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Vol. 19 • Issue No. 2 • NOVEMBER 2013

FREE to STOWMARKET & STOWUPLAND 50p where sold Volume 23 • Issue No. 6RESIDENTS • MARCH 2018

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NEWS

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Now don’t tell my boss, but on Tuesday mornings when I arrive at work before A Life Scientific on BBC Radio 4 has ended, I’m forced to sit in the car until it does. Professor Jim Al-Khalili talks to leading scientists about their life and work, finding out what inspires and motivates them.

I particularly loved his interview with Eugenia Cheng on the mathematics of mathematics. Though it was never my strongest subject, I continue to love maths, desperate to understand and to find the right answer, though I seldom do.

What’s extraordinary about many of the people featured on A Life Scientific is how often a childhood interest or passion has led to a fulfilling career and it’s clear that doing something you love is a wonderful privilege. I’ll be playing the podcasts to my son when he’s a little older because whatever he does in life I want it to be what makes him happy.

You may have read about the letter a teacher in Singapore sent to parents the week before her students were to sit exams. Here’s a short extract: “I know you are all really anxious for your child to do well. But, please do remember, amongst the students who will be sitting for the exams there is an artist who doesn’t need to understand math, an entrepreneur who doesn’t care about history or English literature, a musician whose chemistry marks won’t matter. There’s an athlete whose physical fitness is more important than physics. If your child does get top marks, that’s great, but if he or she doesn’t please don’t take away their self-confidence and dignity. Tell them no matter what they score you love them and will not judge them. Please do this and when you do, watch your children conquer the world. One exam or a low mark won’t take that away. And please don’t think that doctors and engineers are the only happy people in the world.”

I hope you have or have had the opportunity to do what you love and that you can inspire others to do likewise. Driving to work at 6am on a cold January morning is never easy, but it’s a whole lot easier if you’re looking forward to the day ahead.

Stowmarket In Touch with & Stowupland 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: stowmarket@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.

Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints.

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01473 400379 © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with... is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

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• NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge

This year’s carnival will take place on July 14 and 15. The theme is Countries.

If you would like to sponsor this year’s carnival please contact Jayne Woods for more information and to discuss the many options available: chairperson@stowmarketcarival.org.uk If you would like to join in the procession please contact Gary Lee: procession@stowmarketcarnival.org.uk Stallholders small or large contact: stalls@stowmarketcarnival.org.uk Arena acts contact Shelly Spall: arenaacts@stowmarketcarnival.org.uk The first fundraising event of the year is a bingo evening at Hill Side Community Centre on Saturday, March 3 at 7pm, and then every first Saturday of the month leading up to the carnival.

On Saturday, March 24 we present a Race Night at Meadlands Social Club; for more information look out for posters.

Saturday, April 21 will be our fun day at Meadlands Social Club to pick our carnival queen, prince and princess; details to be confirmed.

On Wednesday, May 16 we present the medium Marcus Day; venue and time to be confirmed.

For regular news please visit: www.stowmarketcarnival.org.uk So last month’s cover featured a wonderful picture of Shotley Pier

by Scott Usher but, as many of you noticed, I incorrectly captioned it Cromer Pier. I’ve apologised to Scott and I’m sorry for all the confusions caused. I could pretend it was an experiment to investigate how many people might notice (lots by the way), but it was just a silly error in the way I saved the image. Here is a lovely image of Cromer Pier by John Pettit. Perhaps I should visit but I don’t suppose I’ll make the same error again in any case!

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APRIL DEADLINE 10 MARCH 2018

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NEWS AN APPEAL TO KEEP THE BELLS OF ST PETER & ST MARY’S RINGING OUT OVER OUR TOWN The future of Stowmarket’s church bells is threatened as the structure of the tower at St Peter & St Mary’s Church is at risk.

Determined that the bells will not fall silent, a fundraising appeal has been launched to maintain and enhance the long tradition of bell ringing in Stowmarket.

The existing ring of eight bells set in an old, patched-up wooden frame weigh in excess of four tons. When rung, the bells all swing in the same direction, putting great stress on the structure of the tower. Some of the bells are very old; the fourth is pre-reformation, made in the 15th-century, and four others are from the 17th-century. They will have witnessed many changes in Stowmarket and it would be tragic if ringing had to stop because the structure of the tower was endangered.

The aim of this appeal is to raise £112,000 so the town will have an excellent ring of ten bells and the church’s medieval tower will be protected, and to offer people the opportunity to try bell ringing as a source of wellbeing and fun. If successful, the future of bell ringing at Stowmarket will be secured for at least the next 100 years.

With your support a new, strong, metal frame will be installed and the bells will be hung in a way that distributes the forces arising from their being rung more evenly. The present treble will be replaced and two new bells will be added at the front to make a ring of ten and a more musical front six when there are fewer ringers about. Subsequently new bell ringers will be recruited and trained to continue the centuries old tradition of bell ringing in Stowmarket.

The team behind the appeal are currently working on a number of grant applications and organising fundraising events. The first is a murder mystery evening on Saturday, March 3, staged

by Gislingham Variety Club at St Peter’s Church Hall, Stowmarket. The evening begins at 7.15pm and tickets are £15, to include a three course meal. Booking is essential. Why not make up a table of six? For tickets contact: 01449 781619 / lyndarochester@hotmail.com There are a number of other ways in which you can support the project.

Come and see the bells: There will be open days to see the bells hanging high in the tower and watch them being rung.

Help raise money for the project: Can you organise an event or arrange a sponsored challenge?

Consider sponsoring one of the new bells: As a celebration or in remembrance, your bell will bear an inscription which will last down the centuries and be rung for generations after us to hear.

Consider learning to ring bells yourself: Ten splendid bells will give a great opportunity to join in this very special activity.

Make a donation, large or small If you’d like to find out more, wish to make a donation or to get involved in any other way please contact: Winston Girling, 6 Cavendish Road, Stowmarket IP14 1LQ / 01449 674425

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GRANTS GALORE! Almost £10,000 worth of grant funding has been distributed to local organisations by Stowmarket Town Council through its annual grants scheme. Over 20 local charities, community groups and clubs have benefitted from grants of up to £500 each.

The town council’s grants scheme provide valuable funding to groups, enabling them to continue the vital role they play in making the town such a wonderful place to live and visit.

Beneficiaries this year include sports clubs, pre-schools and special interest groups. The funds awarded have helped with running costs, the purchase of equipment and promotional material. Yvonne Cattermole from Stowmarket Meet and Mingle, a group where residents can come together in a friendly environment while accessing a range of services in one place said: “Because of this generous donation, we were able to hold a Christmas party for the people who have attended the group throughout the year. We also hope that the donation will help us to be able to support more people who are suffering from social isolation.”

Councillor Keith Scarff, chair of the town council’s grants panel said: “It is a great privilege to be able to support so many groups within the town, helping their good work to continue. We have been able to provide financial assistance to a wide range of groups this year. Our town is fortunate to have so many fantastic community and charitable organisation working here for the good of our residents.”

Stowmarket Town Council’s grants scheme runs every year and in 2018 the scheme will open on Monday, July 30. Application forms and further information will be available at: www.stowmarket.org

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT ROAD SAFETY COMMITTEE The last district road safety committee in Suffolk has reluctantly decided to wind-up its activities. Stowmarket and District Road Safety Committee looks after the town and the neighbouring villages surrounding Stowmarket. Over the years it has supported many parishes with their speeding and roads issues and has been involved in many successful campaigns regarding road safety.

Councillor Keith Scarff, chair of the committee says: “It is with a degree of sadness that the committee decided after a long debate at its recent meeting to wind up its activities. It was felt that the fact that the police due to funding cutbacks are no longer able to attend and the constant change at Suffolk County Highways was not conducive to achieving the level of positive outcomes. Over many years since I have been involved, we have been able to use a three pronged approach by campaigning with the support of the police, parish councils and residents groups to effect sensible and necessary changes to improve road safety in the area.

“In these days of constant reductions of service by the statutory authorities it is a great shame that we as a committee have come to this conclusion.

There is a marked difference over the last couple of years in the way that these bodies engage with the public and we saw the negative effects of this.

I would like to take this opportunity as chairman for the last fifteen years or so, to thank the residents, councillors and officers who have worked tirelessly on behalf of their communities. The work will continue with parishes taking up their own issues and I wish them every success with their endeavours.”

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Please call Ian on: 01449 740285 / 07939 837939 E: ian@marchconsultingltd.co.uk

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NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL TO INVEST £2.56m IN STOWMARKET

TAILOR & MADE BRINGS THE BESPOKE TOUCH TO TRAVEL

On Monday, February 5 Mid Suffolk District Council’s Cabinet voted to invest £2.56 million in the Regal Theatre Stowmarket Improvement Project.

Tailor & Made is a new independent travel consultancy founded

by Suffolk based travel expert Tracey Strand.

The investment, consisting of £1.56m in capital grant from Mid Suffolk District Council, and £1million in a loan to Stowmarket Town Council, will enable two new cinema screens to be added to the Regal. The building in Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, currently has a single auditorium which is used for theatre performances as well as to show films.

These new 87 and 57 seat screens, plus the renovation of the existing auditorium and foyer, are predicted to increase attendance at the Regal Theatre by approximately 40% from around 63,000 people a year to 114,800.

The increase in visitor numbers is expected to generate between an extra £500,000 and £1m annually for the local economy.

The project is also expected to create between 10 and 20 new jobs. The Mid Suffolk District Council-owned Ipswich Street Car Park, which is next to the Regal Theatre, will be rearranged to improve its layout.

The Regal Theatre Stowmarket Improvement Project has been identified as an investment project in Mid Suffolk District Council’s Stowmarket Action Plan, which was also supported at the Vision for Prosperity events held in the town last summer.

The Leader of Mid Suffolk District Council and Cabinet Member for Assets and Investment, Councillor Nick Gowrley, said: “The Regal Theatre is a truly loved institution in Stowmarket, offering the community a place to come together and stage their own productions as well as screening the latest films. The extra cinema screens will attract new audiences and enable us to show more newly released films and a wider variety of other movies.

“The Regal has been at the heart of Stowmarket for a long time, not only thanks to its cinema screens but due to its hard work with community theatre groups, Dementia Friendly Screenings and hosting touring performances from across the country for residents of our town to enjoy.

“However, this funding is not just about the Regal: it is about investing in the future of Stowmarket by increasing visitor spending in our town by up to £1million a year and creating up to a score of new jobs. Improving the layout of Ipswich Street Car Park will also make it easier for visitors to support the businesses that drive our local economy.”

FASHION SHOW FRIDAY! It’s that time of year when we are all dreaming of warmer climes, and day dreaming about a beautiful English summer. Come along to the M&Co Charity Fashion Show for a sneak peek at their spring/ summer collection to get you in the holiday mood. The fashion show is on Friday, March 16 in the United Reformed Church, Stowmarket with all proceeds going to the town mayor’s charities: 1st Combs Scouts, 1st & 3rd Stowmarket Scouts and Enigma.

Tickets are £5 each and can be purchased from either the M&Co store in Stowmarket or from the town council offices in Milton Road South.

For further information please contact Sue Leedham: 01449 612060 / suel@stowmarket.org

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With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry that has taken her to 60 countries and six continents, Tracey has launched Brooklyn Bridge New York Photo by Pedro Lastra Tailor & Made to share her intimate knowledge of the world’s most exciting destinations, creating bespoke holidays for the discerning and curious.

“At Tailor & Made we work closely with and listen to our clients’ dreams and desires for their holiday, drawing on three decades of expert knowledge to create one-of-a-kind experiences for individuals, groups and families,” says Tracey.

Whether you‘re seeking a romantic get-away for two in the Swiss Alps or a tour of Japan during cherry blossom season, Tailor & Made work with its clients from their first enquiry to the last day of travel, and can provide further advice and tips during the trip for those wanting to live like locals and hunt out the hidden gems.

Tailor & Made Travel will also offer carefully crafted package holidays, ideal for families or groups of friends wishing to travel together. Selecting from a series of favoured destinations, hotels and tours, Tailor & Made will create the perfect itinerary. With time spent living, working and travelling around the world, Tracey has built up an envious black book of the perfect places to stay, people to meet and must-see destinations, and now, through Tailor & Made, is ready to share all of this with her clients. www.tailorandmade.co.uk

TEN POINTS GRYFFINDOR! On February 1, more than 60 excited Harry Potter fans made Stowmarket Library’s Fantastic Beasts #HarryPotterBookNight magical!

Ben Whiting, who ran the event, says: “With tabletop Quidditch, duelling wands and the chance to make your very own Hedwig, eager readers proved that reading opens doors to new worlds, and helps you make new friends too!”

Young wizards even got a chance to meet and take selfies at station 9¾ with Bellatrix, played by local up-and-coming singer Lauren Jennifer.

Ms Ursula Scott said: “It’s so important to show just how libraries impact our society and how vital reading is to develop young minds. This is why we regularly have events and activities like this here at Stowmarket Library!”

Ben Whiting (pictured as Newt Scamander) also says: “Special thanks to our three brilliant volunteers – Dumbledore would be very pleased! It’s great to be able to be part of helping secondary school students in their citizenship programmes.”

To find out more about all the events and activities at Stowmarket Library, visit at Milton Road, Stowmarket, or follow Stowmarket Library on Facebook or Twitter.

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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!!!

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

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NEWS STOWMARKET POPPY APPEAL A huge thank you to all volunteer collectors, shops, schools, businesses and supermarkets for their support with the 2017/2018 Poppy Appeal. During the 2017 collecting fortnight and to date, in excess of £36,500 has been collected.

Naturally our thanks extend to the public who get right behind this vital cause with their generous contributions.

Our annual social and awards night was held on February 3. Twenty-three volunteers were eligible to receive certificates and awards, which are based purely on time spent collecting. The awards ranged between five years and 20 years for various individuals. In addition, certificates of appreciation were awarded to Stowmarket Lions Club, Stowmarket RAF Association and the Military Vehicles Trust Suffolk for their support with the poppy collections over many years. A certificate of appreciation was also presented to RBL Club Steward Paul Algar for his many years of assisting behind the scenes over and above his stewardship duties for the club.

During the evening tributes were paid to Derek Estlea of MVT Suffolk who passed away last summer. Derek had been instrumental in setting up the regular MVT vehicle displays and collections for Stowmarket Poppy Appeal each year.

We were also devastated by the loss of Malcolm Ranson, our number three! Malcolm was a dedicated volunteer giving unsurpassed support to the PAO and deputy PAO during the past five years; these were crucial years where we have re-focused the work and strategy of the appeal and increased the volunteer base in our growing town. His memory will live on in the Malcolm Ranson Award which will be awarded annually to a volunteer, business or other outlet for voluntary work supporting the Stowmarket Poppy Appeal. Shirley Martyn, who does a lot of administrative work for the Stowmarket Poppy Appeal, was the recipient of the award for 2018.

Looking forward, there is a lot in the pipeline which will be outlined in future editions during this landmark centenary year. Our big event for the year is with the primary schools on our Stowmarket Remembers project.

Four Stowmarket primary schools (so far) are taking part in an arts, crafts and literary project reflecting learning outcomes on Remembrance and their personal perceptions of the concept. The pieces produced will form the basis of an exhibition to be held in Stowmarket later in the year in the lead up to the centenary on 11 November 2018. All profits from the exhibition will go to the Poppy Appeal.

There will also be a special ceremony held on November 8 at Stowmarket cemetery. This will be one of many ceremonies across Suffolk with the intention that at 11am, a poppy cross will be laid on each of over 1,300 First World War Graves across the county. Stowmarket Poppy Appeal is supporting the RBL Branch in this initiative and more details will be provided for future editions.

MPMIT COMPUTER CONSULTANCY CELEBRATES 15 YEARS IN 2018 MPMIT started in 2003 offering a number of services for small businesses and home users. Since the business launched we have been busy running one-to-one tuition sessions on Microsoft Office applications and Windows software systems. We diagnose hardware issues on PCs and laptops and run repairs and can troubleshoot and fix software issues. All of these services are done on customer premises unless the machine is really poorly and requires parts that are not carried or requires more intense investigation. We can also investigate broadband issues for you and give you all the details of your connection to enable you to discuss these with your supplier.

Over the years we have been advocating regular maintenance visits for small businesses to avoid computers running slow. We also keep the software up-to-date and ensure that your data is protected and backed up. This has been very beneficial to a wide range of our customers, some of whom were targeted by a phishing scam and also with the Cryptowall virus. But it all turned out well and no data was lost. We have found with the increased vulnerability of scam phone calls some home users are now taking advantage of this service.

We have a regular blog on our website that gives lots of tips and tricks on how to keep your computers safe and general IT information – please take a look: www.mpmit.co.uk/blog MPMIT has a small team of freelance consultants. These fabulous people are Ben, Dave, John, Pete and Phil, all of whom have different IT skill sets and add a good mix to the team. We also have Sally, our freelance admin lady who keeps everyone in check.

We would like to thank all our freelance workers and loyal customers for their support over the years and look forward to prosperous and fruitful years to come. For our loyal customers there will be some offers coming your way via email, a thank you for your custom, so please keep your eyes peeled on your inbox.

MPMIT are exhibiting at the Mid Suffolk Business Exhibition at The Mix in Stowmarket on March 21, where some of the team will be checking in. Please come along and say hello. If you want to get in touch before then please call: 01449 770704 / 07733 262116

Rachel Oakley, PAO Stowmarket – EJD59

Ipswich and District Kidney Association (IDKA) aims to help improve the lives of people suffering from kidney disease through providing items of equipment and welfare grants, and by organising social activities.

IDKA can also direct patients to a variety of specialist support services in strict confidence.

Don’t suffer in silence. IDKA was set up by and is run by people who understand what you are going through and are keen to help.

Contact Doug Swayze, chair of IDKA – chair@idka.org.uk / 01449 612090 / 20 Bures Close, Stowmarket IP14 2PL – or vice-chair Les Talbott – 01473 635749.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

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NEWS

STICKING IT TO EXERCISE Every year new exercise regimes and concepts come along – some much better than others, some last and some fade away. Take physio gym balls – as physio’s we have used them since the 1960s, then in the early 2000s they were all the rage as a new exercise, balls galore of all different sizes popped up in gyms, but now they have generally faded back into treatment rooms with only the odd one found in gyms.

Recently another new concept has arrived, Stick Mobility. I can’t see it being another one of those ‘flash in the pan’ fitness crazes; it’s got a huge depth and scope to it.

PVC pipes have been used in gyms for many a year to help people stretch muscles, but they are limited in how else you can use them. The unique design of the Stick Mobility stick allows it to repeatedly bend – much further than you would expect, yet spring back to its starting position every time.

The range of patients it’s suitable for will cater for pretty much all physiotherapy, rehabilitation and fitness clinics in the UK. There aren’t many patients who wouldn’t be able to do something with Stick Mobility training and I can’t think of another treatment concept that covers so many patient groups, sports and general health promotion as Stick Mobility.

Although it might look very simple and easy to an observer, once you grab a stick in your hand and try it out you will find out just how tough it can be. That said there are also so many moves that provide gentle, sustained and very pleasant stretching feelings.

It builds on the concept that flexibility is important for the musculoskeletal system, but more important is how the body is able to harness the range of motion around a joint within the parameters of muscle strength, control and feedback. Yes it’s great for stretching, but also as a muscle stabiliser, strengthener and sensorimotor control facilitator. The combination of all these elements gives rise to mobility in a controlled way for the musculoskeletal system. It allows people to get strong in the positions they currently aren’t. In turn this should help recovery from injury, reduce the risk of injuries and help to improve athletic performance and general function.

Patients don’t have to use a lot of complex brain power to get certain muscles to engage, the use of the stick allows an easy way to work via pushing, pulling or bending the super flexible stick and this allows the body to naturally engage the muscles it needs to stabilise the system.

This will be so valuable to many patients who really struggle to ‘get’ a lot of exercises.

For nervous exercisers or those with chronic conditions they can have a focus on the stick and their interaction with it rather than just solely be aware of how their body is or isn’t moving.

Keep an eye out for it, have a good go if you get the chance and see for yourself how you can bend yourself into better shape.

Robert Grainger MSc MCSP HCPC CSCS Practice Principal PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic Sports Physiotherapist

Are you in pain?

Chiropractic may help with many problems including lower back pain, neck pain and related headaches as well as arm and leg pain.

STOWMARKET CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CLINIC

ALLERGY THERAPIST at Woolpit

Michael T E Bailey Doctor of Chiropractic Registered with the General Chiropractic Council

7 Stowupland Rd Stowmarket IP14 5AG

Tel/Fax 01449 612620 www.michaelbailey.net

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(Brickfields Business Park) Testing for food, environmental and chemical sensitivities – as well which can cause unpleasant symptoms and illnesses.

For an appointment contact Helen Parsons Dip Allergy Therapy, Food Studies Cert.Ed, B.I.A.E.T.

Tel: 01531 670746

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NEWS MUSEUM SUFFERS COLLECTION THEFTS WHO CARES? is a nationwide initiative where churches are working together to listen to the needs of local people and offer compassion and hope. Since October 2017 Stowmarket Parish Church has been asking their congregation, local groups and visitors to the Stowmarket Christmas Tree Festival one simple question: What hurts you the most?

We have spoken with over 1,500 people and received over 500 anonymous response cards which have been analysed to understand what is affecting people in our town. The top issues were identified as family and relationship problems, injustice, physical suffering and negative emotions. Death and loneliness also featured as key issues particularly in responses received the week immediately before Christmas. A dedicated WHO CARES? working group (members of which are pictured here) within the parish church is now looking at what can be done to offer help and hope to people affected by these issues.

Martin Lambert, one of the WHO CARES? co-ordinators in the church has a very personal story. “Having suffered an injury two years ago that’s left me disabled and no longer able to play sport or enjoy life the way I used to, I know that life can hurt.

Prior to this injury I had no belief in God, but I now know the hope and joy Jesus can bring to what seems like a dark and distressing situation. That’s why I was incredibly excited and eager to join the WHO CARES? initiative.”

The Museum of East Anglian Life was targeted by thieves in the early hours of Monday, January 29, with numerous historic buildings across the 75-acre open-air site damaged and items of collection stolen.

Thieves stripped lead from the back roof of local landmark, Abbot’s Hall, causing damage to the roof and brickwork of the Grade II* listed house, which was built in 1709.

Additionally, around 135 collections items used to tell the stories of everyday lives in the local area were taken during the theft. Irreplaceable items include white porcelain jars from the former Stearn’s Chemist which was located in the centre of Stowmarket up until the 1990s, and hats and ties from Ranson’s Tailors of Lavenham.

Other items stolen include objects used for the museum’s schools workshops, including Victorian toys and cookware, and historic advertising signs, including for Hornsby Oil Engines and Esso Blue.

“The collections reflect the community’s history and are there for the benefit of local people. It is extremely sad that this has happened,” said Museum Director Jenny Cousins.

“We ask anyone with knowledge to contact the police. We also encourage members of the public at car boot sales, antique stores or on eBay to keep an eye out for objects which have marks on them which look like museum numbers. They would be small and handwritten – usually in the following form: 81.A.61/12/1,2.”

Another member of the team, Sarah Ingham, writes “Suffering is something that unites us all as human beings. No one can go through life without hurt, but we can encourage one another. Handing out the WHO CARES? cards was an opportunity to talk to many people about what hurts the most.”

RECORD BREAKING DINNER LADY AT COMBS FORD PRIMARY SCHOOL

We are holding a special service on Sunday, April 29 at 10.45am in St Peter and St Mary’s Church to explore the issues together and everyone is welcome to attend. You can find more information and follow progress on our website and social media using the hash tag #whocaresstowmarket as well as on the national WHO CARES? website at: www.who-cares.org.uk

At Combs Ford Primary School many of the staff have been here for many years, some are now teaching children of ex-pupils. One extraordinary dinner lady has smashed the record by being at the school for an amazing 31.5 years!

Vicar of Stowmarket The Rev Michael Eden said: “Who cares? God cares. And because God cares, we care. And if we can do something to help, we will.”

When Mrs Chambers decided to retire the children and staff wanted to do something special to celebrate her achievement. At the end of lunchtime the whole school gathered on the playground and sang a song written just for Mrs Chambers to the tune of You Are My Sunshine (there were a few tears) and there was a presentation of flowers and gifts.

The church is a sacred space, open to all every day of the week. Do feel free to pop in to sit, to pray, or to chat and meet with others over a coffee. www.stowmarketparishchurch.co.uk Twitter: @stowmarketcofe Facebook: Stowmarket Parish Church

GREAT BARTON PRIMARY SCHOOL REUNION Were you a pupil at Great Barton Primary School in the 1960s? A reunion is being planned on Saturday, June 9 for anyone connected with the school at that time; some may be found in the photo! The head at the time was Ron Ceurstemont and the other staff members were Margaret Huggins and Rose Mayhew.

The school was unusual in that it was on a split site, with the infants and younger juniors in School Lane in a building which no longer exists. The older juniors were in a building at the end of School Road which is now converted into a house. There wasn’t even telephone communication between the two!

We would love to hear from anyone who attended the school at this time.

For further details please contact Sandra Ellis at sandk38@hotmail.co.uk or Val Mayhew at valanne.mayhew@hotmail.co.uk / 07949 363103.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

Each of the year groups had made a card and the children had all written a personal message thanking Mrs Chambers for all the scuffed knees and tears she had attended to over the years. Mrs Chambers later told us it had taken her two hours to read all the messages!

Thank you Mrs Chambers, we will miss you!

MISSING CAT Please keep a look out for a missing ragdoll cat.

The cat was last seen at Ford View Road in Stowmarket.

Reward if you bring her back.

Contact 07480 761727 with any news.

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NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM: FEBRUARY 2018 District Councillor for Stowupland Ward Planning: The Porch Application for 18 homes opposite Holy Trinity Church: No progress has been made since the application was deferred by Planning Committee on January 3. The main concerns remain the proposal to narrow down the A1120 to create a widened footway for pedestrians to wait to cross the road and future management of the proposed car park. The committee chairman asked the developer to arrange a meeting with SCC Highways to which I would be invited to explain the highway safety concerns and put forward alternative proposals. Suggested dates for the meeting are February 27 and March 1 or 2. Following that meeting, a revised drawing showing highway safety proposals will need to be submitted to MSDC so that local consultation can take place. The application is unlikely to be decided until the planning committee meeting on March 28 at the earliest.

Planning – Bloor Phase 2: MSDC have not given a date for the planning committee at which the detailed matters relating to this proposal will be considered.

Planning Appeal – Land west of Thorney Green Road: The appeals process in respect of MSDC’s refusal of planning permission for two developments, totalling 138 homes, has commenced. Any new representations need to be received by the Planning Inspectorate by March 8. The appeal hearing is likely to be held in April.

Budget Issues: MSDC Cabinet considered again and agreed a budget for 2018/19 based on a council tax increase of 0.5% which equates to an increase of 81p per annum for a Band D property. Details will be considered further at the February council meeting, when all members of the district council will have an opportunity to speak and members of the public may attend.

Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL): The two councils have decided to set up a panel of three representatives from each council to shape the development of a detailed CIL expenditure framework.

Merger with Babergh: Little has been heard in the last month. Hopefully, in the light of Babergh’s decision to hold a public vote on the proposal to merge, MSDC will hold one too.

Boundary Review: The Boundary Commission were unable to announce the new warding pattern on February 6 as they had planned. It is understood that an announcement will be made at the end of February and this may include a further draft proposal for public consultation.

Regal Cinema, Stowmarket: MSDC have agreed a grant of £1.56m and a loan of £1m to Stowmarket Town Council towards the cost of redeveloping the Regal Cinema. Also, up to £15,000 for remodelling the car park which is likely to result in a loss of up to 10% of the current parking spaces.

MSDC committee meeting cancellations: A number of members have expressed concern regarding the cancellation of some 30% of scheduled committee meetings. It is unclear whether the cancellations are due to a shortage of staff to carry out work needed to be completed before a committee report can be drafted. The only other possible explanation is that decisions are being taken without discussions in a public forum and without the opportunity for councillors to debate issues prior to decisions being taken.

Keith Welham Keith.Welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk

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CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE & CHARITY SHOP March 24 is our Easter Chocolate Bingo. Do remember that this was sold out in 2017 so get your tickets early. It’s not your normal bingo! Using a big screen all bingo numbers are called by celebrity voices such as Michael Cane, Victor Meldrew, Ozzie Osborne and others. Prizes are given for one line, two lines and a full house and everything is chocolate related. That doesn’t mean to say it’s all edible chocolate; many prizes are chocolate themed but not necessarily edible. There are six games played, cards for games one to five are £1 each and for game six they are £3 each as the full house prize is £100!

During the interval a hot meal is provided followed by scrummy deserts.

There will also be a free competition with a prize for the winners. We have a magnificent raffle with over 30 prizes, all Easter and chocolate themed.

If you want a really good family night out, where children are welcome, a full bar is available and you get fed as well, all for only £6 (half price for under 10s), tickets are now available from the charity shop on Coddenham Road, Needham Market, from Stowmarket Tourist Office or by calling 01449 760343 or 07974 424374.

Can you help us to help our children?

As many of you may know the children arrive with only the clothes they are wearing. We are busy collecting ‘nearly new’ items which we give to the children on arrival. They take clothes not only for themselves but also for siblings at home. If you have any children’s clothing, and in particular suitable for ages six to 13, that you would like to donate we would be extremely grateful. We are now collecting clothing for all ages as any surplus to requirements for the summer group will be taken to Belarus on our group trip at the end of August where a group of volunteers from our area will be visiting several different social shelters (a cross between orphanage and foster home) and will take clothing for the children there. Donations can be left at the charity chop or collected by calling the numbers given above.

If you are interested in finding out more about the charity in general, or maybe you would like to help in our charity shop, please do get in touch.

Thank you to everyone for your support as always.

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / enquiries@ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk www.facebook.com/ccllmidsuffolk

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE It’s here! MSBE, our first ever business exhibition, at The Mix, Stowmarket, on Wednesday, March 21, starting at 9am.

Don’t miss out – if you’re intending to come book now via the link at https://msbe.biz where you can also find out who’s exhibiting, register for the seminar topics and find out more about the sponsors.

We’ll still be running our regular events: Friday, March 2, 10am-noon: Coffee and Networking at Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday, March 16, 6.45am: Breakfast at The Mix, 127 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT COME AND PLAY AT THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE’S 2018 EXHIBITION

BESPOKE KITCHENS AREN’T AS EXPENSIVE AS YOU MIGHT THINK

Visitors to the Museum of East Anglian Life will enjoy a new, playful exhibition in 2018. Play and Display is an interactive look at paper and card toys over their long history and the fun they have brought to generations of children.

That’s the message from Paula Hollings who runs Kevin Hollings Kitchens with her husband in Old Newton, near Stowmarket.

More than 75 objects and prints will be on display, alongside a variety of traditional paper games and toys for visitors to play with and make. The exhibits date from the 1880s through to the 1960s and include puppet theatres, models, dolls and moving books. Famous names such as Cadbury’s, Bluebird Toffee, Disney and Barbie are represented, alongside favourite stories of Cinderella, Rupert and Noddy.

Collections and Interpretation Manager Lisa Harris says: “Whether it’s dressing up paper dolls or watching Fingermouse on the TV, everyone has happy memories of toys made of paper. This is a fantastic chance for visitors to share those memories and see how generations of children have enjoyed paper toys, back to Victorian times and before. Although the materials are simple, these toys are beautifully designed and the games played with them are full of imagination. We want visitors of all ages to try them for themselves and recapture the joy of paper toys.”

The exhibition opens on March 24, marking the start of the museum’s new season, and runs until late October 2018. A busy programme of events inspired by the exhibition will take place throughout this period. For further details visit: www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

WOOLPIT DRAMA CLUB You are warmly invited to our next production, Comedy Tonight, a revue of fabulous songs and comedy sketches playing at Woolpit Village Hall from Thursday, April 12 to Saturday 14 at 7.30pm, with a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday 14.

Tickets available from Woolpit Gallery or online via: www.woolpitdrama.co.uk

STOWMARKET TRAIN & MODEL COLLECTORS’ FAIR It’s full steam ahead for Stowmarket Railway Club’s Train & Model Collectors’ Fair on Sunday, March 4 at Needham Market Community Centre from 10.30am to 3pm.

Collectors, modellers and all members of the family will enjoy opportunities to buy, sell or swap new and old model railways, diecast cars, buses and lorries, plus toys, railway and transport books and photographs. About 40 tables are expected so there will be lots to look at.

In addition there will be demonstrations of modelling techniques, plus working model railway layouts, and the club’s Thomas The Tank Engine layout which youngsters can operate under expert supervision.

There is good wheelchair access and free parking. Refreshments will be on sale.

Admission is just £1.50 for adults, with accompanied children free. For further details call 01449 672698 or visit: www.stowrailclub.org.uk

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Celebrating 21 years in business, Paula says customers are often surprised when they visit the Mid-Suffolk showroom at how closely Kevin’s kitchen designs can match or beat those offered by the big ‘Shed’ businesses.

“People often think bespoke means something that’s been built from scratch, but that’s not always the case,” adds Paula, saying that their carcasses are built in Hertfordshire, while doors are sourced from high quality manufacturers across Europe.

“As a company we project manage the whole job, from removal of your existing kitchen to plumbing, wiring, plastering, tiling and painting, using professional bodies that have worked for Kevin for many years,” says Paula.

“This is a level of service the big high street ‘sheds’ can’t provide. We have a small team that allows us to give you a personal and flexible service” Since opening their showroom two years ago (currently being doubled in size to include 10 show kitchens and all the door, handle, worktop and splashbacks) the couple say they are gaining a lot of custom from mid20s professionals through to those heading towards or in retirement, and Kevin’s experience in storage solutions and working within tricky, confined spaces has made him the go-to person for bespoke projects.

Once you’ve chosen something you like, Kevin will measure your space at home, coming up with a design there and then, and working with your budget until you end-up with a kitchen you love at a price you can afford. That might involve him advising on different finishing touches that give the same effect, saving you money while giving results you will enjoy for years to come “This is the advice we can give as an independent family business,” says Paula proudly. “We like to get to know our customers and what they need, and we stay with them on the project until the project is complete.”

Visit the showroom at Kevin Hollings Unit 14 Lodge Works, 2-6 Stowmarket Road, Old Newton IP14 4EE, contact info@kevinhollingskitchens.co.uk / 01449 257160 or visit: www.kevinhollings.com

MADE IN DAGENHAM This British musical continues to entertain audiences up and down the country. Set in Ford’s east London factory in 1968 it tells the true story of how a small group of female machinists working to supply seats for the recently launched Cortina range threatened to bring all production to a halt unless they had equal pay with male employees working on similar tasks.

Stowmarket’s drama group (SODS) will be bringing the show to the Regal stage between May 9 and 12 with evening performances at 7.30pm and a matinee on Saturday 12 at 2.30pm. Tickets are now available from the Regal box office: 01449 612825

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

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OUT & ABOUT CABBAGES & KINGS @ THE MIX

THE REGAL IN MARCH

So how is the diet going? Are you still at the gym three times a week or are those New Year resolutions looking a little shaky? At Cabbages and Kings, we wouldn’t want to derail your good intentions so there’s plenty on our menu for calorie counters. For those who burn all the calories they want to, there’s a selection of winter warmers and sumptuous treats to help you celebrate anything from a birthday through to finishing the ironing. Who needs an excuse for a treat?

By now most of you will have already heard our rather exciting news; thanks to a loan and investment by Mid Suffolk District Council, Stowmarket Town Council will commence work in early 2019 to construct an additional two cinema screens and enhanced the bar and foyer area at the Regal. With admissions rising tenfold in just over a decade, this will allow us to show more films on the day of their release and screen more live streamed events and theatre shows.

We serve a variety of breakfasts (if you love American Style pancakes you just have to try ours), a range of hot and cold lunches and some unbelievable homemade cakes.

In the meantime we’ll do our best with one screen. We have a fantastic month ahead with some returning favourites (Darkest Hour, Three Billboards and The Greatest Showman) and some much anticipated new films (Finding Your Feet, The Shape of Water and The Mercy).

We can cater for all sorts of dietary requirements and understand that eating out with little people needs to be as easy as possible, so we have a gated zone in the coffee shop with a play area. They can enjoy being at Cabbages and Kings as much as you!

If you want a catered, hassle free, fun experience to celebrate your child’s birthday – we can do that too, plus we’re available to cater for events, from weddings through to festivals.

There is a very big plus side to using Cabbages and Kings – our profits go towards funding the work of The Mix, who believe all young people are unique, exceptional and have immeasurable worth.

Why don’t you come in and try us? We are open weekdays 9am-4pm and Saturdays 8am-2pm. Find us on Ipswich Street, opposite the Regal Cinema.

For more details call us on 01449 745130 or visit: www.themixstowmarket.org/cabbages-and-kings We have a special three course a la carte evening being served up on Friday, March 23. Book in and join us to Dine Like a King.

The Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley is holding its annual

Charity Quiz and Supper Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket

Thursday, 22nd March, 2018 7.30pm (doors open at 7.00pm)

* Teams of up to six people * Open to all individuals, businesses or organisations * 50% of net ticket profits divided (25%, 15%, 10%) between charities nominated by three winning teams

On March18 the Rotary Club are staging a special charity screening of Mamma Mia. Ticket holders will receive a drink on arrival, with all proceeds being split between Marie Curie Cancer Care and Macmillan Nurses. See page 20 for more information.

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

Darkest Hour: historic drama starring Gary Oldman, Lily James and Kristin Scott Thomas. During the early days of the Second World War, the fate of Western Europe hangs on the newly-appointed British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who must decide whether to negotiate with Hitler, or fight on against incredible odds.

Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri: black comedy starring Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell. A mother personally challenges the local authorities to solve her daughter’s murder when they fail to catch the culprit.

Fifty Shades Freed: erotic thriller starring Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan.

In the final instalment in the trilogy, Anastasia and Christian get married, but Jack Hyde continues to threaten their relationship.

Black Panther: adventure starring Chadwick Boseman and Michael B Jordan.

After the death of his father and the events of Captain America: Civil War, the King of Wakanda returns home to the isolated, technologically advanced African nation to succeed to the throne and take his rightful place as king.

The Mercy: drama starring Colin Firth, Rachel Weisz and David Thewlis. The incredible story of amateur sailor Donald Crowhurst and his solo attempt to circumnavigate the globe. The struggles he confronted on the journey while his family awaited his return make this one of the most enduring mysteries of recent times.

The Shape of Water: romantic adventure, starring Sally Hawkins, Octavia Spencer and Michael Shannon. At a top secret research facility in the 1960s, a lonely janitor forms a unique relationship with an amphibious creature that is being held in captivity.

Lady Bird: drama starring Saoirse Ronan and Tracy Letts. In 2002, an artistically inclined seventeen-year-old girl comes of age in Sacramento, California.

Sing-a-long with The Greatest Showman: musical starring Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron and Zendaya. Celebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.

* 50% goes to charitable causes supported by the club

Tickets £10.00 per head includes supper of either ‘bangers and mash’ or vegetarian curry (please advise choices when entering team) Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley (www.gippingvalleyrotary.org)

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To enter a team or for more information contact Rod Brown: 01449 615081 woodside.7@uwclub.net Registered charity No 1120550

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET CONCERT BAND

JUBILEE LADIES CHOIR At our rehearsal in early February our chairman Di Balaam was very pleased to present Sue Vincent from the Alzheimer’s Society with a cheque from the choir of £2,000. This amount was collected over 2017 for our chosen charity.

Again this season, Stowmarket Concert Band is very excited at our emerging calendar for a great year ahead. With over 30 dates already being reserved for our main band and our training band, we again have much to look forward.

Following our Christmas sell-out concert, we are now finalising our programme for our next event at the URC in Stowmarket on April 21 alongside combined choirs from local schools. This event is 100% in aid of Possibilities, a local charity which works tirelessly to help some of the world’s most vulnerable children in Uganda. Tickets are available now by contacting info@StowmarketConcertBand.org.uk / 01449 677924. We will again be honoured to welcome Stowmarket Town Mayor, Councillor Dave Muller, and Phillip and Rosemary Jeffries from Jeffries of Bacton, and we thank them again for their continuing support of our registered charity.

A few of our key public event dates from our current 2018 calendar are shown below, as a selection from our wider itinerary including private bookings. This will continue to grow across the year, so please do keep a close eye on our Facebook page and website for updates.

We also supported the society in December by joining forces with Bury Rock Choir and Woodbridge School Chamber Choir for Carols at Christmas at St Mary’s Church, Bury St Edmunds. This event raised the excellent amount of £3,027.

We are now looking forward to singing at Ely Cathedral on June 23 at 2.30pm.

It will also be the cathedral’s flower festival that week. You will be treated to singing and flowers in a special venue all in one go, a good way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

If you are interested in joining our choir please contact Di Balaam on 01449 736374 in the first instance, and do take a look at our Facebook page.

STOWMARKET ARTISAN MARKET Stowmarket Artisan Market was established two years ago to provide an opportunity for local artisans to sell their crafts. Artisans are skilled workers who make handmade crafts such as textiles, ceramics and jewellery or food/ drink in a traditional manner, hence forming the ethos of the market. Over the past two years the market has steadily grown in both stalls and footfall and has sold a diverse range of products including photography, paintings, taxidermy and pyrography.

April 21, 7.30pm: Charity Concert with Schools’ Combined Choirs, URC July 1 (afternoon): Stowmarket Town Council’s Food & Drink Festival July 14, 12.30pm: Stowmarket Carnival Procession August 4, 12.45-5pm: Bacton Fayre August 26, 2-4.30pm: Bandstand Concert (TBC) October 18, 7.30pm-9.30pm: Elmswell Over 55s Club November 10, 2pm: Festival of Remembrance, Regal Theatre November 11, 10.30am: Remembrance Service at Bildeston November 11, 10.30am: Remembrance service at Buxhall November 24, 2pm: Training Band at Combs Christmas Fayre December 1, 7.30pm: Hessett Church Christmas Concert December 5, 6pm: Training Band Event, Stowmarket Christmas Tree Festival December 8, noon-2pm: SnowFiesta, Stowmarket Market Place December 15, 7.30pm: Our own Christmas Concert, URC Stowmarket December 16 (throughout the day): Carols around the county December 24, 10am-2pm: Carols in Stowmarket

The market is held on the first Saturday of the month so Saturday, April 7 will be the first market of the 2018 season with 15 stalls selling jewellery, textiles, woodcraft, novelty soft toys, cards, book art, pastries and much more. Each month you will find a regular cohort of crafters and others who come and go as the season progresses. You can always find something different for the home or a gift.

www.stowmarketconcertband.org.uk

Facebook: Stowmarket Artisan Market

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

As usual, refreshments will be provided by the Scout fundraising committee with teas/coffees, bacon butties and a delicious array of homemade cakes available at very reasonable prices.

So do note the dates in your diaries and come down and see what we have to offer. We are located at the Scout Centre in Milton Road North, Stowmarket (just past the Library). Doors open around 10am and there is accessible parking opposite.

Sue Delf: suedelf@btinternet.com

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OUT & ABOUT INDOOR BOOT SALE The last indoor boot sale of the year in St Peter’s Hall, Stowmarket will be on Saturday, March 3, 9am-noon.

Delicious bacon butties and homemade cakes will be available all morning. It’s a great opportunity to snap up a bargain and to meet with friends for coffee and cake.

If you have had a clear out and would like to book a table for £5 to sell your items phone 01449 678623.

In aid of The Parish Church 3Rs Project of Restoration, Renovation and Reordering.

STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday, March 7: We Will Remember Them: The Lives and Deaths of British Men who Fought in the First World War by Sarah Doig Since 2014 we have been commemorating the 100th anniversary of the First World War. Sarah Doig will look at the war from an East Anglian perspective – how men were recruited and served, the effect on rural communities back home as well as life in the trenches, a Suffolk VC, the first poppy day appeal and local war memorials. There will be a display about the First World War servicemen named on Stowupland War Memorial.

Wednesday, April 4: Must Farm – Britain’s Pompeii by Alex Fisher from Suffolk Archaeology Suffolk Archaeology is an independent archaeological company based in Needham Market. Alex is their outreach officer. He will tell us about the work of Suffolk Archaeology and also look at the Must Farm dig, a Bronze Age Settlement in the fens which was destroyed by fire, causing it to collapse into a river channel, preserving the contents in situ.

Wednesday, May 2: Haughley Castle by Edward Martin The motte and bailey of the 11th-century Haughley Castle is still a big landscape feature in the village. The motte rises behind the church and the inner bailey is now the village duck pond. Edward Martin, a former county archaeologist, is an author and speaker on wide ranging areas of Suffolk’s history.

We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall (IP14 4BQ) where there is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members. For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

STOWMARKET LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Monday, March 19: Three into One, member’s talks Monday, April 16: Ship of Dreams, Suffolk People on the Titanic by James Hayward Meetings are held at 7.30pm at The Salvation Army Hall; members £1, nonmembers £3.

For further details contact Jeannette Baldry: 01449 675271 www.stowmarket-history.co.uk

CALLING ALL QUIZZERS The Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley is holding its annual Charity Quiz on Thursday, March 22 at the Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Supper of sausage and mash or vegetarian curry is included.

Profits from the evening will be divided between charities nominated by the three winning teams and charities supported by the club. Teams will consist of up to six people and tickets can be obtained from Rod Brown: 01449 615081 / woodside.7@uwclub.net

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In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT WOMEN’S SECTION ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, STOWMARKET The first meeting of the New Year was held on January 17 at the Legion branch in Stowmarket. Shirley took the chair in the absence of Hazel, who is now home and recovering. After the exhortation and silent tribute, Shirley welcomed a new member. She read out a letter from Hazel who thanked members for their cards and good wishes and wished us all a Happy New Year.

We hope you will soon be back with us Hazel. Audrey read out the minutes of the November meeting and Maggie gave us details of monies we held, after sending some of it to the benevolent fund. We had a few sick members who we wish well. There was no other correspondence.

We will be holding a jumble sale on March 17 at 2pm at Hillside, Combs Ford, with clothes, bric-a-brac, raffle, cakes, tombola, books, toys and refreshments.

The entrance fee will be 20p.

Shirley then welcomed our speaker Chris Parfitt with an illustrated talk entitled Travelling to Ethiopia. It was interesting to learn that they also have St George as their patron saint. What an interesting talk and we learned that most of Ethiopia is green, not desert as we had imagined. The wild animal slides he took were thrilling. We all enjoyed it and Shirley gave him a wellearned vote of thanks. Chris then judged the completion which was a wild animal ornament or picture. Josie took first place, Sue, one of our newer members, came in second and joint third were Andrey and Lynda. After the raffle and National Anthem there was time for us all to have a chat before we headed off home.

On January 20, six of us took part in the mayor’s quiz at Hillside. We could have done with a man on our team to help with the football questions, but we didn’t disgrace ourselves as we did get some points and Maggie won on the raffle. It was a good evening.

ELMSWELL HISTORY GROUP Thursday, March 8: The Rise & Fall of the East Anglian Herring Trade, an illustrated talk by Mark Mitchels A very welcome return of Mark, an entertaining and highly-regarded local speaker and author whose engaging and relaxed style is widely praised. The herrings were known as ‘silver darlings’, and for centuries they provided a way of life for the ports which fished the North Sea. Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft were perfectly placed to exploit the harvest of the sea once the railways made it possible to supply the cities with all the fish they required and, for decades, entire communities thrived during the herring season.

Almost as famous as the fishing crews themselves were the Scottish fisher girls who followed the shoals and produced barrels of salted herring, kippers and bloaters which were loved around the world.

Thursday, April 12: The Suffolk Clothier in Henry VII’s Time, an illustrated talk

by Nick Amor Nick is chairman of Suffolk Institute of Archaeology & History and an honorary fellow of the University of East Anglia. He has lectured and written several books on Suffolk’s wool trade, so is very well placed to tell us all about this important and historic regional industry.

We meet at Wesley Hall, School Road, Elmswell IP30 9EE at 7.30pm. Ample free on-site parking, disabled access, five mins’ walk from Elmswell Railway Station. Members £2, non-members/visitors £4. www.elmswell-history.org.uk / 01359 242601

STOWMARKET RAMBLERS

Mr Blackburn, the town clerk, is joining us on February 21 so come along if you have any questions you want to ask him. The competition will be an old photo of Stowmarket.

Sunday, March 4: 5.5 mile walk around Sapiston and Fakenham Magna. Park and meet at Sapiston Village Hall at 10.30am / GR TL 916750. Leader: 01359 250943

Lynda Farr

Sunday, March 11: 5 mile walk in the Ixworth area. Park and meet at Ixworth Village Hall at 10.30am / GR TL 932702. Leader: 01449 676533

STOWMARKET ROTARY CLUB

Sunday, March 18: 6 mile walk in Newbourne and Waldringfield.

Park and meet at Newbourne Village Hall at 10am / GR TM 274428.

Leader: 01449 781917

Presenting a charity screening of Mama Mia on Sunday, March 18, 7.15 for 7.45pm, at the Regal Cinema in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care and Macmillan Nurses.

Sunday, March 25: 6 mile walk around Shrublands. Park and meet at Coddenham Community Centre at 10.30am / GR TM 133544.

Leader: 01449 675699

Tickets £10 (£5 for under 16) include fizz and popcorn and are available from the Regal Cinema: www.regalstowmarket.co.uk / 01449 612825

TRANSFERRING A COMMERCIAL LEASE – GETTING THE LANDLORD’S CONSENT A commercial lease – such as one that might apply to a business unit or a shop, for example – will usually contain provisions dealing with what is required where a tenant wants to transfer the lease in place to someone else. This might be because that tenant is selling his or her business, and wants to transfer the lease to the buyer.

It is usually the case that the lease will require the consent of the landlord to the transfer of the lease. The lease may also set out various conditions that can be required – such as the requirement for a guarantor where the new tenant is a limited company.

Often, a further condition will be that the existing tenant enters into what is called an authorised guarantee agreement – which is a document by which he or she guarantees that the new tenant will pay the rent, and abide by the terms and conditions of the lease.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

A prudent landlord will usually carry out some investigation into the suitability of the new tenant, perhaps by asking for trade references, or some comfort from the new tenant’s bank that the rent can be paid.

The formal permission of the landlord to the transfer of the lease is contained in a deed, called a Licence to Assign. Not only does this contain the landlord’s formal permission, but will also contain certain obligations on the existing tenant and the new tenant in relation to the transfer of the lease. These generally will include an obligation not to allow the new tenant into possession of the property until the lease is formally transferred – and when it is, the new tenant must give notice of that fact to the landlord.

Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk

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• Carpets & Vinyls • Natural flooring • Woods & Laminate • Bespoke Rugs

Quality - Service - Reliability Established in 1998, Needham Carpets continues to provide customers with a friendly and helpful approach. Helping you to select the correct flooring to your satisfaction.

We are a Suffolk based carpet shop offering high quality flooring, with a reliable and friendly service.

68/70 High Street, Needham Market, Suffolk. IP6 8AW

Tel: 01449 721763 www.needhamcarpets.co.uk

THE ROTARY CLUB OF STOWMARKET Proudly Presents A Charity Film Night In aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care & Macmillan Nurses

A GUARANTEED GET-HAPPY HIT!

March 2018 at 7.15 p.m.

At The Regal Cinema, Stowmarket Tickets £10 (Under 16’s £5) Includes bubbly and popcorn !

Available from the Regal Cinema www.regalstowmarket.co.uk or call 01449 612825

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET SUGARCRAFT CLUB STOWMARKET BRANCH As we don’t meet in January, our first meeting of the year was in February when we welcomed Ken Snow who told us of his experiences in Antarctica following in the footsteps of the polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Equipment, clothing and transport in the early 1900s was very different to Ken’s journey a few years ago.

We have a full programme arranged for the rest of the year and several outings in the pipeline.

April 1 will be the centenary of the formation of the Royal Air Force, formed by amalgamating the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service.

We will be commemorating this with a celebration party in the Royal British Legion Club.

We have, unfortunately, had two members pass away recently and our Standard Bearer was proud to attend both funerals along with several members who formed a Guard of Honour.

We are always pleased to welcome prospective new members; we meet on the first Wednesday in the month at the Royal British Legion Club in Stowmarket at 7.30pm.

For such a very cold night our meeting on Monday, February 12 was very well attended.

Club member Jean had offered to stand in when our planned demonstrator had not been able to come to us. Macarons was the subject and Jean did an amazing job taking us through every stage of making these delicious little treats and making sure we all got to try one.

She also had to bring a car load of equipment. Our thanks to Jean for a very enjoyable evening.

March 12 is our next meeting and our speaker is an old friend of the club, Linda Garnham.

Linda can always be guaranteed to give us an entertaining and informative demonstration. The subject of this demo is frills and a modelled ballerina.

Visitors are very welcome.

For more information give Glenda a ring on 01449 615382 or visit: www.stowmarketsugarcraft.co.uk

If you would like further information, please contact our secretary on 01449 676871 or visit: www.rafassocstowmarket.onesuffolk.net

BACTON & COTTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY

THINKING OF VOLUNTEERING?

Tuesday, March 20, 7.30pm at Bacton Village Hall: Shop ‘till you Drop!

Shops, shop keeping and shopping in Suffolk from 1660 to 1830 is the fascinating story that Dr Pat Murrell will bring to us. Online it wasn’t!

At Red Gables Volunteer Drop-in, we have many varied volunteering roles with local charities.

For more information contact Sue on 01449 673947 (Tuesdays only) or email: sue.redgables@gmail.com Facebook.com/volunteerredgables

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT MONDAY CLUB We started the New Year with a disco provided by Jane and Julian.

The following week some of the members helped with the assembly of bird boxes and a bug house which was very popular with both the girls and the boys. This was followed by a games evening with some new games available.

Valentine Cards have also been made ready for February 14 and we shall have a Valentine Dance with music supplied by Slightly Soiled.

We are a club for adults with learning difficulties and meet each Monday from 7.30-9.30pm at the Community Hub in Crown Street. We are run entirely by volunteers and new members and helpers are always very welcome.

For further information, please contact us on 01449 672123 or just come along on a Monday evening.

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB The March meeting will be held at Woolpit Village Hall on Wednesday 28 at 7.30pm. The demonstrator is Sandra Price from Walton on the Naze and her title is Wouldn’t it be Lovely. All demonstrated designs will be raffled at the end of the evening. Visitors welcome for only £6. We look forward to seeing you there.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

Members £2, non-members £3.

Easter Chocolate Bingo!

Saturday 24th March Fantastic Family Night Out! A CHARITY EVENT FOR CHERNOBYL CHILDREN LIFE LINE REG. No. 1014274

F

A CHA

Community Centre Needham Market 7:00 pm Full Bar Open Entry £6.00 - Under 10’s half price To include Supper with dessert Bingo with a real difference!

Six exciting games

Chocolate related prizes and raffle ££££

Ch

Final Game Cash Prize ££££ Tickets from CCLL Charity Shop Needham Market

(adj. to Rampant Horse public House)

Mid Suffolk Tourist office Stowmarket (Opposite Asda) Or call 01449 760343/07974 424374

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OUT & ABOUT / SPORT STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT TREFOIL GUILD Were you a Brownie or Guide?

It doesn’t matter either way! You can still join the Trefoil Guild.

We meet on the first Wednesday in the month from 2-4pm at The Scout Hall, Milton Road South, Stowmarket. We have lots of fun, do crafts, have speakers and in the summer go on outings.

If you are interested contact Mrs Sally Wilden: 01449 401660

FROM TWO YEARS TO SCHOOL YEARS At St Peter and St Mary’s Pre-school it’s a busy term as we welcome all our new children and parents. Our younger children attend in the mornings, learning through play while following the EYFS. This term we are looking at colours and shapes. So, lots of painting, colouring rice and building with a rainbow of colours.

Those who will be starting school in September come in for lunch at the start of our afternoon sessions. We still play and have lots of fun, but the separate sessions enable us to cater specifically for our school starters. We can provide a variety of activities and toys that may not always be suitable for our younger children.

Tuesday is our literacy and maths day and we have a PE session on Wednesdays, always ensuring these activities are still fun and enjoyable.

At the end of term we will be having our art show to display all the children’s wonderful work. The parents are invited to come and listen to the children sing a few Easter songs and nursery rhymes and to look at the artwork while having a social cup of tea and a hot cross bun.

We are based in a very central position so our children attend all the surrounding schools, but mainly Woodley and Abbot’s Hall although occasionally we can go further afield. This is great because they always have friends at school.

STOWUPLAND SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB Stowupland Short Mat Bowls Club members would like to thank Councillors Keith Welham and Gary Green for making it possible for the club to purchase a new bowls mat through their locality award schemes. We have been able to donate the very old mat to a social bowling club in Ipswich which was much appreciated by their members.

Our club is enjoying a very successful season with membership numbers now at its limit so that everyone can bowl on a club night. The league team is currently in second position in the top league which is a tremendous achievement. We also have eight members currently playing for the Suffolk County team.

The main aim of the club is to provide a social amenity where people of all abilities can come and enjoy an evening of bowling in a village hall which is much envied by visiting fellow bowlers.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

STOWMARKET CRICKET CLUB The focus this month falls on the junior section of the club.

Coaching by ECB coaches for boys and girls will take place at Chilton Fields Sports Club every Monday evening between April and July, linked to competitive matches for ages nine (soft ball) to 15. Registration will take place at the club on Monday, March 26 at 6pm. We offer very good value for money. Why not join us for a couple of taster sessions before paying your membership subscription?

Three senior sides will compete in weekend leagues – Two Counties and Hunts Bats – as well as the local T20 competition.

A reminder: indoor nets will take place at Ipswich School on March 11 and 25.

For further information visit the club website or email Clive Witherly: wigg51@btinternet.com The First Eleven are pictured celebrating last season’s promotion.

STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB We’ve done it. January is out of the way!

For many it’s the most depressing month of the year as credit card bills come in, the days are short and dark, the air is cold with horrid bits of snow thrown in. Luckily for us we have our dome to keep three of our five courts covered. No wind, rain or frost for the players dashing around under our giant ‘igloo’.

We really are very lucky to have a dome facility because for many years after the storm of 1987 they went completely out of fashion; so many were destroyed in the high winds that funding support dried up. We were the first club in the country to have a dome for 14 years after the LTA reviewed our application and succumbed to the consistent pressure and persuasion from John Reed, our chairman at the time. We are also very lucky to be in a fairly sheltered position which, fingers crossed, protects us from the worst of the damaging winds. I mention this because a few weeks ago a dome exactly the same as ours was destroyed at a club in Ipswich due to high winds. It was only a year old.

So, enough of the weather forecasting and trips down memory lane. The club is absolutely buzzing at the moment with winter league pairs reaching the end of this season’s campaign. Last Saturday I witnessed three home pairs winning each of their matches with maximum points. Forget Chelsea or Manchester City; if you want to see consistent performance come along to see us! Several pairs are looking for promotion and our top ladies team is on the verge of winning Division 1.

As I write we are in the middle of a Davis Cup weekend against Spain. Great Britain lost the first doubles match, but Cameron Norrie has fought back from a very dodgy position to win the first singles rubber. It’s very finely balanced so the entire match may well go down to the last rubber. This is a crucial stage in British tennis as we’re looking to maintain our recent successes, but this time without A or J Murray in the team. Time will tell.

Lots to watch, lots to do and plenty of opportunities for you to come along and get started if it’s been on your mind. We run beginner sessions for all ages, junior and adult, with coaching groups for boys and girls who want to work in smaller groups with friends.

Adults with little or no experience can try Disco Tennis on Tuesday evenings which is a cracking way to start. All equipment is provided and it’s a great way to get moving and have quite a lot of fun at the same time. Music provided by all your favourite cheesy bands!

See you on court!

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

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CHURCH NEWS GOOD FRIDAY AND EASTER IN STOWMARKET

Old Newton

Chapel Road, Old Newton IP14 4PP Easter Services at the Chapel Sunday, March 11 10.45am Morning Service for Mothering Sunday 6.30pm Evening Service for Mothering Sunday Sunday, March 18 10.45am Morning Service for Passion Sunday 6.30pm Evening Service for Passion Sunday Sunday, March 25 10.45am Morning Service for Palm Sunday 6.30pm Evening Service for Palm Sunday Good Friday, March 30 4pm Meditation Service for Good Friday 5pm Tea in the Hall (please bring some food to share) Easter Sunday, April 1 8.45am Easter Breakfast 10.45am Family Service for Easter Day 6.30pm Easter Service of Holy Communion You are most welcome to join us at any of these services and events.

THE GOSPEL HALL We’ve had some good things to praise the Lord for in the last few months at the Gospel Hall. Peter and Caroline were married in Scotland in November and we able to have our own little celebration with them later in Stowmarket and welcome Caroline as she joins us. We’ve also been able to welcome the arrival of Isabel Margaret, born on December 11. We are having a little celebration in February to thank God for her safe arrival and to pray for her as she grows and develops. After all, a church is a family and we share each other’s joys (and sorrows).

We are going to be busy soon preparing for another Holiday Bible Club just after Easter. We always have a great time with the children with lots of exciting stories and activities. This year’s club is called Peter’s Seaside Adventures and will run from April 9-12. We’ll give more details next month.

Members from Churches Together in Stowmarket will be walking through the town centre late morning on March 30 to highlight what a special day Good Friday is. The procession which will be headed with a large wooden cross will leave the Old Post Office at 11am and finish with hot cross buns in St Peter and St Mary’s Church.

All churches in the town will be holding services on Easter Sunday, April 1 and are open to everyone to join in the big celebrations of when Jesus rose from the dead to give us hope and a new life.

EAST SUNDAY SERVICES Stowmarket Parish Church, Station Road West: 9am and 10.45am Methodist Church, Regents Street: 10.45am Our Lady’s Roman Catholic Church, Stricklands Road: Holy Saturday Vigil 8pm, 8.30am and 10.15am Salvation Army, Violet Hill Road: 11am United Reformed Church, Ipswich Street: 10.25am New Life Family Church, Hillside Community Centre: 10.15am Kings Church, The Mix: 10.30am St Mary’s Combs, Church Road: 11am

NEWS FROM THE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH Continuing on our road towards Easter, with Shove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday now distant memories, we look forward to Mothering Sunday. This celebration comes halfway through the season known as Lent. In the past his particular Sunday was when young children who had left home to work in large houses or on farms were allowed to return often for the first time in the year. Many would have missed their families, especially the care of their mothers. This Sunday gave the children the opportunity to show their thanks by giving a posy of wild flowers, picked from the wayside as they walked home.

The tradition of giving mothers a small floral token of love and appreciation on this day is continued by many churches, with our own congregation being given a small pot plant on Sunday, March 11 during Morning Worship which commences in our Ipswich Street church at 10.25am.

During Holy Week which follows Palm Sunday, March 25, we shall be holding a Festival of Crosses and we shall be open each day between 10am and 1pm to view the exhibits, with free admission, so why don’t you come and see what’s on at the URC?

THE SALVATION ARMY Violet Hill Road, Stowmarket Sunday, March 4 Wednesday, March 7 Sunday, March 11

Sunday, March 18 Sunday, March 25

Friday, March 30 Sunday, April 1 Wednesday, April 4

11am & 5.30pm Services 7.30pm Live Lounge at Costa 11am Mothering Sunday Service 4pm Messy Church 11am & 5.30pm Services 11am Service 4pm Café Church 10.30am Good Friday Service 11am & 5.30pm Easter Day Celebrations 7.30pm Live Lounge at Costa

WEEKLY EVENTS Mondays 9.30-11.30am Tuesdays 10am

2pm Wednesdays 5.45pm

7.30pm Fridays 7-9.30pm Saturdays 10am-noon

First Steps Parent & Toddler Group CAMEO (Come and Meet Each Other) Over Sixties Club Kidz Club (ages five plus) Live Lounge at Costa Coffee (first in month) Café of the Rec Coffee Morning

We have interesting and varied activities during the week, and well attended Sunday Services. For more information, please ring Jenny: 01449 614133

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All are welcome to St Mary’s Church, Combs Messy Service on Sunday, March 4.

This month’s theme is True Family (Matthew 12:46-50) and we will be making a Combs Church family tree, an edible tree using grapes and pretzel sticks and paper crowns and tiaras.

Bacon rolls, Tea, coffee and juice served from 10.45am.

Service starts at 11am.

In Touch online:

KITCHEN SALE 25% off for a limited period

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call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441

To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

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ELECTRICAL Tel/Fax: 01449 612537 Your local electrical service contractor for expert advice

• Rewiring • New Installation • Testing and Repair Work • Supplier of Electrical Equipment Unit 5, Glebe Farm, Onehouse, Stowmarket

John Bull motors ltd Petrol and diesel MOT Testing Servicing, repairs & diagnostics

Unit 7B, Charles Ind. Estate, Stowmarket

Tel: 01449 774150 Fax: 01449 675898 johnbullmotors@btconnect.com

MID-SUFFOLK FENCING

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www.midsuffolkfencing.co.uk

YOU GROW IT I’LL MOW IT

GROUNDS & GARDEN MAINTENANCE We offer the following services all year round: Grass cutting • Garden clearance Fences & Gates • Patios & Paths Hedge Cutting • Tree Cutting Sheds • Summer Houses Digger & Dumper work

For a free quotation please call Nigel Coton 01449 721025 or 07801 515505

To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

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S J Wallace Builders Ltd Est. 1987

Specialising in Extensions, Kitchens & General Building Residential and Commercial Visit our website at

www.sjwallacebuilders.co.uk Tel: 01449 672997 Mobile: 07788 560482 FREE ESTIMATES

SAXON MONUMENTAL CRAFT Best quality memorials, pet stones and marble for fireplaces Contact Sally Nice on: 01284 754512 / 01284 735797 07799 376105 (mobile) sallynice@hotmail.co.uk 55 St Andrews Street North, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1TZ

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STOWE SCHOOL OF DANCE RAD Ballet, ISTD Ballet,

ISTD Modern, ISTD Tap For enquiries please contact

Fiona Drew on 01449 616623.

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To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

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