In touch news with needhammarket apr18

In Touch

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with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market Volume 5 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2018

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In Touch online:

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

Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: needham@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

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01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with 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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• 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 •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •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 PLANS FOR FUTURE OF FORMER COUNCIL OFFICES TO BE DISPLAYED Residents of Needham Market are invited to put forward their views on the future of Mid Suffolk’s former headquarters to a team of council staff and consultants at exhibitions in the town this April.

Plans for the future of Mid Suffolk District Council’s former offices at 131 High Street, Needham Market will be unveiled for the first time on April 4 at Needham Market Community Café. The proposals envisage a residential led redevelopment of the site.

All are welcome to call into the two drop-in events on Wednesday 4 and Tuesday, April 10 between 3 and 8pm, at which representatives of Mid Suffolk District Council, Purcell Architects and Lawson Planning Partnership Ltd will be on hand to discuss the plans and answer any questions.

The events will be held at Needham Market Community Café on School Street, Needham Market IP6 8BB. Councillor Nick Gowrley, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Leader and Cabinet Member for Assets and Investment, said: “These buildings are a key site for Needham Market, sitting at the heart of the town on the High Street, and we are determined to get their future right. A lot of thought and hard work has already gone into that future, and these events are an opportunity for anyone with an interest in the site to talk it over with our officers and partners. I’d urge anyone who is able to attend to come along and comment on the plans.”

Councillors Wendy Marchant and Mike Norris, Mid Suffolk District Councillors for Needham Market and Badley Ward, are encouraging everyone to have their say. Councillor Norris said: “We recommend that everyone who can takes the opportunity to view and comment on the plans for the former district council Offices site, being in such a prominent location off the High Street. It is essential that any development on this site reflects the character of the existing buildings in Needham Market.”

Attendees should be aware that The Causeway, the road leading to School Street in Needham Market, may be inaccessible to vehicles due to ongoing building maintenance. The exhibition will still be open and accessible on foot, with free parking available off Hurstlea Road.

POLYMYALGIA RHEUMATICA/GIANT CELL ARTERITIS SUPPORT GROUP The next meeting of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica/Giant Cell Arteritis East Anglia Support Group will be on Thursday, April 26 at Needham Market Community Centre IP6 8BB. The hall will be open at 10.30am for refreshments and meeting others who experience the same problems as you. There will be a short AGM at 11am which will be followed by our speaker, Sue Vould, a physiotherapist from Ipswich Hospital Rheumatology Department specialising in the problems of PMR. We look forward to seeing you there.

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NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET RAFT RACE DONATIONS Originally part of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations, the Raft Race has gone from strength to strength over the last 15 years (16 races). The committee are a friendly group and have seen a number of changes over the years. We have lost a member (Tracey Cadman), said goodbye to a few (Jenny Straughier, Mel Copping, Karen Last, Michael Richardson, Terry Gerrell, Dawn Winder, Julie and Robin Kett). We have welcomed Jean Pittaway and Dan Last back and said hello to Lynda Terry, Steve Boyce, Emma Cadman and Rachel Parrett. The committee wouldn’t be complete without seasoned members Graham Last, Debbie Cadman and Tony Fitch.

We want to keep the Raft Race a free family event and to do this we kindly ask for a donation of £1 to park a car in Needham Market Car Boot field which Mrs Lillie lets us use every year. In the early years, we were ‘kept afloat’ with grants from the town, community and Mid Suffolk District Councils. Our overheads include public liability insurance, life savers and first aid cover.

WALKERS IN SUFFOLK ASKED TO UNITE AGAINST PARKINSON’S Suffolk residents are being asked to unite with thousands of people across the UK and Walk for Parkinson’s at Glemham on Sunday, June 10.

The event will raise vital funds for the charity Parkinson’s UK, and is one of many walks taking place all over the UK throughout 2018.

Two people are diagnosed with the condition every hour in the UK and Walk for Parkinson’s events aim to raise over £500,000 for research to step closer to a cure.

Numerous local organisations (e.g. Scouts, Playgroup) and charities (e.g.

Guide Dogs, Dreamflight) use the Raft Race as a way to fundraise, as do many of our competing teams (e.g. Four Non-Bonds). We’re not sure how much they’ve raised, but it must be worth their while as they keep coming back!

Aside from the £16 entrance fee, our income is generated from the car park, food vendors, programme advertisers, race sponsors and raffle.

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.

We are very proud of the fact that we have over the last nine years been able to put money back into the community and to date we have donated £4,290 to the following groups and charities: Tracey’s Legacy, Explorer Scouts, Ashburnham Club, Royal British Legion, Leviathan Scouts, Tree House Appeal,1st Needham Scouts, Small Talk, GVAC, First Responders, Incendia Network, The Wednesday Dinner Club, Stowmarket Food Bank, St John’s Roof Fund, Christchurch Frontal Fund, Stowmarket Christmas Club, AJ’s Legacy, Lighthouse Women’s Aid and Serv (Suffolk).

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.

We are always looking for new committee members; if you would like to come and give us a hand please contact us and we will be pleased to see you.

Have you been to the Raft Race at Needham Lake before? If yes, see you again on Sunday, June 24 and if not, why not come along and see what all the fuss is about? You can bring the family with or without a picnic (there’s plenty of food to choose from). Alternatively, why not come along and give us a hand by being a steward for the day? If you’re feeling really brave, get three others and make a raft. This year’s theme is A Very British Raft Race.

For further information visit: www.needhamraftrace.wordpress.com / Facebook: Needham Market Raft Race

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. The Suffolk Dementia Helpline can support anyone who needs to talk. Perhaps you have memory worries yourself or even a recent diagnosis and want someone to talk to. Maybe you have concerns about a loved one, or need support in your caring role. Perhaps it’s just information you are after, or a confidential chat with someone. The line can help anyone who is looking for practical support and is able to provide you with local information and get you in touch with organisations that can help.

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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.

He said: “We want to make 2018 our biggest year yet for the Walk for Parkinson’s series. I’d like to invite everyone, whatever their level of fitness, to take advantage of the many different types of walks, scenic routes and distances available. Exercise can be really beneficial to people living with Parkinson’s. It is as important to me as my medication in helping me take control and manage my symptoms.

“So please join us at Walk for Parkinson’s at Glemham Hall. Every step takes us closer to a cure and our goal of improving the lives of everyone affected by Parkinson’s.”

The registration fee is £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s. Everyone who registers will receive a free Parkinson’s UK t-shirt, fundraising pack and at the end of the walk, a finisher’s medal.

As the charity is hoping to raise over £500,000 from the 37 events it suggests walkers aim to raise at least £50. All the money raised from the event will fund research to help to find a cure and improve the lives of the 145,000 people in the UK living with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s UK is also looking for volunteers to help register people at the start/finish area, or to be a walk marshal at various points on the route during the day.

To find out more, or to sign up to walk or volunteer at the event, call 02079 639367, email fundraising@parkinsons.org.uk or visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/walkglemhamhall

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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NEWS

MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS MIKE NORRIS AND WENDY MARCHANT Submitted on Thursday, March 1 Public Toilets for Needham Market Mid Suffolk officers are arranging a meeting with the town clerk, Mike and Wendy, and possibly others, to discuss the situation with the public toilets for Needham Market.

Submitted on Saturday, March 10 It has been confirmed that the public consultation on the future of Mid Suffolk District Council’s former offices at 131 High Street, Needham Market will be Wednesday 4 and Tuesday 10 April, 3-8pm in Needham Market Community Café, School Street, Needham Market. (see page 3) New Planters for Needham Market High Street We would like to thank Needham Market Town Council for their contribution to Needham in Bloom for new planters in the High Street, with an additional one to go opposite Elton House. We look forward to the summer when they will be filled with lovely flowers.

Locality Award The organisations which Mike and Wendy gave awards to from their Locality budget are: Needham Market Internet Café, Needham Market Family Carers, Forge Church Furniture Project, Needham Market & Barking Guides, Ladies Netball Club, Needham Market Cricket Club, HOPS – Disabled Children’s Play Area and Rural Coffee Caravan which goes to Needham Lake.

Lifting of draconian conditions on the licence for The Limes Hotel Mike and Wendy attended the Licensing Committee in Endeavour House Ipswich on Monday, February 26. Wendy spoke on behalf of a resident, Mrs Sylvia Watson, who was unable to attend herself but had already written a letter. Mike supported this. To precis what was said: “The High Street is classified as a Conservation Area – acclaimed as a place of historic interest. The Limes Hotel is an elegant, graceful and historic building in the heart of the town centre. It is of considerable concern that in recent years many shops, restaurants, banks, civic offices and business in Needham Market High Street have closed. This has led to the remaining shops in the High Street finding it difficult to compete with facilities in neighbouring towns. There is a need for a welcoming safe and comfortable venue for individuals and families with children, as well as hotel facilities, attracting visitors who wish to explore this beautiful area of Suffolk. There is no indication of any cause for concern with the current managers, and it seems inappropriate that the restrictions imposed on the previous manager, because of alleged serious negligence and problems with disorder should continue to be maintained. It is believed that upholding these restrictions will seriously inhibit the new manager’s capacity to develop a thriving and successful business. We therefore fully support this application and believe it to be in the best interests of the town and local residents.“

Wendy has co-ordinated numerous meetings in recent months with senior rail representatives, officers from Suffolk County Council and Mid Suffolk District Council, rail passenger organisations and the hard working campaigners themselves (Sylvia Watson, Nigel Andrews, Jennifer Nott, Adrian Davies and many others) who have been working hard to get signatures on the petition. A senior SSC officer has already written to the Minister of Transport on our behalf to say that we wish to apply for an Access for All grant.

Planning Application The outline application for 64 houses off Stowmarket Road, and two off Hill House Lane, came to Mid Suffolk’s planning meeting on Wednesday, March 14. The planning officer and town council were recommending approval. Mike spoke about flooding, health care provision, overlooking and special landscape area. Wendy also emphasised these, but in addition the extra traffic these new houses would generate onto Stowmarket Road, already a busy road, together with the other developments already approved. So ideally it would be nice to have an overall scheme rather than looking at things piecemeal. Concern was raised about one settlement ‘coalescing’ into another, as mentioned in planning guidance (we do not want Needham Market to merge with Stowmarket). This development is outside the settlement boundary. However, it is good there is a high percentage of much needed affordable housing. Nevertheless there is concern about traffic generation. Wendy requested that should this be approved there is a CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) contribution to better access at Needham Market Station. Mid Suffolk’s Planning Committee unanimously approved the application.

General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) Mike and Wendy attended a presentation about this on Thursday, March 15.

Submitted on Wednesday, March 21

Com Res Residents Consultation There is to be a briefing on Tuesday, March 20 for councillors about the telephone consultation with residents about the possible merger of Babergh and Mid Suffolk Council. Mike and Wendy support a referendum on this subject for Mid Suffolk as Babergh are having a referendum. It’s only fair that both sides should have a say on the subject.

Improved access to Needham Market Railway Station We must give County Councillor Anne Whybrow and our MP Jo Churchill a big thank you for arranging for us to take the petition for better access

Mid Suffolk District Councillors Mike Norris: mike.norris@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720871 Wendy Marchant: wendy.marchant@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720965

The Licensing Panel agreed to the lifting of these conditions.

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for Needham Market to the Ministry of Transport in London. It looks as if we may actually see Minister Chris Graying himself. At the time of writing this is planned for Wednesday, March 28. Also thanks are due to the town council who have always given their support to this project from 2011/12 when they financially supported a feasibility study, as did Mid Suffolk and Suffolk County Council, which Wendy had campaigned for. Thanks to Jen Overett who started this petition and is making arrangements for the train journey, and Town Councillor Terence Carter who has persistently brought up this subject.

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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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ADVERTORIAL

BUILDBASE TRULY IS COMMUNITY BASED Buildbase is one of the UK’s fastest growing builder’s merchants.

Stowmarket Buildbase opened in 2017, employs 10 people and has two delivery lorries covering the Stowmarket area. With branches up and down the country, the success of Buildbase has been built on understanding the needs of the trade professional and has developed specifically to meet those demands with massive stocks, top quality products, competitive pricing, reliable delivery, specialist staff and exceptional customer service.

Stowmarket Branch Manager Ian Bell is especially proud of his branches customer service reputation: “Our product range is extensive and Buildbase is generally regarded as the go-to supplier for everything from bricks and timber to sand and landscaping products, not forgetting Hirebase Stowmarket for plant and tool hire. Our customers tell us it’s our friendly, professional service from a team of industry experts which keeps them coming back again and again.”

On Friday, April 20, Stowmarket Buildbase host An Evening with Roy & Debbie Hudd at 7.30pm with tickets (£10/£8 concessions) available from The Regal in Stowmarket. Buildbase fund the evening so every penny taken will be split between Cancer Research UK and Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs.

“This fundraising activity is very important to us as we are committed to giving back to the community which supports our business,” explains Will Merry the Sales Development Manager based at Stowmarket. “I have only recently joined the team here and although we are a national brand our commitment to the local community is strong and everyone in the branch gets involved.”

“We understand the industry and work closely with our customers to ensure they meet their deadlines, within budget. Our team can advise and help select appropriate products and our delivery service is efficient and prompt. Time is money as they say!”

You may be surprised to know that Ian and his team at Stowmarket Buildbase won a national award in 2016 for fundraising activities and has raised in excess of £16,000 for charity in the last five years. The business is currently partnered with Cancer Research UK and hopes to raise £100,000 towards their work. Stowmarket Buildbase is also supporting the work of Stowmarket ASD Saturday Clubs for youngsters with autism and regularly hires the Regal Cinema to show up-to-date films with the proceeds from ticket sales and the raffle donated to the two charities.

PICTURE: By Tony Bell

OUR NEW JOINERY SHOWROOM IS NOW OPEN BUILDBASE STOWMARKET Pop in today for quality windows, doors and stairs from big credible brands, with expert advice from Ian and his Stowmarket team.

VISIT: Stowmarket Business Park, Stowmarket, IP14 2ED CALL: 01449 778444 EMAIL: stowmarket@buildbase.co.uk

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NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROMWASTE FACILITY

Spring shut downs The site will be undergoing routine cleaning and maintenance between April 15 and May 14. Cleaning and maintenance takes place twice a year to ensure the integrity and longevity of the facility. During this planned shutdown, and for the first time since we began operation, the turbine will have a minor service and the superheaters in the boiler will be replaced in part. There will be extra contractors on site, but there should be no impact on the local community.

Want more Suffolk energy-from-waste facility news?

You can now sign up for our twice-yearly e-newsletter. The e-newsletter is packed full of news, from how much waste we have processed to visitors we have welcomed on site. If you would like to receive these then sign up at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/suffolkefwnewsletter Paper copies of the newsletter are available on request by calling 01473 839149 or emailing: suffolkefw@sita.co.uk If you would like to keep in touch more regularly, Suffolk energy-fromwaste is now tweeting site updates and tips on how to reduce, reuse and recycle your waste; follow us on Twitter @suffolkefw.

SUEZ Communities Trust The Suez Communities Trust provides funding to projects that improve community life and the natural environment. It distributes money donated by SUEZ recycling and recover UK, although it is independent and has its own board, which decides which projects to support. Funding is available for projects within a three-mile radius of the Suffolk energy-from-waste site and applications can be made online. If you know a project that could be deserving of the funding please visit: www.suezcommunitiestrust.org.uk Any questions?

If you have any queries about our operations, please do not 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

District Councillor for Creeting St Peter and Stowupland District Council Ward Boundary Review A fresh set of draft proposals has been published by the Boundary Commission for consultation, which runs until April 30. The commission will take account of comments and then publish their final proposals in August.

The aim of the review is to reduce the number of district councillors and set up wards with a similar number of electors. These new draft proposals show Stowupland joined with Haughley, Wetherden and Old Newton, Dagworth and Gipping, but not with Creeting St Peter. This new ward, if agreed, would elect two councillors. I had hoped that Stowupland and Creeting St Peter would have remained together, with the addition of another parish to bring the number of electors up to the required level, but this now looks unlikely unless there is a weight of adverse comments made to the commission within the consultation period. The current draft proposal for Creeting St Peter is for the parish to be included, along with Creeting St Mary, in an enlarged Needham Market ward electing two councillors. If agreed and confirmed, the changes will take effect at the May 2019 elections.

Merger with Babergh Little has been heard in the last month, but members will be hearing the results of the telephone survey of residents before the end of March.

Hopefully, in the light of Babergh’s decision to hold a public vote on the proposal to merge, MSDC will also hold a public vote. I will definitely be pressing for a public vote. It is clearly unfair for Babergh residents to vote whether or not to join with Mid Suffolk, but not give Mid Suffolk the same opportunity.

NatWest Bank, Stowmarket MSDC have purchased the building which, for many years, has housed NatWest Bank, and before that National Provincial Bank. There are a number of potential uses for the building, including the possibility of it forming a front entrance to the John Peel Centre.

Council Tax Residents should have received their council tax bills. These show that MSDC have raised their charge by 0.5%, compared with a 5% increase by SCC and a 6.8% for the police.

Keith Welham keith.welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 673185

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Friday, April 6, 10am-noon: Coffee and Networking Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday, April 20, 6.45am: Breakfast – NEW VENUE Finborough Hall, Great Finborough, Stowmarket IP14 3EF To book online follow the link at: https://stowmarketchamber.co.uk/networking-events

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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NEWS SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA)

CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE

In the autumn of 2016, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no. 4494/16.

I went to Belarus earlier than usual this year to meet the group of children who will be coming to us this summer. I travelled just before the ‘Beast from the East’ hit our area, but rather than missing all the cold weather I found myself in temperatures up to minus 22! Many of the homes I visited were unbearably hot as the heating is state controlled and to avoid pipes freezing it is kept at a constant high.

Full details can be found 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 in the summer as the comments from the SPA and all it’s member parishes, giving the comments extra weight because they come from a significant number of local communities, representing over 11,000 registered voters. The SPA member parishes are Baylham, Barham, Bramford, Claydon and Whitton, Great Blakenham, Little Blakenham, Needham Market, Nettlestead and Somersham.

The SPA recently held a meeting with BMSDC Planning to find out the latest position on Reserved Matters. It was confirmed that there is no date planned for the application to be considered by the Planning Committee and there are still several major issues where information is still required or where the technical experts have not yet made their comments. These include wildlife and the environment, transport and drainage.

I met with many of the children who had been to the UK on previous visits and delivered letters and gifts from their host families. The children are so happy that they are still remembered and as soon as I get to their school they all come running out to greet me. I also spent some time with several English classes as they all look forward to being able to practise speaking with a ‘real’ English person.

We were due to bring a group of 14 children this year, but just before leaving I was introduced to a child I simply could not leave behind. She is eight years old, but incredibly small for her age and having had a mother who was an alcoholic for the duration of the pregnancy suffers with both learning and physical disabilities together with poor health. Yet despite this she remains a happy and smiling child who will really benefit from time spent in the UK.

It was also confirmed that the station in Great Blakenham is no longer being considered as part of the plan and that public transport for the development would take the form of shuttle buses from Stowmarket station. If you would like to comment on this or any other matter relating to Reserved Matters, the Planning Committee has said that, because of the unusual scale and nature of the application, they are still accepting comments.

At the end of August there will be a group trip to Belarus and many people from this area will be joining us. This is a project based trip and we will be visiting many families, helping where possible using our pooled resources and skills. We will also be visiting the Children’s Cancer Hospital in Minsk and several social shelters which are a cross between an orphanage and a foster home. We will be taking as many clothes as possible for the children we will encounter so together with the need for clothing for our group arriving in July we really are making a major appeal to everyone to donate clothing for children aged three to 16 years, especially in the six to 11 years range as this should cover the majority of the children we will see or who will be visiting us.

The SPA also asked if the developer could provide more detailed information about their responses to the comments made by the SPA last year on the application. Planning agreed to forward this request and we await their response. We remain committed to highlighting the issues of concern to residents and will use every opportunity to press for the best result for our community. As part of this process, we are meeting with Planning on a regular basis.

All contributions are greatly appreciated and can be dropped in to our charity shop in Needham Market or I am happy to arrange collection. Also required are basic medicines and for each child we try to collect the following items: Lemsip, decongestant capsules or drops, vapour rub, menthol nasal sticks, Immodium (or similar), menthol crystals, Sudacrem cream, oil of cloves or similar, digital thermometers, cold sore cream, Iglue mouth ulcer cream, Paracetamol or Ibuprofen tablets.

For further information, please email SPA Clerk Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com

So little can mean so very much.

SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / 07771 550868

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED THIS SUMMER AT HOPS HOPS Mid Suffolk is a small local charity providing activity clubs for children and young people with severe physical, sensory, behavioural and learning disabilities.

The children and young people are supported in play by teenage volunteers recruited from local high schools in the Mid Suffolk area.

Volunteers give up their time during school holidays and weekend. We are now recruiting volunteers for the summer of 2018.

HOPS (Holiday Opportunity Play Scheme) have recently gone through a refurbishment process, kindly supported by the young professionals of PPG. Part of the refurbishment work was clearing the very overgrown back garden at our base over in Thorndon to make way for mud kitchens kindly made by Stowmarket Meadlands Men’s Shed (SMMS).

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Once installation was complete representatives from SMMS visited HOPS to see the children and young people enjoying activities. A number of the children were busy getting muddy and messy at the outdoor mud kitchens.

This visit and discussion on the day resulted in Alan from the Men’s Shed making a sensory busy board. The children have been delighted with his creation (as shown in the picture).

This sensory board full of switches, bells, springs and strings has bought imaginations to life. Some fantastic roles play has been going on with captains of ships sailing the seas, traveling through time in a Tardis, and being in control of space rockets at NASA. Our grateful thanks go to both organisations that have supported HOPS. For more information about HOPS, volunteering or getting involved visit www.midsuffolkhops.org.uk or find us on Facebook: HOPSmidsuffolk

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET MODEL RAILWAY EXHIBITION It’s full steam ahead for Stowmarket Railway Club’s annual Model Railway Exhibition on Sunday, April 22. This popular event, the largest in the area, is a high point in the railway enthusiasts’ calendar which attracts exhibitors and visitors from far and wide.

As usual the venue will be Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre in Gainsborough Road, Stowmarket IP14 1LH, from 10.30am-5pm.

The exhibition has an excellent reputation for the high quality of its exhibits. This year there will be 16 layouts on view in a variety of scales, including Weslo Steels (EM), Deyton Heights (HO), Chaam (HO), Midsummer End (N), Iceni Cement (OO), The Wagon Works (O), Rixworth Green (EM), Bedford Road (O), Nene Wharf (OO), Treloar Sidings (O), Lochaber (O), Box Road (OO), Fenwick TMD (OO), Ringsford (OO), Sefton Yard (O) and Newlands Farm (Gn15).

There will also be 14 trade stands where models, books, tools and equipment will be on sale. In addition, refreshments will be available, there is wheelchair access and free parking. Admission: adults £4, accompanied children free.

For further details contact 01449 771360 or visit: www.stowrailclub.org.uk

2018 WOOLPIT STEAM RALLY The 2018 Woolpit Steam Rally will be taking place over the weekend of June 2 and 3 at Warren Farm, Wetherden IP14 3JX by kind permission of R & P Baker. This follows on from the hugely successful 30th anniversary show last year which saw £19,800 donated to local charities and community groups.

What makes Woolpit Steam different from many other shows is the organisers desire to present to the public historic and rare machinery not normally seen on display. This encourages the true enthusiast to travel from all parts of the country, but equally captures the imagination of the casual visitor.

Woolpit Steam is probably best known for its selection of rare and unusual veteran tractors and this year is no exception with around 20 pre-1930 tractors anticipated. This is also to be complemented by a one off gathering of very early commercial vehicles and an expanded display of steam engines.

A further 70 tractors up to 1965 will also be on show, and over 80 stationary engines driving an array of mills, pumps and other machinery together with a wood sawing display will all add to the atmosphere of a bygone age. Vintage cars, motorcycles, commercial and military vehicles are all represented and a number of models and displays will provide something of interest for everybody.

If you are looking for a gift or that elusive spare part then there are over 50 craft, trade and auto jumble stalls to tempt you. There is also hot and cold food, a licensed bar and ice creams. A traditional fun fair including electric yachts, dodgems and side stalls, together with Punch & Judy and a full ring programme on both days will help keep the family entertained.

THE REGAL IN APRIL It’s amazing to believe that Easter is already upon us, but we have some Egg-cellent films to keep you entertained. Don’t worry, the films are much better than my jokes!

I, Tonya: black comedy starring Margot Robbie and Allison Janney. Competitive ice skater Tonya Harding rises amongst the ranks at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, but her future in the activity is thrown into doubt when her ex-husband intervenes.

Red Sparrow: thriller starring Jennifer Lawrence and Joel Edgerton. Ballerina Dominika Egorova is recruited to ‘Sparrow School,’ a Russian intelligence service where she is forced to use her body as a weapon. Her first mission, targeting a C.I.A. agent, threatens to unravel the security of both nations.

Finding Your Feet: comedy starring Timothy Spall, Joanna Lumley and Imelda Staunton. Back by popular demand. On the eve of retirement a middle class, judgmental snob discovers her husband has been having an affair with her best friend and is forced into exile with her bohemian sister who lives on an impoverished inner-city council estate.

Peter Rabbit: family adventure starring and voiced by James Corden, Domhnall Gleeson and Sia. Adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s classic tale of a rebellious rabbit trying to sneak into a farmer’s vegetable garden.

A Wrinkle in Time: family adventure starring Storm Reid, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon. New from Disney, after the disappearance of her scientist father, three peculiar beings send Meg, her brother and her friend to space in order to find him.

Tomb Raider: adventure starring Alicia Vikander and Dominic West. Lara Croft, the fiercely independent daughter of a missing adventurer, must push herself beyond her limits when she finds herself on the island where her father disappeared.

My Generation: documentary voiced by Michael Caine. The cultural revolution that occurred in 1960s England is explored with Paul McCartney, Joan Collins, Roger Daltrey, Lulu and many more.

Walk like a Panther: comedy starring Stephen Graham and Stephen Tompkinson. A group of 1980s wrestlers are forced to don the lycra once last time when their beloved local pub is threatened with closure.

Game Night: comedy starring Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams. A group of friends who meet regularly for game nights find themselves trying to solve a murder mystery.

Mary Magdalene: drama starring Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix.

Chronicles Jesus’s story from the point of view of Mary Magdalene, a figure who has been the topic of controversy, dissent and conflicting viewpoints for centuries.

Ready Player One: adventure starring Olivia Cooke and Letitia Wright. When the creator of a virtual reality world called the OASIS dies, he releases a video in which he challenges all OASIS users to find his Easter egg, which will give the finder his fortune.

Live on stage we have An Evening with Roy and Debbie Hudd on April 20 and A Night of Country Music with Shaun Loughrey on April 30.

Gates are open from 9am to 5pm on both days and admission is adults £5 on Saturday / £6 on Sunday, and children £2 on either day. Car parking is free and the show is easily accessible from Junction 47a on the A14 eastbound, or Junction 49 west bound.

For further information contact David Seeley on 01449 737443 (after 7.30pm) or via: www.woolpit-steam.org.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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OUT & ABOUT GUESTHOUSE BY EASTERN ANGLES Creeting St Mary Jubilee Hall, Saturday, April 21 at 7.30pm “It’s 1962. I am 16 years old and I am on the Venetian bridge with Brian Joy from the Golden Sands Guesthouse and he has bought me a 99 and I am on top of the world. Now I am 16, I know what boys want and why you mustn’t give it to them.”

Tensions are high in Clacton-on-Sea. Guesthouse owner Val has been taken ill and both her estranged daughter Lisa and ambitious granddaughter Chloe have arrived to lend a hand. Chloe is close to Val, having spent most of her childhood raised by her grandmother. But Lisa and her mother are not on best terms. In this poignant and beautifully observed drama, three generations of women have to set aside differences as they decide the fate of their familyrun B&B. Guesthouse asks what’s it like when the town you were proud to grow up in becomes impoverished. What does it take to keep going? And what does it take to face the truth?

Written by Essex playwright Nicola Werenowska and directed by Tony Casement, this new play will tour across the East of England.

Tickets (£10 / £9) are available from: Glynis Clint 01449 720740 / Chris Bingley 01449 720324

BARHAM HALL OPEN AIR CONCERT Claydon & Barham Church presents an eleventh Open-Air Concert in the gardens of Barham Hall by kind permission of Mr and Mrs Burrows with music by the Essential Sounds 18-piece big band and Pete Wayre on Saturday, July 7.

Open from 5.30pm for garden viewing, music from 7-10pm, ending with a Last Night of the Proms type session.

Essential Sounds is an East Anglian based modern big band line up of 18 experienced musicians and top quality singers in the style of Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra and Michael Buble. Pete Wayre is a renowned and award winning vocalist who is one of the leading names on the 1940s event circuit.

Admission strictly by ticket, number limited to 450. Bring your own picnic, drink and seats/blankets. Early bird ticket price £11, full price £14 after May 31 if any remain. Cheques payable to Claydon & Barham PCC to be sent with stamped self-addressed envelope to Roger Colthorpe, 5 Phillipps Road, Barham IP6 0AZ. Contact for queries: rogercolthorpe@aol.com / 01473 831079

THE PARISH CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST PRODUCE STALL Saturday, May 5, 9-11am Outside Penvest / opposite corner to the church Selling homemade cakes, pies and preserves along with plants and produce COFFEE MORNING We will also be holding a coffee morning from 9.30-11.30am in the ARK serving homemade cakes and refreshments All proceeds to church funds

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OUT & ABOUT STRIKE AT FORDS DAGENHAM PLANT This was one of the headlines you would have seen in 1968 when one small group of machinists went on strike for equal pay with male employees working on similar tasks.

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB

These brave ladies were taking on the British Government and The Ford Parent Company in the USA. However, as Ford in the UK had just launched their new Cortina range and the strikers produced Contina seats, this was an embarrassing and potentially very expensive disruption.

Industrial relations in the UK were not good at this time so Ford (USA) put pressure on the government to stop the strike or they would move the whole Dagenham production facility to the continent.

Hardly a likely story line for a musical? However, Made in Dagenham has been performed in the West End, been turned into a film and continues to attract large audiences with its strong story line, and its true!

SODS, your local drama group, will be bringing Made in Dagenham to Stowmarket’s Regal Theatre from Wednesday 9 to Saturday, May 12 at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm performance on Saturday 12. Tickets are now available from the Regal box office: 01449 768825

STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday, April 8: 5 mile walk around Bradfield St George and Little Welnetham. Park and meet at Bradfield St George church car park at 10.30am / GR: TL 907599. Leader: 01449 612093 Sunday, April 15: 6 mile circular walk around Botesdale. Park on street in Botesdale and meet at the war memorial at 10.30am / GR: TM 048758. Leader: 07905 282420 Sunday, April 22: 5 mile walk around Stanstead and Glemsford. Park at Stanstead church car park or nearby in the street and meet at the church car park at 10am / GR: TL 843493. Leader: 07795 420512 Sunday, April 29: 8.5 mile brisk walk to Alton Water. Park and meet at Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead at 9.30am / GR: TM 167409. Leader: 01449 672168

A new (to us anyway) judge, Howard King, visited the club on February 12 to judge our Open 3 Competition. He gave constructive, useful comments and only gave good marks for good pictures. We would welcome him back again as he enjoyed joining in with our banter.

On February we welcomed Mike Lloyd back to judge our wildlife competition.

He gave a very knowledgeable critique of both the wildlife subject matter and the photography. First was Kittiwake Feeding its Chick by Roy Fidler (pictured), second was Lackford Robin by Keith Hyland and third was Courting Puffins again by Roy Fidler. Well done to both of you.

NEXT MEETINGS Monday, April 9: Colin Stubly Shield for Portraiture and the Audio Visual Salver – both to be judged by John Wrigley Monday, April 23: AGM/Club Night Monday, May 14: Lecture 4: Landscape by Justin Minns New members are always very welcome at the club. All you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras. Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket, IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Mondays of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30pm start. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us?

For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

MID SUFFOLK VIDEO CLUB Our March meeting was most interesting. We had the pleasure of hearing from Doug Hammond. Doug applied for a job at the BBC in 1963 and was asked for an interview then trained to be a cameraman. This was about the time that The Television Centre opened up with eight studios. Doug took us through the development of TV and equipment up to the latest in LED technology. He explained how cameras have come from large bulky items to so small that it is possible to attach one to an Eagle flying round the Alps.

He was sent to Glasgow and became involved in filming Doctor Finlay and outside broadcasting including GrandStand and The Great Climb which documented the ascent of the Old Man of Hoy over a period of two days in July 1967 by six of the top climbers of the day. The crew had to face hurricane type winds which blew all their tents and small equipment around.

Having endured these conditions they managed to produce an iconic film that is a classic in rock climbing circles, all while broadcasting live so viewers could watch.

STOWMARKET STROKE SUPPORT GROUP Come and join us at our 10th Anniversary Celebration with coffee and home-made cakes at the United Reform Church Hall, Stowmarket on Saturday, May 19 from 10am to 12.30pm.

Everyone welcome.

Our group meets weekly to support local people of all ages who have had a stroke.

For further information please contact Mrs Anne Helliwell: 01449 673237

“Together we can conquer stroke”

Doug then went on to be a floor manager, producer and executive producer.

For two hours we heard of the progress of television but the time flew by we all enjoyed a fascinating insight into the world of television.

We hold our meetings the first Tuesday of the month at 1.30pm at Hill Side, Stowmarket IP14 2BD. For information contact membership secretary Ann Evans: 01728 861566

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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OUT & ABOUT

bRAVO! THEATRE WORKSHOPS

NEEDHAM MARKET AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY Our AGM in February saw some changes to the committee. We have new event organisers as Brian and Jill have stepped down after many years, and Joy Smart has also retired from the committee after more years than anyone can remember. We thank them all for all their hard work.

There are places on the committee if anyone would like to join. We usually have about three meetings a year, and new ideas of things to do and places to go would be welcome. We will be meeting soon to start on the 2019 programme.

On Saturday, March 10, bRAVO! Theatre Workshops Choir performed in a show to raise funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

The choir, affectionately know as The Spaghetti Loopers, were accompanied by Diego Damigella, one of our music and singing teachers. Diego played the bass guitar on a loop system where you play and record multiple phrases until it sounds like a band (Ed Sheeran does something similar on his acoustic guitar). More than 50 children came together to form the choir for the show and they had been rehearsing for several weeks.

The event was a huge success and the crowd enjoyed an amazing show, listening to songs from the charts past and present. We would like to thank everyone involved in the event which raised £540; the students and their parents, everyone who baked cakes and donated raffle prizes. Special thanks go to Treadfirst Stowmarket, SBC Needham Market, the Museum of East Anglian Life, Molls & Dolls Stowmarket and Dominos Pizza Stowmarket for their donations. Thanks also to Phosphene Stowmarket. bRAVO! Theatre Workshops has been running for six years and we will be opening a School of Rock very soon. If you want to learn to play drums, bass or guitar, or singing/song writing and you want to play in a band, please visit our website for more information: www.bravotheatreworkshops.co.uk

March’s meeting was cancelled due to the bad weather, so we look forward to spring with Wildlife of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths with Alexander Bass in April. This is a change to the programme, with International Escapades now being in June. The May meeting will see Erysimums with Simon Weeks and an outing to Pensthorpe and Lexham Hall on May 24.

Meetings are usually held in Needham Market Community Centre at 7.30pm on the first Thursday of the month. We have varied, interesting and entertaining speakers, refreshments and a bring-and-buy plant stall. We also organise coach trips and evening visits to local places of interest. If you are interested, just turn up at one of the meetings or visit: www.nmdhs.onesuffolk.net

At our AGM in February a committee was elected to carry Needham in Bloom forward for another year.

We are planning to replace the concrete containers in the High Street as we feel they are past their use by date. New containers packed with flowers will brighten the street and give a new look.

Work has started in the sensory garden with the cutting back of the ivy to let some light in. More plants will go in later in the spring. The bulbs are looking good at the moment.

STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

We will have a team taking part in the mayor’s quiz – always an entertaining event.

Wednesday, April 4: Must Farm – Britain’s Pompeii by Alex Fisher from Suffolk Archaeology

There will be a plant sale in May, so there is plenty of time to divide some perennials and donate them. Details will follow in a later edition.

Suffolk Archaeology is an independent archaeological company based in Needham Market. Alex Fisher is their outreach officer. He will tell us about the work of Suffolk Archaeology and also look at the Must Farm dig, a Bronze Age Settlement in the fens which was destroyed by fire, causing it to collapse into a river channel, preserving the contents in situ.

We are a small, mature group and we give our time freely to maintain our areas. Needham Market is a large community and it would be nice to see some new faces at our meetings.

Wednesday, May 2: Haughley Castle by Edward Martin

If you care about the appearance of the town and think you could contribute in any way, we especially need young, fit volunteers. Please contact Vera on 723424.

The motte and bailey of the 11th-century Haughley Castle is still a big landscape feature in the village. The motte rises behind the church and the inner bailey is now the village duck pond. Edward Martin, a former county archaeologist, is an author and speaker on wide ranging areas of Suffolk’s history.

Wednesday, June 6: AGM and Ipswich Suffragettes by Joy Bounds This year we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 1918 Representation of the People Act which granted women (over 30) the right to vote for the first time. Joy will look at the long campaign which led to this in Suffolk and especially Ipswich women who were involved. She has covered the subject of Ipswich suffragettes in her book A Song of their Own. We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall (IP14 4BQ) where there is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members. For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

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STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB The April meeting is a members’ workshop. New members and visitors are always welcome; why not come along and see what we do? Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in Woolpit Village Hall IP30 9QX. For further details contact chairman Vicki Hease: 01449 770900

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SCHOOLS / SPORT JIGSAW PRE-SCHOOL (SPROUGHTON) AT NEEDHAM MARKET

TUESDAY TOTS GROUP

After Easter Jigsaw Pre-School (Sproughton) at Needham Market will be open from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday.

New term begins on Tuesday, April 17.

We offer childcare from the age of two years to school age, with school intakes into various catchment schools.

If you would like more information about our setting or to enquire about availability, please contact Laura: info@jigsawsproughton.org.uk / 01449 722717

Meeting at St John the Baptist Church, Needham Market

A warm welcome to all babies and pre-school children along with their parents, grandparents or carers. We meet on Tuesday mornings in term time from 9.30-11am in the ARK in King William Street. Just £1 per family for each session which includes teas/coffees, fruit drinks and snacks Enjoy toys, crafts and singing with actions; parents/carers welcome to join in

We look forward to hearing from you.

Facebook: Jigsaw Pre School, Needham Market The Drift, School Street, Needham Market IP6 8BB

SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY With a good intake of new junior and senior students joining, everything at Scorpion Academy is looking very positive indeed. A very large turnout of juniors attended our recent Nerf Gun Sunday in which we cross train between karate and Nerf; these sessions are proving very popular with our younger members.

STONHAM ASPAL PRIMARY SCHOOL On Monday, February 19 we held a share afternoon when parents and carers come into school to spend time with their children, looking at the work they have done so far this term. The children really enjoy this special time. An amazing 58 parents and carers were able to attend. Every space around the school was filled with children and their grown-ups. It was lovely to see how proud the children were of their work.

On Thursday, February 22 we were extremely lucky to have a visit from Will Mabbitt, author of a number of very popular children’s books: The Unlikely Adventures of Mabel Jones, Mabel Jones and the Forbidden City, Mabel Jones and the Doomsday Book, This is NOT a Fairy Tale, This is not a Bedtime Story and I Can Only Draw Worms. He started the day with an assembly where he explained to the children how he became an author and gave them some top tips about how to get started. He had the whole school completely enthralled.

He then spent the rest of the day visiting each class to lead workshops on creative writing and share more stories from his books. It was a fabulous day and really inspired the children.

In the week beginning Monday, February 26 the weather unfortunately took over. The exceptional weather conditions created by the ‘Beast from the East’ and Storm Emma forced the school to close for four days which is unprecedented. During this time a number of school events had to be cancelled including World Book Day, Year 6 Sharing Assembly and a school disco!

We are now getting back to normal and putting plans in place to re-arrange all the missed events.

If you would like to know more, our website is a good source of information or contact the office to arrange to come and visit us. www.stonhamaspal.suffolk.sch.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

We have plenty to look forward to and as always all new members receive one month of free training. Not many clubs offer that deal! Throughout the year we have three coloured belt exams, two black belt exams, seminars, interclub tournaments, Nerf Gun Sundays, weekend martial arts training camp in Great Yarmouth, Combs Fete demo, Stowmarket Carnival Parade, BTA and UFKKWA sparring championships, charity fundraising, judge and referee training courses and lots more.

With the academy receiving Hall of Fame awards (School of the Year, Master of the Year and Grandmaster of the Year) you can be assured that you will receive the very best tuition in universal karate/TDK, muay thai and kickboxing. We run separate junior (four-13 years) and senior (14 years upwards) classes throughout the week and all classes are personally taught

by Mark JR Trent who has over 40 years of martial arts experience and holds the title of grandmaster/kancho 8th dan blackbelt in karate, tae kwon do, kickboxing and the arjan (master) level in muay thai. He is also a former three times kickboxing champion.

A big thank you to our wonderful team of instructors: Senior Master Andy Lewis (5th dan), Master Hannah Povah (4th dan), Senior Instructors Mel Walmsley (2nd dan) and Mike Oglesby (2nd dan), Coach Dave Fell (3rd dan), Arjan (Master) Steve Gill and our junior blackbelt instructors Kiera Holder, Maisie Allen, Lilirose Catlin Fell, Sam Corsie, Matthew Daly and Luke Ellis.

For further information please contact Mark: scorpionacademy@live.co.uk / 07708 644162 We look forward to meeting and training with you. www.ufkkwa.webs.com

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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB The picture you see here may well be a distant memory of a particularly savage spell of weather, but it illustrates perfectly why we are able to play all year round. The as yet unnamed dome stayed up during the week of snow, albeit after a couple of early morning battles. Coaching was postponed due to it being a bit dark inside, but social play was able to continue unaffected.

The snow will have long gone and the green shoots of recovery may well be visible (where have I heard that before?) and our attention is being drawn to the upcoming clay court season. The French Open won’t be until May, but there are a series of ‘red dirt’ events throughout March and April to really test the endurance and fitness of the top players. The recurring theme of injury is still hanging over professional tennis with Wawrinka out with a dodgy knee and Nadal similarly side-lined with a poorly hip. Our very own Andy Murray continues his recovery from hip surgery and is hoping to begin practise at the end of March. Don’t hold your breath, people.

The vicious weather has allowed our winter league pairs to rearrange their own fixtures up until April 1 so by now we should have a fairly clear idea of how many pairs are being promoted. By my reckoning it will be quite a few judging by the number of smiling faces seen from the Stowmarket players over the last few months.

The program begins to gather a little momentum with the better weather and you may have had the unforgettable pleasure of one of my assemblies over the last few weeks. As usual we are casting the talent net as wide as possible to encourage as many new faces to come along and have a bash. There are sessions suitable for everyone, whether junior or senior, so get in touch and we can start you playing.

STOWMARKET CRICKET CLUB LOOKING FORWARD TO ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL SEASON After back-to-back titles, Stowmarket Cricket Club is looking forward to a successful year in Division 4 of the Two Counties League. As well as running three weekend sides, a midweek X1 side plays in the local Wednesday evening league and a vibrant youth section runs three teams in respective county age group formats (Years 1-4, 5-6 and 7-9).

Stowmarket prides itself on providing affordable cricket for all abilities and ages, so why not come along and give it a go?

Stowmarket indoor nets are underway at Ipswich School. One session remains on March 25 (8-10pm) before we venture outside on Thursday evenings starting on April 5 at Chilton Fields from 6pm. Our youth season starts on March 26 with a registration and fun evening at 6pm followed by weekly coaching sessions on Mondays through to the end of July.

Our junior award-winning cricketers are pictured with main sponsor, Andrew Bingham.

For further information please contact Clive Witherly: 01359 240019 / wigg51@btinternet.com

See you on court!

Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com

NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB Hello again, from NMBC, After a very successful outdoor season a large number of our bowlers are enjoying indoor bowling at the Meadlands. Any member wanting information about indoor bowling can contact me, David Hindley, on 01449 613144.

The green was successfully put to bed and the green team have been busy with maintenance, although as I write five inches of snow is proving a bit of a hindrance! Anyone interested in joining the green team should contact Alastair Bailie on 01449 720759.

Our winter socials have again proved popular with good attendances, the ‘Big Quiz’ was won by Captain Cook’s mutineers after a close contest with Keith’s Angels and we will have finished off with cash bingo by the time you read this article. Plans for summer events are already under way.

The opening drive will be on Saturday, April 14 at 2pm, or Sunday 15 if wet on the Saturday; please bring food for an American tea. Raffle prizes would be appreciated.

MEET AND GREET DAYS AT CROWLEY PARK These have been very successful and will resume on Saturdays, April 21 and 28 at 10am so come along and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit. Bowls and basic instruction will be provided and 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. NMBC contacts: Pat Hadden 01473 831308 / Alistair Bailie 01449 720759

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FREE HEARING CHECKS IN STOWMARKET Ten million people in the UK – one in six of us – have some degree of hearing loss. It’s surprisingly tricky to spot gradual hearing loss as our brains are very good at compensating, so we’re not even aware of how much we’ve lost until things are quite far advanced.

The good news is that there are things you can do to about it.

The bad news is that there are potentially serious consequences if you choose to ignore hearing loss, including an increased risk of dementia.

Local hearing care specialists The Hearing Care Centre, offers award winning hearing care services from 25 centres across East Anglia. This year they are celebrating their 20th year in business and they hope to continue to raise awareness about the prevalence of hearing loss, its effect on everyday life and the potential dangers of leaving hearing loss untreated.

Audiologist Karen Finch and her team will be holding a free Hearing Care Centre Open Day at their local hearing clinic at StowHealth between 9am and 5pm on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 April.

During the event they will be providing free hearing assessments (usually £20), along with complimentary professional advice about your hearing test results and discussing possible solutions that could help improve your hearing. All services are available by appointment only.

To book your appointment call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330 or visit www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk for more information.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS DANCEEAST OFFER DANCE FOR PARKINSON’S & CARE TO DANCE? DanceEast offers a range of dance to health classes including those for participants with Parkinson’s and Dementia.

Based on English National Ballet’s contemporary and classical repertoire, Dance for Parkinson’s classes provide a fun and informal way for participants to discover the themes, choreography and music of the ballets. Participants also have the special opportunity to attend exclusive behind-the-scenes events and see the company perform.

This programme is proven to support people with Parkinson’s to develop confidence and strength, while temporarily relieving some participants of symptoms in everyday life. Classes are expressive, creative and promote feelings of freedom from the physical and social constraints of having Parkinson’s. Classes take place on Wednesday afternoons in term time.

Booking is essential prior to attending Dance for Parkinson’s classes.

Care to Dance? classes are designed for family carers and those they support in the early stages of Dementia to share the experience together. The classes create the opportunity to socialise with like-minded people, benefit from improved mental and physical wellbeing and most importantly have fun in a high quality, energising dance class.

Dance for Parkinson’s: Wednesday, April 18 – Wednesday, July 4 (half term: Wednesday, May 30) Care to Dance?: Thursday, April 19 – Thursday, July 5 (half term: Thursday, May 31) DanceEast, Jerwood DanceHouse, Foundry Lane, Ipswich IP4 1DW Box Office: 01473 295230 / www.danceeast.co.uk

HOME WORSHIP In March, Dr Ian Flowers spoke of the beautiful Story of Ruth. Once upon a time there was lady called Naomi. She and her husband Elimelech had two sons, Chilion and Mahlon. Unfortunately, there was a famine in the country they were living in, so they travelled to neighbouring Moab and set up home there. In time Chilion married Orpath and Mahon married Ruth, both girls from the land of Moab.

Very sadly after some years Naomi’s husband Elimelech died, followed by her two sons Chileon and Mahlon. Naomi, of course was heartbroken, and she decided to go back to her home country.

She told her two daughters-in-law that they must go back to their own families, to their own country of Moab where they belonged.

Orpath was sad to leave Naomi, but went back to her family. But Ruth said to Naomi: “Entreat me not to leave you, nor to return from following after you. Whither thou goest I will go, where thou lodgest I will lodge. They people shall be my people, and thy God my God, and where thou diest, I will die.”

So Naomi and Ruth took their sad journey back to Israel to Naomi’s kin’s people. Naomi had a kinsman called Boaz, a weathy farmer.

Naomi told Ruth to go and glean in the fields which belonged to Boaz. This was the custom in those days. Boaz saw Ruth and liked her. He told his workers to drop plenty of wheat for Ruth to gather.

It was also the custom in those days, when a woman was widowed for her nearest kinsman to marry her. Naomi had a nearer kinsman to Boaz, an older man, but Boaz persuaded him that he wouldn’t be interested.

So Boaz and Ruth were married and had a son. Naomi to her joy became a grandmother in her old age. Ruth and Boaz’s great grandson was King David, and going down the years through the geneology eventually Jesus Christ was born – descended from Ruth and Boaz.

In April Dawn Spurling from Christchurch will lead Home Worhip and tell us about the Christian work which she has been doing.

We always meet at 10am on the first Monday morning of the month at 137 High Street, Needham Market. All welcome.

Wendy Marchant

NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH A THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH Does the word “evangelical” mean anything to you? I read something recently that reminded me that the word can be understood in a way that is somewhat removed from the reality. For instance, if the word is used on television it will sometimes be accompanied by a picture or film of people with their hands in the air and perhaps with eyes closed. Often there will be people on a stage resembling a pop group.

Although guitars, drums, pop-style singers, rappers and other types of entertainer, together with audiences that are informal, sing with gusto and sometimes at great length, volume and repetition, may be often found in churches that are called evangelical, I’d simply like to emphasise that these are not the things that define and explain evangelicalism.

What, then, does define and explain it? We need to go to the root of the word itself. The Greek word from which we get our word ‘evangelical’ means ‘good news’. Remember the angel who came to the shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem. He said: “Behold, I bring you good news of great joy, for to you in David’s town this day is born a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.”

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An evangelical church is one which declares to all who will listen, the good news of a Saviour, and that good news is itself defined by the teaching of the Bible, which a truly evangelical church believes to be the inspired Word of God and therefore the supreme authority regarding what should be believed and how people should live.

Peter Kinley MISSIONARY MEETING Tuesday, May 1 at 7.30pm when Roger Prime from the Zimbabwe Partnership Trust will be with us.

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 phone me on 01394 271645, phone or text 07570 558072, or email: peterkinley60@gmail.com www.needhamchurch.org.uk

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CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP 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 babies up to four years, Monday from 9.30-11.15am in term time. Contact Hannah: 07969 482360 Scrabble Club: Monday from 2-4pm. New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm. Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Christians Together Ecumenical Group: Thursday at 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: Saturday 8-10am / Monday, 7-9pm Moosical Fun for your Little One: Sing, dance and play for 0-5s, Tuesday morning from 9.15am-noon in term time.

Osteo Stretch & Exercise: Tuesday, 12.30-1.30pm Karate: Tuesday, 6.30-8.30pm Karate: Wednesday, 5.30-7.30pm (term time) Karate: Friday, 6.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday, 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 ring: 07851 742847

CHURCH CONTACT: Ann Devereux, 01449 721575 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk I’m actually writing this during the ‘cold snap’ caused by the so called ‘Beast from the East’. There’s a very snowy view from my window. I do sincerely hope that spring has well and truly arrived by the time you read this.

According to the calendar, March 1 was the start of Meteorological Spring, but it certainly felt like winter was still in control and the weather hadn’t heeded the meteorologist’s timetable. We were told that this was a very unusual weather event with abnormal temperatures for the time of year, and I wonder what summer will have in store for us. Even more bizarre weather and strange temperatures perhaps?

The effects of climate change seem more pressing when our own lives are disrupted by extraordinary weather patterns, and perhaps we feel the need to consider how we live in the light of this.

However, amongst the hardship caused by the bad weather there were beacons of light as communities rallied round to support and help each other – farmers with tractors clearing roads, 4x4 drivers ferrying NHS staff to work, neighbours popping in on those unable to leave their homes. I hope that however you were impacted you were able to sense that you were part of a community which cares.

We are now in April, and the first of the month is not only April Fools’ Day but Easter Sunday. Easter Day was, and is, a significant day for Christians – a day when the world appeared to have been turned upside down – more peculiar than deep snow and blizzards on March 1 – as the disciples declared that Jesus had risen from the dead.

If the ‘Beast from the East’ briefly disrupted our lives, then Easter Day changed their lives completely and permanently.

I wish you all a sincere Happy Easter.

Reverend Mary Playford

THE PARISH CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST – NEEDHAM MARKET The year seems to be moving on and the weather has really been a mixed bag; we’ve gone from glorious sunny days to cold and snow. Hopefully by the time you read this we will really be into spring and summer is round the corner.

The weather, of course, determines how much work can be done on the roof.

With the external scaffold now up the outside work has begun. The roof has been stripped and inspections are being made as to the extent of the damage caused by water leaks. The render on the outside has been removed and repairs to the windows have also begun. Over the next few weeks a lot of activity will be taking place as we move into the halfway period of the work.

As well as the outside a lot is happening inside with repairs to the major timbers which hold the building together. We have also seen that there are many openings between all the timber joists which has not helped with the heating of the church, so hopefully when completed it should be easier to maintain a warmer church.

This was our report at the beginning of March. We are now nearly three weeks in and the news hasn’t been good. There are a lot of things coming to light that we have not expected. It turned out that there was another roof above the hammerbeams and this has been badly damaged by the wet that has seeped through. Upon examination the clerestory window frames are also rotten and will need to be replaced. It is, however, interesting to see the medieval timbers and nails and you have to marvel at their workman ship that has lasted over 600 years. We have heard in the past that the clerestory

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windows were added at some point and the workmen seem to think that this is the case. This is proving to be a very interesting project, all be it a bit worrying as to the additional work that is going to have to be done.

Our monthly produce stalls have begun; these are always held on the first Saturday of the month. As we are unable to hold these outside the church, we’ve move just opposite to outside Penvest. We have all the usual items for sale including pastries, preserves, cakes and buns, and maybe a few plants.

There will also be a coffee morning in the ARK just round the corner from the Co-Op. With the church being closed our service pattern is as follows: the first and third 10am Sunday Services are held in the ARK (our church hall) in King William Street and the second and fourth Sundays will find us in the back room of the Limes Hotel in the High Street. We have settled well into this routine and it is good to be challenged into looking at something so important in a different light.

You will find a list of our services and their locations on the church door and at: www.needhammarketparishchurch.co.uk If you wish to contact The Rev Diane Williams regarding funerals, baptism or future wedding in the church, (we hope to be back in the church by end of August) her phone number is 01449 720316.

CFL

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