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with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market
Volume 4 • Issue No. 12 • OCTOBER 2017
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Gosh life is a juggling act sometimes. I find myself running from one responsibility to the other at such a ferocious pace these days I wish I didn’t need to sleep and could use those hours to catch up instead. Add something extra to the mix, such as making an Iron Age costume for school, sewing on Beaver badges, ordering a guitar case which has no chance of arriving on time, feeding the neighbour’s chickens while they are away... well I don’t know which way to turn. But I cope, perhaps not to everyone’s satisfaction, least of all my own, and treasure the moments when I can hit the pause button, take a deep breath and just stop. Everything we do to relax has involved some degree of work or stress for someone else, whether it’s watching a movie (consider how many hours of planning and effort go into making a 10 second clip of a movie like Moana) or going to the football (imagine the paperwork required to run an Under 8 football team), but when I snuggle up on the sofa or sit on the side of the pitch with a nice cup of tea I really don’t care. It’s my turn to escape. I’m ashamed to admit I’m equally selfish when it comes to many local events. Of course I want them to happen, but I want to enjoy the experience without any of the responsibility. Thank goodness there are others who are far less selfish than I. Presumably they find other ways to escape, but as you read through this month’s edition consider those who do make things happen, who open village halls, who schedule speakers, who organise fundraising events, who make the calls, send the emails, get the quotes, who cajole and harangue others to help, who take the minutes, boil the kettles, buy the biscuits, put up the posters, complete the funding applications... These are the people who provide moments of escape and fun and togetherness for the rest of us to enjoy. One day soon I will raise my hand and get more involved, but right now I need to make a torque!
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Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market
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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 Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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NEEDHAM MARKET DEMENTIA ACTION ALLIANCE Do you care for a person with dementia? Please come to a coffee morning for carers and persons with dementia at the Internet Cafe, School Street on Tuesday, October 17. There will be homemade cakes with tea and coffee. Sue Ryder Dementia Together team will be there to talk to and to offer advice. All welcome from 10am. We look forward to seeing you.
St Elizabeth Hospice is looking for people to join their new fundraising group in Stowmarket and Needham Market. Be creative, share ideas, make new friends and gain volunteering experience. For further details, contact the team at 01473 723600 or via: fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk
THE OSILIGI TROUPE OF MAASAI WARRIORS The Osiligi Maasai Warriors are to perform at St Mary’s Church in Mendlesham on Friday, October 20 at 7.30pm. The concert is part of their 2017 UK tour which also takes in the counties of Berkshire, Oxon, Somerset, Devon and Gloucestershire. The tours serve to make audiences aware of the Maasai culture, help to raise money for troupe members and their families, and most wonderfully, with the help of Osiligi’s charity, build an infrastructure for their community, taking them out of the total poverty they were enduring. Since the charity was founded they have seen the building of a new school, a new church/community centre, a new clinic, a new orphanage and fresh water. Indeed ‘Osiligi’ means ‘hope’ in the troupe’s language, and that is what they have been given. It is a wonderful, worthwhile story. Their performances are a sensation to watch with all audiences, aged five to 95, being enthralled and excited by their natural rhythm and song. This is an opportunity to experience and enjoy the diverse culture of the Maasai. The performance is narrated and it’s an unforgettable unique event, not to be missed! Tickets (£10 to include wine and refreshments) are available from Jean Abbott on 01449 766895 and Marjorie Rousseau: 01449 766726 / m.rousseau777@btinternet.com www.osiligiwarriors.co.uk
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NEWS
SPOTLIGHT ON THE GREEN BIT IN THE MIDDLE A new event is set to showcase the many SME business enterprises that flourish in an area of Suffolk most often associated with beautiful countryside, quaint villages and pretty scenery. Stowmarket & District Chamber of Commerce will be holding the firstever Mid Suffolk Business Exhibition at The Mix (127 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket IP14 1BB) from 9am-1pm on March 21, 2018 The exhibition programme includes a breakfast for exhibitors and a networking lunch after the event closes, all included in the price of the exhibition stand along with free parking near the venue. During the event, there will be two free-to-attend seminars covering topics relevant to the local business community with details to be announced in early 2018. Kevin Kent Wealth Management is sponsoring the seminars. “Stowmarket is a vibrant and growing town in the very heart of Suffolk, equidistant from Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich and The Mix is the perfect venue for a business event. I’m thrilled that we can provide this unique opportunity for every business, from the smallest to the largest, to put their work in the spotlight and demonstrate the rich diversity of talent we can call on both in and around the town,” said Allan Scott, Chair of Stowmarket & District Chamber. Why The Mix? Well they do a superb breakfast in their award-winning café, Cabbages & Kings, where the Chamber holds its networking breakfasts, but also it is one of Stowmarket’s least-known venues that works hard to support the town’s young people, not only
when they are in crisis but also when they are first starting out on their working life. It is also a great place for local businesses to hire rooms for meetings, as well as having sound recording and video studios plus the team at BRIX Brand & Creative who produced the exhibition logo and print materials and have worked with other local businesses to design and create their branding. Danny Cuff, exhibition co-ordinator, said: “Working with an organisation such as The Mix was a natural fit for Stowmarket Chamber of Commerce. We always actively try to support businesses of all sizes in Mid Suffolk who work hard to make a positive difference to the lives of local people. The Mix does this as its primary aim and we felt it was only right to showcase their fantastic facilities and the good work that they are doing. We look forward to showing you around on Wednesday, March 21, 2018!” Early bird bookings Visit www.msbe.biz for full details including a link to book a stand. There’s an Early Bird rate of £50 for businesses booking during October, after which bookings will cost £55. Bookings open on Monday, October 2. Sponsorship opportunities If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities for the event, further details are available from Danny Cuff: 01449 721599 / danny@gippingpress.co.uk
CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE & CHARITY SHOP I have just returned from our weeklong ‘goodwill mission’ to Belarus. Of the 20 people on the trip, seven came from Mid Suffolk. All agreed without doubt that “no words, photographs or videos can truly give you the real picture”. One of our group was only 12 years old, but she was a great part of the team, joining in everything and helping wherever she could. Everyone commented on her amazing attitude and as we restructure and redefine our itinerates we hope that more young people will want to join us in the future. In Minsk we visited the Children’s Cancer Hospital, the No 1 Baby Home and the Early Intervention Centre for young children. Moving on to Stolin we met with the officers of the Education Department who explained to the group how vital the work of the charity is in helping the children of their area. Then on to the children’s department of the local hospital to deliver vital items of medical equipment and aid, things that we take for granted will be in hospitals but they have in either very limited quantities or not at all.
as ‘First Bell’ and is a very old tradition in Belarus where the pupils in their final year welcome the newcomers to the school. We donated stationary to the school and this was met with tremendous gratitude. The headmaster had placed a box in the school hall inviting anyone to donate items to help those children who could not provide their own equipment. When we arrived it held three or four items, when we left it was overflowing! Further visits were made to other facilities again to donate much needed aid and provide support for the children. Four children will travel to the UK for a group visit in December. The girls will be aged between nine and 12 years so we are very keen to receive donations of clothing to provide for them while they are here and to take home with them. Not only will the break be invaluable to their health, getting them away from the severe winter, but they will also get to experience Christmas in the UK.
Onwards to Yaglavichi to meet with Father Vitali who is spearheading Project Share in conjunction with our charity. This is a declared ‘clean area’ so facilitates the building of a respite facility to allow children not well enough or able to travel for a variety of reasons to enjoy the same benefits of respite that the children who come to the UK do. This also presents volunteering opportunities for anyone interested in getting involved.
For some of the less fortunate children we encountered on our travels we are again going to try to match them up with people in the UK who would like to send them a present at Christmas. Details and photographs of each child will be supplied together with a list of suggested small gifts. If you would like to be involved in this part of our program please get in touch with me as soon as possible as we need to start organising this now as it can take from four to eight weeks for parcels to get to the children.
We also had the privilege of being invited to attend the opening ceremony which takes place at the beginning of each new school year. This is known
Link Chair Elizabeth Parker: 01449 760343 www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
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NEWS SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA) In the autumn of last year, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no. 4494/16. Full details can be found on the Mid Suffolk District Council website at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning It is important to be aware that this is not a renewal of the original planning approval for SnOasis, which remains in place. Reserved Matters cover the detail of such topics as design, appearance, transport, drainage and ecological mitigation. Our questions and comments about Reserved Matters were summarised in a document which was submitted to MSDC as the comments from the SPA and all its member parishes, giving the comments extra weight because they come from a significant number of local communities, representing over 11,000 registered voters. This is the list of SPA member parishes: Baylham, Barham, Bramford, Claydon and Whitton, Great Blakenham, Little Blakenham, Needham Market, Nettlestead and Somersham. The document is available to view on the Great Blakenham Parish Council website: http://greatblakenham.onesuffolk.net/snoasis-parish-alliance As reported in my last article, MSDC and the SPA have agreed that there will be regular meetings to discuss new or expanded information provided by the developer. This means that the communities who will be affected by the development will continue to be able to put forward their views on what will be the best possible outcomes for residents. The first meeting takes place at the end of September and the SPA looks forward to working with MSDC in a positive way so that any development on the site will take account of the requirements and concerns of local people. For further information, please email SPA clerk Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com Regards, Steve Plume, Chairman SnOasis Parish Alliance
NEEDHAM MARKET COMMUNITY CENTRE
TABLE TOP SALE SUNDAY 3rd DECEMBER 2017 FROM 10AM TILL 3.30PM
CALLING ALL STALL HOLDERS If its time for a clear out in your home, office or club Why not book a table at this years table top sale to sell your unwanted items, crafts or talent? Tables must be booked in advance and cost £10.50 each Items for sale must be legal and not alive!
For more information or to book a table, contact Louise Mills on 01449 723171 or by email needhammarket.communitycentre@btinternet.com
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SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE SITE – GREAT BLAKENHAM COME AND HAVE A LOOK AROUND The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is holding a series of open days in October and November which include a tour of the facility and time to explore our visitor centre. There is space on the following days: • Wednesday, October 11, 6-8pm • Wednesday, October 25, 10am-noon • Monday, November 27, 6-8pm • Tuesday, November 28, 2-4pm There are 20 spaces on each day and you must pre-book. To book please email c.davies@suez.com and we will confirm your place by email. If you would like to come, but cannot make these dates, you can email us to register your interest and we will let you know when the next open days are planned. BOOK YOUR SCHOOL FOR A VISIT The academic year is now in full swing so it’s a great time for schools to come and visit our specially designed visitor centre and have a site tour. Classes of up to 30 students in Key Stage 2 and above can come to the site and explore how we make good use of Suffolk’s waste. During the tour we explore topics across the science curriculum including materials, units and states of matter and highlight the use of science in the workplace. We can also tailor visits to suit the topics you’re covering in school, meaning the experience is suitable for students in key stage two all the way up to university level. If you would like to discuss what we can offer your school, email us at: c.davies@suez.com Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please don’t hesitate to contact the facility on 01473 839149. Other useful contacts: To book a visit: 01473 836821 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
NEEDHAM MARKET AND BARKING WELFARE CHARITIES The annual meeting of Needham Market and Barking Welfare Charities will take place in the Burton Room at Needham Market Community centre on Thursday, October 12 at 7.30pm. The guest speaker is Mr Arthur Charvonia, Chief Executive of Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. The trustees invite all residents from the parishes of Barking, Needham Market and Darmsden to attend their annual meeting, during which they will have the opportunity to hear about the work of the charity and ask any questions that they may have. Further details can be obtained by contacting Needham Market Town Council Clerk: School Street, Needham Market IP6 8BB / 01449 723171 / nmbwc@btinternet.com
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ADVERTORIAL
Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.
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!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
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NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM District Councillor for Creeting St Peter and Stowupland District Council Office Move Office furniture and other equipment will be moved from the Needham office to Endeavour House in Ipswich over the next few weekends so that by early October MSDC and Babergh Council will both be operating from the new joint office. The drop-in centre at 54 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket should be fully up and running by October 1 for any resident who would like to talk to a member of staff face-toface. Very few staff will work from the Stowmarket office, but there will be people to help you contact staff based in Ipswich. Whenever necessary, staff should meet with residents at their home or at a convenient location to avoid having to go to Ipswich. MSDC Contact Details It is anticipated that most of the information that residents need will be on the website: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk There are email addresses on the website for each of the separate service areas, such as planning, housing management, environmental health and so on. There is also a local rate telephone number: 0300 123 4000 If any resident has difficulty contacting MSDC, please let me know. Planning Applications I wrote last month about the refusal of permission for housing on the two fields west of Thorney Green Road. We are waiting to see if an appeal is made. There is an on-going appeal against refusal of planning permission for a new farmhouse style dwelling on land near Pooles Farm.
The applications for housing opposite the URC chapel and opposite Holy Trinity Church have still not been determined. No date has been given for when they may be considered by planning committee. Details of the layout for the first 75 homes on the site acquired by Bloor Homes are being considered by the district council. There have been a number of concerns raised about the density of housing, the materials proposed for building the houses and the three large drainage ‘ponds’ which will need to discharge into the stream which crosses under A1120 near the Freeman School. New Joint Local Plan Consultation on the draft plan has commenced and a public exhibition of proposals will be held between 2pm and 7pm on Wednesday, October 4 in Stowmarket URC. Please attend if you can and let MSDC have your comments on the proposed plan. Arrangements will be made for the parish council to be briefed on the proposals by the corporate manager whose team has drawn up the plan. This will probably be later in October. Locality Awards I have now received a number of bids for a grant. There is still time to seek a grant, but bids need to be with me by September 30. I will be happy to speak to a representative of any club or organisation within Stowupland or Creeting St Peter which has a project, new or existing, which aims to have a local community benefit. Keith Welham Keith.welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 673185
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ADVERTORIAL
GRANITE TRANSFORMATIONS GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Granite Transformations is the company that started with “the top that fits on top”. Owners Steven Leech and Darren Cribb – the current holders of the prestigious Franchisee of the Year award – have taken their business from strength to strength and now offer so much more. Not only do they do amazing worktops, splash-backs and flooring in the same amazing materials, they also offer hand cut glass mosaics, a large range of kitchen doors, full kitchen installation and bedroom wardrobes. Steve believes Granite Transformations is successful because the company’s products are unique: “Our extensive range of surfaces are made from Italian granite, natural quartz or recycled glass. All materials are mixed with a high-grade polymer resin to make them non-porous and heat, scratch and stain resistant. All worktops come with a lifetime warranty. The range of products we offer has something to suit every client. “Our growth over the past few years indicated to me that we needed bigger showrooms. With the opening of our showroom within Hatfield’s of Stanway and Ipswich we feel we are perfectly positioned to offer the best possible service and products to our ever-growing list of satisfied customers. “Our worktops are fitted directly over the top of existing surfaces so
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there is no need to remove the old tops first, this means no mess. They are also perfect for new kitchens as we supply the substrate that we need to cover free of charge. “The sheets are engineered to be a flooring and has been used as a flooring since the 70s. We source all the materials ourselves and manufacture the sheets. We only have employed staff fitting the granite, quartz and doors. All of these factors enable us to offer a life time warranty.” Over the past three years the sale of doors has doubled, an increase which Darren believes is due to the quality for the doors. He explains: “We offer four types of doors that are made to measure and all come in 20+ colours and 20+ styles and with a six-year warranty. This increase has also been helped by the increase on new kitchens. All the units we offer are made to measure and come colour matched to the door given you a bespoke kitchen without the big costs. “You can use Granite Transformations for any project. The installations we do now are a lot larger than ever before as we now oversee everything. We can do it all for you making it simple to do major work on your home.” If you have a project you need help with then come and see us at one of our showrooms. Hatfields Home Furnishers Peartree Road, Stanway Essex CO3 0LA 01206 807347
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OUT & ABOUT SNOW WHITE – STOWMARKET’S FUN-FILLED FAMILY PANTO Christmas may seem a long time away, but it’s not too early to book your tickets for Stowmarket’s own fun-filled pantomime, Snow White, which runs at The Regal Theatre from Wednesday, December 6 to Sunday 10. This classic fairy tale will be re-told by Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society with lots of favourite characters plus a few new ones, some of whom seem strangely familiar! You’ll meet Nanny Nutcracker, her son Muddles and the kitchen help, Ivy, along with several other maids-adancing and maybe even a lord-a-leaping! Can the good Fairy Fruitcake and her forest friends help our hero, Prince Valiant, defeat Queen Evilyn and her sinister side-kick, Ragwing, to save Princess Snow White? Come and join in the fun, music and laughter, and get your Christmas off to a great start with an ideal treat for all the family. There are performances each evening at 7.30pm from Wednesday 6 until Friday 8 with matinees at noon and 5pm on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10. Tickets (adults £13 / concessions £11.50) are on sale from The Regal Theatre: 01449 612825 / www.regalstowmarket.co.uk Book your seats early to avoid disappointment. There’s a special early bird offer for the opening night – book before November 1 for just £10. Pictured above: Sharon Preece as Snow White and Nyiesha Austin as the Wicked Queen Evilyn, image by Carrie Chadwick
MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Tales Saturday, October 21 – Friday 27 Come down to The Museum of East Anglian Life this October half term and munch your way through our Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Tales. Inspired by the wonderful children’s books written by Eric Carle, this week proves to be a fun animal adventure for anyone who loves The Very Hungry Caterpillar or The Mixed-Up Chameleon with a range of caterpillar and chameleon arts and crafts activities. There’s a variety of stories, a showing of The Very Hungry Caterpillar film and even a family trail which everyone can enjoy throughout the whole week. For details visit: www.eastanglianlife.org.uk Bonfire Night Celebrations: Saturday, November 3 Come along to the Museum of East Anglian Life’s annual Bonfire Night on Saturday, November 4 and see our 50th anniversary year go out with a bang! The incredibly popular event showcases a spectacular and dazzling fireworks display alongside an impressive roaring bonfire to keep you warm throughout the evening. There’s lots of exciting amusements for everyone to enjoy before the main firework event. Situated within the museum’s stunning 75 acre site in the centre of Stowmarket, Bonfire Night at the museum is a highly anticipated event in the town and surrounding areas. Gates are open from 6pm. The bonfire is lit on the top field at 7pm before the fireworks begin at 7.30pm. For details visit: www.eastanglianlife.org.uk
The regal in october Winter is well on its way, but don’t despair, it’s the time of the year when the films get really good! Goodbye Christopher Robin: drama starring Margot Robbie, Domhnall Gleeson and Kelly Macdonald. A behind-the-scenes look at the life of author A A Milne, his experience of the First World War and the creation of the Winnie the Pooh stories inspired by his son C R Milne. The Limehouse Golem: thriller starring Bill Nighy, Eddie Marsan and Olivia Cooke. A series of murders has shaken the community to the point where people believe that only a legendary creature from dark times – the mythical so-called Golem – must be responsible. The Hitman’s Bodyguard: action comedy starring Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L Jackson and Gary Oldman. The world’s top bodyguard gets a new client, a hit man who must testify at the International Court of Justice. They must put their differences aside and work together to make it to the trial on time. An Inconvenient Sequel: documentary starring Al Gore, Barack Obama, George W Bush and Donald Trump. A decade after An Inconvenient Truth brought climate change into the heart of popular culture comes the follow-up that shows just how close we are to a real energy revolution. IT: horror starring Jaeden Lieberher and Jeremy Ray Taylor. Remake of the Stephen King classic. A group of bullied kids band together when a monster, taking the appearance of a clown, begins hunting children. 10
Kingsman: The Golden Circle: adventure starring Colin Firth, Mark Strong and Channing Tatum. When their headquarters are destroyed and the world is held hostage, the Kingsman’s journey leads them to the discovery of an allied spy organisation in the US. These two elite secret organisations must band together to defeat a common enemy. Rough Night: comedy starring Scarlett Johansson, Demi Moore and Kate McKinnon. Things go terribly wrong for a group of girlfriends who hire a male stripper for a bachelorette party in Miami. Blade Runner 2049: sci-fi starring Ryan Goslin, Harrison Ford, Jared Leto and Robin Wright. A young blade runner’s discovery of a long buried secret leads him on a quest to track down former blade runner, Rick Deckard, who’s been missing for thirty years. We’re very pleased to be able to bring you Carmen – On the Lake, Bizet’s classic from the awe inspiring Lake Constance and Benedict Cumberbatch as Hamlet, from the National Theatre. We have a brilliant month on stage, with live country music from Raymond Froggatt, hits from the movies in Committed to the Blues Brothers and a night of comedy gold with Richard Whymark and Jimmy Cricket.
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OUT & ABOUT NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY At the time of writing, the society is looking forward to Isabel Clark’s talk For the Love of Books at our meeting on September 20, when she will reveal the secrets of bookbinding. Continuing our autumn programme on October 25, Pip Wright is coming to tell us about the Earl Stonham Charity School in the 18th century. His talk weaves a tale around the education and lives of the eight boys and their master Thomas Warren in those times. Our meetings are held in the Burton Room at Needham Market Community Centre at 7.30pm. The October meeting includes the AGM when membership (£5 per person) will need to be renewed. Visitors are always welcome (£2 entrance fee).
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB The first Tuesday of the each month sees a meeting of retired professional and businesspersons taking place in Stowmarket. At our meeting on September 5 we were enlightened with a talk by Keith Pybus about The Fleet Air Arm. Members start to gather at 10.30am and time is made prior to the presentation (speakers start at 11am and usually present for 45-60 minutes) for members to meet and greet each other along with tea/coffee and a biscuit. Every quarter, a luncheon is arranged for members and guests, together with a number of visits to places of interest in the UK.
Mind, Body and Soul and Quality Crafts
Our programme for the remainder of 2017 is as follows: October 3: Stowmarket Gun Cotton Explosion by Sue & Steve Williams October 9 to October 13: Visit to Bournemouth (trips to Portsmouth Dockyard, Beaulieu Motor Museum and hopefully the RNLI HQ), staying in the Durley Dean Hotel & Spa
Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Road, Woodbridge IP12 4AU
October 20: Autumn Lunch at The Lodge, Suffolk Leisure Centre
Saturday, October 21, 10am-4pm.
November 7: The Queen Bee by Alan Seagar
Admission £2.50 with 100% door proceeds being donated to Over The Rainbow Children’s Charity which Unfolding Enlightenment Events are proud to support.
December 8: Christmas Lunch at Needham Market Community Centre
UNFOLDING ENLIGHTENMENT EVENTS
TRIANON FUNDRAISING CONCERT Proceeds to St John The Baptist Church Roof Appeal Trianon Music Group presents an evening of light classical music with singers and instrumentalists, conducted by Emeritus Professor Chris Green OBE, at Needham Market Community Centre on Saturday, November 18 at 7.30pm. Tickets (£8 including refreshments) from 01449 722202 or on the door.
CHRISTCHURCH AUTUMN BAZAAR There will be an autumn bazaar and coffee morning at Christchurch, High Street, Needham Market, from 10am-noon on Saturday, October 14. Entry is free and there will be cakes, bargains, refreshments and children’s crafts. All proceeds to Christchurch and charities.
During the next few months, the committee will be reviewing options voted for and put forward by members for visits in 2018. These include: a tour of Bury St Edmunds Cathedral and Tower, Greene King Brewery and the Sugar Beet Factory; day excursions to Chartwell House (Churchill’s residence), Brooklands Motor Museum, Kew Gardens and/or Wisley, Stamford in Lincolnshire, Harwich Trinity House, the Great War Huts in Hawstead, and trips for up to four days to the Lake District and Beamish/Whitby. If non-members are prepared to provide members with a 45-60 minute presentation on their hobby, business, society, club or project, please let us know. Contact details below. Annual membership will be £15 in April 2018. All trips are costed out to breakeven and a good deal is negotiated by a member of the committee. New members are very welcome and encouraged. Please contact David Robson (daviderobson@gmail.com) or any other member for details. Our monthly meetings are held at the RBL Club on Tavern Street, Stowmarket from 10.30am-noon.
He loved walking, so we all walked back from the service It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day Meredith Greengrass
01449 798279
for your local funeral director www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
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OUT & ABOUT COMMON GROUND THEATRE PRESENT THE OLD CURIOSITY SHOP
GET CRAFTY CRAFT CLUB Do you like crafting? Do you like chatting? Do you like learning new techniques? If so, come along to Get Crafty which is run for people who like to craft socially. You don’t have to be an experienced crafter. Our members do a variety of crafts including card making, patchwork, cross stitch, jewellery making and anything else we fancy having a go with. Members are free to bring their own projects, but we also do a monthly workshop which is optional. There is no membership cost; we just charge £2 per meeting so you only pay for the meetings you attend with a small charge for any workshop you chose to take part in to cover materials. We meet every alternate Tuesday at Needham Market Community Centre from 1.30-3.30pm.
Suffolk-based Common Ground Theatre Company will be touring East Anglia in October and November with a riotous, theatrically inventive adaptation of Dickens’ masterpiece, with original music by Pat Whymark and featuring Julian Harries as (among others) Nell’s grandfather, Samson Brass and Mrs Jarley. Common Ground’s work was recently described by Libby Purves, in Suffolk Magazine, as “wonderfully inventive and creative”, and Andrew Clarke, writing in the EADT, said of their adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo: “It takes real skill to take a sturdy piece of classic literature and turn it into one of the most imaginative shows of the year.” The story follows ‘Little’ Nell Trent, who lives with her devoted grandfather in his London shop, a magical place filled from wall to wall with dustladen treasures. He keeps his nocturnal gambling a secret, but becomes deeply in debt to the villainous loan shark Quilp. When he gambles away what little money they have, The Old Curiosity Shop is seized by Quilp as payment and Nell and her grandfather are forced to flee London. On the run, and with Quilp on their trail, the pair fall in with a succession of colourful characters, some friendly, some ominous. Over time, she becomes the parent and he the child, a burden which starts to take its toll on her. The novel was a sensation when it was serialised in 1840-41. The excitement at the release of the last installment has been compared to the publishing of the last Harry Potter novel, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It was so popular that New York readers stormed the wharf when the ship bearing the final instalment arrived in 1841. Julian Harries (pictured) and Pat Whymark are the creative team behind Stoat Hall, The Mystery of St Finnigan’s Elbow and many more Eastern Angles Christmas shows. As an actor Julian has appeared in Eastenders, Detectorists, Spies of Warsaw, Doctors, and has just completed the recent UK and international tour of Dirty Dancing, playing Dr Jake Houseman. The tour runs from October 25 to November 25. For performance dates and venues, call 07807 341364 or vists: www.commongroundtc.co.uk
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If you are interested in coming along to join us, you would be most welcome and you will find us a friendly group. For more details please contact Pauline Dudley (01449 771802) or Janet Howard (01449 774773).
STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday, October 1: 6 mile walk around Framingham via Coldhall Lane. Park and meet at Elms Car Park in Framingham at 10.30am / GR 285635. Leader: 01449 673690 Sunday, October 8: 5.5 mile walk around Barrow. Park and meet at Premier Car Park in Barrow at 10am / GR 765634. Leader: 01473 742151 Sunday, October 15: 5.5 mile walk in the Elmswell area. Park and meet at Elmswell Railway Station at 10am / GR 990640. Leader: 07896 622192 Sunday, October 22: 8 mile walk to Sicklesmere and Rushbrooke Park. Park and meet at Rougham Church at 10am / GR 912627. Pub stop or picnic. Shorter option available. Leader: 01449 673131 Sunday, October 29: 6 mile walk in the Combs area. Park and meet at Combs Tannery at 10am / GR 042653. Leader: 01449 672168
POLYMYALGIA RHEUMATICA/GIANT CELL ARTERITIS SUPPORT GROUP The next meeting of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica/Giant Cell Arteritis East Anglia Support Group is on Friday, October 20 at Needham Market Community Centre (School Road, Needham Market IP6 8BB). The hall will be open at 10.30am for refreshments and an opportunity to meet others who experience the same problems as you. The speaker will be Professor Bhaskar Dasgupta, a world leading authority on PMR/GCA. His presentation will begin at 11am and he kindly takes a Q&A session afterwards. His talks are always very interesting and he brings us up to date with current research happening around the world. We look forward to seeing you there.
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OUT & ABOUT / SPORT STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday October 4: Mrs Fyshe and the Queen’s Wardrobe by Julia Barrett Walter Fyshe was one of the young Princess Elizabeth’s first recorded tailors and on her succession to the Crown became her official Master of the Royal Wardrobe. Privy to the innermost secrets of one of England’s greatest monarchs, he ruled over the queen’s entire image. Julia Barrett, dressed as Mrs Fyshe, will share those secrets of the wardrobe, exploring how Elizabeth I’s image developed through her lifetime and what life was like within the royal wardrobe itself. Wednesday November 1: The Guildhall Feoffment Trust and Guildhall Feoffment Schools by Alan Bickerdike A brief history of the trust and schools from 1481 to the present. The trust is one of the county’s oldest charitable trusts (if not the oldest) that still functions today. It has had much influence on many aspects of the history of Bury St Edmunds, education being but one part. We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall (IP14 4BQ) where there is an ample car park. Visitors are always welcome and refeshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members.
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB BRING OUT YOUR BRAS! Obviously not the ones that you are currently wearing, but how about those that are hiding at the back of your underwear drawer? Maybe they were an impulse buy or you got tired of them or they didn’t fit comfortably. If you could use the space we could use your bras! We shall be in Sailmakers in Ipswich on Saturday, October 7 from 10am-4pm to collect new or ‘gently used’ unwanted bras. What are we going to do with them? They will go to a project which supports women and girls who have survived being trafficked and forced into the sex trade in Mozambique, El Salvador and Kenya. To escape from this horrendous experience they need a sustainable way of earning their own living. Every 100 bras that we collect will enable a woman to set up her own business selling second hand bras, which are a status symbol in these countries and command a good price. It seems such a simple idea to us, but it can have amazing results. Economic independence can give a woman back her self-esteem and self-confidence. As the project says ‘Empowerment gives women the opportunity to be who they were designed to be’ (freethegirls.org). Somehow donating a bra feels a rather personal way of holding out a hand to another woman. Soroptimists in Southend have collected 1,500 bras. Far be it from us to suggest that we are in competition with a sister club but with your help…
For more information on any of the above, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386
Please come and bring your contribution on October 7 – and tell your friends about it.
STOWMARKET BADMINTON CLUB
For more information please call our secretary Joyce: 01394 615659
STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB At the time of writing, due to deadlines, I must give a preview of our finals day which was held on Sunday, September 10. Fifteen matches were due to be played, ranging from the under 10s event up to various senior singles, doubles and mixed. Also at the time of writing is a fairly mixed weather forecast with patchy rain with steady strong winds to signal our transition from summer to autumn. With a bit of good fortune and many crossed fingers the day will have been a huge success with lots of new names on the trophies. Stowmarket Badminton Club is a friendly and thriving club which plays its club nights and matches at Mid Suffolk Sports Centre (MSLC) in Stowmarket. The adult section runs 10 teams in the Bury (BDBL) and Ipswich (IDBL) badminton leagues as well as running one of the biggest junior sections in Suffolk. Anyone interested in playing competitive badminton in the Mid Suffolk area can get in touch via: www.stowmarketbadmintonclub.onesuffolk.net For information on more casual ‘pay and play’ options at MSLC contact Mary Hughes via our website. On the court our adult teams had a good 2016/17 season with notable successes in the IDBL for two of the men’s teams with promotions for the Men’s B (into Division 2) and C (into Division 6) teams. The ladies team finished second in Division 1 with the Mixed teams finishing well placed in Division 1 and 2 respectively. All of the teams in the BDBL managed to finish in the top half of their respective leagues. The season also saw some notable additions to all of our teams with juniors from our own junior section which is always a bonus for the club. See you on the court. 14
The patchy weather is only of concern as we’ve still got to wait a few weeks until our dome is installed for another winter of indoor activity. We’re aiming for early October again this year and, with all things going smoothly, should hit that target to ensure everyone can continue playing right through the rain, wind and frost. Winter league starts very soon, also heralding the change of seasons, and we have about a dozen pairs of hardy players set to represent the club against other teams from the Ipswich & District League. These pairs will be battling all through the winter to gain promotion by early spring 2018. The coaching program will also be in full swing once again by the time this plops onto your doormats with many players, both junior and adult, returning from a short summer break spent resting, playing matches or even starting with us at camps. There are many different sessions available to get you involved, even if you’ve never picked up a racket before, so get in touch with me and we’ll get you sorted. See you on court! Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com
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Uvedale Hall care home praised by industry inspector Home Manager, Jon Hammond recently celebrated with his staff team their success in achieving a Good rating following a CQC inspection. The report particularly highlighted how caring the staff are and the level of attention they provide to each and every resident. It stated ‘We saw many examples of positive and caring interactions between the staff and people living in the service’ and ‘When staff spoke with people they were polite and courteous. Relatives were complimentary about how staff treated their family members.’ This positive report comes after industry recognition for the home earlier this year when it was ranked in the Top 20 of UK care homes in the East of England by independent review site carehome.co.uk
“The staff at Uvedale are all so friendly, kind and caring and my family and I feel very happy knowing Nana is receiving the high quality care that she deserves.” “Since our first day at Uvedale Hall, we were made to feel very welcome and at home, all information - medical, dietary and daily routines were noted down and mum settled in very quickly. We saw a big change in her, eating, laughing, smiling and walking and “My father has been a resident at Uvedale joining other residents for lunch and activities. Hall since February, I have been continually Mum also asked if this could be her home as impressed with the care they offer to him.” she did not want to live alone anymore. This would not have been possible without the “Uvedale Hall must be one of the best love, care, patience and dedication of all the care homes in Suffolk. The care the staff staff at Uvedale Hall, we owe them so much. give is wonderful and they are always so I’ve got my mum back. Thank you.” happy.”
Uvedale Hall Team
Our team would be very happy to hear from you should you have any questions about our home or you would like to book a tour. Please contact us on 01449 722250 or email manager@uvedalehall.healthcarehomes.co.uk 16
healthcarehomes healthcarehomes.co.uk In Touch online:
SPORT SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY With all of our classes running as normal throughout the summer holidays, a steady flow of students kept instructors and masters busy teaching universal karate, tae kwon do, muay thai and kickboxing. We are blessed to have a truly exceptional group of students training each and every week and instructors and class helpers who ensure that we offer every member the very best in martial arts tuition. A big thank you to Mel Walmsley (2nd Dan Blackbelt in Kickboxing), Mike Oglesby (2nd Dan Blackbelt in Kickboxing), Josh Trent (3rd Dan Blackbelt in Kickboxing), Master Hannah Povah (4th Dan Blackbelt in Universal Karate), Dave Fell (3rd Dan Blackbelt in Universal Karate), Senior Master Andy Lewis (5th Dan Blackbelt in Universal Karate), senior fight team coach Steve Gill (4th Dan in Kickboxing), events co-ordinator/administrator Heather Mitchell and to all of our junior team leaders/helpers. Bowing down to pressure from our many junior members, we held our first Scorpion kids combat training session. This was a fun and exciting session in which the juniors bought along their own soft target guns and had the chance to practise target shooting, sniper training and team building/wars. Safety glasses and soft foam bullets were supplied and the many juniors who came along bought a wide variety of soft target guns including a Gatling machine gun. Indeed so much fun was had we are going to hold these sessions monthly.
NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB
The outdoor season has now finished and NMBC has been very successful. Monday night A team have completed their fixtures winning 12 out of 14 matches and finishing top of Division 3. The B team struggled for players, but enjoyed their bowls. Tuesday A won Division 1, retaining the trophy they won last year. The Tuesday B team finished in third place in Division 2 and the Tuesday C team fourth in Division 3, a very successful season. The Wednesday team have improved on their second place of last year and have won the Wednesday league. The Thursday ‘development’ team have had their successes and continue to enjoy their bowling. Three Stowmarket League trophies represent a most successful year for NMBC, so congratulations to all the bowlers involved.
More than 30 junior and senior members/parents took part in the Stowmarket Striders Golden Mile Charity Run. A big thank you to everyone who took part and to Lucy Durrant for organising Team Scorpion. Senior instructor Mike Oglesby was the fastest Scorpion member to complete the course. For further information about Scorpion martial art classes please call Mark JR Trent on 07708 644162. One month free to all new members joining; no other local club offers that deal.
STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB Having won Division Two of the Suffolk County Bridge Association Summer League Teams-of-Eight last year the Stowmarket team began this year’s campaign in Division One with a good win against Bury St Edmunds by 49 to 31. This has been followed by a second victory against Stansfield by 43 to 37. These successes are indicative of the high standard of duplicate bridge played at the club twice each week. The club is now using computer randomly generated hands rather than hands dealt by club members after a couple of quick shuffles. Initially some members found it difficult to accept that these hands were randomly generated, but most now seem happy with them and enjoy the exciting bridge that they generate.
The club pairs competition was won by Brian Locksmith and Ginny Last and the triples by Alastair Bailie, Ginny Last and Andrew Eaton. Congratulations to you all. As usual there will be socials once a month during the winter, details later. Roll-up/social bowling takes place every Wednesday at 2pm for anyone interested. MEET AND GREET DAYS AT CROWLEY PARK These have been very successful and will be resumed with the opening of the 2018 outdoor season in April so come along and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit. Bowls and basic instruction will be provided. But if you just want to watch and chat that’s fine. Although bowls is an ideal sport for the active older person remember, ‘YOU ARE NEVER TOO YOUNG TO BOWL’. Contacts: Pat Hadden – 01743 831308 / Alistair Bailie – 01449 720759
The club welcomes visitors and new members. For times of play, venue and contacts visit: www.bridgewebs.stowmarket At the tender age of 96, Charles Read has decided to stop playing duplicate bridge and played his last game on Wednesday, August 23. Charles joined Stowmarket Bridge Club in the 1970s, when the club played at the Rookery Bowls Club and has been playing ever since. Charles will not be stopping bridge completely, but will continue to play afternoon Chicago. That’s when he’s not visiting his family in France, Luxembourg and the USA!
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ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET CATS PROTECTION This month we are looking for a home for Ginge, a handsome chunky boy aged about five years. Sadly he came into our care because his owner had died. He is a friendly boy who loves fuss and attention and enjoys sitting on his fosterer’s lap. We think he would be best suited as an only pet and with an adult only household or one with older children. Ginge is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. If you would like to know more about Ginge or any of the cats in our care please ring Marina on 01449 674584. For more information visit: www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds / Facebook If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need financial help towards the cost please ring Margaret on 01284 851055 and leave a message. Our Christmas Fayre this year is on Saturday, November 11, 2-4pm in Needham Market Community Centre. Admission is free. Once again we are fortunate to have Jim Hawkins singing to us so do come along and support us. You will be made very welcome. For more information please ring 01449 720003. We are also having a table in the community centre on December 3 from 10am-3.30pm where we will be selling Christmas cards, calendars and other stuff. We look forward to seeing you there.
Bury St Edmunds & Stowmarket Branch Registered Charity 203644
HOLY TRINITY CHURCH CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Saturday, November 18 Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ 10am-5pm – entry and car parking free There will be genuine craft stalls, tombola, Name the Bear, Grand Christmas Hamper Draw and Father Christmas will be welcoming young visitors to his grotto, with a free gift between 2 and 4pm. Hot food and refreshments will be available all day.
HOME WORSHIP The Rev Mary Playford from Christchurch came to lead our September Home Worship. She invited us to consider and discuss: “Do you have to go to church to be a Christian?” At the beginning she gave us a number of verses in the Bible to think about, beginning with Jesus saying to the thief on the cross: “Today you shall be with me in Paradise.” The early church recorded in Acts “they were like family to each other”. Another from Hebrews (CEV) that “some people had gotten out of the habit of meeting for worship”. This led to quite a lot of discussion, some feeling very strongly that you had to go to church, but others feeling there was a lot of faith out there from the number of families who want there funerals, baptisms and weddings to be in church. This month Diana Perry, a very regular Home Worshipper and member of St John’s Parish Church, will lead Home Worship. We always meet at 10am on the first Monday of the month at 137 High Street, Needham Market. After worship we have light refreshments and a friendly chat. All welcome – it will give you a chance to get to know people. Wendy Marchant
Saturday 11 November 2017 2pm – 4pm Community Centre School Street
Needham Market IP6 8BB
Jim Hawkins will be singing to us
Christmas Cards Jewellery Tombola 2018 Calendars Refreshments Call 01449 720003 for more details www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds - Cats Protection Helpline 01284 850 887
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PARISH CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Diane Williams 01449 720316 / 07714 016554 Churchwarden: Linda Ruby, 07546 222947 We would like to welcome you to our church with its famous hammerbeam roof. This building was simply a Chapel of Ease to Barking until it was elevated to the status of a Parish Church in 1901. On the first Sunday of the month there is an 8am Holy Communion and 10am All Age Worship. On the second, third, fourth and fifth Sundays there is a 10am Sung Eucharist and Sunday Club and on the first Monday of the month, Home Worship is held at 137 High Street, Needham Market at 10am. On Tuesday mornings in term time there is a group for the under fours called Tuesday Tots. This is held in the church hall, called The Ark, £1 per family, 9.30-11am. On Tuesday mornings in church there is a Prayer Group from 11am. We have a Mothers’ Union that meets on the third Wednesday of the month in The Ark at noon and in the summer months we hold produce stalls and coffee mornings on the first Saturday of the month at church. Our church hall is available for hire. For details call: 01449 721672 19
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CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist) 01449 612619 Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am (including crèche and Sunday Club) Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS Tiddlers: For mums and toddlers 12 months to four years, Monday, 9.3011am (term time). Contact Hannah: 07969 482360 Scrabble Club: Monday, 2-4pm. New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm. Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Women’s Fellowship: Second Wednesday, 2.30-3.30pm. Contact Linda Hills: 01449 721258 Christians Together Ecumenical Group: Thursday 10am, Room 4, Christchurch (term time). Contact Ann Devereux: 01449 721575 Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon (always with a selection of cakes for sale) OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Monday, 7-9pm Moosical Fun for your Little One: Sing, dance and play for 0-5s, Tuesday morning 9am-noon (term time) Osteo Stretch and Exercise: Tuesday, 12.30-1.30pm Karate: Tuesday, 6.30-8.30pm; Wednesdays, 5.30-7.30pm (term time); Friday 6.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm Brownies, 6.30-7pm (term time) Exercise Classes: Friday 9-11am HALL LETTINGS: There are spaces available for hire. To arrange a visit to view or for further information contact: 07851 742847 CHURCH CONTACT: Ann Devereux: 01449 721575 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk Complete this sentence: ‘You know summer is really over when...’ Some of you may be thinking ‘...the leaves turn colour’ or ‘the clocks go back...’
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Maybe it’s when the Christmas cards are in the shops, or when those lovely autumnal knits come into the shops. Along with all those things, for me it is when the TV schedules include X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing. I haven’t watched the former for many years, but I eagerly wait for the latter each year! It’s the expectation and anticipation that captures my imagination as I wonder who will be the standout dancers, who will be ‘surprisingly good’ and which game soul will be the one who gets the public’s sympathy vote and returns for more weeks than they could ever have dreamed. As I write this I am waiting with anticipation to see how fellow ‘clergy person’ The Rev Richard Coles will perform. On the face of it he doesn’t look like a typical dancer, but he does have a musical background, so who knows – maybe this is what he was born to be. We all have differing expectations of others – sometimes based on knowledge and other times purely based on speculation, and it’s true to say that sometimes we are all too ready to make judgements without giving someone the time to prove themselves. Some of you may have heard me on BBC Radio Suffolk at the end of August talking about Constance Coltman – the first woman to be ordained as a minister in a mainstream denomination in September 1917. She was a pioneer in many ways, but wasn’t without detractors. One used this quote from Samuel Johnson when talking about her: “Sir, a woman’s preaching is like a dog walking on his hind legs. It is not done well; but you are surprised to find it done at all.” I have no idea whether Constance was a good preacher, and I currently have no idea whether The Rev Richard is a good dancer, but I shall watch Strictly full of expectation just as I look forward to autumn with anticipation.Expectation and anticipation that the trees will continually surprise us with glorious displays of colour, that sunsets will set the sky on fire. Expectation and anticipation that each one of us will be offered the opportunity to fulfil our potential – perhaps not as a dancer, but as the person we were born to be. The Reverend Mary Playford Christchurch Christmas Festival, December 1-3 We have already received a number of beautifully knitted stars – keep them coming, then come to the Christmas Festival and see your stars on the Knitivity panel. Don’t forget to register your entry for the Bible Story display. For more information contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk
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ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH A THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH My guess is that for most people today, the Reformation was an event that never enters their thoughts. For them it is a matter of no concern which, if ever it did come into their thoughts, would be readily dismissed. To do this, I believe, is a big mistake. I’ll try and explain why. Two things which the Reformation highlighted were the authority of scripture and justification by grace through faith, or in plain language how a sinful human being finds acceptance with God. Again, these may be dismissed as having no interest to 21st century people who think of what is believed as a purely personal matter, or who don’t believe in God at all. But we are missing something important if we think the Reformation was nothing more than a disagreement between 16th century theologians. What ordinary people believed at that time affected the way they lived and how they would spend eternity. The Reformation in doctrine led to a reformation in living. Before the preaching of men like John Wesley, England in the 18th century was in a terrible state morally. Gin was indeed the ruin of many. Crime was rampant and all the state could do was impose increasingly severe punishments, until a man could be hanged for stealing a loaf of bread; but all to no avail. The church was just as powerless as the state. Then Wesley and others preached the message that had been rediscovered at the Reformation, the authority of the Bible
Needham Market Evangelical Church
MARTIN LUTHER AND HIS SIGNIFICANCE FOR TODAY With guest speaker REV. ANDREW DAVIES From Cwmbran, Wales.
Saturday 14th October at 7.30 p.m. This meeting is part of our commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. Martin Luther nailed his “95 Theses” to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany on 31st October, 1517. His action was intended to promote academic discussion. Admission free. For more information, phone 01394 271645, email peterkinley60@gmail.com, or text/phone 07570 558072 22
and salvation by grace. Britain was transformed. Most people today may think the church is well past its ‘use by’ date. It is true that even at its best, the church is largely ineffective in drawing people to Christ. But that has a serious ‘knock-on’ effect for us all. If Christians are ‘salt’ and ‘light’ as the Lord Jesus said, the fewer Christians there are, the more corruption and darkness prevail. And that should concern everyone who cares about goodness and truth. Peter Kinley SPECIAL DATES IN OCTOBER Tuesday, October 10: Missionary Meeting, 7.30pm. Visit of Clive Langston from the Slavic Gospel Association. Saturday, October 14: A meeting to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation when the speaker will be The Rev Andrew Davies from Cwmbran, South Wales. Mr Davies will take as his subject, The Significance of Martin Luther for Today. REGULAR MEETINGS Sunday Services: 10.30am and 6.30pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting: Tuesdays at 7.30pm. All very welcome. For further information, if you require transport or would like a home visit, please contact Peter: peterkinley60@gmail.com / 01394 271645 / 07570 558072 www.needhamchurch.org.uk
Charity
To raise money for Norton Village Hall
Saturday 18th November
Norton Village Hall
Bar open 7.00pm to 11.00pm Eyes down at approx 8.00pm Tickets cost £10 which includes your bingo books & nibbles on the table Bar, Raffle & Games on the night . Over 18's only can play as it's cash prizes
To buy tickets call Jo on 07913 922926 In Touch online:
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