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Volume 8 • Issue No. 3 • JANUARY 2018
Spider Web at Tunstall Forest by Jamie Bird
Spider Web at Tunstall Forest by Jamie Bird
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Ipswich: 01473 396296
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NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR When I was much younger, New Year’s resolutions seemed to be quite important. I remember feeling I had to come up with some genuine pledges to do one thing or another, or to not do one thing or another. Of course, they all fell by the wayside, but I thought it would be fun to share a few I have failed to keep over the years. 1: I will stop biting my nails (every year since I was five) 2: I will run 5K (last year) 3: I will learn a new language (every year since I married into a family where everyone else does) 4: I will not watch daytime TV (rarely happens, but does feel like a treat when I get 10 minutes – got to love those housewives!) 5: I will eat less sugar (a daily failure) 6: I will not buy any new shoes or clothes for an entire year (I tried this and it made me completely miserable. A girl needs an occasional treat, or at least the possibility of one!) 7: I’m going to do face yoga every morning (recommended by a friend in 2014 – we don’t see much of each other anymore) 8: I’m going to drink six glasses of water every day (oh the guilt!) 9: I’m going to listen to less Leonard Cohen and be more positive about everything (can’t do it – Leonard truly holds the keys to my miserable heart) 10: I’m going to make time for a weekly date night with my husband (turns out he would have to make the same resolution and get home from work before 9pm)
NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR SUFFOLK’S YOUTH PARLIAMENT Nominations are now open for Suffolk’s Youth Parliament and young people in Suffolk have until January 7 to submit their nominations. The UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) is the largest elected body of young people in the UK who influence policy. Made up of elected Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) and deputies, they meet locally and nationally to give young people a voice. There are currently two MYPs in Suffolk and up to 15 MYPs and deputies will be appointed when elections are held in February. MYPs assist in running Make Your Mark, the UK›s largest youth consultation. The results of the consultation are used to develop services locally and nationally. There are also opportunities to attend British Youth Council conventions and attend the Make Your Mark debate in the House of Commons. Above all, young people are given the opportunity to meet new people, make lasting friends and make a difference. Results of the recent Make your Mark consultation can be viewed at: https://tinyurl.com/ya9jhx5b Councillor Gordon Jones, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said: “I would always encourage young people to get involved in politics and UK Youth Parliament is a great opportunity for young people to be a part of important decisions made both locally and nationally.
So I’m going to skip the resolutions this year and just get on with living, always trying to do better, to be healthier, more appreciative, more thoughtful… all of which would be easier if I got more sleep. I’ve just talked myself into a resolution, haven’t I? Failed again!
In Touch
with Burstall & Sproughton
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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“Being a Member of Youth Parliament gives young people a powerful voice to present views, opinions and issues of Suffolk’s residents to local decision makers. Elected MYPs will demonstrate a passion and energy to drive real change for the better.” Current Member of Suffolk’s Youth Parliament, Meg Day, said: “Youth Parliament has given me so many opportunities and experiences that wouldn’t have been offered to me otherwise. I’ve met likeminded people from up and down the country and made some of the best friendships I’ve ever had. UKYP holds the largest youth consultation in the world and you really do feel like you’re making a positive difference for young people.” The UK Youth Parliament holds elections for UKYP members to be elected in Suffolk in February to start their term in March. To apply, you must: • Be aged 11-18 • Live, work or study in the area you are standing for • Be able to commit seven hours a month (or one-two hours a week) to Suffolk UKYP To run for election, young people will need produce a short video or a written manifesto, addressing three areas they are passionate about and would like to change in their local area – one of these must be taken from the top 5 Make Your Mark results. Manifestos must be submitted by January 7, 2018. Full details of how to apply can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/y9x2a828 For more information about the UK Youth Parliament, visit: www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk
Cover image by Jamie Bird: www.flickr.com/photos/135426398@N08 Prints and commissions available; for more information email: jamiebird05@yahoo.com
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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Want more Suffolk energy-from-waste facility news? You can now sign up for our twice-yearly e-newsletter. The e-newsletter is packed full of news, from how much waste we have processed to visitors we have welcomed on site. If you would like to receive these then sign up at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/suffolkefwnewsletter Paper copies of the newsletter are available on request by calling: 01473 839149 If you would like to keep in touch more regularly, Suffolk energy-from-waste is now tweeting site updates and tips on how to reduce, reuse and recycle your waste. Follow us on Twitter: @suffolkefw
A PLEA FOR HOSPITALITY Some will know (only too well) that, aside from charity work in Russia, Tony Wilcox has a friend there who teaches English to adults in evening classes in St Petersburg, and who likes to bring her students to Britain. They come in order to learn more about our country and culture, improve their English, and because they genuinely regard a visit to this country as ‘the trip of a lifetime’. She is planning a similar trip for two weeks next July; as on previous occasions. Tony has the task of finding accommodation in local households for up to a dozen young adults, in pairs. If you think you may be able to help in any way, please contact Tony: 01473 461561 / tony.wilcox@caringhandsru.org
Come and have a look around The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is holding a series of open days in January and February which will include a tour of the facility and time to explore our visitor centre. Places are currently available on the following days: Thursday, January 18, 2-4pm Tuesday, January 23, 6-8pm Tuesday, February 6, 10am-noon Thursday, February 15, 2-4pm There are 20 spaces on each day and you must pre-book. To book your place, please email suffolkefw@sita.co.uk with your preferred dates and we will confirm your place by email. If you would like to come but cannot make these dates, you can email us to register your interest and we will let you know when the next open days are planned. SUEZ Communities Trust The SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding to projects that improve community life and the natural environment. It distributes money donated by SUEZ Recycling and Recover UK, although it is independent and has its own board which decides which projects to support. Funding is available for projects within a three-mile radius of the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility and applications can be made online. If you know a project that could be deserving of the funding do look on the website: www.suezcommunitiestrust.org.uk Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to contact the facility on 01473 839149. OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS To book a visit: 01473 836 821 Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262 910
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THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH Try it out - second half of January! The Duke of Marlborough in Somersham will be closed during the first two weeks of January while our manager, chef and volunteers take a well-deserved break. But they are looking forward to welcoming you back on Thursday, January 18. Check out the new look. Turn up for a drink or coffee. Pop by for lunch. Come along for an evening meal. Arrange to meet your friends here. Put your nose round the door after a walk. Take advantage of the Wi-Fi. Relax in the warmth. Enjoy the hospitality. The dining room with its comfortable new furniture is available for parties, functions and meetings. There’s been great feedback from the groups who have used it. “The pub has got off to a cracking start with its food offering produced by our great young chef,” says James Batchelor-Wylam, Duke of Marlborough chairperson. “It’s also a great place to come just for a drink – or a coffee. The whole idea was to make the welcome to all – and it is. We look forward to seeing you there.” If you’re interested in working at the pub in a paid or voluntary capacity, you can learn new skills and be part of a real success story. Please contact kevin@thedukeofmarlborough.com if you’re interested. If you would like to buy shares, please contact: keithmckeown8@gmail.com.
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NEWS SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA)
SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM
In the autumn of last year, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no. 4494/16.
Dear Readers,
Full details can be found at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning It is important to be aware that this is not a renewal of the original planning approval for SnOasis, which remains in place. Reserved Matters cover the detail of such topics as design, appearance, transport, drainage and ecological mitigation. Our questions and comments about Reserved Matters were summarised in a document which was submitted to MSDC in the summer as the comments from the SPA and all it’s member parishes, giving the comments extra weight because they come from a significant number of local communities, representing over 11,000 registered voters. The SPA member parishes are Baylham, Barham, Bramford, Claydon and Whitton, Great Blakenham, Little Blakenham, Needham Market, Nettlestead and Somersham. Yet again I have to report that there is no date for Reserved Matters to be considered by BMSDC due to the ongoing failure by the developer to produce the information that Planning and the SPA have asked for. The SPA is very concerned, as I’m sure many of you are, by the fact that these crucial pieces of information are still outstanding, well over a year after the initial deadline for Reserved Matters to be considered by BMSDC. We believe that this suggests unwillingness on the part of the developer to engage with the concerns and opinions of local residents and we feel that this is attitude is extremely concerning. However, at this stage, there is nothing the SPA can do but wait and monitor the situation and continue to work with BMSDC Planning to ensure that the views of local residents are kept at the forefront of any consideration of Reserved Matters. We are hoping to arrange a series of meetings with Planning on specific issues, such as traffic and roads to make sure crucial areas are regularly reviewed. For further information, please email SPA clerk Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume
I never cease to be amazed at the danger that some drivers put themselves in each winter. I often see people driving with windscreens totally frozen or misted over, often so badly they can’t see through. Rather than spending a few extra minutes clearing their windscreen before they set of, they would rather put themselves and others in danger by driving with their head out of the driver’s window or squinting to see through a small patch in the windscreen. A safe journey starts in the preparation the night before. Check the weather forecast; if it’s going to be frosty, put a protective sheet over the windscreen (available online or from most good vehicle accessory shops). Alternatively, get up 15 minutes earlier to allow enough time to fully defrost your car before you set off. Please don’t pour hot water on your windscreen; although the windscreen companies will love all the extra business from the shattered / cracked windscreen, I’m sure you can think of better ways of spending your time and hard earned money. Think carefully if your journey is really necessary. If it is, please allow a greater stopping distance between you and the car in front, especially on apparently wet (potentially black ice) or icy roads. Hopefully, you find these tips useful and will help you have a safe and enjoyable start to the New Year. If you would like any detailed advice on road safety or crime prevention, please contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on either our new telephone number of 101 or email us at: Hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk EMERGENCY: CALL 999 NON-EMERGENCY: CALL 101 FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @HadleighPolice POLICE CONNECT: suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect Until next time, Best wishes for prosperous New Year PC 1220 Garrod, Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh, Ipswich IP7 5AD
LOCAL RECORDER SCHEME Suffolk Local History Council runs a Local Recorder Scheme throughout Suffolk. A recorder takes notes of significant happenings in their parish and collects local parish magazines, leaflets, election pamphlets and newspaper cuttings, and any planning schemes. At the end of the year a short report is submitted to the History Council and is deposited at the Record Office.
Thank you to everyone who helped and supported our latest jumble sale and made it a great success. If you missed this last sale, there will be another in either April or May, so watch this space! Please save all your goodies, but, if this is a problem, we can collect before then.
The undersigned would be interested in any village photos, news and documents.
Pam Rayment
Doreen Bradbury, 01473 210008
We record the present for the future.
It was the chat with them over a cuppa that got me through the day Here for you every hour of every day
01473 858517
or visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals 6
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ADVERTORIAL
Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.
Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number
of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
Fri 5th - Thurs 11th Jan
JUMANJI: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE (12A)
Fri 5th & Sat 6th: 2.30 & 7.45, Sun 7th: 2.30 Mon 8th - Wed 10th: 5.15, Thurs 11th: 7.45
BATTLE OF THE SEXES (12A)
Fri 22nd - Thurs 28th Dec
STAR WARS: THE LAST JEDI
(12A)
Fri 22nd & Sat 23rd: 2.00, 5.15 & 8.30 Sun 24th: 2.00, Tue 26th: 2.00 & 5.15 Wed 27th & Thurs 28th: 2.00, 5.15 & 8.30
PADDINGTON 2 (PG)
Fri 5th & Sat 6th: 5.00, Sun 7th: 7.45 Mon 8th - Thurs 11th: 2.30
THE DISASTER ARTIST (15)
Sun 7th: 5.15, Mon 8th - Wed 10th: 7.45 Thurs 11th: 12.00 & 5.00
Fri 22nd - Thurs 28th: 11.30am*
FERDINAND (U)
Fri 29th Dec - Thurs 4th Jan
PADDINGTON 2 (PG)
*No Showing on Christmas Day
THE JUSTICE LEAGUE (12A) Fri 29th & Sat 30th: 7.45 Tue 2nd - Thurs 4th: 7.45
Sat 6th & Sun 7th: 10.00am Sat 6th & Sun 7th: 12.15
OKLAHOMA! (1955) (U) Wed 10th: 11.30am
PADDINGTON 2 (PG)
Fri 12th - Thurs 18th Jan
DADDY’S HOME 2 (12A)
Fri 12th - Wed 17th: 2.15 & 7.45 Thurs 18th: 11.30am, 2.15 & 7.45
Fri 29th - Sun 31st: 5.00
Sun 31st: 7.15, Mon 1st - Thurs 4th: 5.00
FERDINAND
(U)
Fri 29th - Thurs 4th: 12.15 & 2.30
Thurs 22nd February at 7pm - Tickets £12.50 National Theatre presents a recorded LIVE screening of
CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF
LIVE ON STAGE Monday 22nd January at 7.30pm - Tickets £17.50
BOB BROLLY
THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (PG) PITCH PERFECT 3 (12A)
Fri 12th: 11.30am & 5.15 Sat 13th - Thurs 18th: 5.15
JUMANJI (12A)
Sat 13th & Sun 14th: 12.15
FERDINAND
(U)
Sat 13th & Sun 14th: 10.00am
POCKET MONEY MOVIES
Monday 29th January at 7.30pm - Tickets £17.50
GREAT FAMILY FILMS, KIDS £2.50, ADULTS FREE!*
Monday 5th February at 7.30pm - Tickets £17.50
Fri 22nd - Sun 24th: 9.30am, Wed 27th: 9.30am
UNION GAP
RAYMOND FROGGATT
www.regalstowmarket.co.uk / 01449 612825 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1AY
CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS (U)
THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE (U) Fri 29th - Sun 31st: 9.30am
*1x free adult per paying child. Under 10’s must be accompanied.
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NEWS MESSAGE FROM YOUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR Suffolk launches social prescribing pilot scheme Local people joined professionals working in their community, to celebrate the official launch of the Community Connector pilot scheme at Shotley Village Hall. The pilot is part of Suffolk County Council’s work to join professionals working in health and social care with voluntary groups that provide direct support to promote social prescribing. Social prescribing supports individuals to find non-clinical ways to improve their physical and emotional wellbeing by providing early support and dedicated time with a trained Community Connector to identify tailored solutions. This often involves accessing opportunities provided by local groups, clubs and activities in their local community. Suffolk Family Carers are working in partnership to deliver this service. Hayley Hancock, Head of Adult Services at Suffolk Family Carers, said: “We are delighted to be able to support people to connect better within their communities. This will benefit individuals by reducing the effects of social isolation. Our Community Connector Adviser will work from the bus with individuals to help them reach their goals.” While social prescribing is not new to Suffolk, the Community Connector scheme is a fresh approach to bringing this way of working to rural and often isolated parts of Suffolk. The pilot will utilise the Suffolk Family Carers Bus twice a week to visit Shotley, Holbrook, Stutton and Chelmondiston. The scheme accepts referrals from professionals, family members, friends, or neighbours. Self-referrals can also be made. Home visits are also an option. The Community Connector will spend time with individuals to help identify goals and ways of achieving them. There will also be opportunities to meet with other people working within their communities, either offering advice, ideas or new activities. For more information visit: www.suffolkfamilycarers.org/communityconnector. Nominations open for Suffolk’s Youth Parliament Nominations are now open for Suffolk’s Youth Parliament and young people in Suffolk have until January 7 to submit their nominations. The UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) is the largest elected body of young people in the UK who influence policy. Made up of elected Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) and Deputies, they meet locally and nationally to give young people a voice. There are currently two MYPs in Suffolk and up to 15 MYPs and Deputies will be appointed when elections are held in February. MYPs assist in running Make Your Mark, the UK’s largest youth
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consultation. The results of the consultation are used to develop services locally and nationally. There are also opportunities to attend British Youth Council conventions and attend the Make Your Mark debate in the House of Commons. Above all, young people are given the opportunity to meet new people, make lasting friends and make a difference. Home to school transport consultation to be reconsidered Proposals to consult Suffolk residents on changing the way home to school and post-16 travel is provided was to be reconsidered by Suffolk County Council on Tuesday, December 5. Over the last two years, Suffolk County Council has managed to save £2.6million from its school and post-16 travel service budget, making it more efficient. Despite this, the budget is still £3million overspent. Changes to the school and post-16 travel policies now need to be considered so the service is affordable and capable of meeting growing demand in the future. Suffolk County Council’s current school and post-16 travel policies go above legal requirements, with around 2,400 children and young people receiving free/subsided school or post-16 travel that we are not legally required to provide, and around 2,400 children receiving free travel to schools further away than legally required. The proposed consultation seeks views on options to change these policies. On September 12, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet approved a public consultation on school and post-16 travel. This was subsequently reviewed by the council’s Scrutiny Committee and referred back to Cabinet for reconsideration. Suffolk County Council has now carried out additional pre-consultation work with schools, parents, parish councils, bus/coach operators, councillors and young people to look at the challenges in further detail. As part of this, a range of local solutions have been developed that in addition to changing the school and post-16 travel policies, could help reduce the cost of transport and some of the impact of any policy changes. These include, for example increasing sizes of vehicles, extending school opening times, and parents applying for free travel so only the seats that are needed are allocated. The pre-consultation ran from July to November 2017, and was carried out to help inform the proposed public consultation. During this period, Suffolk County Council heard the views of over 200 people, and facilitated 28 different events, workshops, meetings and discussions. Regards and best wishes, Christopher Hudson
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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5
BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB
Route 5 MIP/5A MIP/5B MIP/5C MIP/5D MIP/5E MIP/5F MIP/5G MIP/5H MIP/5I MIP/5J MIP/5K
The Monday group (7.30-9.30pm) will meet on January 8 and 22, while the Wednesday group (10am-noon) will meet every week from Wednesday 10. School year membership is £1, and £3 per session. We don’t have a set programme; we are here to help you to get the most out of your computer. Why not give us a try? All meeting are in the upstairs room of Bramford Methodist Church.
Town/village Location Time Sproughton Church Lane 9.10-9.25am Sproughton Wild Man 9.30-9.45am Bramford St Mary’s Close 9.50-10.05am Bramford Paper Mill Lane 10.10-10.25am Great Blakenham, Chequers 10.35-1055am Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park 11-11.15am Baylham Post Box 11.25-11.45am Claydon Crown 11.55am-1pm Claydon Edinburgh Gardens 2.05-2.20pm Barham Bacon Road 2.25-3.50pm Bramford Packard Place 4-4.30pm
IPSWICH & DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired business gentlemen. The primary objective is to provide fellowship between members and to share similar interests in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
DATES: January 16 Please note that Mobile Library Route 13 stops off at the Sorrel Horse in Barham from 11-11.10am on the following dates: January 26
We meet monthly at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us.
LENT SOUP LUNCHES Once again, you are warmly invited to Soup Lunches taking place in Sproughton Church Hall during Lent. With the highly successful launch of the new North Samford Churches Toddler Group on Monday mornings, we have decided to switch the lunches to Thursdays. They will be between noon and 1.15pm, starting on Thursday, February 15, then every Thursday until March 22. On each occasion there will be a cake stall (contributions are invited), and the proceeds from this and the lunches will go to World Vision.
COUNTRYSIDE WALKS
World Vision is a Christian organisation currently helping more than 100 million people in nearly 100 countries in their struggle against poverty, hunger and injustice, irrespective of their religious beliefs.
Due to the shortness of daylight we haven’t been far of late, mainly walking around the village. We did go to Felixstowe Ferry and enjoyed the sea air but the Sunday walk in December was cancelled because of the snow.
Come and enjoy a bowl of soup (home-made whenever possible) and a roll, buy a cake for your neighbour and have fellowship with others, knowing that your money is helping some of the world’s most vulnerable people.
The next walks we hope will be on Sunday, January 14 when we will walk in the Chantry, and on Tuesday, January 23 we hope we can go further afield if the weather is good.
If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com
FEELING GREEN? TRY THIS CHEESY SPINACH CASSEROLE By now, you may be feeling a need for greens, for which I usually wait until spring arrives. However, I know you just can’t wait around. The way the weather’s been we may suddenly be thrown into summer directly from winter, so with that in mind, let’s go directly to one of the best greens – or at least one of the more popular ones – spinach! This casserole is cheesy and hot, a tasty treat on a frosty day or a surprise early spring day in January. Let’s not be fussy. It works anytime. Enjoy! Pre-heat oven to 200° / gas mark 6 Prepare a two-litre casserole. Butter the inside of the dish, then sprinkle it with grated cheese (select from choices below). – 1tb minced onion or shallot – 1tb butter –1 6oz chopped fresh spinach, blanched, or thaw a 10oz frozen pack and drain – A pinch or two of salt In a glass or enamel saucepan, quickly sauté onion or shallot, then add spinach and salt. Stir it over a high heat to evaporate as much moisture as possible, then set aside, away from heat. If you wish to add mushrooms, twist a handful at a time in a paper towel to absorb as much moisture as possible, and sauté them in butter, salt and pepper to suit, and add to the spinach mixture.
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– 2tbs butter – 2tbs flour – 200g milk or vegetable water – 2-3 egg yolks In another saucepan, on low heat, stir flour into melted butter until more or less smooth, then whisk a little of the liquid, adding a bit at a time until smooth. As it thickens, remove from the heat momentarily, and drop in the yolks one at a time, beating after each one. Stir in the spinach mixture, with or without mushrooms. Set aside. – 2-3 egg whites, beaten stiff – Pinch of salt – 1½oz grated Swiss cheese (or Gruyère, Parmesan, or a harmonious mixture) Stir about a quarter of the beaten egg whites into the spinachsauce, and all but a spoonful of cheese. Then fold in the rest of the egg whites, pour into the prepared casserole dish, and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top. Bake on a rack in the middle of the oven, and turn down the heat to 190° / gas mark 5 for 25-30 minutes. Buy your eggs, flour, and cheeses from Sproughton Community Shop, the shop with something for everyone! Mary Bright Basan Questions or comments? Email: mbb.101@hotmail.com
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OUT & ABOUT / SPORT SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB I trust that by the time you read these notes you will have recovered from consuming too many mince pies and Christmas fare. The first routine club meeting will be on January 3 and our post-Christmas meal out is on January 17, the venue of the latter to be confirmed well before then. The 2018 Annual General Meeting will be held on April 18 with the usual local meal out beforehand. Again, full details will be published in advance. As in previous years, please save any used postage stamps and pass to Betty Game (one of our members) who collects these for charity.
You’re invited to make an appointment at our Wherstead Park office to discuss:
Powers of Attorney Wills
Probate Court of Protection * We also offer a range of other services
Our out of town Ipswich location is very convenient for parking and has Contact us for an appointment today: excellent disabled access. www.ellisonssolicitors.com enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ 01473 556 900 Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336
The committee and members of Sproughton Senior Citizens’ Club wish all our readers a Happy New Year and a successful 2018. John Bates
JACK SHEPPARD, MOTORCYCLE TRIALS RIDER END OF YEAR REPORT It is appropriate to look back at 2017 and forward to what 2018 might hold for Sproughton’s trials motorcyclist. The main focus has been the British Senior Championships which comprised eight events in various parts of the United Kingdom, but none of course in East Anglia where there are no venues capable of hosting such events. In fact, Jack’s nearest suitably challenging practice areas are located in wilder parts of Derbyshire and Yorkshire, rather a long way to go just for a few hours. The series went well until the very last round. Jack was on the cusp of winning the British title when a vital brake component failed and the resultant loss of safe performance dropped him into second place. Another very important occasion was the famous Scottish Six-Day Trial, reckoned to be the most challenging motorcycle trials event in the world. Three hundred of the best riders from almost 20 countries converge on Fort William for a week during which competitors cover something like 100 miles a day over very rough and remote terrain. It is not unknown for riders to get lost on the moors, and woe-betide the rider who falls flat in a snow-melt stream on day one! The winner was Dougie Lampkin, for the eleventh time! Jack came fourth, missing a podium place by just one point. He did, however, win one of the days outright. Chanel 79 has recently (December) screened a series of programmes about the event as seen through the eyes of comedian Ross Noble who found it rather difficult and finished in 260th place. After several years riding Beta machines, Jack has parted on friendly terms with the company and has been recruited by another Italian company, Sherko. He is contracted to compete in the British Championships and also in several other major events during the year. There is no suggestion that he should ride in World or European competitions. Readers may recall that Jack held both World and European titles as a youth rider in his late teens. He has, however, been invited to compete in the New Zealand Three-Day Trial later in 2018. This is a prestigious event which he has won twice before, so he is keen to return. It would mean staying on the other side of the world for a few weeks during which he would revisit Australia to ride and probably hold a few trials schools. Ken Sheppard (Jack’s grandfather)
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ON THE GRAPEVINE
THE NEW WOLSEY THEATRE SPRING 2018 SEASON ON SALE NOW
This spring, the New Wolsey Theatre will present the premiere of Our Blue Heaven, a brand new musical in celebration of 40 years since Ipswich Town’s historic FA Cup Victory. The production runs from Friday 4 to Saturday, May 26. With a hasty wedding, a first birth and missing tickets to contend with, will our mad-keen Ipswich fans make it to the final? Can the town navigate the frozen pitch at Bristol Rovers, the rioting Millwall supporters at the Den, dodgy refereeing at Villa Park and make it all the way to Wembley? Created from the heart-warming memories of super blues fans themselves, with a live soundtrack of chart hits from ‘78, join Bobby and his Blue Army on this nostalgic trip down Wembley Way. The production opens at the theatre exactly 40 years on from the win – a moment when Ipswich united to celebrate success as the underdog and became victorious. With funding raised from the community and local businesses, this production will really be a show drawn from the local community, for the local community! Next year will also see the New Wolsey Theatre collaborating again with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch to produce Patrick Hamilton’s Rope, running from Wednesday 7 to Saturday, March 17. Based on a 1920’s real life case, this dark classic was filmed by Alfred Hitchcock in 1948 and remains to this day one of the most tightly coiled of thrillers. Chilling and spine-tinglingly gripping, this production will be coproduced with Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch, who last collaborated with the New Wolsey for the classic Ealing comedy The Ladykillers. Nottingham Playhouse Theatre will produce the third Ramps on the Moon touring production. Our Country’s Good which will tour to Birmingham, Nottingham, Leeds, Sheffield and London. The production will arrive in Ipswich from Wednesday, March 28 to Saturday, April 7. Both a comedy and powerful drama, Our Country’s Good tells the extraordinary true story of a group of convicts and a young officer who rehearse and perform a play – Australia’s first theatrical production. With opposition from the officers and a leading lady who may be hanged, the odds are stacked against them. For more information visit: www.rampsonthemoon.co.uk The New Wolsey Theatre and fingersmiths co-produce John Godber’s awardwinning comedy Up ‘n’ Under. The Wheatsheaf Arms amateur rugby league team have never won a game. They don’t have enough players and they have no kit. Can Arthur, our hero, coach them to beat the mighty Cobblers Arms in the cup final? The production, showing from Wednesday 7 to Saturday, February 10, will be given a fingersmiths’ spin featuring a cast of Deaf and hearing actors using British Sign Language and spoken English. Oliver Award-nominated actress Josette Bushell-Mingo mixes story and song as she draws together tales from the life of Nina Simone and her own
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extraordinary career from Tuesday 20 Thursday, February 22 with Nina – A Story About Me and Nina Simone. Snapdragon Productions and The Watermill Theatre present an awardwinning, punchy new musical that race through the dark and damaged world of post-war London: a brand new Britain bombed to bits by the Blitz, belts tight with austerity, but ripe and ready for revolution with Teddy from Monday 19 to Saturday, March 24. Mark Goucher and David Ian present a Cheltenham Everyman Theatre production Quartet. A charming tale of four ageing opera singers, this brandnew revival of the bitter-sweet comedy Quartet, from Oscar-winning writer Sir Ronald Harwood and directed by the New Wolsey Theatre’s Artistic Director Peter Rowe, will run from Monday, February 26 to Saturday, March 3. A collaboration from Les Théâtres de la Ville de Luxembourg, Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch and Selladoor Productions will mark the 80th anniversary of the Kindertransport and 25 years since the play was written by Diana Samuels. This deeply moving and timely modern classic will take to the New Wolsey Theatre stage from Tuesday 17 to Saturday, April 21 as a part of its National Tour in 2018. From Tuesday 24 to Saturday, April 28, English Touring Theatre Company will return following the success of Silver Lining and Rules For Living in 2017, with a bold revival of Tennessee Williams’ timeless masterpiece A Streetcar Named Desire. Stanley Kowalski’s entire way of life is threatened by the arrival of his anxious, seductive and fiercely clever sister-in-law Blanche. This raging portrayal explores what is means to be an outsider, in a society where we’re all desperate to belong. Performances for children and families include: M6 Theatre with Mike Kenny’s A Tiger’s Tale; an interactive performance with Little Howard’s Big Show for Kids; one for all the family with Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show featuring vortex generating dustbins, vanishing bears and exploding Pringles tubes; Kid Carpet return with Noisy Holiday; a performance from the characters of the BAFTA Award-winning CBeebies show with Sarah and Duck; an adaption of the popular children’s book Captain Flinn and the Magic Cutlass; and Full House Theatre with a story based around Edward Lear’s poem The Owl and The Pussycat. There will also be plenty of music and comedy to entertain throughout the season. Appearances include The Magic Flute, Duke’s Comedy Club, A Salute to Sinatra and the Swing Legends, Graffiti Classics; Judy and Liza, Dad’s Army Radio Show, This Is Going to Hurt (The Secret Diary of a Junior Doctor) and the return of Si Cranstoun with Twisting the Night Away. Tickets at the New Wolsey Theatre are on sale now and can be booked by calling 01473 295900 or online at: www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
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ON THE GRAPEVINE DANCEEAST TO HOST NATIONAL YOUTH DANCE FESTIVAL U.DANCE 2018
SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR OF PIONEERING PROJECT StartEast is delighted to announce, as the calendar year draws to a close, that they have so far supported more than 130 cultural and creative individuals, start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises in Norfolk and Suffolk, with over 800 hours of advice and training to enable them to take the next vital steps in securing growth for their businesses. Bespoke business support packages have been specifically tailored, following individual assessments, to deliver a combination of one to one sessions, practical small group workshops and larger networking events, providing opportunities to meet other creatives from across the region, covering popular topics such as business planning, finance, fundraising and social media. One StartEast beneficiary commented: “The session I attended focused on financial, social media and entrepreneurial considerations. All of this was really helpful and the session on how to nurture creative potential and apply it to cultural enterprise was inspirational.” StartEast Advisor Sue Lawther-Brown said: “Working with StartEast as an advisor has given me enormous optimism about the quality and quantity of creative talent in Norfolk and Suffolk. I’ve met such an interesting range of people, all pursuing businesses in the cultural sector, and all with passion, determination and a great deal to offer the future of this region. It’s so encouraging to see so many new and established creatives wanting to work smarter, be more business -like and making a real difference to the economy of the local area. I look forward to meeting many more creative entrepreneurs in the year to come.” StartEast: Building the Cultural Economy is a major economic development initiative led by the New Anglia Cultural Board, managed by Norfolk County Council in partnership with Suffolk County Council and delivered by the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich The £12.million project received funding from Arts Council England’s Creative Local Growth Fund (£500k) and the European Regional Development Fund (£609,773) One of nine national projects supported through the first round, it was one of only 3 to be awarded the full amount available through the fund. Councillor Margaret Dewsbury, Chairman of Norfolk County Council’s Communities Committee, said: “Major Arts Council England and European Regional Development Fund investment has enabled Norfolk County Council, in partnership with Suffolk County Council and the New Anglia LEP Cultural Board, to develop this ambitious and pioneering business development programme which will significantly strengthen our cultural sector, placing it at the heart of economic growth in the region. It is very exciting to see StartEast now fully underway and benefiting people across the region.” StartEast supports creative sole traders, established SMEs and start-ups working in various art-form areas, such as performing arts, outdoor arts, dance, music and literature. It also supports technical roles in the sector such as, for example, stage management. The initiative is enabling a step-change in the capacity, ambition, impact and economic contribution of our regional cultural sector which is one of the New Anglia LEP’s ten priority growth sectors. The programme is leveraging the strong partnerships already established between Norfolk and Suffolk’s cultural sectors – including 12 Arts Council England National portfolio organisations, the New Anglia LEP and other key growth sectors. For further information about StartEast, please contact info@starteast.co.uk / 01473 295938 or visit: www.starteast.co.uk
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Following four days of youth dance celebrations in Birmingham earlier this year to mark One Dance UK’s U.Dance 2017, it was revealed that DanceEast will host the national event for the first time in 2018. Each year the U.Dance festival showcases a selection of dance groups from all over the country, as well as providing young people with the chance to take part in workshops and masterclasses with dance industry professionals, and inspire each other with a love of dance. The 2018 festival will run in July, across both DanceEast Image by Brian Slater and Snape Maltings. It will enable young dancers from both schools and youth dance groups to participate in classes, workshops, careers sessions and social activities during the three and half day residential. Coming to the East of England for the first time, One Dance UK will work with DanceEast to make U.Dance 2018 a unique experience, inspired by the region’s urban and rural landscapes. DanceEast will also host the regional platform, which forms part of the selection process for the festival, on Sunday 18 February 2018, at the University of Bedfordshire. Applications for the regional platform open on DanceEast’s website at the end of October, closing on Friday 24 November. Youth dance and school dance groups are invited to apply to perform, in a bid to be part of the national festival in the summer of 2018. Applications are welcome from across the entire eastern Image by Brian Slater region and groups working in any dance genre are encouraged to apply. Dancers need to be aged between 11 to 19 (or up to age 25 for dancers with additional needs). Working in partnership with One Dance UK, DanceEast is excited to continue to champion youth dance in all its forms. DanceEast’s base at the Jerwood DanceHouse has played host to regional U.Dance heats since 2012 as the East of England partner organisation, heading to the University of Bedfordshire for 2018. Lucy Bayliss, Head of Creative Programmes, said: “Work with young dancers is a core part of DanceEast’s programme and we are excited to have the opportunity to celebrate this work with groups from across the country through such a prestigious event. U.Dance brings a huge amount of colour and energy to the host area and is a positive celebration of what young people can achieve. We are looking forward to welcoming the national groups to Suffolk, to experience just a little of what is special about living and working in the East.” Andrew Hurst, Chief Executive of One Dance UK, said: “We are excited to partner with DanceEast in presenting U.Dance 2018. The U.Dance national youth dance festival is an important event on the national dance calendar. From the local platforms to the Festival itself, U.Dance engages with more than 7,000 young dancers each year, encouraging them in the pursuit of excellence in dance and embarking on careers in dance, highlighting one of One Dance UK’s key aspirations - to get as many young people as possible dancing.” In true U.Dance tradition, the 2018 event will further extend DanceEast’s offering of dance opportunities. Additional specialised projects are also hoped to increase the dance opportunities for children and young people in the region for 2018, expanding the reach of U.Dance to young people in Suffolk and beyond.
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ON THE GRAPEVINE / SCHOOLS TREATING HEARING LOSS CAN HELP KEEP YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS By Karen Finch Every New Year brings with it a sense of renewal. For many, this renewal may include New Year’s resolutions pledging that the next year will prove better than the last. The challenge is not making these resolutions, but making sure they do not melt away with the snow as winter turns to spring. Some common resolutions might include reducing stress levels, staying in touch more regularly with family and friends, and being more socially involved. For those who struggle with hearing loss, keeping these and other perennial resolutions may prove challenging. Here are a few examples of how treating your hearing loss in the New Year can help you achieve your resolutions and improve your life. Reducing stress Staying stress free in the New Year may seem like an insurmountable task, but we can all do a few things to make sure stress doesn’t dominate our lives. Hearing-related stress can present itself in everyday situations with the potential to significantly increase your overall stress level. If you have become nervous to speak up when clarifying what was said in a conversation, or avoid loud places for fear of being cut from the conversation, it may be time to address your hearing issues. Finding a solution could help you reduce some of your daily stress. Staying in touch with family and friends Staying connected with family and friends is difficult whether loved ones are spread across the country or live just around the corner. If keeping in touch with the important people in your life tops your list of resolutions, addressing your hearing concerns may be a step in the right direction. Being able to communicate with family and friends without worrying about what was said by a loved one over the phone, on Skype, or face-to-face is of the utmost importance. Not only does it put your mind at ease, it makes conversations with loved ones that much easier.
Branching out Hearing loss may hinder you from branching out and meeting new people. If you are nervous to extend your social circle because of your hearing loss, addressing the issue in the New Year could be the push you need to make new friends and experience new adventures in the coming year. Have you always wanted to volunteer with an organisation or join a club but have been too self-conscious about your hearing loss? Don’t let apprehension and worry keep you from meeting new people and enjoying all the sights and sounds that the world has to offer. Starting a new hobby Starting a new hobby, whether by yourself or in a group setting, can be both challenging and entertaining. If you would like to learn how to play a new instrument and want to better hear the notes, or if you are taking a class at your local college and want to be able to contribute to the discussion without feeling nervous, having the confidence to address your hearing issues can lead to new talents and friends. Taking action If any of the above scenarios resonate with you, your hearing loss could be a barrier to accomplishing your resolutions. It may be time to add another resolution to the list: book a hearing assessment. Seeking help, advice and ultimately treating your hearing loss will benefit not only your physical health but your mental and social health as well. Placing priority on your hearing health will not only help you to achieve your New Year’s resolutions, but will give you a renewed confidence in your hearing and social life. Invest in your hearing. Invest in yourself. Karen Finch is the Managing Director and lead audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre in Ipswich. The multi-award winning, family-run company has 25 centres across Suffolk and Norfolk. Karen is offering free hearing assessments at her Ipswich practice between January 24 and 26 (normally £20). Appointments are essential. For more information 01473 230330 or visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL We hope you all had a Merry Christmas and a lovely New Year. We are all ready for the spring term and the children will be well rested and hopefully looking forward to an exciting term ahead. There will be lots of crafts to look forward to and the staff are already planning and getting extra crafts ready for the children to enjoy. As we are now open throughout each of the school holidays we will have the option to take children up to five years old for additional sessions during these weeks, subject to availability. Please contact the administration assistant for more details. Don’t forget that from September 2017 the government are introducing an additional 15 hours funding for working parents of three and four year olds. This means that parents who both earn the equivalent of 16 hours at National Minimum Wage (£115.20 per week) or more per week and less that £100,000 per year (or just one carer if a single parent) will be eligible to claim up to 30 hours of funding. You can register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible and also register for the Childcare Vouchers Scheme. If you are using the 30 hours you must provide the 30-hour code (given once registered) and your National Insurance Number to us. Once we have checked these details you can book sessions (subject to availability) for the following term. If you would like an application form or any further information please contact administration assistant Lisa Read: admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk / 01473 831648 Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ
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IDELO TRAVEL – BEING A TRAVEL AGENT IN THE ONLINE WORLD…. When I first set up my business I was totally new to travel. Having qualified as a Chartered Accountant, all of my experience came from simply being a customer who had travelled. People asked me how I could possibly do this – after all there was ‘the internet’, the ’Big Boys’ and so on – but I think this was an asset. Being an outsider and new to the industry, it made it legitimate for me to ask why, to challenge the perceived wisdom. Did it have to be done like that? Could it not be done differently? Were there not improvements to be made? For my agency, it has allowed us to really move things forward – to distinguish ourselves and explain why customers come to us. Which is why I was so excited! Having been ‘a customer’ all of my travelling life, as opposed to simply a travel agent who has travelled, I feel I truly understand that whether it be your holiday of a lifetime, a last minute getaway or a new adventure, finding the right holiday just for you is important. It takes time to research all the options. You want independence and excitement, but also safety and peace of mind. Not only are we fully ABTA and ATOL protected, but we really do understand why it is so important that all of your arrangements have been dealt with by someone who really cares. Working with over 200 high quality tour operators also enables us to maximise not only customer choice but also competitive pricing. We offer complex as well as the simpler products – tours, cruises, flights,
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accommodation, car hire – sometimes all in the same holiday and all with complete ATOL Protection. Something that the internet often struggles to match where people regularly search for the cheapest flights, hotel and car hire, but from different sources, and hence miss out on that all important Package Protection. And as for technology… For me, it is our staff which sets us apart. The internet is great for process, but ultimately I don’t think a holiday is just a booking process. Only a person can offer true inspiration and enthusiasm when exploring your options and discuss with you alternatives and ideas, using their breadth of knowledge and real travel experiences. And what about if/when something doesn’t turn out as planned? Ash clouds, air traffic control strikes, Ryanair cancellations, the Monarch collapse. Maybe something more personal; your suitcase gets lost in transit from a flight, your hotel does not have your reservation. In this increasingly automated world, isn’t it still good to talk to the same friendly face – quite possibly ‘The Boss’ of the business – and know that someone can not only enthuse about your amazing plans but also help with all the extras and the ‘unexpected’. For me, this is the essence of a great travel agency and no matter what there will always be a place for one – albeit alongside increasingly clever technology. Managing Director Andrea Powell
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL As we look forward to starting the spring term, which brings with it lighter evenings and warmer weather, I am delighted to share with you the events, activities and news in school during the very busy and festive month of December.
and the way they conducted themselves throughout the day. Many employers commented that they would have no hesitation in considering some of our students for future employment and also noted how smartly dressed they were.
On Tuesday, December 12, our talented musicians and poets gave stunning performances to a packed audience at the Church of St Mary and St Peter, Barham, where we held The Sounds of Christmas concert. It was a very festive evening, interspersed with traditional carols and an opportunity to warm up with some hot winter punch and mince pies. The dedication, commitment and hard work from students during rehearsals was certainly rewarded with some notable performances as well as some joyful vocal pieces from the school choir.
Our ex-Year 11 students who left us in the summer returned to Claydon High School on the last week of term to join us for a presentation evening where they were presented with their GCSE certificates and special subject achievement awards, recognising individual commitment and progress. It was really lovely to spend the evening with them and to hear about how they are getting on in this next phase of their lives. We are all extremely proud of all aspects of their success and achievement and wish them all the very best for whatever the future brings.
Students surpassed expectations for the seventh year running and created an amazing range of Christmas hampers which were donated to a local charity The Chapman Centre, part of IHAG (Ipswich Housing Action Group) who provide relief for people in the community suffering from extreme financial poverty or homelessness. It seems that students consider it a challenge to come up with even more creative and individual designs than the previous year and they certainly didn’t disappoint! It makes me very proud to see them making an extra special effort for people less fortunate than themselves and I would like to thank parents and carers for their help and contributions from home.
I would like to take this opportunity to announce and congratulate our newly appointed Head Boy and Head Girl, Daniel Hibbins and Josefina Santa de Lapaz. Both students were interviewed for the posts and delivered very well prepared presentations as part of the process. Congratulations also go to our two deputies, Jack Johnstone-Moffat and Phoebe Hill. These students will lead our team of Year 9, 10 and 11 prefects. This is an exciting opportunity for students to make a real positive contribution to the school and the faculty areas they have an interest in and will develop their leadership and communication skills. We appreciate that the roads around school seem to be busier than ever especially at the start and end of the school day when school buses and lots of parents/carers are trying to get in. We do not open our car park until 2.45pm for the safety of our students on the school site and ask parents/ carers not to arrive earlier than this. We also regularly talk about road safety with our students. We appreciate support from everyone who lives locally in driving carefully in the area especially in the dark weather. As I write this article I am looking ahead at all the exciting activities planned for this term, including a readathon, maths challenge, battlefields trip, Paris trip, Year 11 bootcamp, music day and much more! Please watch this space for details in due course.
Year 11 students took part in their annual Learning about Work Day. Employers from local businesses were invited into school to act as business mentors and to work with small groups of students for the day, teaching them about employer expectations when applying for jobs. In preparation for the day, students were asked to find an apprenticeship, complete an application form and these were forwarded to the employers before the day. Having spent the morning taking part in ice-breaking activities, a workshop related to writing letters of application and a paired task, our guest business mentors then put students through nerve racking job interviews for the posts that they had already applied for. The day concluded with the distribution of certificates for the students who had been selected as successful candidates for the job from each group. Year 11 impressed our visitors with their maturity, participation
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We are hoping to recruit some new members to our local governing body and will be holding an informal drop-in information session on Thursday, January 11, between 4.30pm and 6pm. Please drop in at any point if you would like to find out more about this role over a cup of tea from one of our governing body. We are currently requiring both parent governors and trust appointed governors from the local community. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, then please come along to one of our open mornings. The date of the next one is Monday, January 22. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Saunders on 01473 836110 to book a place. Contact Mrs Saunders if you would like to know more about the role of governors. Headteacher Ms Maéve Taylor
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CHURCH NEWS
SOMERSHAM BAPTIST CHURCH
REGULAR MEETINGS
Life Explored @ The Duke In the New Year we have a series on Thursday evenings that, with the help of a superbly shot video, explores what we are really living for. It moves on to discover that, in Jesus, God meets our deepest desire for happiness. There are seven videos in the course. We have booked the room at The Duke of Marlborough for Thursday evenings from January 25. Meeting at 7pm to eat, (chilli is £5) we will run the video from 7.45pm and conclude at 8.45pm. Do come along and try it out.
Refreshments are served between meetings, come when you can and leave when you want.
Sunday, January 7, 11.30am-12.30pm: AsiaLink AsiaLink is an organisation supporting Christians in Asia. David Quinn will be bring a presentation of the work they are doing. On January 7 we will meet at 10am for prayer and then worship in song and prayer from 10.45-11.15am. Refreshments are served between the meetings.
Sunday 10-10.30am: Prayer and Share 10.45-11.15am: Bible Study (Communion second Sunday in January) 11.30am-12.30pm: Worship Service
WEEKDAYS AT THE CHAPEL Friends and Neighbours: Monday, January 15, 7.45pm Lunch and Listen: Thursday, February 1, noon CONTACTS Mark Newcombe (Pastor): m.newcombe940@btinternet.com 01473 831940 / 07958 830103 Edwin Mayhew: 01473 658100 Baptist Chapel, Chapel Lane, Somersham, IP8 4QE Facebook: Somersham Baptist Church Suffolk
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VILLAGE CONTACTS LIST
Details for organisations and activities in Sproughton Allotments
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Almshouses (Cooper Trust)
Ken Sheppard
01473 743122
Badminton Club
June Jackaman
01473 745246
Jean Mardon
01473 461568
Burial Ground
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Bowls Club Chairman
Mike Snell
01473 748848
Brownies
Debra Last
01473 741773
Carpet Bowls Club
Bob Jones
01473 744093
Children’s Play Area
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Church Hall Booking
Jill Quadling
01473 464336
Community Shop
Rosalind Lavington
01473 747768
Craft Group
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Football Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Footpath Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Jigsaw Pre-school
Rosemary Laflin
01473 745716 01473 741410
Millennium Green Trust
Ken Seager
07578 552324 / keseager@sky.com
Toddler Group
Annette Shannon
01473 807674
Parish Council
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Parish Council Chairman
Simon Curl
01473 747114
Parochial Church Council
Jan Hart (sec)
01473 740434
Playing Field Management
Damian Lavington
01473 809512
Lunch Club
Sheri Walne
01473 602717
Quilters
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Ramblers
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
Reading Room and Caretaker’s
Gwen Moore
01473 740629
Senior Citizens Club
John Bates
01473 743476
Sports & Social Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Committee
House Charity
Sproughton CEVC Primary School Sharon Cashen (head) 01473 742182 Suffolk Guides
June Webb
01473 742778
Tennis Club
John Tallent
01473 402307
Tithe Barn Bookings
Sue Frankis
01473 463852
Tower Captain (church bells)
Ralph Earey
01473 743812
Tree Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Village History Recorder
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook and Belstead & Bentley with Tattingstone For parish queries please contact: The Rev Annette Shannon The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton, Ipswich IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674 Benefice Administrator Hayley Purnell northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07904 972116 MESSAGES OF THANKFUL LIVING Dear Friends, As I write this it’s late November. You are probably reading this as Christmas 2017 fades into history and vistas of New Year prospects come into view. So this feels like writing a message to the future. As the demands of Christmas and New Year celebrations stop pressing on you I hope there is an opportunity to pause awhile and reflect. What message might you have sent your present self from the closing weeks of 2016? This New Year 2018 is full of uncertainty. We do not know the future, but we may have faith in the One who makes the future, our loving heavenly Father, who is the Father of Jesus who died that we might be forgiven our sins, past, present and future and inherit eternal life. Daily we pray, “Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil”. If we also confess our sins to God and repent of them, eternity can be ours by the grace of God. That faith can be a source of hope and expectancy as we stand at the start of this New Year. It can make us thankful. To grow in gratitude to God one woman decided to start a Thanks-Living Jar. Each evening she wrote on a small piece of paper one thing she thanked God for and dropped it into the jar. Sometimes she had many thanks, on others she struggled to find one. At the end of the year she emptied her jar and read through all her notes. She found herself thanking God for everything he had done. God had given her simple things like a beautiful sunset or a cool evening for a walk. At other times God had provided her with the means to handle a difficult situation or answered a prayer. Her discovery reminds us of the words of the ever-popular 23rd Psalm, whose author, King David, found God refreshed him with ‘green pastures’ and ‘still waters’. He gave him guidance, protection and comfort. David concluded, “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life”. I think we will find many reasons to thank God this year. If we do leave such messages to our future selves I think we will be better placed to face the challenges of New Year 2019. I pray that we will see the goodness and love of God following us all the days of our lives. The Rev Don Mehen North Samford Churches Baby and Toddler Group Monday morning in term time at Sproughton Church Hall, 9.30-11.30am. Toys, interactive story, songs, drinks and healthy snack. Babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers welcome with a parent, grandparent or carer. Suggested donation £2 per family. Leader: Rev Annette Shannon, 01473 807674 Sproughton Burns Night Saturday, January 27 at 7.30pm in Sproughton Church Hall FROM THE REGISTERS Baptisms Harrison and Audree Rolfe – Sproughton Hunter James Carr – Copdock
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CHURCH NEWS JANUARY 3 4 4 8 10 13 16 17 20 24 25 27 31
SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE Bentley Home Communions, 10am Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm Comfort Corner, Sproughton Church Hall, 1.30pm Bentley Mothers Prayers Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am Churchwardens and Treasurer’s Meeting, Sproughton Church Hall, 10am Bentley Mothers Prayers Copdock Home Communions, 10am Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm Burstall PCC Approval of Accounts Bentley Mothers Prayers Ministry Meeting, 7.30pm Sproughton Burns Night, 7.30pm Bentley Mothers Prayers
FEBRUARY 1 Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am 3 Copdock Morning Market, 10am Benefice Wedding Preparation Day, Bentley Village Hall, 10am 4 Bentley Candlemas 7 Joint PCC Meeting, Sproughton School, 7.30pm Bentley Home Communions, 10am Bentley Mothers Prayers 10 Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am 12 Bentley PCC and Adoption of Accounts Comfort Corner, Sproughton Church Hall, 1.30 pm 14 Bentley Mothers Prayers 17 Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm 20 Copdock PCC and Adoption of Accounts, 7.30pm 21 Burstall PCC and Adoption of Accounts Copdock Home Communions, 10am Burstall Lent Course, 2.30pm Bentley Lent Course, 7.30pm 24 Burstall Coffee Morning and Cake Sale, 10.30am 28 Burstall Lent Course, 2.30pm Bentley Lent Course, 7.30pm Bentley Mothers Prayers Tattingstone PCC Meeting
JANUARY 7 8.30am 9.30am 10am 10am 10am 11am
Copdock Burstall Tattingstone Copdock Bentley Sproughton
Holy Communion Holy Communion Holy Communion Morning Prayer Family Service Holy Communion
JANUARY 14 9.30am 9.30am 10am 10am 6pm
Sproughton Burstall Copdock Bentley Tattingstone
Croissant Church Family Service Holy Communion Holy Communion Evensong
JANUARY 21 9.30am 10am 10am 11am 6pm
Burstall Copdock Bentley Sproughton Tattingstone
Holy Communion Simply Sunday Family Praise Matins Holy Communion
JANUARY 28 8am 9.30am 10am 10am 10am 11am 3.30pm
Sproughton Burstall Bentley Copdock Belstead Sproughton Tattingstone
Holy Communion Matins Holy Communion Holy Communion Morning Celebration Family and Friends Family and Friends
FEBRUARY 4 8am 9.30am 10am 10am 10am 11am
Copdock Burstall Bentley Copdock Tattingstone Sproughton
Holy Communion Holy Communion Family Service Morning Prayer Holy Communion Holy Communion
FEBRUARY 11 9.30am 9.30am 10am 10am 6pm
Sproughton Burstall Copdock Bentley Tattingstone
Croissant Church Family Service Holy Communion Holy Communion Evensong
Please submit church letters and copy for the February edition of In Touch to Hayley Purnell by January 4: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com
CHURCH FLOWER DECORATING We shall be pleased to receive more help with church flower decorating. This is relaxing work. Some people might like to do the flowers for an anniversary or a birthday, or some other family event. There will be a list in the church porch for names, or contact the undersigned or the churchwarden. Doreen Bradbury, 01473 210008
www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton
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