenges. The policies that determine how schooling is arranged and provided tend not to suit the culture of the country; it is an ‘imported’ system which makes no allowance for the 23 native dialects and the vast difference between the rich and poor areas of the country. Agrieneth hopes her studies here in the UK will enable her to return home to Botswana and make a difference. Ideally, she would hope to eventually influence the education policies and help to shape a system ‘tailor made’ to the country. Woodbridge Rotary Club wishes her the very best in the future. Club donates £2,110 to Macmillan Cancer Support Macmillan Cancer Support provides practical, emotional and financial support to people affected by cancer. Members of Woodbridge Rotary Club have been fundraising for Macmillan to help provide more local cancer services within our community. Helen Taggart from Macmillan Cancer Support, pictured here with our president Ron Whitaker (picture by Robin Pivett), said: “Thanks to their generosity and support, more people in Suffolk will receive expert care from a local Macmillan professional. In 2018, donations from the Rotary Club will help fund new Macmillan Nurses and support workers based in the Woolverstone Macmillan Centre at Ipswich Hospital. “Funds raised will help our unique services like the Macmillan Family Support Team who help families through cancer when a loved one, parent or carer has been diagnosed. More than 27,000 people are now living with cancer in Suffolk, but with the help of community groups, we can raise awareness of cancer, our local services, and fund new care initiatives for the future.” www.woodbridgerotary.org.uk
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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
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
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CHARITY
QUIZ
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NIGHT
Saturday 7th April
St Michael’s Church Centre Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL 7pm for a 7.30pm start Tickets £8 each (includes jacket potato supper with a choice of fillings)
Soft/hot drinks available (Please feel free to bring your own drinks/nibbles) Raffle (prize donations very welcome!) Pre-booking only please – teams of up to 6
Please contact Kate on 01449 614057 or kategrimwood.rspca@btinternet.com
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OUT & ABOUT MARTLESHAM IN BLOOM
BROKE HALL WI
Survey of Flora and Fauna
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.
It is now spring and a good time to visit Martlesham Common Local Nature Reserve and see what birds and other flora and fauna are there. There soon may be some early spring visitors such as nightingales, chiffchaff or willow warblers, as well as resident species being more visible and singing. The many wild flowers and other plants will also be growing and hopefully some will be flowering and there may be an early butterfly to see. Whatever you see on the common we would be interested to know as part of the ongoing survey of its flora and fauna. This survey has been under way since March 2017 and the results so far show that Martlesham Common has a wide diversity of flora and fauna and is therefore an important place for wildlife as well as being an attractive and interesting area for residents. Martlesham Common is the area of land between the A12, Mill Heath, Felixstowe Road and Tesco and is now designated as a Local Nature Reserve as well as a County Wildlife Site. If you or anyone you know is interested in helping with this survey by recording what you see when you visit the area, which can be daily, weekly, monthly or whenever you are walking across the common, or would like to let us know what you have already seen, please contact the secretary below. Thank you to all those who have been involved so far and sent us records of what they have seen. If you would like to help in any way or for further information please contact J Maureen Burrows:
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).
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. CAMPUS TALK DATES FOR SPRING 2018
martleshaminbloom@gmail.com / 01473 625196
Thursday, April 12, 2pm at Saxmundham Market Hall IP17 1AF: An Introduction to Gemstones by Jason Middleton. Refreshments follow.
MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB
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.
Our bring-and-buy evening in February raised £80 for our chosen charity, Global Development Delay. Unfortunately our meeting on March 1 had to be cancelled due to the snow, but we hope to rearrange it at a later date. 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
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
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. 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. For information and tickets contact: 01394 411422 / wa@sandlings.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS PORTAL WOODLANDS CONSERVATION GROUP
MARTLESHAM & KESGRAVE PLAYSCHOOLS
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 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. We held two open days in March and prospective parents and children were able to join in cake decorating and making tissue paper flowers. 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. Martlesham Playschool: Martlesham Playschool, Deben Avenue, Martlesham IP5 3QR / 01473 625986 Kesgrave Playschool: Millennium Jubilee Hall, Millennium Way, Kesgrave IP5 2EN / 07746 907060 Facebook: Martlesham and Kesgrave Playschools
ORWELL FLOWER CLUB 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. 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. 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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SUMMER AT BRIGHT STARS 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. 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. 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. 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! 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 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! 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 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! 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
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. 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
DEBEN YACHT CLUB As part of its series of winter talks, Deben Yacht Club was pleased to host transatlantic sailor and broadcaster Hannah White for a talk in February. Hannah, who lives in Woodbridge, has sailed the Atlantic three times and came second in one of the world’s toughest single-handed ocean races, the Original Single Handed Transatlantic Race (OSTAR) in 2009. In 2015 she set a Guinness World Record for sailing across the English Channel aboard an 11-foot sail-powered dinghy. Her hydro-foiling Moth reached speeds of 22.2 knots – equivalent to 25.5mph – as she sailed towards Dover from Cap Gris Nez in France. Her most recent speed record attempt is with the Project Speedbird prototype foiling dinghy and the audience was treated to many interesting stories, photos and clips from this ongoing challenge. A total of £170 pounds was raised for Hannah’s chosen charity Sail Aid UK which raises funds to help rebuild Caribbean communities after the 2017 hurricanes. Hannah is pictured here with DYC Commodore Graham Seabrook. On April 26 the film Life on the Deben is being shown at the club with a collection for The Riverside Trust. This is your chance to see this fascinating film revealing secrets of the river and a lot of its history. Refreshments will be provided and visitors are very welcome. There is also a fish and chip supper and quiz in aid of the RNLI on April 14. For further details about these events please visit: www.debenyachtclub.co.uk In this, our 180th anniversary year, DYC remains a vibrant, family friendly club focussed on providing the residents of Woodbridge and beyond with opportunities to enjoy our beautiful river: from the dinghy and yacht racing programme to increasingly popular leisure sailing activities and flotillas, power boating as part of our safety boat team, our ever-popular DYC Regatta in July and a Try Sailing Day on Monday, May 28 for newcomers to the sport. As an RYA-accredited training centre, we run a number of RYA dinghy training and powerboat training courses and we support our members in achieving accreditation as dinghy instructors, senior instructors and powerboat instructors. Our members have access to a growing fleet of club boats including Toppers, Fevas, Q’bas, Wayfarers and, our latest acquisition, a Laser. They also have access to our wonderful and unusual club house, renowned for its fantastic views over the Deben, and to a programme of social events that run throughout the year. If you’re looking for a sailing club to join then please don’t hesitate to contact our membership secretary, Frances Alexander on 01394 385221. We will be delighted to answer any questions and look forward to welcoming you on to the water during 2018.
MARTLESHAM BOWLS CLUB
The outdoor season at Martlesham Bowls Club starts on Saturday, April 21. The green is all prepared and looking good, hopefully the weather will be kind to us.
You can also follow us on our Facebook page for regular updates and to arrange a visit.
We welcome players old and new, with or without experience. If you are interested in finding out more about us or thinking of joining our bowls club, please visit the website or contact our secretary: 01473 622598 / mary.drake@talktalk.net
Kirstie Smith
www.martlshambowls.com
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