In Touch
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with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone Volume 7 • Issue No. 10 • SEPTEMBER 2017
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR As ‘summer’ draws to an end and holidays become a distant memory I think we all need something to make us laugh. I’ve found the perfect thing. A wonderful little book titled F In Exams by Richard Benson (Published by Summersdale Publications Ltd) has provided much hilarity in my house of late. It’s “full to the brim with funny examples of creative answers from clueless but canny students” and I’ve chosen some of my favourites for you. Enjoy! Q: What is a nitrate? A: It is much cheaper than a day rate. Q: What is a fibula? A: A little lie. Q: Explain the concept of homeostasis. A: It is when you stay at home all day and don’t go out. Q: How high is Mount Everest? A: Depends how much snowfall it has had since it was last measured. Q: Freud stated that the superego contains the moral aspect of one’s personality. Define the term ‘superego’. A: A really fast sports car. Q: What is a co-operative? A: It is a shop which is not as expensive as M&S. Q: Jess has been asked to collect data about the amount of television his friends watch. Think of an appropriate question he could ask them. A: How much TV do you watch? Q: Where was Hadrian’s Wall built? A: Around Hadrian’s garden.
In Touch
with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
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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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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.
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OCTOBER DEADLINE
© 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 Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
10 SEPTEMER 2017 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
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NEWS SHOTLEY PENINSULA CYCLEWAY CAMPAIGN At our AGM on July 6 we voted in a new chairman, Rosie Kirkup. Our previous chairman, Mike Crouch, stood down after several years in that position. Rosie has been our vice-chairman for the last seven years and will be well placed to take over the reins. Some other personnel changes saw Jane Goyder stand down as membership secretary and Mike Crouch move into this role. A full list of our new committee and their contact details can be found at: www.spcc.info. Those attending the AGM also heard of our exciting plans to broaden the main focus of our work. Working with the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Project, an opportunity has arisen to establish a new cycle route across the southern half of the peninsula using existing quiet lanes and bridleways. This route, which only requires some modest work to make it a safe route, would link Ipswich with the foot ferry at Shotley Gate, passing through Freston, Holbrook, Harkstead and Erwarton. The Suffolk Coast and Heaths Project has included this new cycle route in a larger bid for lottery funding and we should hear the outcome of this bid later this year. In much the same vein we have also started to explore a cycle route between Shotley Street and Chelmondiston using lanes and bridleways. While these routes, which use existing lanes and bridleways, are not as direct or ambitious as our long-term aim of creating a new, off-road, community path between Ipswich and Shotley Gate on the northern side of the peninsula, they do offer a much simpler and cheaper way of increasing the cycling network across the peninsula, and reasonably quickly. Finally, we also decided to change our membership arrangements. In future we will not be asking for a fee to become a member of the campaign. All that will be required will be to register online. In the meantime existing members need do nothing as your membership will just continue (unless, of course, you choose otherwise). We will be circulating more on this shortly. For now enjoy the good weather, with all its cycling opportunities
NEWS FROM HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY Training days Our next training afternoons will be on Thursday, September 7 and Wednesday, October 4 when we will be shut from 1pm. Please ring 111 for advice if your query cannot wait until the following day. In an emergency, dial 999. Flu days A reminder of our flu clinics for this year. They will run from 2-6pm as follows: Wednesday, September 27 & Tuesday, October 17 at Holbrook Thursdays, October 5 & 12 at Shotley No appointment is necessary, please just turn up at either site (you don’t have to go to your normal site) and book in at reception. If you are over 65 you have automatic entitlement, those patients under 65 who are identified as eligible will be contacted by letter prior to the clinics starting. Please note that if you are not eligible, we are unable to give private vaccinations at the surgery. Saturday opening We do hold a surgery at Holbrook on Saturdays which the doctors run on a rotational basis. This is for pre-booked appointments only and not for walk ins. We are available to collect prescriptions, but do not have our phone lines open. If you need to see a doctor over the weekend and haven’t pre-booked please ring 111 and they will be able to book you an appointment at the GP+ service in Ipswich or another Suffolk location. Patient Survey Results The results of the GP National Survey 2017 ordered by MORI are now online and the practice is proud to report that every single result was above the national average. Thank you to all those who completed the survey and to the doctors and staff who provide such a valuable service to our patients. Practice Manager Julia Smith
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NEWS HARKSTEAD’S HERITAGE
SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM
The Heritage Lottery Fund has dug deep into its pockets to help us do major external repairs to St Mary’s Church.
Dear Readers, As we approach the autumn we will soon be experiencing the darker evenings. May we remind you that when you go out, always try to leave a light on and make sure that all your doors and windows are locked. Make it look like you are at home, so as to deter opportunist burglars. Many DIY stores sell timer switches for lamps and other lights, a good investment through the coming winter months.
Our most recent projects have been designed to bring the building into wider use by the community through clearing floor spaces for flexible use and constructing a kitchen and toilet extension. We now revert to the less exciting but still essential work of keeping the whole structure in good repair. Some interesting cracks have been developing in the massive buttresses which support the bell tower. This is not surprising when you think of the weight of those bells swinging high up in the tower nearly every week for centuries. The most recent five-yearly inspection classified the repair of these buttresses as ‘urgent’ work, which in ecclesiastical language means “you had better get started on this job within two years” (that’s moving at the speed of light for the Church of England). We will be combining this with general repairs to the external walls and parapets which are an interesting mixture of septaria (a soft local stone which you can see on the shores of the estuary), flint, brick and imported stone, and an overhaul of the nave roof and guttering. Work will start next year. The Heritage Lottery Fund is coming up with a £50,000 contribution to the cost of all this and, not surprisingly, it is requiring us to respond by increasing awareness of this piece of heritage standing in the middle of our community. Mr Cornish is enthusiastic in involving Chelmondiston Primary School in investigating the history and architecture of the building, and we are working with the arts society to produce an informative ‘trail’ to draw people through the church. With these and other inputs we are going to create a new church guide and a new link to the village website. Other grant-making bodies are also supporting us and we are stepping up our usual fundraising activities, but we are deeply grateful to all those who buy lottery tickets and enable the Heritage Lottery Fund to help projects like ours. Last month we spent quite some time improving the Lloyd Road recreational area at Shotley Gate ready for school summer holidays. The goal posts have been relocated away from the worn out areas and the football pitch grass is being mowed more regularly thanks to our group member Alex Pettersson. Thanks also to Ted Barber who stepped in to help Alex clear and sort out the tennis courts. The kick wall has also been improved, and just in time for the season ‘cricket stumps’ have been painted onto it. As Facebook users will be aware we have been cutting and strimming a few popular footpaths to keep them clear, particularly with the brambles that are at face level. When we posted pictures of the latest work down Marsh Lane to Shotley Marina we received more than 120 ‘likes’ and loads of great comments from locals. Thanks for your support, it is greatly appreciated and good feedback. More on-going maintenance work is planned throughout September. Keep your eyes on our Facebook page (Shotley Open Spaces) and we’ll post information as and when. We have our second Health Walk on Friday, September 15. It starts at 11am opposite the Bristol Arms, a gentle two mile stroll around the marina and Shotley Gate. Please join us if you can. Enjoy the rest of summer, enjoy the great outdoors and let us know if you see any paths or open spaces in the Shotley area that need improvements – we’ll do our best. If you want to be included on the growing Shotley Open Spaces email list, please contact Geraint (g.pugh1@btinternet.com) or Gary (gary.richens.583@btinternet.com). www.shotleyopenspaces.co.uk / Facebook Report by Gary Richens
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If you see anything suspicious, like a burglary in progress, suspicious vehicles or anyone acting suspiciously, please call 999. If you want to report a burglary that has already happened call 101. You the public are our eyes and ears when we are not around, so please do report to us. When members of Hadleigh SNT are out and about in the villages that we patrol, we are always approached by residents who want to speak to us about parking and speeding within their village. We are totally aware that both of these cause concern to residents and we try our best to enforce and deal with them. Currently we do have a few Community Speedwatch Schemes that run in villages. Their pro-active presence is often very productive and most often in any given period, many motorists are caught at speeding over the 30 miles per hour limit. These offenders are dealt with by way of a letter for a first and second offence unless very excessive speeds are recorded, and then on the third offence a visit from a police officer is carried out. Parking is also a major problem in every village and town. May I remind all readers that double yellow lines mean no parking at any time and single yellow lines mean no parking between 0800-1800 Monday to Saturday. Ignoring these restrictions will incur parking tickets and a £30 fine. If there are any zig-zag lines in your town/village, particularly near to a school or a pedestrian crossing, these carry three points on your licence as well as a £100 fine. Depending on how many points you have on your licence, these extra three points could result in the loss of your licence. Zig-zag lines are a safety measure and should be respected. Finally, many villages and towns are currently experiencing pockets of anti-social behaviour. If you see or hear anything you feel is anti-social, please contact us at Hadleigh SNT and report what, when and where it is occurring. Please also ask yourself: Do you know where your children/grandchildren are after school and in the evenings? Do you know who their friends are? Do you know where they hang out? Do you know what they are doing? Better to find out now before you get a visit from police. Remember you can follow Hadleigh Safer Neighbourhood Team on Twitter: @HadleighPOLICE Contact us via email: hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk PCSO 3173 Julia Bignell, Hadleigh SNT, Hadleigh Police Station
DEATH CAFÉ 11am on Sunday, September 3 at St Michael’s Church, Woolverstone Did you take a sharp intake of breath when you thought about what a ‘Death Café’ might be all about? Well, you could Google it and we hope some of you will to get some history of how they started. A Death Café is an event where people drink tea or coffee, eat lovely food and discuss death and related matters. It is a discussion with no agenda, objectives or particular themes and is filled with interesting conversation to raise awareness of death with a view to helping us all make the most of our lives. Come and enjoy coffee, tea and cake with us and discuss this fascinating and often taboo subject. It is important to note that the Death Café is not a bereavement support or counselling session, rather a time to explore all aspects of death and dying in an objective way.
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NEWS HOLBROOK PARISH COUNCIL Key points from the meeting held on July 17 Alton Green Given the complexity of law about Command Land and the restrictions on changes being made, it was decided to leave the area of land adjacent to Vine Cottage to return to nature for the time being. The boundary had been agreed between the garden and the green, and the householder appeared to be happy with the situation. The creation of a management plan for Alton Green will be considered at the next meeting. War Memorial Project Presentation Samantha Lanier gave a brief update on the work that she has carried out regarding villagers who served in the military during the First World War and the anomalies between the rolls of honour and the war memorial. She will continue to research this and will come to a future meeting with proposals. Costs for alterations to the war memorial and a new roll of honour may be met by a grant through the University of Essex. More than 300 people had attended the launch of the Poppy Trail in conjunction with the primary school. Sam is now the village recorder and representatives of local organisations are requested to send copies of important documents or events to her for reporting and archival at the Records Office. Local Government Boundary Commission Electoral Review There were differing ideas about how the local boundaries could be redefined as the online tool didn’t allow for accurate numbers of electors to be calculated, but councillors were in agreement that Holbrook should not be subsumed into Berners or Alton Ward as it’s an important location in its own right and (until the new Local Plan is implemented at least) is the only core village in the area. It is the hub of the peninsula and needs to be recognised with its own councillor, albeit as part of a larger ward. Arrangements for Neighbourhood Plan Public Meeting The chairman explained the council’s view on the need for a Neighbourhood Plan to the residents present; those who commented were supportive of this. He said that it was a serious commitment in terms of time and resources but would ensure that Holbrook had a say about how the parish developed in the future. Dates for a public meeting with officers from Babergh’s community planning department were being arranged for September/October. Volunteers with varied skills and experiences would be required as the council would not be able to carry out this project without help and support from the community. If you are interested in contributing to the future shape of development in Holbrook, please contact one of your councillors or the clerk. From the Public Forum A number of members of the public spoke about the proposed development on Woodlands Road. The chairman explained the situation to date and the council’s view that a Neighbourhood Plan was required. He further explained that the council could not be seen to be making a decision on an application before it had been received. Residents’ concerns and comments included: • New development being planned when the full impact of the TW site was not yet known • Rate of growth of the village was unsustainable • Impact of new development on infrastructure, particularly water supplies, traffic increases, the surgery’s capacity and further across the peninsula, e.g. at Freston crossroads • It was suggested that a view should be taken across the whole peninsula as the impact of the combined development affected everyone • There was some acknowledgement that housing is required and that objections should be considered against need; some people are in favour of development in general terms
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• There were some technical comments made about the method used to calculate the numbers published in Babergh’s plan and whether the parish council should challenge these. Advice would be sought. • It was felt that Babergh had let down the village through delaying the implementation of the new Local Plan which left developers in a strong position regardless of local opinion. The chairman encouraged everyone to comment to Babergh individually and also to the parish council once any application was received. He said that HPC wants to represent the views of the village as a whole so needed feedback from all parts of the village. Full minutes of this and all other meetings are available at www.holbrook. onesuffolk.net or by contacting the clerk. Public attendance at Council Meetings Councillors were really pleased to see such a good turnout of residents from around the village. All parishioners are welcome to attend meetings of the parish council which are advertised on the noticeboards and the website. There is always an opportunity for members of the public to ask a question or comment on items on the agenda. The council represents the electorate of Holbrook and encourages involvement from parishioners to ensure that local views are heard. Meetings are usually held on the third Monday of the month at 7.30pm in the village hall. Future meeting dates: September 18, October 16, November 20, December 11, January 15, February 19, March 19, April 16. The future of The Swan Public House Holbrook Parish Council had submitted a nomination to have The Swan PH registered as an Asset of Community Value. This has been successful which means that should the property be put on the open market for sale, a moratorium can be applied for during which time consideration can be given to a community-based bid. This will be further discussed at the next parish council meeting on August 21 as The Swan is currently for sale. Look out for further communication about this in future editions, on the parish website and noticeboards. For further information on any of these items, contact the clerk: holbrookparishclerk@outlook.com / 07999 583017 Would you like to work flexible hours mainly from home? Would you like to directly contribute to your local community? Holbrook Parish Council is seeking an enthusiastic person to work as its Parish Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer from November 1. Experience of working in a similar role is desirable but not essential as training and support will be provided. This is an interesting and varied home-based role working with the council to provide a service to the thriving and active community of Holbrook. The role involves advising and working with councillors, supporting council meetings and implementing council decisions. For more information and to apply: Details of the closing date and other useful information, including copies of the job description and person specification, can be found at: www.holbrook.onesuffolk.net For an informal discussion about the role, please contact the current clerk, Mrs Ferial Rolfe: holbrookparishclerk@outlook.com / 07999 583017 Alternatively contact the chairman, Mr John Ambrose: 01473 328815 We look forward to hearing from you.
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NEWS CHELMONDISTON PARISH COUNCIL Parish Council Vacancy There is a lot going on in the parish and we really need another member to work with our team of councillors. Please speak with one of our members or the clerk if you are at all interested in joining us. Check out the website for information, where you will also find there a copy of The Good Councillor’s Guide. Planning For details on all planning matters copy www.babergh.gov.uk/planning/ development-management onto your browser. You will be able to comment on applications using Babergh’s online service. The parish council receives notification of all applications within the parish and our planning committee will discuss and send in their recommendations to Babergh DC. Future Development Still a lot of ‘chat’ about future developments within the parish. To date Babergh has said nothing to the parish council about the possibility of any future developments. We are still trying to sort out some real affordable housing for our parishioners and hope to meet with Hastoe Housing Association and Babergh DC shortly to discuss a way forward. We are also looking seriously into having a Neighbourhood Plan; possibly joining with other local parishes. So much going on, which is why we need another member on the council. VACANCY FOR A PARISH CLERK After 13 years of working with the parish council, the clerk will be retiring at the end of October. The parish council is looking for an enthusiastic person to take up the role of Parish Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer from November 1, 2017. This is an interesting and varied home-based role, which involves working and advising councillors, attending council meetings and implementing council decisions. You will need to be computer literate, with a working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. National Local Government pay scales apply. Further information with a job description will be found on the website. For an informal chat about the role you are welcome to contact the current clerk, Mrs Fran Sewell (details below). Council Meetings The council meets on the first Tuesday of every month with planning meetings held every three weeks. Everyone is welcome to attend and if you have any issues that you would like raised or help with, please get in touch. Agendas are posted on the noticeboards and on the website. Both draft and signed minutes can be found on the website. However, you can ask the parish clerk for copies at any time. Clerk Fran Sewell 01473 780138 / clerk@chelmondistonpc.info www.chelmondiston.suffolk.gov.uk
JAMES CARTLIDGE, MP FOR SOUTH SUFFOLK At this time of the year, as our towns and villages come alive with visitors, we are reminded of the importance of tourism to our local communities and economy. The constituency reaches from the undisturbed coastal beauty of the Shotley peninsula in the east, to Clare, one of our most distinctive wool towns, in the west. I have been working with groups from across South Suffolk who are coming together to raise the profile of their area. In Shotley, residents have been fundraising to regenerate their 122-year-old historic pier. As Suffolk’s only remaining railway pier this project celebrates our coastal trading history and holds an ambitious vision for its future tourism offer. On the other side of South Suffolk, I recently attended the launch of the Visit Clare initiative. By highlighting the wool trading history of Suffolk’s smallest town, and linking with our other best preserved wool towns – Lavenham, Long Melford and Hadleigh – they are increasing the footprint of our area in the tourism market. Due to enormous wealth that surrounded the trade of wool in the 12th-15th centuries our wool towns are lined with timber-framed buildings and boast elegant churches. More recently, one of these streets famously made it into the final Harry Potter film. Now a major tourist attraction, the De Vere House in Lavenham is currently heralded as the second most photographed door in the UK, preceded only by No.10! When you add these projects to the fantastic planned development of Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury it is clear that our tourism sector is extremely vibrant. As a county, we are already attracting a high level of tourism with data showing that an estimated 52,000 holiday visits were made to Suffolk in 2016 by tourists from abroad. Compared to Norfolk for example, where there were 36,000 holiday visits in the same period, Suffolk is clearly working hard to attract individuals from around the world. In 2016 overseas visitors spent £62 million in Suffolk alone. In addition to our guests from further afield we also attract many hundreds of thousands of domestic tourists each year. By working together it is crucial that we continue to promote the bountiful and unique attractions of our area. I hold regular advice surgeries offering help and support to local people. Please see page 7 for my contact details.
INFORMAL PERFORMANCE BY FATHER AND SON Don’t miss this chance to hear the father and son duo Andrew and Carl Sterling playing together in St Michael’s Church, Woolverstone. They have an exciting programme of jazz, soul, classical music and original works. The concert is on Friday, September 29, starting at 7.30pm. Donations in the region of £7.50 will be welcome on the day and this will include nibbles and drinks. All money made will go to the Babergh Green Party. For more information contact Laura Smith: lsmith68@yahoo.co.uk
On our way to say goodbye, we drove past our first family home It’s the little things that make a funeral special
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OUT & ABOUT SHOTLEY DRAMA GROUP Shotley Drama Group’s annual general meeting takes place at 7.30pm on Thursday, September 14 in the large committee room of the village hall. Everyone is welcome to attend. 2018 Pantomime After the AGM has concluded we will be having a read through of next year’s pantomime script, Dick Whittington. Sadly, some of our regulars are unable to take part this year so we would dearly love to see some new faces. We have recently struggled to cast our latest productions due to lack of personnel so, if you have had even a slight inclination to tread the boards or help backstage with set-construction, painting scenery or sewing costumes please, please get in touch or just come along on September 14. Children who would like to join our chorus are invited to the village hall on Thursday, September 28 at 7.30pm.
CHELMONDISTON JUMBLE TRAIL
Saturday, September 2, 11am-3pm
SHOTLEYplease CHURCH HERITAGE For further information phone Mandy700(01473 787460) or Brian (07810 312680).
After the success of last year and because it was such fun, St Andrew’s Church are organising a jumble trail around the beautiful village of Chelmondiston.
SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700
Have a table top sale outside your house and visitors can follow the trail through the village. Sell all your old clothes, toys, plants, bric-a-brac and handmade items. A map will guide us through the village, browsing and shopping as we go.
COFFEE
MORNING
COFFEE MORNING AND BRING & BUY
Enjoy bacon butties at the church for a much needed rest and refreshment.
Shotley Village Hall, Friday, September 8, 10am-noon
Let’s make this a real community event! If you would like to take part by having a stall for a small donation of £5/£10, or wish to help in any other way, please contact Sally Letman: 01473 780036 / sallyjletman@gmail.com
and Bring andplus Buy £3 entry includes coffee & biscuits twoSale strips of raffle tickets. FASHION SHOW everyone welcome SHOTLEY CHURCH 700 Shotley Village Hall, Friday, September 22,HERITAGE 7.30pm Where? SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL Ladies fashions from Edinburgh Wool Company’s autumn/winter collection will be modelled. Items will be available for sale at the When? FRIDAY 8TH SEPTEMBER end of the evening at discounted prices.
FASHION SHOW
Time?
10am ‘til midday
Entry: £3 includes coffee & biscuits plus 2 strips of raffle tickets
Refreshments will include Bucksfrom Fizz with nibbles. Ladies fashions Edinburgh Wool Company Tickets (£5) are available from Shotley Post Office, will beand modelled from their Autumn/Winter Norman Bugg (787358) Pat Scholfield (788521).
SWINGING SIXTIES DINNER & DANCE Shotley and Erwarton WI are hosting their Annual Dinner and Dance on Saturday, November 18 with the piquant theme of the Swinging Sixties. Come dressed appropriately, or come as you like, but do come and enjoy the evening! Tickets are £25 and can be obtained from Lin Howell (787429). There will be a three course meal and dancing to the live music of The Tyler Kemp Band.
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
collection
Items will be available for sale at the end of the evening at discounted prices
Where?
SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL
When?
FRIDAY 22nd SEPTEMBER
Time?
7.30pm
Refreshments will include Bucks Fizz with nibbles Tickets cost £5 and are available from Shotley Post Office, Norman Bugg (tel: 787358) and Pat Scholfield (tel: 788521)
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Stowe Veterinary Centre
Moreton Hall Veterinary Centre
Ipswich Veterinary Centre
The Mustard Pot Veterinary Surgery
The Old Tea Room Veterinary Surgery
54 Bury Road, Stowmarket
2 Boldero Road, Bury St. Edmunds
Scrivener Drive, Ipswich
Coddenham Road, Needham Market
Station Road, Elmswell
Tel: 01449 613 130
Tel: 01284 747 000
Tel: 01473 555 000
Tel: 01449 722 198
Tel: 01359 241 761
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OUT & ABOUT PHILIP THICKNESSE – FRIEND OR FOE? Something fabulous is happening in Felixstowe. The story of Philip Thicknesse, Governor of Landguard Fort 1753-66, is being brought to life in the place where it all happened. This site-specific production developed by Woven Theatre Company offers a whole new perspective on a man who should be better known as an important figure in Felixstowe’s and Suffolk’s history. As you know, Landguard Fort is a spectacular location with a big central courtyard surrounded by rooms, fortifications, underground passages, an outer bailey and a moat and Philip Thicknesse is a character you will never forget. He was a man with very little respect for authority, but gained great loyalty from his men and was adored by his wives. Written by two local playwrights, Peppy Barlow and Sally Wilden, and led by four professional actors with the involvement of members of the public, Felixstowe Community Choir and the historic re-enactor volunteers based at the fort. Specially commissioned puppets – the governor’s monkey Jacko and his wife Ann’s parakeet – will add to the fun. Performances at 6pm on September 28, 29 and 30 and at 2pm and 6pm on October 1. Tickets (£12 / £6 for under 18s) are on sale through Eastern Angles: 01473 211498 / www.easternangles.co.uk For more information visit: www.philipthicknesse.com Do book up early and be part of the fun. Landguard Fort will never feel the same again. We would appreciate your help in sending filled shoe boxes to children abroad who will have very little at Christmas. IN HOLBROOK Holbrook Methodist Church will be the local collecting point for this year’s Operation Christmas Child – Shoe Box Appeal. We plan to have a ‘shoebox preparation event’ at HMC on Wednesday, October 25 between 10am and 3pm. When the boxes are ready they will be sent to the central collecting point in Ipswich on November 1. Before each shoebox leaves Holbrook, we are asked that there is a contribution of £3-£5 to cover the transportation costs of getting each shoebox to the country where the box will be given to a child. If you want to contribute to this event in any way, please see the noticeboard at HMC for more information in September. In the meantime, please find as many empty shoeboxes as possible so we have enough to fill on October 25. IN STUTTON Looking Good hairdressing salon in Stutton has very kindly agreed to take filled shoeboxes during October – any items or donations and empty shoeboxes 12x6x4” deep are always welcome. Leaflets will be in the hairdressers and the community shop so you will know what to put in them. We hope to have a workshop in Tattingstone to make up empty boxes. There is one in Holbrook (see above). Angela Neale is unable to take part this year for health reasons. Any queries please contact Kath Chalkley: 01473 328118 / kathchalkley@gmail.com
ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET
The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, September 9, 9am-12.30pm. Fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items which helps present buying. East End Butchers are pleased to be the market’s resident meat supplier. If you would like to place on order with them it can be collected at the market each month. Their number for orders is 01206 392190. Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue. New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777
STOUR VALLEY ARTS & MUSIC Castalian String Quartet: Sunday, October 22, 4pm at St Mary the Virgin Church, East Bergholt Programme: Haydn’s Quartet op20 no2, Schumann’s Quartet in A minor op41 no1, Beethoven’s Quartet in A minor op132 Formed in 2011, this outstanding young quartet with its “richly romantic energy and passion” (Strad Magazine) is fast becoming a favourite of audiences in the United Kingdom and abroad. Almost immediately they were offered an award by the Elias Fawsett Trust and also the Countess of Munster Trust among others. In 2011 they achieved a Masters Degree in Chamber Music at the Hannover University of Music, Dance and Theatre, they then won first prize at the Lyon International Chamber Music Competition in 2015 and in 2016 they won third prize at the Banff International String Quartet Competition. SVAM’S 67th season continues with: Sunday, November 12: Trio con Brio Copenhagen, St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, December 3: Gold and Dirt – Reflections on an Architectural Journey, illustrated lecture by architect John Lyall, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, January 21: Bartosz Glowacki, classical accordion, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm
EAST SUFFOLK ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND
Sunday, February 18: Savitri Grier (violin) and Richard Uttley (piano), St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm
An independent and voluntary charitable organisation promoting the welfare of blind and partially sighted people in East Suffolk since 1914. Membership is free. We also hold a social from 2-4pm on the last Wednesday of every month at Stutton Community Hall when we provide entertainment, afternoon tea and a raffle and twice a year, in the summer and at Christmas, we enjoy lunch at a local hotel.
Sunday, March 18: Sacconi Quartet and Michael Collins (clarinet), St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm
If you would like to join us, please contact Ian, our community support worker, for more information: 01473 788380
www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley
Sunday, March 4: Young Musicians Concert* with talented local musicians 16 and under, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm
*not included in season ticket Tickets: 01206 298426 / svamtickets@btinternet.com / www.svam.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT MOTHERS’ UNION: SHOTLEY PENINSULA BRANCH
SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700 CLUB
What a lovely afternoon we had at our garden party on August 2, our thanks to Joan for being our hostess. Plenty of food and fun and we were able to send a donation of £63 to the Diocesan Summer Appeal for families and communities around the world. In addition our president, Christine, awarded long service certificates to Joan Wrinch and Jean Sage.
July draw winners £25 015 £20 042 £15 012 £8 046 £7 126
Our September meeting is on Wednesday 6 at 2pm in St Andrew’s Church for a Wave of Prayer Service and admitting two new members with The Rev Liesbeth Oosterhof officiating.
New members are always welcome to join the 700 Club at a cost of £1 a month payable at three, six or 12 monthly intervals. To join contact Norman on 01473 787358.
As usual we complete our afternoon with refreshments and social time. We welcome friends and visitors to join with us for any of our meetings which are normally held on the first Wednesday of each month at 2pm in St Andrew’s Church Room.
Thursford Would all those who have booked places on this year’s trip pay Norman by September 10. The total cost is £50 per person. Many thanks in anticipation.
Further details from Christine (780621), Thelma (787660) or Pam (780796).
1st SHOTLEY SCOUTS Scout Hut Second Chance As the group broke up for the summer, we thought it was a great time to fix the second portable cabin roof. The job was made much easier with extra volunteers helping out our Scout leaders. Can I take this opportunity to thank all those who helped? I think the lure of freshly made quiche and scones helped! Bingo reminder We are holding a prize bingo evening in The Rose on September 30, eyes down at 7pm. Great prizes to be won, so bingo dabbers at the ready. For more information please contact Jane: 01473 787416 ‘Phil’ the Bag We are having our second ‘Phil’ the Bag of the year. We will drop off the bags on October 7 and collect them the following weekend of October 14.
SHOTLEY AND ERWARTON WI The last couple of months have been busy for Shotley and Erwarton WI. In July we enjoyed a cream tea in one of our member’s gardens with fresh scones made on the day by three of our members. Fortunately the rain kept off and we were able to wander around admiring the garden. In the same week we visited Suffolk Cheeses at Whitegate Farm near Creeting St Mary. There we got to see the Guernsey and Jersey cows. The Jersey had lashes to die for! We saw the cows being robotically milked and where and how the cheese is made before being able to sample it and stock up from their shop. August saw us on another outing, this time starting at the Olympic Velodrome where we were guided around, followed by a coach tour through Epping Forest to the Lee Valley where we boarded a wide beam barge and enjoyed a very tasty cream tea. Our next meeting is on September 20 at Shotley Village Hall when the subject of the talk will be knickers. Intrigued? Come and join us and listen to the history of underwear.
Mr J Munday Mr L Stebbings Ms E Fleming Mr C Painter Mrs M Whitton
Auction
Our next auction is in the village hall on Saturday, September 16, doors opening at 8.30am. Lots at a cost of £1 each can be booked with Jim Catling (788499 / james.catling@yahoo.co.uk) or Norman Bugg (787358). Lots can be delivered to the village hall on Thursday, September 14 from 10am-noon and 2-6pm. Viewing is available on Friday, September 15, 10am-noon and 2-6pm. The first lot goes under the hammer at 9.30am, with a minimum bid of £2.
SHOTLEY SOCIAL CLUB (OVER 60) Our next meetings are on Thursdays, September 14 and 28, and October 12, 1.50-4pm. We went to the Alex in Felixstowe on Thursday, August 3, then to the Spa for the Great Seaside Special Show. We all had a very nice time. It was wonderful to be able to hire a coach with a lift for those who cannot cope with the steps. In fact it was the first time those who used the lift has been able to join us for a meal and a show. On Wednesday, September 27 we are going to Tiptree, then off to the New Times carvery for lunch. This trip is open to anyone who wants to come. The carvery is very good and we will have a coach with a lift. We are now taking names for this outing. Please contact Norman and Eileen: 01473 787358
SHOTLEY WHIST DRIVE Forthcoming dates: Thursdays, September 7 and 21 and Thursday, October 5, all 1.50-4pm Lifts are always available. For information contact Norman and Eileen: 01473 787358
SHOTLEY WALKING CLUB
We are a very friendly group and would love to see you. For further details contact Jo: 01473 787311
CHELMONDISTON OVER SIXTIES Wiltshire Farm Foods are giving us a taste of their meals on October 5, along with a chat about their menus and prices. If you are over 60 and live locally, come along and have a nibble. You’re sure to get a friendly reception. We meet at Chelmondiston Village Hall every Thursday from 2-4pm. Mike and Michele Rutherford, 01473 780718
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On August 13, six adults did a three mile walk around Trimley St Mary on a glorious warm sunny day. Our next walk will be in Eye on Sunday, September 10. Meet at the Queens Head, 7 Cross Street, Eye at 12.30pm for lunch followed by a guided walk round the town led by Eye Plodders starting at 2pm from the pub. If anyone would like to join us for the lunch please give me, Jill Nunn, a ring on 01473 787504 by September 4, or just join us for the walk.
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OUT & ABOUT ALTON BELLES Formerly Tattingstone and Wherstead WI
STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB
Alton Belles met at Tattingstone Village Hall on July 20 when Sean Day from the Harwich Mayflower project spoke about his dream to build a replica of the Mayflower and sail it to the USA in 2020.
On Wednesday, July 19 we held our summer lunch, to which we invited our spouses and Probus widows. This year we moved to The Haywain and the occasion was enjoyed by all. We don’t hold speaker meetings in August
The Harwich Mayflower Project is a UK registered charity based at Harwich Town railway station. The project was begun several years ago with the idea of providing apprenticeships in marine engineering as well as business administration for young people in Harwich.
We return after our break on Wednesday, September 6 when Tom Williams presents Everyone Has a Book in Them. Philip Roberts’ talk on Wednesday, September 20 is entitled The Mary Rose.
To date, the project has trained more than 600 young local people. Sadly though, the project has run into financial difficulties and it would seem that most of their efforts at present are going into raising money. They have recently received a donation of railway memorabilia and their plan is to re-open the station as a museum. Our next meeting will be on September 21 at Tattingstone Village Hall when Viv Newman will be our guest speaker with a talk entitled Tumult and Tears: First World War Female Poets.
Our first October meeting is on Wednesday 4 when Roy Wood will tell us how to enjoy a healthy retirement, followed on October 18 with a talk entitled The Royal Family by David Ablewhite. On November 1 Ted Wheatley presents Overland to India and on November 15 Dennis and Ann Kell will present Wildlife in the Falklands. Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed.
If you would like more information about our meetings and how you can join the WI please give Tamzin a ring on 328670. Visitors are always welcome and the first meeting is free. Come and join us.
We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202
CRAFTERS UNLIMITED
STOUR VALLEY U3A
A craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere, meeting on the first Monday of the month (except for bank holidays when it’s the following Monday).
We don’t have a speaker meeting in August, but our popular summer dinner took place on August 4, once again in the Constable Hall and was much enjoyed by all who attended.
Monday, September 4: AGM plus demonstration and talk on barge painting by Janet Prince (with a chance to have a go)
Our speaker on September 13 is David Whittle, vice-chairman of the Harwich Society, whose presentation is entitled I Do Like To Be Beside the Seaside. The presentation tells how the Victorians were suddenly able to travel due to the harnessing of steam in the form of paddle steamers and railways, leading to the development of seaside resorts on the Essex and Suffolk coasts, including Harwich and Dovercourt.
Samples of each project are displayed the month before and other projects are available. Saturday workshops (10am-4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) are held in Wherstead Village Hall Meeting Rooms. Contacts: Ann: 01473 780298 / Jill: 01473 713534
VILLAGE LINK CLUB At our August meeting Janet Dann presented a very entertaining talk entitled Suffolk Chapter & Verse. In this she read excerpts from a number of poets who lived in Suffolk over the years. Afterwards members enjoyed a fish and chip lunch followed by a selection of desserts. The subject of our meeting on September 13 is elderly drivers. Future talks this year will be: Jewel of the Canaries, A Year as Mayor of Ipswich, Christmas Special Message & Carols, First Aid & AED – Demonstration of First Aid & Techniques, Dad’s Army Legendary TV Programme, History of Scarecrows, Pray Silence for ? and History of Butley Priory. Meetings are held at 10am on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall. Following the speaker we have refreshments (when there is time for a chat with other members) and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us. We normally hold a members’ lunch after the August and February meetings. Roger Felgate, 01473 311684
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Being a woman racing driver and racing at Le Mans is the subject of our talk by Celia Stevens on October 11. She will talk of her experience of racing historic cars three times at Le Mans Classic, once at Nuremburg and all over the UK. And she is still racing! On Wednesday, November 8, event organiser Eve Regelous, who worked closely with Harrods, will give a glimpse of behind the scenes of day-today life in this world famous company, including its history. Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. We have a wide range of groups including language study, country walking and computer studies and groups that visit gardens, churches and historic buildings. In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust, have over 260 members and 21 groups. For further information please visit www.stourvalleyu3a.org.uk where membership secretary Gillian Gibbs may be contacted. We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except August and December. It’s never too late to learn! Join the 361,477 members across 969 U3As throughout the UK today.
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Out & ABOUT 1st HOLBROOK BROWNIES
SHOTLEY GARDENING CLUB We met, as we usually do for our August meeting, in Karen’s garden but this year our cream tea was, just for a change, a cheese and wine evening. However, the evening began a little earlier than usual. As a compensation for missing the visit to the members’ open gardens which had been disrupted by the weather in July, four of those gardens were open to us before we went on to the social event at Karen’s. We are very appreciative of the hard work that went into preparing for the visit that didn’t happen and then repeated a month later. Those gardens are lovely examples of what our members have achieved. Thank you to Michael, Derek and Heidi, Shirley and Pat. The cheese and wine was enjoyed and the company was, as ever, on good form. The competition of a photo of a Shotley sunset was won by Carole Davis.
Holbrook Brownies have taken advantage of the beautiful summer evenings. Since starting back in April, we have only spent one evening in the hall. Our last evening of the term was no exception where we met at Holbrook Creek for our annual sand sculpture competition. First we held our enrolment ceremony and then it was time to get creative, and very muddy. Once again we had very impressive creations made from sandy mud, seaweed, shells and anything else that could be scavenged from the shore. The results were amazing and it proved far too difficult to have an overall winner. The Owls have been busy planning an exciting autumn term as well as our sleepover at Stoke Ash. If your daughter (aged between seven and 10) would like to enjoy a variety of activities, take part in new challenges, make lasting friendships and, above all, have fun, please register on Girlguiding UK. We currently have a waiting list for five and six year olds.
HARVEST FLOWER FESTIVAL AT ST PETER’S CHURCH, STUTTON SATURDAY 23 & SUNDAY 24 SEPTEMBER The church will be decorated in time for Stutton Primary School’s Harvest Service on Friday 22 and the weekend of September 23/24 Tea, coffee, cakes, etc. will be available on Saturday and Sunday between 2 and 5pm Children, come and ‘Hunt the Church Mouse’! For extra interest: An opportunity to see St Peter’s Church’s celebrated Thomas Denny millennium stained glass window
Our next meeting on September 11 will be the AGM at Shotley Village Hall, when I hope we will have at least a provisional programme ready for the new club year. June Edwards
CHELMONDISTON & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY If you aren’t a member, maybe reading about us for the first time, I will record that so far this year you have missed a visit to Barnsdale, a visit to a beautiful garden in Harkstead, a talk on hedgerow medicines and fuchsias, a craft evening, making your own flower arrangement, not to mention a quiz night, a free cheese and wine event and, our latest, the summer show, which went very well. Congratulations are due to cup winners Pam Ross, Jo Crapnell and Lucy Powell. Now we are into the final few months of our calendar. August is a month of rest, but we are back on September 26 with a visit from Crown Nurseries. Our speaker, Graham Proctor, has visited us before and usually brings with him an array of plants to illustrate his talk. This time it’s on autumn interest. If you aren’t a member, you are still welcome to join us at 7.30pm in the village hall. We just ask £1 as a contribution to club funds and you are also welcome to join us for post talk tea and biscuits.
RSPB FLATFORD WILDLIFE GARDEN Our summer visitors have watched, drawn and attempted to identify bumble bees, measured trees to estimate their ages, made pine cone hedgehogs, starling finger puppets and bird feeders. As usual, the star family activity of the summer has been dissection of owl pellets. Little do the local barn owls know that the indigestible remains of their suppers, privately coughed up in neat pellets, have provided so much intrigue and speculation. Apart from being something out of the ordinary for children to do during the holidays, this activity is a great way to engage them with the natural world and the idea that everything in nature is linked. It illustrates the food chain in action. In a nutshell, that’s what Flatford Wildlife Garden is about. In the garden we aim to look after all the smallest creatures and thence the bigger creatures higher up the pecking order too. Without them, how much poorer we would all be, if we could survive at all. Why not come along to the garden, see what goes on here and take home some ideas? Autumn is a good time to start. www.rspb.org.uk
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SCHOOLS / SPORT PUPILS RISE TO FIELD GUN CHALLENGE Aching muscles and sore bruises were forgotten for pupils of Royal Hospital School when they took third place at the Junior Leaders Field Gun competition, one of the toughest physical contests of its kind. The team from RHS dismantled and re-assembled a 1.5 tonne field gun while hauling it from one end of a Royal Navy parade ground and back again, competing against teams from across the country. The weight of the gun is equivalent to a small family car without any brakes – it has to be moved and, more importantly, stopped using the physical exertions of the team. The 17 and 18-year-old boys and girls from Holbrook were one of the youngest teams in the competition pitted against teams from Royal Navy training establishments at HMS Collingwood and HMS Sultan and a team from RAF Cosford. Other teams represented sea cadets, university technical colleges and other mainstream colleges. Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral Jeremy Woodcock was the guest of honour for the event held at HMS Collingwood in Hampshire. The RHS crew spent four days with the other teams based with the Royal Navy in Portsmouth learning and training for the field gun competition. The RHS team ran a perfect first heat winning it with no penalties against them. A strong performance in their second heat put them into the final where they were narrowly beaten into third place. RHS Crew Vice Captain Josh Mellors said: “We did incredibly well to achieve third place overall in the competition beating the team from HMS Sultan as well as all of the UTC and college teams that entered this year. The crew bonded together superbly, showing true grit and teamwork throughout the week, never losing hope or faith even when battling multiple injuries.” RHS Royal Navy liaison Mark Edmondson said: “All of the young people in the RHS team have done an amazing job and should be really proud of what they have achieved. We have got some very tired students – some bruises, some strains and some aches and pains from what is a very physical challenge – but we also have young people who have grown and matured before our eyes during this week.” The field gun tradition came from the Boer War when the Royal Navy landed guns from two ships and then transported them over difficult terrain to relieve the siege of Ladysmith.
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HOLBROOK PRIMARY SCHOOL Holbrook Primary School celebrated another fantastic year of tennis at their annual celebration tennis assembly, which according to parents was “exceptional because they didn’t realise just how much tennis took place in such a small school”. They celebrated winning the Lawn Tennis Association Award for Tennis in Education for Suffolk, which was achieved due to how we approach tennis as a whole school, using funding from Sports Premium, the link with Holbrook Tennis Club (Richard Daynes), pupils’ commitment and parents’ support. This year 12 teams were entered into the LTA’s Schools Tennis Competitions and 43 children played in the various school teams. The Premier Boys finished second in Suffolk and the Mini Green Girls third. Richard Daynes organises and runs a friendly tournament between Ipswich High and Holbrook w Shich, as one grandparent said, resulted in “a very enjoyable morning’s tennis”, with 46 children playing a total of 83 matches in two hours, resulting in a win for Ipswich High 49-34. Holbrook’s Intra Schools Tennis Tournaments had 126 children taking part (that’s three quarters of the school role). Key Stage 1 pupils do Tennis Skills in their PE lessons in spring and summer term. Key Stage 2 has the option of taking part in a class tournament. The children mostly organise themselves, and on the whole each year group completes their matches fairly quickly. The children taking part earn points for their school team (of which there are four) and this year’s winners of Holbrook Primary’s Tennis Trophy were Red Team. Once again the school was lucky in the Wimbledon ballot and eight children along with Mr Durrant and Mrs Burdon had, as one child described it, “a once in a lifetime opportunity”, completing a fabulous year of tennis at Holbrook Primary School.
CHELMONDISTON CARPET BOWLS CLUB With just two games to play we are at the top of the league, but not by much and with other teams having games in hand it looks like we may finish third, or possibly second. Nevertheless a very good summer season with everyone in the club playing their part. The fish and chip man has been booked for Saturday, October 28, so put the date in your diary as time soon goes by. There will be a quiz and plenty of puddings. Bring your own drinks. Alan Storey
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First Impressions Beauty Salon Gate Farm Road, Shotley Gate
Celebrating 18 years of serving the Shotley peninsula Your first choice for waxing and permanent hair removal, Shellac manicure and pedicure, Eve Taylor facials and massage, eyelash and eyebrow enhancement Easy parking on the premises - Opening hours to suit you Fully insured with BABTAC for all treatments For details of treatments and offers Visit 1stimpressionsbeauty.co.uk Call Lin on 01473 787429
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CHURCH NEWS CHELMONDISTON & HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES I have just read The Axe and the Tree. Having spent 10 years serving as Mission Partner in Zimbabwe, it’s always fascinating to get different perspectives. The author, Stephen Griffiths, is the son of a man I knew in Zimbabwe, Peter Griffiths. In 1960 Peter went to join the work begun some 12 years earlier in the eastern Highlands of what was then Rhodesia. He joined a multicultural team, offering medical, educational and spiritual services. The next 20 years were both exciting and challenging. On several occasions the team considered pulling out of the area because lives were in danger. The liberation war years were the toughest, with both the liberation fighters and the army threatening staff and students. There were landmines, helicopter gunships, ambushes, beatings and executions, and food, medicines and money were frequently stolen. It was so dangerous the school was evacuated to an abandoned school much nearer roads and city. But the threats still came. Many wanted the missionaries to move to the city and to commute to school, but as missionaries, they wanted to live amongst the people they served. Under pressure they agreed and places were found for them. The night before they moved guerrilla fighters came in, massacred the whites and closed the school. Peter and his family were in UK on leave having just overseen the move. This was in 1978, two years before independence and four years before we went to Zimbabwe as missionaries. We experienced some wonderful times, but knew something of the hardships and tensions described. Stephen, 11 years old at the time of the massacre, wrote the book to try and understand whether out of something so evil and bad, God could bring some good. For him those who were massacred were like his aunts, uncles and cousins. You’ll have to read the book to get his answer, but the subtitle of the book gives a hint: “How bloody persecution sowed the seeds of new life in Zimbabwe”. It’s a great read (ask for a copy). I’m happy to talk through these issues, or any other questions you have. The Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Chelmondiston & Holbrook Methodist Churches, 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216
SEPTEMBER SERVICES AT CHELMONDISTON METHODIST Sunday 3 10.45am Communion with Rev Michael Allen 6.30pm Circuit Service at Heath Rd Hospital, Ipswich Sunday 10
10.45am Worship with Rev Chris Hill 6.15pm Worship with rev Martin Dawes
Friday 15
3.30pm Messy Church
Sunday 17 10.45am Worship with Rev Andrew Sankey 6.15pm Communion with Rev Andrew Sankey Sunday 24 10.45am Harvest Festival – Worship with Mr Chris Jowett 6.15pm Harvest Songs of Praise AT HOLBROOK METHODIST Mondays, 2.30-4pm: Tea and Chat (HCT / Holbrook Churches Together Saturday 2
10-11.30am Coffee morning
Sunday 3 Holmes
10am
Sunday 10
10am
Friday 15
3.30pm Messy Church
Sunday 17
10am
Family friendly worship with Mrs Alicia
6.30pm Circuit Service at Heath Road Hospital Songs for a Sunday at the village hall (HCT)
Worship with Mr Bryan Nichols
Sunday 24 10am Harvest Worship with Rev Alan Palmer 6.30pm Something Different with Rev Andrew Sankey Please see the noticeboard on the front of the chapel for all events in September For more information about Messy Church, Tiddlers and Family Live (HCT) contact Alicia Holmes: ajnholmes@gmail.com / 01473 658478
SHORELINE BENEFICE ST MARY’S, HARKSTEAD
ST ANDREW’S, CHELMONDISTON September 3
9.15am
Holy Communion
September 3
9.30am
Holy Communion
September 9
9am-5pm
Cycle Ride
September 10
4pm
Songs of Praise
10am-noon
Coffee Morning
September 17
9.30am
Holy Communion
September 10
9.15am
Holy Communion
September 13
10am
Midweek Communion
September 24 11am
September 17
9.15am
Holy Communion
September 24
9.30am
Family Service
ST MARY’S, ERWARTON September 3
11am
Matins
September 10
11am
Family Service – Harvest
September 17
11am
Holy Communion
September 24
11am
Holy Communion
www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley
Harvest Family Service and Lunch
ST MARY’S, SHOTLEY September 3 10.45am
Family@Church (Back to School)
September 10
10.45am
Holy Communion
September 17
10.45am
Worship For All
September 24
10.45am
Holy Communion
Please check the website or the noticeboards for any change to the service times and places.
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CHURCH NEWS HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB Parish Priest: Fr Christopher Smith, 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ / 01473 684963 For up-to-date information please visit: www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR SEPTEMBER 2017 Sunday 3 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 5 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 10 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 12 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass Sunday 17 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 19 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 24 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 26 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass The weekly newsletter, with weekly mass times, is always displayed in the cabinet alongside the front door. Catholic Commentary The Suffolk Theology Forum holds regular meetings in Ipswich. The speaker at the last meeting was Dr Anna Abram, principal of the Margaret Beaufort Institute, Cambridge which runs high quality theology courses, mainly for women. She spoke on salvation, taking a broad approach, exploring and analysing what salvation might mean for people of today. Another pointer readers may like to note is the Christian Think Tank Theos which produces well researched papers, usually in A5 booklet format, on a variety of faith and related topics. Though there are fewer nominal Christians in Britain, those who are church-goers are more committed. This is fully explored in the Theos report Doing Good; A Future for Christianity in the 21st Century with a foreword by Archbishops, Justin Welby and Vincent Nichols. In the same vein it is worth mentioning there are many excellent resources available to Christians, committed or tentative, on the internet including www.wednesdayword.org which provides brief commentary for the readings each Sunday based on the Catholic calendar. The Catholic charity CAFOD is running a campaign called Power to Be which aims to provide renewable energy to people round the world who still live without electricity. The campaign calls on the World Bank to move money it spends on polluting fossil fuels towards providing electricity in poor communities. Less than three per cent of the total money spent by the World Bank on energy is used to provide ‘off-grid’ renewable electricity. We have been asked to sign and post cards in support to the UK representative at the World Bank. Supporting our Local Hospice All parishioners are asked to collect used postage stamps and to place them in the box at the rear of the church to help support the outstanding work of our local hospice.
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TWO RIVERS BENEFICE ST PETER’S, STUTTON September 3 8am Holy Communion 10.30am Worship for All September 9 Historic Churches Sponsored Cycle Ride September 10 9.30am Holy Communion September 17 9.30am Holy Communion September 24 11am Informal Service ALL SAINTS, HOLBROOK September 3 4pm Afternoon Tea September 9 Historic Churches Sponsored Cycle Ride September 10 10am Matins September 17 8am Holy Communion 10am Informal Service September 24 9.30am Holy Communion ST MARY’S, WHERSTEAD September 3 No Service September 9 Historic Churches Sponsored Cycle Ride September 10 11am Harvest Festival September 17 No Service September 24 11am Holy Communion ST PETER’S, FRESTON September 3 11am Matins September 9 Historic Churches Sponsored Cycle Ride September 10 No Service September 17 11am Holy Communion September 24 No Service Morning Prayer: Every Friday at 9am ST MICHAEL’S, WOOLVERSTONE September 3 11am Café Church September 6 6.30pm Wednesday Worship September 9 Monthly Market, 9am-12.30pm September 10 11am Worship the Woolverstone Way September 13 6.30pm Wednesday Worship September 17 11am Morning Prayers September 20 6.30pm Wednesday Worship September 24 11am Holy Communion September 27 6.30pm Wednesday Worship
HARVEST: ALL IS SAFELY GATHERED IN… EXCEPT “Except the beans!” called a voice from the back in response to a line of the harvest hymn Come ye Thankful People Come. This year the cereal harvest has been early, but I’m told that it is not particularly good, despite all the sun and the rain. Farming friends tell me that the timing hasn’t been correct and the price of bread may rise. However, our TV screens show us Somalia and the effect of civil war preventing the sowing of crops and the starvation that follows. We are called to be thankful to God for the harvest that we have and be generous in giving to the needs of others through organisations like UNESCO, Oxfam, Christian Aid and Farm Africa (addresses quickly found on the web). Many of these groups send tools, seeds, animals and agricultural teachers to less developed countries working on the principle: “Give a man a fish (or a sack of flour) and he will be hungry tomorrow. Give a man a fishing-line (the seed to grow) and neither he, nor his family will ever be hungry again.” The Rev Dr Marian Carter
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notes &
nibbles
Tickets: ÂŁ7 on the door
Recital Hall, Music School
Pupils from the Royal Hospital School perform a programme of solo and chamber music Lunchtime concerts with a buffet lunch available from 12.30pm
Monday 18 September Monday 9 October Monday 20 November Monday 22 January Monday 19 February Monday 5 March Monday 23 April Monday 7 May Monday 21 May Monday 25 June
1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm
Concert lasts approx. 40mins. Parking available around the School Chapel. For any enquiries please contact the Music School 01473 326222 or music@royalhospitalschool.org