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with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone Volume 8 • Issue No. 3 • FEBRUARY 2018
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I simply can’t avoid writing about words and language this month as unusual words and phrases seem to be coming at me from all directions. I have just spent a week in Ireland where ‘press’ meaning ‘cupboard’ and ‘yoke’ meaning just about everything else, including people (as in “yer man with the féasóg is a right yoke”) are common parlance, but I’ve also just finished a book by Mike Smith from The Waterboys in which he writes about many of the Irish musicians and writers he has worked with. One is a poet from Co Galway called Tomas McKeown who had a habit of running his hand over his bald head and saying “once there used to be waves, now it’s all shore”. How lovely is that? On my desk I have a word calendar which I received from one of my lovely colleagues. It introduces a new word every day. Today it’s ‘palisade’, but my favourites so far have been ‘algid’ meaning cold and ‘wiseacre’ meaning one who pretends to knowledge or cleverness, otherwise known as a smart aleck. I think we all know a wiseacre or two! And just last night a wonderful clip about strange words the Irish use popped up on Facebook. ‘Haymes’ is one we all use to describe getting something wrong, as in ‘he made a haymes of it’, particularly used at hurling matches! Another I might use more frequently is ‘banjaxed’ meaning broken or in a bad way, as you might be after a ‘night on the lash’. ‘Me feiner’ literally translates as ‘me myself’. To be called a ‘me feiner’ is the ultimate insult, meaning you have no thought for anyone but yourself, commonly used to describe politicians in Ireland. I’ll leave you with a wonderful phrase I spotted on a poster at Dublin Airport: Dance as if no one’s watching, sing as if no one’s listening, and live everyday as if it were your last.
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
01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: shotley@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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© 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.
Representatives from Soup-a-Lunch, Shotley & Erwarton Women’s Institute, Shotley 1st Scout Troop, Shotley Open Spaces and Shotley legend Norman Bugg were all presented with High Sheriff certificates by Mr Probert. Although largely ceremonial these days, the office of High Sheriff goes back almost 1,000 years and is still a highly prestigious position chosen by the Queen’s Privy Council, with the new sheriff named by pricking a list of candidates on a vellum sheet. Mr Probert visited Shotley as a guest of Babergh District Councillor Derek Davis after hearing about the amount of fabulous community work done by individuals and groups within the village. He was particularly impressed with conservation and maintenance work done by Shotley Open Spaces and the Viking Project, visited HMS Ganges Museum and was surprised at how many people attend Soup-a-Lunch, which he thoroughly enjoyed. He was also interested to hear about the excellent work done by the Shotley and Erwarton Good Neighbours’ team and the recently introduced Community Connectivity Scheme. “It is very clear how so many volunteers give up so much of their time and work so hard to include as many people as possible in an incredible amount of activities in and around Shotley,” said Mr Probert. The High Sheriff also urged people to remember community groups and charities when making a will. Those presented with certificates were: Shotley village stalwart Norman Bugg, Theresa Butcher, Shotley Kidzone founder Jane Leach, Shotley 1st Scouts, Marian Pugh on behalf of Shotley & Erwarton WI, and Soup-a-Lunch founders Wendy Sadler and Thelma Westlake.
SHOTLEY DRAMA GROUP It’s that time of year again – oh yes it is! Yes, Shotley Drama Group is performing Dick Whittington at Shotley Village Hall from Wednesday, February 14 to Saturday, February 17 starting at 7.30pm. We are also performing a matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm. Doors open half an hour before each performance. Save money by purchasing tickets in advance – tickets cost £7.50, £6.50 children and concessions, and £23 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). Tickets are available from Shotley Rose, or from Carol (01473 787353) or Mandy (01473 787460). There will be a bar so you can enjoy a drink before and during the interval, teas, coffee and cake, and last but not least, a draw!
10 FEBRUARY 2018
Come along and boo and hiss, the louder the better! We have a cast ranging from six years to 80 plus and we’ve all been rehearsing like mad for your enjoyment – we can’t wait to see you all!
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The amazing work done by so many volunteers in Shotley has been recognised by the Suffolk High Sheriff Geoffrey Probert.
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MARCH 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.
HIGH SHERIFF AWARDS
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NEWS FATHER CHRISTMAS DELIVERY IN SHOTLEY
WE ARE LISTENING: HAVE YOUR SAY ON WHETHER TO CREATE A NEW COUNCIL
Nearly 100 presents were delivered on Christmas Morning by Father Christmas and his helpers. A big thank you to all who took part. Donations totalling £240 were shared equally between Kidzone and Shotley Scout Group.
Babergh and Mid Suffolk residents have until Monday, February 5 to submit their comments on draft proposals to create a new council in the heart of Suffolk.
GANGES MUSEUM Volunteer Sheila Honoured
It takes some dedication to make the trip from Somersham to Shotley, two buses and nearly two hours each way, for 10 years, but that is exactly what HMS Ganges Museum volunteer Sheila Wilson has done.
Sheila is also the museum’s treasurer and is very good at putting together exhibition displays too. Last year Sheila arranged the display marking 100 years since women were allowed to serve in the Armed Forces and in particular the WRNS who served at HMS Ganges. She is already planning an exhibition to mark the Armistice Centenary and German U-boat surrender off Ganges’ Admiralty Pier. Sheila is pictured with the Suffolk High Sheriff Geoffrey Probert and chairman Derek Davis. RNA Donation
HMS Ganges Museum was the beneficiary of a Trafalgar Night dinner hosted by Stowmarket Royal Naval Association. Shipmates from the RNA donated the £57 proceeds to the museum while making a special visit, along with Suffolk High Sheriff Geoffrey Probert. Pictured left to right are High Sheriff Geoffrey Probert, Olga Anderson Stowmarket RNA Chair, HMS Ganges Museum Chair Derek Davis, Stowmarket RNA Standard Bearer Gary Dade.
ALL GOD’S CREATION IS VERY GOOD The interdenominational movement of the Women’s World Day of Prayer invites everyone to attend one of over 5,000 services being held on Friday, March 2 with the title All God’s Creation is Very Good!
The engagement, which was launched on Monday, December 11, asks residents and businesses in both districts to comment on proposals to dissolve both Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils and form a new, single council to cover the area. Responses can be submitted online through a survey, directly via email to one.council@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk or in writing to the councils. All of the views submitted will help inform a detailed business case, which will be drafted and considered by councillors later in the year. Every response received will be anonymised and attached, in full, to the business case. An independent telephone survey of 4,000 residents is also being carried out by ComRes. This is a survey of a representative sample of residents in Babergh and Mid Suffolk by age, gender, geography, socio-economic grade and ethnicity. The anonymised results of this survey will be publicly available and will also inform the production of the business case. Councillor Nick Gowrley, Leader of Mid Suffolk District Council, said: “We in Mid Suffolk have always worked hard to deliver the services our residents need, and with local government funding changing so radically over the coming years we need new and innovative ways to keep doing that. Our residents and businesses know best what support they need, and this is just the opportunity for them to tell us. With only three weeks left it’s time for everyone to take part.” Councillor John Ward, who became Leader of Babergh District Council in January 2018, said: “There has already been a lot of debate and publicity about these proposals, but much of that has focussed on whether there will be a local referendum. I have resolved that aspect by making clear my commitment to holding a local referendum once a business case is available for residents to consider. This current engagement offers the chance to have your say on the future of public services in our area and what is most important to you. How people respond to this engagement and what they say will shape the future of local government and I encourage everyone to take the time to let us know their thoughts over the next three weeks.” Additional information, including how to have your say online, is available at: www.babergh.gov.uk/the-council/onecouncil www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/the-council/onecouncil Anyone wishing to respond by post can send their responses to: One Council Engagement, Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road Ipswich IP1 2BX
Our local service welcomes everyone from the Shotley Peninsular and surrounding area. We will join an estimated three million people around the world that day in a service which has been written this year by the women of Suriname in South America. Starting in Samoa as the sun rises, and ending as the sun sets off the coast of American Samoa, the service will have been translated into more than 95 languages and 1,000 dialects as we are reminded that we have responsibilities in caring for this wonderful world we live in. With its vast rainforest and wealth of resources, Suriname asks us to pray for conservation and the protection of wildlife, through an awareness of pollution, misuse and abuse, as well as for the situation in Suriname and concerns for the future. This is not simply a day of prayer for women, but for everyone who cares about our world and those who live in it. You are invited to St Andrew’s Church, Chelmondiston on Friday, March 2 at 2pm. The service takes one hour so there is time to pickup from school and pre-school children are welcomed to the afternoon. Tea and fellowship follow the service. Everyone most welcome. Contacts: Christine Ward, 01473 780621 / Rachel Wainwright, 07952 574888
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THEATRE TRIP THE EASY WAY! A coach is going from Shotley Peninsula to see Mama Mia at the Novello Theatre, Aldwych, which is in the West End of London. The trip is on Thursday, June 7, leaving Chelmondiston at 1pm. There will be a few hours free time in the West End before watching the evening performance. Due to bulk buying we have got £67.50 seats at a discounted rate and we can offer coach and theatre for £60. For more information or to reserve your seat please contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777 / jane.gould@btinternet.com
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NEWS INTRODUCING SUFFOLK CRAFTED People want more space for all sorts of reasons. Moving house is one option, but it can cost £15,000 to do it, on top of the extra £30-40,000 you would pay for the extra space. Building an extension is another option, but by far the cheapest option is to have a garden room built. There are other advantages to having a space separate from the main house: it’s quieter, so you can concentrate or relax properly; it’s soundproofed from the main house if you (or your children) want to make noise; there is much less disruption while it’s being built; it makes an attractive feature to enhance your garden. I built one in my own garden several years ago and it has served many functions. At various times it has been an office, reading room, a place to sit with friends and have a drink and occasionally a guest room. On top of all that it’s a nice feature of the garden set in the trees. The key to it all has been that it was solidly built from the start, with four inch thick cavity wall insulation, a solid roof, double glazing and heating, so it can be used all year round. Suffolk Crafted is a new venture for me, but it is also the culmination of everything which has led up to this point in my life. I have always loved designing and making things in wood. I was brought up on a farm and so was taught to work with my hands from an early age by my father (he’s still going strong at 92). The garden room I built for my family was the inspiration for this venture, as well as others I have worked on since. Every Suffolk Crafted build is unique; I work with each customer to create plans for exactly what they need: traditional cottage style, contemporary or arched pod. I am even planning to make shepherd’s huts later this year. I am very enthusiastic and confident about what I make. I am also a perfectionist in everything I do, which means I tend to over-build so it will last, rather than cut corners to save money. It won’t make me a millionaire, but I will leave my customers with the keys to a properly craftsman-built garden room which will last as long as their house. All Suffolk Crafted garden rooms are built on site rather than prefabricated in a factory. This makes for a solid construction and cuts down on the need for expensive factory space and lorries. I don’t want Suffolk Crafted to grow large; it’s more important to me to have hands-on control of every project. Because of this I can keep my prices at least 20% cheaper than even the prefab manufacturers. Suffolk people buy locally, they appreciate honest, quality products and they appreciate value for money. That we can deliver! Chris Lupton
DISTRICT COUNCILLOR DEREK DAVIS – BERNERS WARD Shotley, Erwarton, Chelmondiston, Woolverstone and Freston Referendum Victory A superb example of councillors from all parties working together was evident when we managed to persuade the new leader of the administration to hold a referendum, and not just a limited number phone poll, so the subject of dissolving Babergh Council and then forming a larger council with Mid Suffolk can be properly debated and decided. Many councillors, from all parties, wanted to return to you the residents to see if the decision not to merge, which was voted 61% to 39% still held, while the cabinet, made up of seven Conservatives, would not agree. That lead to the leader Jennie Jenkins resigning ahead of a motion of no confidence, and the new leader promising a referendum would be held and changes to the cabinet would be made. It is likely the new referendum will be held in May and I will endeavour before then to provide you with all the facts, from both sides, so you can make an informed decision. Village Meeting Protecting the village of Shotley from the ravages of the sea and the weather for our children and in turn their children has, for as far as I can remember, been an integral part of what the vast majority of Shotley people desire. So, it grieves me to see that the current Shotley Parish Council do not want phase three of the maintenance work to be carried out to protect the footpath, cliff and sea defences, running along from the picnic area at Shotley Gate down to the Brickyards. The council has already received external grants and funding for the first two phases, with a large amount of work carried out by what was the council’s Open Spaces and Amenities Committee, which disbanded after they couldn’t get enough new councillors to carry it on. Instead Shotley Open Spaces have tried to do work on that area, and have also done some superb work in other parts of the village, keeping paths clear for people wanting to get to schools, or dog walkers and other villagers enjoying the area we live, despite resistance within the council. Many people have contacted me via various mediums saying they feel the parish council’s decision is not in the best interest of Shotley, many parishioners who don’t live down the ‘wet end’ still like to come down and enjoy the river and the walks available, whether with their best friend or family. Therefore, there will be a public meeting, open to all, on Wednesday, February 7, 7.30pm at the Bristol Arms to discuss the best way forward. If you are unable to attend put would like your point of view put forward, please contact me ahead of the meeting. New Clerk Could I take this opportunity to welcome Chelmondiston Parish Council’s new clerk Jill Davis (no relation). A good parish clerk is vital to the wellbeing and harmony of any village. Jill’s predecessor Fran Sewell set the standard and will be missed. However, having already seen Jill in action I’m sure she will soon make her own positive mark in supporting councillors and Chelmondiston as a village, including Pin Mill, and I wish her all the very best. Her contact details are: Jill Davis, Michelle Cottage, Church Road, Chelmondiston IP9 1HT clerk@chelmondistonpc.info / 01473 780159 / 07984 733352 If you have an issue you would like to discuss please contact: derek.davis@babergh.gov.uk / 07824 167196 My Facebook page is: Derek Davis-Your Independent Councillor
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NEWS HOLBROOK PARISH COUNCIL Key points from the meeting held on December 11 Update on the speeding survey: The speeding survey currently remains outstanding and County Councillor David Wood has personally chased this matter and is hopeful that the survey will be completed after the Christmas holiday period. Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council Update: The consultation process has begun relating to Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils working together, under the heading ‘One Council for the Heart of Suffolk’. Part of the process will be a telephone survey to residents. Update on the Neighbourhood Planning Group: Councillor Ambrose advised that the meeting took place on November 21 and roles and responsibilities were established. Marek Pawlewski will be the chair and Councillor Ambrose will take the role of vice-chair. One of the key areas of work for the group will be engaging with stakeholders. The next meeting is planned for January 23 and minutes of the meetings will be available in due course. Holbrook Parish Council currently have a councillor vacancy; if anyone would like further information or would be interested in the role, please contact the clerk directly. Full minutes of this and all other meetings are available on the village website or by contacting the clerk. Future meetings: February 19, March 19 and April 16 For further information on any of these items, contact the clerk: holbrookparishclerk@outlook.com / 07999 583017 www.holbrook.onesuffolk.net
HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY Training days Our next training afternoon will be on Thursday, February 8 and Wednesday, March 7 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. Zero Tolerance The vast majority of our patients appreciate the fact that we endeavour to provide the best possible service to them. However, we have had an increased number of incidents lately where patients have been rude or verbally abusive to our staff and doctors either on the phone or in person. This is not acceptable. Patients who continually disregard our zero tolerance policy will be written to and de-registered if this behaviour continues. Receptionists / Care Navigators Receptionists across Suffolk are being trained as Care Navigators. They will make sure you get help from the right person at the right time – right away. To do this, at some point in the future, you will be asked why you are calling so that they can arrange the right care or support for you. They have been trained to keep information confidential and provide a safe service. It may be that instead of an appointment with the doctor, they provide you with information on services within our community that could help you or by giving you advice over the phone, all of which could save you a visit to the practice. Please be reassured that if you need to see a doctor, you will still be able to. Thank You Thank you for all the lovely chocolates, cakes and other goodies that were given to staff and doctors over the festive season. We are all very appreciative of this and it’s great to know that we are providing a good service. We always try our hardest to be the best we can and are grateful for your appreciation. We are also grateful for donations made to our surgery fund in 2017, which totalled just under £2,400. From this we have managed to purchase two patient chairs, some steps for the couches, two spirometers and four new blood pressure machines to loan out to patients. We have also paid for a number of the waiting room chairs to be recovered. Thank you to all who have contributed. Practice Manager Julia Smith
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REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: FEBRUARY 2018 Babergh District Councillor Alastair McCraw First of all, a Happy New Year. In December and January we debated the potential merger between Mid Suffolk and Babergh. I’m not going to give a blow-by-blow account. It was hard work and, at times, unpleasant. In December our leader Jennie Jenkins, faced with a motion to remove her as leader, resigned. The new leader, John Ward, stated in his pre-election address on January 4: “In respect of merger, I accept we must have a more formal public consultation than the telephone poll. I am mindful of the motion that was passed on December 19 and that the will of this council is to have a referendum. I will be committed to holding one once we have a full business case to present to residents. There will also be a final debate and vote by the full council. If the evidence is there, residents and councillors will vote for it; if it isn’t then it will fail.” That concession was what the combined opposition had been working for since October. The telephone poll and current consultation continue until February 5, but perhaps carry less weight. We are told that a merger cannot happen before 2019/20, but I’m aware that people change their minds. So, does it really matter? What’s it about? Who benefits? As ever it comes down to money. Imagine your boss comes to you and says: “Times are hard. We’re cutting your pay, but you’ll be able to make it up with the new bonus schemes.” This is essentially where we’ve been since 2011. The government have progressively cut support for councils to the point where we’ve lost more than 35% of our income. The bonus schemes are less generous than they appeared. This may seem familiar to some. New Homes Bonus, based on us granting lots of planning permissions (I’m sure you’ve noticed that) is now lower, and for less time. It also needs the developers to build. They don’t necessarily want to. Why flood the market? The land value has increased massively, for a paper profit. Deposits and mortgages are not easy to come by and they’re not doing the building. We’re going to get a bigger share of Business Rates. Here, in a pilot project, that’s as much as 100%. But there are some wrinkles in that too. In a rural area, business rates are not that much. We don’t really get 100% and we don’t set them anyway. Finally, we’re allowed to borrow money, not to build council houses, but to go into investment in the property market. As they say, what could go wrong? We can borrow cheaper than most, and get the rents on shopping centres, industrial property and the like. The difference in the return and the cost will generate a revenue stream. Maybe there will be a capital value increase in the long term. Does this carry any risk? Who foots the final bill? Have a guess. One example is a £60 million industrial complex project in Stowmarket, Mid Suffolk. They borrow that and wait for the income. The two councils have some significant differences in their finances. The merger proposals suggest these match up well. Babergh, for example, are estimated to have higher expectations in New Homes Bonus in the future (all those permissions). Those receipts could be very useful in servicing any interest payments on these property adventures. One final thought for today. Mid Suffolk is traditionally a very Conservative stronghold. Babergh elects a wider range of representatives and usually reflects more variety of thought. A combined council would be safe Conservative territory for a very long time. The Central Government policies that have seen us lose income, make hasty moves, give lots of planning permissions, worry about our services, lose staff, and pretend to be a business have all come from the same party. Who benefits? As ever, I can be contacted as below, and I’ll be out and about on that old blue Claud Butler pushbike. Alastair McCraw 07812 564188 / alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (a joint open group)
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, MARCH 8: A CENTURY OF THE VOTE Jenny, Fran, Janet, Carol and Susan have organised a celebration of women’s lives and achievements every early March for the past five years. The first one was held in Tattingstone, an outdoor event spanning the bridge, and then four more years in Stutton Community Hall. Every year there has been a different theme with contributions from schools, Scouts, Guides, the Ipswich Women’s Group, singing from Lifting Spirits, local musicians Ian and Clare, lambs, films and, of course, lunches and cakes.
HOLBROOK SOCIETY Friday, February 9: Holbrook Village Hall, 7.30pm Adrian Garnham, Group Coordinator of Stutton and Holbrook First Responders will talk about the First Responders work and offer some practical first aid advice. Friday, March 23: Bowls Club, 7.30pm Martlesham Speakeasy Toastmasters present an evening of Tall Tales
Last year we were busier and more packed than ever so we have many happy memories… it’s been hard work but amazing. Thanks to everyone who has helped out and come along. This year we are having a break. This is a very special year in Britain as it is the centenary of some women getting the vote, with age and property owning status qualifying. This was the Representation of the People Act of 1918. All other women had to wait another 10 years for the Equal Franchise Act of 1928. So many of the mothers of the older women we know were 20 or more before they were enfranchised: it is very recent. And what a struggle it was, both with the suffragists taking the path of ‘reasoned argument’ and lobbying, and the suffragettes taking direct action, for example damaging property, long marches and noisy demonstrations. Together their sustained actions, with the support of key men, finally prevailed. The international theme of 2018 IWD is to Be Bold. And what a year 2017 was, with feminism re-emerging world wide with a new vigour and determination. Feminist ideas and action are again setting a wide agenda. To track what events are taking place in February and March, note that there are important celebrations, with the popular Women of the World festivals in London (March 7-11), and WOW also coming to Cambridge in late February and Norwich (April 27-29). On Saturday, February 10 at the Suffolk Archives Record Office in Bury St Edmunds there’s a day of events, Suffrage Saturday, looking at some of the local political activists working for the vote, with exhibitions and some fun activities (free). If we hear of anything more local we will put it in the March edition so tell one of us if you hear of anything. SH
SECRETARY AND BOOKINGS SECRETARY REQUIRED Holbrook Village Hall Management Committee is urgently seeking the services of a secretary and bookings secretary. These vacancies occur following the retirement of the present post holders. These positions are vital to the administration of a busy and successful community asset. If you are interested and wish to offer your services on a voluntary basis please contact David Rose: 01473 328862
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Looking back to January we had quite a jolt with the arrival of Storm Eleanor. The South West winds blew up quite a storm along the River Stour, causing significant damage to the well-used coastal footpath at Shotley Gate. Thankfully the ongoing work done by Shotley Open Spaces to maintain the concrete footpath support walls and sheet piles along the foreshore helped keep major damage at bay. The immediate problem of the footpath surface was quickly repaired and well done to Shotley Parish Council for organising these repairs so quickly. There is much talk and debate about the long term protection of the banks of the River Stour at Shotley Gate, and it is likely that a public meeting will be held in the next month or two to look at what can be done to protect the woodland and community. The future delivery of the approved ‘Phase 3 Erosion Protection Scheme’ is now in question as Shotley Parish Council has decided not to take responsibility for the project. Our group looks forward to taking part in this meeting along with many residents, so look out for the date being advertised. Walking for Health continues to be a big part of what we do and walkers are welcome to our next walks out. Firstly on Tuesday, February 20 starting from the Bristol Arms at 11am, and the Shotley Rose on Tuesday, March 20. These are gentle stress-free strolls around the beautiful Shotley countryside lasting around 90 minutes in total. Please join us, you will be most welcome (and bring your four legged friends, they are welcome too). Finally, please keep an eye out for our team working around the village and if there are any paths or areas that you think need sorting out let us know and we’ll see what we can do. If you wish to be included on the growing Shotley Open Spaces email list, please contact: Geraint Pugh: g.pugh1@btinternet.com Gary Richens: gary.richens.583@btinternet.com Tony Lawford-Randall: keyworker@hotmail.co.uk Report by Gary Richens
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OUT & ABOUT SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL
CHELMONDISTON OVER-60s NEED YOU
Our next auction will take place on Saturday, March 3. Lots which cost £1 an item need to be booked in with Jim Catling (james.catling@yahoo.co.uk / 01473 788499) or Norman Bugg (01473 787358).
Are you over 60 and have spare time on a Thursday afternoon between 2 and 4pm?
Lots can be delivered to the hall on Thursday, March 1 from 10am to 7pm, viewing takes place on Friday, March 2 from 10am to 6pm when programmes can be purchased. Bids can be left and paddles (numbers) booked.
Chelmo Over-60s meet at Chelmo Village Hall for a chat, activities such as cards, scrabble, dominoes and knitting, trips out, musical afternoons or just gossiping while enjoying a cup of tea and a slice of cake. Our very friendly bunch requires new members. Come and give us a look, or phone Mike or Michele Rutherford on 01473 780718.
The hall opens at 8.30am on Saturday, March 3 when bacon and sausage rolls will be available as well as tea and coffee.
CHELMONDISTON WI
Come along and find a bargain or sell those items you no longer use.
Despite initial trepidation when the word ‘painting’ was mentioned, the ladies at our January meeting produced fabulous cards with inset paintings on silk under the expert guidance of Caroline Giles, a member and local crafter.
BELSTEAD VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKETS Held in the village hall on the first Saturday of each month, staring on Saturday, April 7, 9am-noon. Tables are £10. If you can sew, make or crate and would like to hire a table please contact: market@belsteadvillage.co.uk / 07981 335859 Fundraising event for Belstead Village Hall.
In February we have a fascinating talk from Oggie Weldon, milliner and proprietor of Capelli hat shop. She will talk about her creations and bring along some of her fabulous hats for members to try on. On March, 13 we will be celebrating our group’s birthday with food and fun. New members are always warmly welcomed to our meetings, which take place on the second Tuesday of each month at Chelmondiston Village Hall at 7.30pm. We provide great cakes to have with your tea or coffee! Why not come along and visit us for free? The WI could be just what you’re looking for.
SHOTLEY OVER SIXTIES SOCIAL CLUB
VILLAGE LINK CLUB
First we wish you all a peaceful and healthy 2018 and thank you all for your support when we have our outings. We are in the process of sorting out this year’s outings, some new and some favourites we have been asked to repeat from last year. If anyone has a potential outing which we may not know of, please tell any member and we will see what we can do.
At our January meeting, Colette Flude gave a talk on first aid in which she got us thinking about what to do if we found someone needing help. This starts with what to check for – consciousness, breathing, pulse, etc. – and how to get professional help. Most people knew the UK emergency number is 999, but few knew that the Europe wide 112 number also works in the UK. Colette then went on to demonstrate CPR and how to obtain and use the defibrillators being located in public access points should it be needed.
This month we will meet in the village hall on Thursday, February 1, and in The Rose Inn on Thursday, February 15, both 1.50-4pm. Our first meeting for March is on March 1. We are always open to new ideas which could improve our club. For information or lifts needed, please contact Norman or Eileen: 01473 787358
The talk on February 14 is on the legendary TV programme Dad’s Army and will be followed by our annual members’ lunch at a local hostelry.
SHOTLEY WHIST DRIVE
Future talks: A History of Scarecrows, Pray Silence for ? and The History of Butley Priory.
Our next whist drives are on Thursdays, February 8 and 22 and March 8, all 1.50-4pm. We have a very pleasant afternoon with mostly homemade cakes which some of our ladies kindly bake for us. For information or lifts, please call Norman and Eileen: 01473 787358
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. Roger Felgate, 01473 311684
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OUT & ABOUT SHOTLEY AND ERWARTON WI Every year we organise and treat the Over-70s in the village to a Christmas party. This year we had around 80 people including helpers (pictured), plus one guide dog and one canine helper. The Over-70s were treated to a high tea, jelly, mince pies and sherry. A lucky few won at bingo and everyone who had been good received a present from Santa´s little helper. Finally our guests were entertained by the What No Cake ukulele band of which our previous president Lyn Higgs is a member. Our next meeting will be held in Shotley Village Hall on February 21, 7.15 for a 7.30pm start, where there will be a self defence demonstration. Wear loose clothing if you would like to take part. You are welcome to join us whether you are in the WI or not, we would love to see you. For more information contact Jo Lee: 01473 787311
EAST SUFFOLK ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND A local charity for local people An independent and voluntary charitable organisation promoting the welfare of blind and visually impaired people in East Suffolk since 1914. Membership is free. We also hold a social on the last Wednesday of every month at Stutton Community Hall from 2-4pm when we provide entertainment, afternoon tea and a raffle, and twice a year we have a lunch at a local hotel. If you would like to join us, contact Ian, our community support worker, for more information: 01473 788380 We are always in need of volunteer drivers to assist us with our monthly social event. If interested please contact Barbara McDonald: 01473 328907
SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700 CLUB December draw winners: 1: £25 Mr R Ratcliffe (OUR) / 097 2: £20 Mrs G Edwards / 143 3: £15 Mr W Lloyd / 047 4: £8 Mrs E Bugg / 050 5: £7 Mrs J Rutherford / 072 New members are always welcome at a cost of £1 a month, which can be paid three, six or 12 monthly. Contact Norman on 01473 787358 to join.
CRAFTERS UNLIMITED A craft club which meets on the first Monday of the month (except for bank holidays when it’s the following Monday). Saturday workshops (10am-4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) are held in Wherstead Village Hall Meeting Rooms. Monday, February 5: Assorted Paper Craft (Jill) Coming soon: a demonstration and talk by Louise Harwood Samples of each project are displayed the month before and other projects are available. Contacts: Ann 01473 780298 / Jill 01473 713534
1st SAMFORD VALLEY SCOUT GROUP At the end of term, the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts went Carol Singing at St Mary’s in Holbrook. They all sung heartily together in a group ranging from aged six to 14. After the carols, the Beavers gave handmade presents to the residents and everyone enjoyed refreshments together. Now we turn to the New Year’s activities! Beavers this term are concentrating on the World Badge, doing lots of activities that relate to our country’s traditions and saints, and also other countries. They have a guest coming from the Methodist church to talk about the meaning of Easter and will be using Holbrook Sports Centre for roller skating. The Cubs will be learning valuable skills as they start work on their First Aid badges with our Community First Responder. They will also be continuing their Air Activities badge in preparation for an exciting trip to Flixton Airfield next term. This term will end with fun at Play2Day at Martlesham. The Cubs would like to express their thanks to Lesley and Andrea who are both moving on after giving their time and cheerfulness as valuable helpers. We’d also like to welcome the new Cubs joining us from Beavers this term. Cubs have a few spaces for new members, so if you know a girl or boy aged eight to 10-and-a-half please get in touch with the Cub Leader Jed Stone: matregs@hotmail.com The Scouts are off to Winter Camp in January for what promises to be an action packed weekend of activities with the added fun of getting really muddy! This term the Scouts will be meeting as usual in Freston Village Hall from 7-8.45pm most Fridays. We will also be out and about on night hikes and adventures around Holbrook Creek at some point.
1st HOLBROOK BROWNIES From the noise levels in the hall, our Brownies were obviously very excited to be back together with their Brownie friends after the Christmas break. Our first night back saw us playing one of our favourite games – how many penguins fit on an iceberg? – getting very competitive with spinning tops and doing a taste test designed to fool your senses. Does lemonade really taste like washing up liquid when it’s a different colour? We have lots of exciting activities to look forward to this term including ten pin bowling, a torchlight walk, roller skating, a first aider to help us with our First Aid badge, as well as lots of crafts to create and games to play. If your daughter (aged seven to 10) would like to enjoy a variety of activities, take part in new challenges, make lasting friendships and, above all, have lots of fun, please register at Girlguiding UK. We currently have a waiting list, so please do not leave it until they are seven to register.
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OUT & ABOUT 1st HOLBROOK GUIDES 1 Holbrook Guides decided to make Shotley Pier project one of its fundraising beneficiaries and presented a cheque for £90 to pier chairman John Davitt and Michael Hines, pier treasurer and company secretary. st
Guide Leader Beverley Rudge said: “The Guides were given information on several locally based charities. They unanimously voted to support the Shotley Pier project because they were already aware of the project and they felt that the pier would be an asset for the community in the years to come.” John Davitt said: “We were very touched to be chosen by the Guides. We are used to older people caring about the pier because of their memories of the past; it’s great to see these young women caring about the pier because of the future.” The Guides, like many groups, will be visiting the pier and helping in various ways as the renovation gets going.
STOUR VALLEY U3A On Wednesday, January 10, we were entertained by Ancestral Voices who took us back to the festive season under Henry VIII and Elizabeth I using words, music and images, including instruments from the period. In fact many of today’s carols and Christmas traditions originated in the Medieval and Tudor eras. We heard carols as we’ve never have heard them before! On February 14 Robert Burridge will speak on Scott, Amundsen & the Race to the South Pole. He will concentrate on their personalities, their leadership styles, the equipment they used and their epic achievements in the face of huge difficulties. The Life and Times of Sir Alfred Munnings is the subject on March 14. Marcia Whiting, Curatorial Associate at The Munning’s Museum will give an illustrated presentation exploring his life and wide ranging subject matter, including portraits, landscapes and rural scenes as well as the horse paintings for which he is so well known. 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.
STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB We didn’t have a speaker meeting in January, but instead held our New Year Lunch for members, their spouses and Probus widows. This took place on Wednesday, January 17 at The Haywain in Little Bromley. Everyone much enjoyed the company and very good food and drink! On February 7 Dudley Chignall talks on Journey to Paradise and on February 21 David Whittle will present How the Victorians Developed Dovercourt. On March 7, Grant Elliot returns with The Life of Chic Murray and we hold our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, March 21. 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. 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
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PENINSULA POETRY Peninsula Poetry will still be based at The Bristol Arms, meeting at 7pm. The dates and theme suggestions are: February 14: 60s March 14: Carry On April 11: On the Line May 9: Dreams June 13: Home or Away July 11: Family August 8: Messages September 12: Pictures October 10: Harmony November 14: Shades December 12: Food Do you fancy reading any poetry you enjoy or to find one connected to the theme? Perhaps you fancy writing one of your own or sharing any already written. Or maybe you just fancy coming to listen. Everyone is welcome, we hope to see you.
ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY A Happy New Year to all! Our first lecture of 2018 will be on Wednesday, February 7, when Barry Venning presents a talk entitled Giles: His Life, Times and Cartoons. On Wednesday, March 7, Louise Schofield will present a talk entitled Rescuing Zeugma from the Floodwaters of the Euphrates. Here we see Acheloos, a detail of Roman Mosaic from Zeugma. Why not join us and enjoy good company and interesting talks? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust, then we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Ropes Hall War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave IP5 1JF. The start time is 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on February 20 when Sheila Charrington will be talking about her current home, Layer Marney Tower near Colchester. Layer Marney is an incomplete palace built for Henry VIII’s Lord Privy Seal. Since then it has been owned by 11 different families, and Sheila will be explaining how successive generations have influenced how the building has been used. Sheila’s talk will include the Charrington’s family life at the tower and her vision for the future of the tower. On March 13 John Gandy will be highlighting the vast 12,500 book library at Blickling Hall. The talk will be preceded by a short AGM. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome, entrance fee £3 each. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 a year (£12 a couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary – membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 – or visit: www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT MOTHERS’ UNION – SHOTLEY PENINSULA BRANCH On a bitterly cold day the members and visitors able to attend the January meeting were in good voice. Thelma had organised an afternoon of readings followed with appropriate hymns which we all thoroughly enjoyed. Maggie accompanied us on the keyboard. We had our usual prayer time, followed by refreshments. Our next meeting is on Wednesday, February 7 at 2pm in St Andrew’s Church Room when we welcome Ann and Gary to inform us how the famous Rural Coffee Caravan combats rural isolation in Suffolk villages. This is an open meeting and anyone is welcome to join us. Wishing everyone joy, peace and love for 2018.
SHOTLEY PENINSULA LOCAL HISTORY GROUP 2018 Now in our fifth year we have booked speakers on various topics, all of local interest. This year our meetings will be held at Shotley Sailing Club, Queen Victoria Drive, Shotley Gate, 7pm for 7.30pm start. Special thanks to all at The Shipwreck who have supported us through our first four years. We are always delighted to welcome new members and visitors, please come and join us – annual membership £5, meetings £3, visitors £5. MEETINGS FOR 2018 Tuesday, March 13: Ed Packard – Looking after the Basque Refugee Children in Suffolk 1937-39 Tuesday, May 8: Jonathan Webb – The Rebuilding of The Melisa (Thames Barge) Tuesday, July 10: Peter Minster – Suffolk Brickworks Tuesday, September 11: Mr Mann – A History of The Royal Hospital School Tuesday, November 13: Ipswich Archaeological Society talking about Shotley Peninsula Tuesday, December 11: Christmas Meal For further information contact Jenny Elsey: jenny@elseyadcock.co.uk
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
WINTER AT FLATFORD WILDLIFE GARDEN Sun shining? Crisp chill in the air? If you feel like a bit of fresh air, or somewhere to give the kids a run for an hour or two, why not visit Flatford Wildlife Garden? We’re open for two Snowdrop Weekends in February on 17/18 and 24/25. The garden is full of drifts of lovely snowdrops to enjoy at this time of year. We’ll also have potted snowdrops for sale, and seasonal advice on wildlife gardening for you to take home. The garden at Flatford is designed to inspire people to help wildlife in their own gardens. Many people don’t realise that they could very easily be helping conserve local wildlife by thinking differently about their gardens. For creatures like honeybees, bumblebees, butterflies, and many birds, gardens can allow them to travel across the landscape with access to food and shelter, which is vital to their survival. Gardens are no less important for creatures without wings – many gardens offer ideal habitat for hedgehogs, provided that the gardens are all connected. Surprisingly, hedgehogs need to travel up to two miles per night in order to find sufficient food, and therefore they not only need to be able to get into your garden, but also into your neighbours’ gardens from there. Once they’re in, apart from being charming in their own right, they will munch on your slugs and snails! Here are some ideas to transform your winter garden into a mininature reserve: Safe and warm in winter Don’t cut back the summer’s growth come autumn, but be patient and leave the summer’s bounty until spring. The dead plant material and autumn leaves will create an insulating blanket over the soil’s surface, creating a warm, dry haven for many small creatures hibernating away the winter months. You may then be lucky enough to have songthrushes and other hungry insect eaters rummaging in the leaf litter, searching for insect food in the depths of the winter. You can then have a satisfying tidy-up in early spring, once the worst of the winter is over. So mulch more Mulch your borders – choose something with an organic origin – homemade compost, well-rotted woodchips or bark chippings. This mulch not only nourishes the soil and plants, but also provides a source of food for soil invertebrates. Healthy populations of earthworms and other invertebrates have real benefits for the soil, and hence the plants, but will also provide food for a long list of carnivorous garden friends, such as hedgehogs, all the amphibians, song thrushes, blackbirds, robins, and many more. Winter hibernation sites Train a dense evergreen up your walls or fences, it will provide a safe haven for birds to nest, or butterflies to hibernate in winter. The five common garden butterflies, namely the comma, the small tortoiseshell, brimstone, peacock, and increasingly the red admiral, all overwinter by hibernating as adult butterflies, and need somewhere dry and insulated to shelter. In many cases, a thick evergreen climber such as ivy up against a fence or wall, provides an ideal hibernating place. For more information visit: www.rspb.org.uk/flatford
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS SHOTLEY GARDENING CLUB
STUTTON CEVCP SCHOOL
This evening I have just come back from a delicious meal in good company at The Red Lion – the garden club’s annual New Year bash – and I’m just in time to meet the print deadline.
We have made a great start to the New Year. We are delighted to welcome Mrs Lang to our school as Early Years and KS1 teacher. Already the whole school has benefitted from her Forest School training and we look forward to regular visits to Canham’s Wood.
Sadly this won’t be true of February’s news as we will be meeting a week later on February 19 to hear Simon Leatherdale’s talk on Tyler’s Wood, his ancient woodland. If this is a topic that interests you then you would be welcome to join us. This is one of our open evenings and would cost you, as a visitor, a princely £1. We meet in the committee room at the village hall at 7.30. There are still a few places left on the annual club holiday. We depart for the Lake District on Monday, May 21 and return on Friday, May 25. For more details please contact Karen: 01473 787731
CHELMONDISTON & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY Hate weeds? Find weeding as stimulating as dusting? Well, things could be about to change! Our first speaker of the season will be Karen Kenny and the title of her talk is Weeds, Glorious Weeds. Come and discover Karen’s take on weeds. Karen has been with us before and always puts on a show. If you didn’t join as a member at our cheese and wine get-together in January, there is still plenty of time. Annual membership is £7.50, which gives you access to all talks and activities. If you want to come to any of the talks you are very welcome, but we do charge £2. We always meet on the last Tuesday of the month in Chelmondiston Village Hall at 7.30pm, so our February meeting will be on February 27.
Later this term, the older children will be experiencing hands-on archaeology at Tunstall as well as visiting a castle with our younger children. We are delighted to share the use of our play area with the wider community and to provide a venue for Worship for All, Cubs, yoga and the drama group, Stutton Presents. This month we will also welcome Rising Fives to join our youngest class for a weekly story every Friday until the end of the school year. Our Christian value this term is ‘perseverance’, a value that has been particularly appropriate for our school over the last couple of years. The staff, governors, parents, children and friends of the school have continued to work tirelessly to secure the school’s future. The process of applying to join a multi academy trust is complicated – far more so for church schools – and has taken considerably longer than we anticipated. We will definitely know the outcome of our application by the end of February, however we are entering the New Year feeling very positive. The school has come a long way in quite a short space of time. We are extremely grateful for the support shown by our local community. Anne Clarke
2018 SAILING SEASON AT NEPTUNE SAILING
CHELMONDISTON C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL
We will again be running three separate evening groups (ages 10+) based on ability (ranging from complete novice to advanced sailors) for 16 weeks from April till September excluding school holidays. When reaching the required standard you will awarded the relevant RYA qualification
It hardly seems possible that the autumn term is over and a new year and term has begun. The spring term is often a shorter term than either the autumn or the summer and is a great opportunity for the children to consolidate their previous learning as well as extending them on.
If you would like to join one of these groups please contact us via the website, where you will also find a short video. If you have completed a previous group you will be offered a place to progress to the next group. The youth groups offer a route from novice to instructor standard in a friendly small centre.
The end of the autumn term was wonderful with all of the children performing in two wonderful plays. In Key Stage One, How Little Angel Got His Wings saw the children’s acting and singing talents brought to the fore. The Key Stage two production drew upon the children’s study of the Victorian era. There was some fantastic acting and brilliant solo singing! Here at Chelmondiston we are looking forward to an exciting new year. As ever the PTA are active and our first event of the year will be the Beetle Drive on Friday, January 19 at 6.30pm. This is an event which is aimed at parents and children to enjoy a fun evening together. In these days of the internet and such speedy communication it’s great for all to enjoy a pencil and paper game which brings so much fun. Later on in the half term the children will be enjoying a disco and participating in lots of exciting activities in our run up to Easter break. We are looking forward to a number of musical events this term. We are very excited to be going to the O2 in January where we will be taking part in a concert with children from all over the country. The children have been practising since September and this promises to be a very exciting event. Members of the Edith May class are going to be taking part in a Festival of School Music at Snape Maltings. They will be singing a number of songs and it promises to be wonderful singing in such a fantastic space. Right at the end of the term we will be holding our Musical Extravaganza. This is an opportunity for children to share their musical talents, both those taught in school and those who have lessons outside of the school day. Last year we enjoyed violin, brass as well as ukulele and I am confident that this year will be just as diverse and interesting. As ever please have a look at the school website which contains details of all of these events. We look forward to telling you all about our exciting experiences next month. Headteacher Sean Cornish
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More schools involved at Neptune It’s always been very important that Neptune Sailing reaches out to all of our local schools. This year, as well as working with our regular school groups, we have been pleased to organise events for East Bergholt, Stutton and Tattingstone Primary Schools. These have been very well received and were combined with writing and painting projects in several of the schools. We were pleased to be able to rig the decorated sails they had produced when the school groups made their visits. We will be continuing to involve the remaining local schools early next season. This year, we have been aided by strong support from Babergh District Council, who has helped us in our key objectives. Many thanks to Kate and the team for all of their support and encouragement throughout. Junior and Adult Courses in 2017 The largest increase in attendance in 2017 has been with adult courses. Neptune’s team have seen larger numbers joining us during the warmer months, and we have had several very large groups for level one and two courses. Powerboat courses have also seen many more students and demand continued through the season. Junior Summer Courses Our full programme of junior summer courses took place with great success over the summer holiday period. We had more places than ever as we included an extra week. Our aim is to challenge young people to take charge and move on, very often taking them outside of their comfort zone by experiencing a range of craft. We are proud to have helped many overcome their fears and develop the confidence so essential to sailing well and improving skills For more details or to book to join one of our courses in 2018, contact us via: www.neptunesailing.org.uk
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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB December was very much an up and down month for the First Team. They started positively with victory over Westerfield, the third win on the bounce. There was also a five goal success over Felixstowe Harpers, but that was sandwiched between two five goal reversals at Cranes and Henley and the team completed 2017 with a narrow 3-2 defeat at the hands of near neighbours Capel. However, 2018 started well. The Green Boys were pitched against the favourites for the League title in the eyes of many, Achilles, in Round 3 of the Bob Coleman Cup. An easy home victory was predicted, but the team put in a very gutsy performance to edge an exciting, end to end, game 4-3 after extra time. They will play Sporting 87 in Round 4. The Reserves were also a little inconsistent with one win and two draws, with one of the draws having an amazing 7-7 scoreline. The A Team improved their results rather, recording one victory and two draws. UPCOMING FIXTURES 1st Team / Senior Division Sat, Jan 27: Sporting 87 Bob Coleman Cup R4 (H) Sat Feb 3: Grundisburgh (H) Sat, Feb 24: Haughley Utd (H) Sat, Mar 3: AFC Hoxne (A) Reserves / League A Sat, Jan 27: Ipswich Athletic Res (A) Sat, Feb 10: Framlingham Town Res (A) Sat, Feb 17: Sporting 87 Res (H) Sat, Feb 24: AFC Hoxne Res (A) A Team / League B Sat, Jan 27: Wickham Market Res (H) Sat, Feb 10: Cedars Park Res (H) Sat, Feb 24: Claydon Res (H) Sat, Mar 3: Stowupland Falcons (H) Fixtures are subject to change. To confirm, please refer to the fixtures website and chose the appropriate competition: http://fulltime.thefa.com/Index.do?league=4358069 Race Night: This will now be held towards the end of February. Again this is an open event, please email for details. We are always looking for people who can help the club as committee members, whether it be on the playing side or just in the background. If you would like to sponsor the club in some capacity we would also be delighted to hear from you. Club strips, dugouts, banners and boards on matchdays are all potential exposure for your business while supporting a local organisation.
CHELMONDISTON CARPET BOWLS CLUB With half the season gone we find ourselves in sixth place with 50 points. The teams around us have roughly the same number of points so it’s all to play for. A charity fours held at Needham Market in aid of Prostate Cancer UK was won by a team comprising of two of our players. Karen Cadman and Alfie Hubbard where joined by Mick Watkins and Andy Gilder from Barking. Well done to all four. The Christmas fun night was enjoyed by all, mince pies and wine went done very well. Thanks to Patrick for organising. The winners were Chris Cook for the ladies and Michael Maile for the men. The Christmas card box raised £58 for EACH, thanks to all who contributed. A happy and prosperous new year to all our members and families! Alan Storey
THE PENINSULA BAPTIST CHURCH Pin Mill Road, Chelmondiston IP9 1JE We invite you to join us on Sunday morning at 10.30am or Sunday evening at 6pm. FIND US, FIND COMMUNITY, FIND LIFE Contact Dave Kelland: 01473 788441 / 07970 312705
SHORELINE BENEFICE ST ANDREW’S, CHELMONDISTON February 4 9.15am Dedication Festival Holy Communion & Commissioning Elder February 11 9.15am Holy Communion (Education Sunday) February 13 10am Holy Communion February 14 7.30pm Ash Wednesday: Benefice Holy Communion with Imposition of Ashes February 18 9.15am Holy Communion February 25 9.30am Family Service
EBUFC is a community club with very strong village traditions. The majority of the players either live in, or have links to, the village. Please come along and give us a look sometime.
ST MARY’S, ERWARTON February 4 9.15am February 14 7.30pm
Steve Butcher: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com
For information on services please go to: www.shorelinebenefice.co.uk
At Chelmondiston Ash Wednesday: Benefice Holy Communion with Imposition of Ashes at Chelmondiston
St MARY’S, HARKSTEAD February 4 9.15am At Chelmondiston February 11 4pm Songs of Praise February 14 7.30pm Ash Wednesday: Benefice Holy Communion with Imposition of Ashes at Chelmondiston February 18 9.30am Holy Communion February 25 9.30am Holy Communion ST MARY’S, SHOTLEY February 4 10.45am February 11 10.45am February 14 7.30pm February 18 10.45am February 25 10.45am
Family@ShotleyChurch (Candlemas) Holy Communion (Education Sunday) Ash Wednesday: Benefice Holy Communion with Imposition of Ashes at Chelmondiston Worship for All Holy Communion
Please check the website or church noticeboards for any change to the service times and places.
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CHURCH NEWS CHELMONDISTON & HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES MISTAKES Have you ever made a mistake? I think we must all answer yes! Have you ever tried to cover up a mistake and pretend it never happened, or at least that it wasn’t you? Again many of us may say yes. At the age of nine, while on school library duty, I randomly used the library rubber stamp all over one of the library registers. My form teacher asked the class who had done it. No one else had seen me, so I kept quiet. The whole class was assigned an after school detention. Late in the day I owned up and was marched off to the headmaster’s office. I was aware of my teacher’s sadness that it had taken me so long to own up – I had let him down. Standing outside my headteacher’s office waiting for him to deal with me, I had time to reflect. It had taken the threat of punishing innocent others to get me to admit my mistake. How I regretted not owning up sooner. I see now that it was my conscience that at last prompted me not to allow 30 other children to suffer a punishment for my mistake. I don’t remember whether I had much of a punishment, but I knew the relief of admitting my mistake. I suspect the headteacher and teacher recognised the embarrassment and humiliation of a late confession was enough and that I did have a conscience. Conscience is that inner sense that tells us whether what we are doing, or plan to do, is right or wrong. Conscience is something inside that bothers you when nothing outside does. A guilty conscience never thinks itself safe. To have a good conscience is to know serenity and that you are living up to your own standards. Yet our consciences can be ignored, and if repeatedly ignored, it can remain silent during the most evil acts, and can even be so distorted that it justifies them. King David (a great king of Israel 3,000 years ago) lusted after a married woman, committed adultery and then had her husband murdered in battle. As King, he thought he could get away with it, but a prophet challenged him, his conscience was re-awakened and David describes the feeling of shame, embarrassment and failure to live to his standards. When he admitted his mistake, his sin, when he stopped trying to hide his guilt, he felt a huge burden lifted. God forgave and removed the guilt (he still had to live with the consequences of his sin). He knew God was doing an amazing thing in his life and he asked God to create in him a pure heart, for his relationship with God to be restored and his conscience sustained so he wouldn’t repeat the mistakes. (The story is found in 2 Samuel chapters 11 & 12 and Psalms 32 and 51)
It is still tempting sometimes to try to brush mistakes under the carpet and not acknowledge them. David’s and my experience speak of the transformation and freedom we enjoy when we admit our wrongdoing. The Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Brantham & Capel Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 FEBRUARY SERVICES AT CHELMONDISTON METHODIST Sunday 4 10.45am Worship with Rev Andrew Sankey 6.15pm Worship with Rev Andrew Sankey Sunday 11 10.45am Worship with Mr Harry Chicken 6.15pm Worship with Rev Martin Dawes Sunday 18 10.45am Communion with Rev Michael Allen 6.15pm Worship with Mr Chris Jowett Sunday 25 10.45am Worship with Mr Brian Nichols 6.15pm Worship Rev Diane Smith AT HOLBROOK METHODIST (HCT Holbrook Churches Together) Tea and Chat (HCT): Monday, 2.30-4pm Home Groups: First and third Tuesdays at 7.30pm and Thursdays at 2pm (ring for venue) Sunday 3 10-11.30am Sunday 4 10am Sunday 11 10am Sunday 18 10am 6.30pm Friday 23 3.30pm Sunday 25 10am 6.30om
Coffee Morning Communion with Rev Michael Allen Worship with Mr Roger Fern Family Friendly Worship and Baptism with Rev Sankey Musical Evening with Male Voice Choir Messy Church (HCT) Worship with Mr Paul Howes First session of the Lent course I, Daniel Blake
Please see the noticeboard on the front of the chapel for all events in November. For more information about Messy Church, Tiddlers and Family Live (HCT) contact Alicia Holmes: ajnholmes@gmail.com / 01473 658478 On several Sundays evenings staring on February 25, we will watch clips from the multi award winning film I, Daniel Blake and discuss and reflect together on why so many people in our society are suffering and what causes injustice and oppression. All are welcome. This is a Churches Together Lent course to be held at Holbrook Methodist Chapel from 6.30-7.30pm on February 25, March 4 & 18 and April 8 & 15.
TWO RIVERS BENEFICE FEBRUARY SERVICES ST PETER’S, STUTTON February 4 8am 10.30am February 11 9.30am February 14 10.30am February 18 9.30am February 25 11am
Holy Communion Worship for All (school) Holy Communion Ash Wednesday (or 7.30pm in Holbrook) Holy Communion Informal Service
ALL SAINTS, HOLBROOK February 4 4pm February 11 10am February 14 7.30pm February 18 8am 10.30am February 25 9.30am
Winter Refreshments Matins Ash Wednesday (or 10.30am in Stutton) Holy Communion Informal Service Holy Communion
ST MARY’S, WHERSTEAD February 4 No Service February 11 11am Holy Communion
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February 14 Ash Wednesday Services: Stutton 10.30am / Holbrook 7.30pm February 18 No Service February 25 11am Informal Service ST PETER’S, FRESTON February 4 11am Matins February 11 No Service February 14 Ash Wednesday Services: Stutton 10.30am / Holbrook 7.30pm February 18 11am Holy Communion February 25 No Service ST MICHAEL’S, WOOLVERSTONE February 4 11am Cafe Church February 11 11am Worship the Woolverstone Way February 14 Ash Wednesday Services: Stutton 10.30am / Holbrook 7.30pm February 18 11am Morning Prayer February 25 11am Holy Communion
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CHURCH NEWS HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB Parish Priest: Father Christopher Smith 01473 684963 / 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ We are part of St Mark’s RC Parish, Ipswich. For up-to-date information please visit: www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR FEBRUARY 2018 Sunday 4 9am
5th Sunday of Ordinary Time Mass
Tuesday 6 9.30am 10am
Morning Prayer Mass
Sunday 11 9am
6th Sunday of Ordinary Time Mass
Tuesday 13 9.20am 10am
Eucharistic Adoration Mass
Wednesday 14 Ash Wednesday See church newsletter/website for mass times Sunday 18 9am
1st Sunday of Lent Mass
Tuesday 20 9.30am 10am
Morning Prayer Mass
Sunday 25 9am
2nd Sunday of Lent Mass
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Tuesday 28 9.30am 10am
Morning Prayer Mass
The weekly newsletter with weekly mass times is always displayed in the cabinet alongside the front door. Catholic Commentary Older Catholics may remember ‘the penny Catechism’ a simple and concise booklet of Catholic belief in question and answer form. Following the General Council of the Church 1962-65 (Vatican II) it was necessary for the Catechism to be updated and presented in a new way. The result was a 600 page volume cross referenced to other documents with a comprehensive index. It was published in October 1992 and so has been in use for 25 years. There is a shorter, compendium version and many booklets on the Catechism, including ones for young people, particularly one called Youcat. The point to make is the Catechism is a wonderful resource for Catholics and others who want to know what Church teaching actually is on any number of interesting and important topics of Christian belief and understanding. Events & Diary Date The 100 Club Draw took place on Sunday, January 21 when three lucky winners shared a record £151. The next draw takes place on Sunday, February 25. The club, set up to support the life and mission of our parish, has grown from strength to strength since its launch. New members are always very welcome and the newsletter, that includes an application form, can be found at the rear of the church or online at: www.stmarksparish.org.uk Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv & Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am to noon. We are raising funds for church maintenance and all are very welcome to join us. The next event is on Thursday, February 22.
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