In Touch
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with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham Volume 7 • Issue No. 9 •AUGUST 2017
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR It hardly seems appropriate to write about anything other than the tragedy at Grenfell Tower which continues to dominate our news with new horrors exposed almost daily. It’s a shocking sight in print and on TV, but a friend who passed close to the blackened tower last week tells me the pictures don’t come close to capturing the awfulness of it. She found herself staring at it in disbelief as people walked by, heads bowed. The outcome of the official investigation won’t be known for at least a year, but thankfully action is being taken to prevent similar disasters elsewhere. We can only hope this work is completed before more lives are lost and send our condolences to those who lost family members, friends and neighbours at Grenfell Tower, and indeed all those who lost everything except the clothes they were wearing. When horrors such as this occur we tend to hold our loved ones a little closer and appreciate what we have a little more. Often our own problems seem a little less all-consuming, at least for a little while. It’s also a reminder to check that our own homes and those of vulnerable neighbours or elderly relatives have adequate fire protection and working smoke alarms. Did you know you’re four times more likely to die in a fire if you don’t have a smoke alarm that works? Around half of home fires are caused by cooking accidents while two fires a day are started by candles and faulty electrics (appliances, wiring and overloaded sockets) cause around 6,000 fires in the home across the country every year. Take a moment today to inspect your home and then take any necessary action to protect it and those who live in it. You’ll find lots of information online and you may even be eligible for a Home Fire Risk Assessment or Home Fire Safety Check which you can book with your local fire and rescue service. You can also make enquiries on behalf of another person: Suffolk: 01473 260588 / Essex: 01376 576000
In Touch
with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham
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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01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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NEWS IT’S ALL HAPPENING IN WITNESHAM Witnesham has had a wealth of entertainment since the last In Touch magazine. First of all we had the church fete on June 24 which was well attended and raised more than £2,000 towards church funds. The weather was good and there was a variety of stalls and competitions. A big thank you from the village to everyone who helped, especially Gerry Hindle who managed the event, Terry and Erica for the loan of their land and Anthony for parking access. The next event to record was the Village Voices and friends presenting an evening of music. There was wonderful variety and talent on display. Notable solo and duet performances by Jane Blondel, Anthony Darell-Brown, Rose Johnson, Mike Trotman, Stephen Woodruffe, Alan and Catherine Forsdike, Mike Sherrod and finally Sue Sturgess and Daffers Rose. Village Voices performed classical songs as well as African and Gospel songs. Many congratulations to all involved for a brilliant evening and special thanks to Christine and Paul Laughlin for pulling the whole evening together and making it such a success. The final event to record was the village show. Again there was a good turnout for all the competitions which took place at the village hall on July 8. The event has gradually grown each year since its reintroduction four or five years ago. Let’s hope it continues to grow and gain support. Well done to all those who helped to put it together this year. Village Recorder Steve Henley
WITNESHAM CHURCH FETE We were blessed with a glorious summer day for St Mary’s Church Fete on Saturday June 24. Thank you so much for your support on the day, to those who came, those who donated goods and those who helped to run the stalls. The music provided by Ipswich Community Band was, as usual, appreciated by all as were the bargains to be had on the many stalls. When people had tried their skill at the games on offer there was a chance to sit and enjoy either a cream tea or a welcome ice cream, then to watch the children’s races or to view the refurbishment of the interior of the church which had taken place over the past months. We were grateful once again to Terry and Erica Burrows for the use of their meadow for all the activities to take place, to Anthony and Christina Darell-Brown for their car parking facility and to Adrian Cross for providing the bales to be used as extra seating. Thanks to your generosity we raised £2,000 which will go towards paying our annual Parish Share (several thousands of pounds), to diocesan and national expenses of the Church of England. While our own priests, Alan and Catherine, are self-supporting, we need to contribute to the expenses of all clergy and readers’ training, to the salaries of those who are paid and to the upkeep of their houses. St Mary’s Church Family
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NEWS ASHBOCKING NEWS I can’t believe that we will be into August when folk are reading this piece. Fortunately, at this moment, it’s early July and we are all enjoying wonderful sunshine.
This month’s Ashbocking coffee morning was well attended and parishioners enjoyed being out in the garden. One of the highlights of the occasion was Mike Surridge’s demonstration on how to use a caravan porta potti. Let me explain. Our village event, a Teddy Bears’ Picnic, will take place on September 9 at 2.30pm and we’d like to provide a loo. Hence the porta pottie. You’ll be glad to know, it comes with a tent! Thanks Mike. At the Teddy Bears’ Picnic, there will be a community barbecue, a tug of war, splat the rat, roll a ball and table tennis. Please bring your own drinks and rugs or chairs. There will be a prize for the best dressed teddy, one for adults and one for the children. If you have any other ideas, please get in touch. The plan is to have a relaxed community gathering
to celebrate this wonderful community area. Please put the date in your diaries. At this point I’d like to publicly thank Edward McHale (otherwise known as ‘Stick Lean’) who has given up several hours of his time to strim the boundary of the community land, around the trees and benches. It’s wonderful to have a young man in the parish having an input into this project. Thanks Ed. Also I need to thank Steve Stegman who has kept the remainder of the grass cut and Richard Last who has watered the trees and carried out some pruning. The community land will only prosper and develop with an input from many and we thank everyone for getting this project off the ground and seeing it through. I’m sure you’ll be pleased to know the barn owls of Ashbocking have prospered too this year and the box was home to two owlets. It’s not easy out there in the wild, but we wish them every success with safe flying and hunting, perhaps even within this parish. There does seem to be some improvement in the amount of dog excrement left by irresponsible dog owners. It’s early days, but hopefully the signs are reminding people that our paths are for all folk and need to be poo free! Well, I hope we all have a good summer with some light rain during the nights and glorious sunshine during the day. With lots of al fresco dining. Cheers!
HOLIDAY APPEAL FROM FIND Thank you to all who have contributed to FIND’s Food Bank in Ipswich or who have delivered food bags during this year. We have seen an increase in the need for emergency food bags with our volunteers regularly delivering to 15-20 households daily. Many families are being kept waiting for two or three weeks to receive some benefits and there are more families where people are in work but are unable to cover their necessary household costs on their low wages. The long summer holidays present a further cost for many families needing to provide an extra meal during the day for their children who would otherwise receive a free lunch at school in term time. Would you be able to donate a few tins or packets of meat and vegetables either through your local church collection or by contacting me to collect? As we are running very low on several food items we are drawing considerably on our funds, so any help you can give will be very much appreciated by FIND as we seek to support those in real need in our local communities.
THANKS FOR THE FETE GOODS Sincere thanks to everyone who donated toys for Witnesham Church Fete. Happy children (and their parents) were leaving with their acquisitions; the children showed themselves to be experienced negotiators on price! We made a tidy sum of money and the remains are being donated to a church that serves a deprived community. The toys will give pleasure to a lot of people for a long time. Barbara
FIND Committee Member Heather Cade 5 Coopers Close, Witnesham / 01473 785464
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NEWS LOCAL WALKERS RAISE £195 FOR ST MARY’S CHURCH
WITNESHAM AND SWILLAND VILLAGE SHOW 2017
On June 25, three intrepid ladies from Swilland – Gill Reidy, Julie Stainer and Gina Wilden – completed the Orwell 25 walk raising £195 for St Mary’s Church. The weather was perfect for walking, overcast to start and gradually the sun shining through.
This show took place on July 8 and we were blessed with perfect weather. The number of entries was up this year and was of a very high standard. We were pleased to see so many vegetable, fruit and flower entries despite the very hot and dry weather.
The day was a test run for next year as we are going to encourage more people to take part. We enjoyed training walks together and it’s a great way to get fit and to raise funds. There are 12, 19 and 25 mile options.
Blinged up Teddy Bears
Having fun with the puppets
There was plenty to see inside and outside there were games and a wonderful puppet show playing throughout the afternoon, put on by the talented people from St Augustine’s Church, Ipswich. When a rest was needed tea and delicious cakes were served by our WI.
We have no village hall in Swilland and we are looking to raise funds to have a toilet and small kitchenette built so that we can use the church for more social events as well as worship in the village. My thanks goes to the driver of the Mr Whippy van who parked at the last check point and served us with humongous 99s which made the last three miles extra enjoyable! Gina Wilden
THANK YOU I should like to thank all the friends who so kindly sent me cards and messages when I had my stroke at the end of April. Their words of encouragement and good wishes were very much appreciated. I am back home again after eight weeks in hospital and, I think, making progress, so I hope eventually to start joining in with village activities again. With kind regards and good wishes from Jill Bonnett
A big thank you to all those who entered and made the show possible and also to those who came and supported us on the day. Of course thanks also go to those volunteers, some who helped prepare throughout the year and others on the day, plus of course our judges. Next month you will see a full list of the results and some more photos, but hope these for now. The Village Show Committee
A CLASSIC DAY OUT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Come and join us between 10am and 5pm on Sunday, August 6 at Helmingham Hall Gardens for one of the largest displays of classic and sports cars in East Anglia, making a wonderful day out not just for the car enthusiast, but the whole family. With more than 900 vehicles taking part representing the last 10 decades of motoring history, this festival really has something for everyone to enjoy. During the day a selection will parade down the main drive way enabling visitors to enjoy the sights and sounds of these fabulous classic and sports cars. The 2016 event made a £6,000 donation to the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices. Exhibitors have given very generously over the past 10 years and we hope that with the 2017 festival we will be able to make an even greater donation. As well as this impressive display of vehicles there will be main ring entertainment, craft and trade stalls, birds of prey, lots of live music and great local food and drink. Tickets (adults £9, children £4, under sevens free, family ticket £22) can be purchased online or at the gate. Helmingham Hall Gardens, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6EF / 01473 890799 www.helmingham.com
WITNESHAM PARENT SUPPORT GROUP Witnesham resident Violet Ellis celebrated her first birthday on June 29.
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The Parent Support Group (and fun for under fives) which runs at Witnesham Area Pre-school on Thursdays from 1-3pm will be running fortnightly over the summer holidays. There will be sessions on August 3, 17 and 31, but not on August 10 and 24. Everyone welcome. Parents are welcome to bring older children too as well as their little ones.
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OUT & ABOUT ASHBOCKING SWILLAND AND WITNESHAM WI We look forward to Celia Stevens telling us about her career as a racing driver when we meet at 7.30pm on Wednesday, August 9 at Witnesham Village Hall.
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER FIFTIES CLUB Open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham, but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm.
Make a note in your diary for events in September. Saturday, September 16: Bingo and Buns at Witnesham Village Hall, 2pm A fun afternoon for all the family playing bingo with drinks and cake to keep you going. All ages welcome. Friday, September 8, from 2.30pm: An Invitation to view at Haughley House in Haughley. Non-members are welcome to join us for a guided tour of the house with tea and cake. The cost is £15.
The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea.
If you would like more information, please give me a call: 01473 785413
At our first meeting in June we had a social afternoon when Brenda set us some fiendish quizzes. At our second meeting we welcomed Carol Eagles from The Citizens Advice Bureau to give a presentation of their work. It was not appreciated that this is a charity and considerably staffed by volunteers, including a practising solicitor who gives time each month.
FROM A QUIET DAY AT OTLEY HALL For this beautiful day and this place I am here and not at home. I didn’t think I would be well enough to be here. A friend came to my aid, praise the Lord. I am indeed blessed by you my Lord, all I have needed you have provided. For the birds in my garden I talk to them, some squabble as we do sometimes. There is so much beauty in this place. I pray for all who seem unable to find peace – only destruction, perhaps they have not found this in their lives.
The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House with its own parking area. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.
One of the many ways they help people is in advice on utilities and getting the best deal from all the many on offer. If you would like help in finding the best deal and do not have any idea where to start, go along to their office in Stowmarket or give them a ring to make an appointment and they will be very pleased to help. We are on a summer break in August and will recommence with our AGM on Wednesday, September 13.
I am supported by you with church, friends and family. My two brothers are with you now. Four peacocks are here – two white, two coloured, no camera!
We have quite a varied programme and new members are always welcome. If you would just like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you.
Joan Eagle
Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
DIARY DATES FOR WITNESHAM, SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING Events take place in Witnesham Village Hall unless otherwise indicated. Booking Clerk: Mrs Anne Debenham, 01473 785798 / annedebenham@aol.com Please note: It is always advisable to check with Anne beforehand to see if the village hall is still available for the date you are planning for your event. Parish Clerk: Mr Steve Barron, swill-witpc@outlook.com / 07719 176917 Please note: If you wish to have notices placed on the village noticeboards please contact either the parish clerk or Anne Debenham who will arrange this between them. WEEKLY EVENTS Tuesdays • Post Office at Witnesham Baptist Church, 12.30-4pm • Drop-in Cafe at Witnesham Baptist Church, 2-4pm. For details contact Pastor Andrew Croft: 07851 060482 • Carpet Bowls Club from 7pm. Contact Peter Elmy: 785754 Thursdays Post Office at Witnesham Baptist Church, 9am-12.30pm Tai Chi Classes from 5.45pm. Contact Marc: 07860 471748 Fridays • Mums and Toddlers Group in Witnesham Baptist Room, 9.15-11.15am. No meetings throughout August, resuming again on Friday, September 1. Contact Jean Pearson: 785478 • Pilates Class, 10-11am. Contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com • Carpet Bowls from 2pm Sewing Classes: For information please contact Kim Shaw: 785678
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AUGUST Thursday 3: Mobile Library visits The Green, Ashbocking, 12.15-12.35pm Wednesday 9: WI meets at 7.30pm to hear a talk by Celia Stevens entitled Female Racing Driver Thursday 10: Mobile Library visits Witnesham at Weyland Road (9.5010.20am), Swilland M&M (10.25-10.40am) and Sunset Cottage (10.4510.55am) Saturday 12: Summer Fete at Witnesham Nursing Home, 2.30-4pm. Various stalls, tombola, competitions, a draw and tea, coffee or squash. Entrance is free. This is organised by the Friends to raise funds for entertainments, craft sessions and personal gifts for the residents. Tuesday 14: Mobile police unit sited at entrance to Weyland Road, Witnesham from 2pm when operational duties allow. Thursday 31: • Mobile Library visits The Green, Ashbocking, 12.15-12.35pm • Village Voices resume their meetings in Witnesham Baptist Church Room from 7.30pm. Contact Christine Laughlin for details: 785138 FUTURE DATES Thursday September 7: Mobile Library visits Witnesham from 9.50am, and Village Voices meet in Witnesham Baptist Church Room, 7.30pm. Saturday September 9: Suffolk’s Historic Churches Cycle Ride. Visit our churches throughout the day and in Ashbocking there is a Teddy Bears Picnic on the community land. For future editions of In Touch please let me have details of young people who have completed their A Levels or equivalent courses and who are moving on to further studies or work. Heather Cade: 01473 785464 / heather.cade@btinternet.com
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OUT & ABOUT WESTERFIELD CLUBS AND ORGANISATIONS Westerfield Bowls Club The club has more than 50 members who enjoy playing outdoors from April through to the end of September. Our teams compete in local leagues as well as playing friendly games against other clubs. For further information contact Tony Baker: 01473 411347
SIXTIES FUNDRAISING DANCE WITH YESTERDAY Plus Fish & Chip Supper Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre Saturday, August 26, 7.30pm till late
Village Coffee Mornings Coffee mornings are held in the village hall every Wednesday at 10am. Everyone is welcome. Westerfield & District Gardening Club The gardening club meets at Westerfield Village Hall on the first Wednesday of the month at 7.15pm. August: No meeting September 6: Oak Tree Low Carbon Farm Project with Joanna Mudhur October 4: Autumn Planting for Spring Colour with Matthew Long Everyone is welcome. For further details contact Barbara Bell (01473 231411), Michele Doick (01473 252330) or Barry Reeve (01473 251 843). Beavers, Cubs & Scouts 1st Westerfield Scout Group was founded in 1955. Using the village hall as its headquarters the group consists of: Beaver Colony Thursday, 5.45-6.45pm Boys and girls, 6-8 years old Beaver Leader Jenny Kent: 01473 218501 / jennyk.kent1@gmail.com Cub Pack Tuesday, 6.45-8pm Boys and girls, 8-10½ years. Cub Leader Joan Gibson: 01473 785510 / gibsonjoan785@gmail.com Scout Troop Friday, 6.50-9pm Boys and girls, 10½-14 years. Scout Leader Peter Runnacles: 01473 785298 / peter@runnacles.plus.com If your child is interested in joining us please use the contact form on our website from where your enquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate leader: www.westerfieldscouts.org.uk Westerfield WI Lively meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the village hall with different speakers on a variety of topics. The membership is 42 at present. August No Meeting September 14: Felting, Yesterday and Today with Elizabeth Taylor October 12: My Sister and Other Liars by Ruth Dugall New members and visitors are always welcome. For further details please contact Janet Phillimore: 01473 415749 Pilates Village hall on Mondays from 10.45-11.45am. Beginners welcome and equipment provided. £6.50 in advance/£8 drop-in. Contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com Chi Kung Village hall on Thursdays from 7.15-9pm. £12 per class, suitable for all ages. Contact Sally Askew: 01394 384013 / sally_askew@hotmail.com Yoga Village hall on Thursdays from 9.40-11am. Eighty minutes of yoga stretches, breathing practices and relaxation. British Wheel of Yoga qualified teacher. £48 for block of six (£9.50 drop-in) Contact Caroline Glason: caroline@still-yoga.co.uk / 01473 464204 / 07746 860380 Please note that there is now an online calendar to check availability of the village hall. For more information visit: www.westerfield-village.co.uk
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IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, September 27: On the Railway Lines to Yarmouth and Lowestoft, illustrated talk by Stuart Mcnee We meet at 7pm at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich. Entrance via the rear car park. Visitors welcome – £3.50 at door including tea/coffee. Details from: 01473 414746/422145 / www.idhts.co.uk
ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND The exhibition and sale of works by Suffolk artist Sonya Burrows, with live music by Helen Ellison and her students, on June 10 was very successful and we are grateful for the support we had for this event. The Midsummer Music concert presented by Helen Ellison and her students on June 17 in St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath, was very enjoyable and successful; thank you to everybody who took part. Helen Watson and Kate Parish and their piano students presented a concert on July 1 at Warwick Road Evangelical Church in Woodbridge. This was a very enjoyable and successful concert and we are grateful to Helen and Kate for arranging this and to everybody who took part. Further details about The Roger David Burrows Music Fund can be obtained from the Burrows family (01473 625196) or at: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk
OTLEY & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Patron: Matthew Tanton-Brown We meet at 7.30pm on the first Monday of the month at Otley Village Hall, Chapel Road, Otley. The new season begins on Monday, September 4. Compare gardening notes over tea/coffee and biscuits. All welcome; join up or just come along. Admission is £1.50 for members and £4 for nonmembers. Annual membership is £10. To find out more, contact Alan Trevelyan (01473 890563), Emma Coomber (07814785029) or Isabel Lincoln (01473 890826).
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS WESTERFIELD & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB The first half of 2017 has passed, it seems, extremely quickly. Our members have enjoyed five of this year’s nine evening presentations, had their summer barbecue and, at the time this is published, will hopefully have enjoyed the first of two exciting day trips to Capel Manor Gardens in Enfield in July. Our speakers have ranged from the manager of Notcutts Garden Centre talking about plants for difficult places to the delightful Chris Bell from Weatherquest (and BBC TV Weather) telling us about how the weather is forecast and how they help the likes of farmers and airports with immediate and forward-planning. We had a third visit from David Coop, talking about seeds and how they are selected, trialled and prepared for sale, Jaime Blake from Bressingham Gardens telling us the fascinating story of the famous Dell Garden and, in June, the story of Suffolk Prickles Hedgehog Rescue. The couple who started this rescue service – it’s not yet a charity – have such amazing dedication to helping distressed and, in some cases, terribly injured hedgehogs back to full health and, if at all
possible, eventual release, that they actually took a baby hedgehog on their honeymoon to continue its care! It was sad to note that nearly every issue and danger faced by these adorable, but fast-declining creatures is caused by us humans. We had a collection for them... of kitchen rolls! These, along with newspapers, are desperately required by SPHR to help with the care of the hoggies as their cleaning and bedding materials. In the middle of August, our second outing will be to Blacksmiths Cottage Nursery and Gardens and East Ruston Old Vicarage Gardens in Norfolk and in September we start the second tranche of presentations. Our meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month in Westerfield Village Hall, with free adjacent parking, starting at 7.30pm. Entrance for visitors is £4, which includes refreshments and a ticket for the monthly draw. For further information, please call: 01473 252330 Michele Doick
STONHAM ASPAL C OF E VA PRIMARY SCHOOL As the end of term approaches it is quite amazing how much has been fitted in since my last newsletter. On Thursday, June 8 more than 40 sets of parents came into school for our share afternoon. Thank you very much for coming along and spending this special time with your child(ren) sharing their learning and achievements. On Monday, June 12, Class 5 went to West Stow. This trip was organised as part of their topic on Anglo Saxons. The children and staff had a fabulous day and came back to school full of all the information they had learnt. Also during this week, Class 1 children completed their phonic assessments and our new Class R children started their visits to ‘big’ school including the offer of lunch with their parents on Friday, June 16. Also, on Friday, June 16, 20 children from Classes 4 and 5 attended the High Suffolk Athletics completion. It was a great afternoon with lots of individual success. We came tenth in the Year 5 and 6 competition, but at the time of writing we do not know where our Year 4s came. However, we can say that there was some fantastic team work and some real perseverance with individual events. Well done to all who took part. On Saturday, June 17, the PTA held their annual sleepover event on the school field. They had perfect weather and the event was enjoyed by all those that attended. On Wednesday, June 21, Class 5 travelled to The Apex to take part in the County Music Service performance. It was an amazing experience for the children, in particular because there was a huge brass section that they were able to play along with. They have also since performed for parents in a special assembly and they have clearly learnt a lot in their first year of learning the trumpet; our parents and carers were very impressed. On Friday, June 23, we celebrated ‘Being Suffolk’ by having a theme day all about Suffolk. By the end of the day the children had learnt where
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Suffolk is, about flowers from Suffolk, Suffolk artists and musicians, about the terrible tale of what happened to St Edmund and much more. It was a lovely day. On Thursday, June 29, we took 10 children to a rounders tournament at Hartismere High School. We may not have got through to the finals section of the tournament, but we really enjoyed the experience of taking part and also demonstrated fantastic teamwork. On Friday, June 30 the PTA hosted our summer fair. The weather stayed dry and lots of fun was had by all. Plus, more than £2,000 was raised so all in all a great event. Thank you to the PTA for all their hard work. On Wednesday 5 and Thursday, July 6, Classes 5 and 6 put on a production of Rocking Robin Hood. They have wowed their audiences and made us all very proud. Huge congratulations go to everyone who helped with the production. Class 6 are now busy with their enterprise week which they hope will raise enough money to pay for their end of primary school celebration trip. It is looking good so far as there was lots of money changing hands on their first day. Good luck, Class 6. Still to come is the induction day for our new Class R children on July 12, our sports day on July 13 and our leavers’ service on July 21. I hope you will agree with me when I say it has been a very busy few weeks with lots to share and celebrate. We hope you have enjoyed finding out what we have been up to in school. If you would like to know more our website is a good source of information or contact the office to arrange to come and visit us. Headteacher Mrs Sharon Waldron www.stonhamaspal.suffolk.sch.uk
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL As you read this article, we are all busy enjoying the summer holidays. However, the last few weeks of term were filled with activities and events with many taking advantage of the lovely weather.
the awards culminating in a trophy for Claydon High School’s Sports Personality of the Year. The winner of this special award was nominated and voted for by students in a secret ballot. It was a lovely evening celebrating so many individual and team sporting achievements across the year. The dedication, commitment and passion that these students have for their chosen sports make their families and the school very proud. The afternoon of July 17 saw the school’s annual Headteacher’s Praise Tea Party which is held to celebrate those students who have been awarded four or more Headteacher Awards on their school reports and who have 100% attendance throughout the year. I am delighted that a huge number of students were eligible for invitations.
On the evenings of June 27/28, we hosted our Claydon Spotlights show. Talented students across all year groups performed in a variety of acts ranging from music and dance to comedy and scooting. All the acts were fantastic and I would like to thank parents and carers for their support with auditions and rehearsals. It was great to see so much hard work and effort rewarded with great performances. Well done! On Thursday, July 7, 145 Year 6 students joined us for an induction day in preparation for the start of high school in September. Despite a few anxious faces in the morning, students soon settled into their activities, taking part in specially designed English, French and science lessons throughout the day. By break time it was clear to see that many had made new friends and are excited to be joining our warm and friendly school. Staff involved in the day were extremely impressed with the positive attitudes and enthusiasm shown by all students and we look forward to them joining us in the autumn. Year 5 students from our feeder primary school joined us on Tuesday, July 11 for an arts festival. Students were split into groups and took part in drama, dance, music and art based activities all designed around the theme of The Sea. We still have a few places available for students starting high school in September; please contact assistant headteacher Mr C Sim. On July 12, the PE department hosted its annual Sports Award Evening. Celebrations got off to a brilliant start with certificates awarded to students in Years 7-10 for Endeavour, Excellence and Team Sports with
Several students have had the opportunity to experience the magic of the live theatre this half-term. Years 7 and 8 spent a warm evening in Christchurch Park watching an open-air performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream which Year 7 are currently studying in their English curriculum. Years 9 and 10 GCSE drama students travelled to London on July 6 to watch The Woman in Black and The Play That Goes Wrong and a small group of students who excelled in a recent Readathon, raising money for charity, and our Word Warriors were rewarded with a trip to London to see Matilda. In other areas of the school we have had a Year 9 and 10 business and food technology trip to Hollow Trees Farm to learn more about career choices in agriculture and allied industries as well as sustainability and food processes. Year 9 students took part in an enterprise language day, creating a food or drink product to launch in a French or Spanish speaking country. Year 9 art and textiles students visited Cambridge Botanical Gardens. Year 10 experienced a taster day at Suffolk One Sixth Form College. The PE department held its most successful sports day ever, with 10 school records being broken, and Year 10 students experienced the exciting world of work on their work experience placement. I have been offered an exciting opportunity in the next academic year to undertake two terms work for our multi-academy trust. Therefore, I am delighted to inform you that Maeve Taylor will be our headteacher from September to Easter, with me undertaking an executive head role at the school. Please do contact her if you have any questions about the school or would like to visit. I would like take this opportunity to thank colleagues who will be leaving Claydon High School for pastures new come September and welcome new teachers who will be joining us for what I hope is another very successful year. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen, on 01473 836110 to book a place on one of our open mornings in the autumn term. Headteacher Mrs S Skinner
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SCHOOLS / SPORT THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE NURSERY HELMINGHAM
The children of The Old School House Nursery have been celebrating their achievements with their annual sports day. Held on the school playing field it was so nice to see family and friends turn out to encourage and cheer them on. Races were split into age groups and all of the children couldn’t wait to get started. Starting with a running race to get those legs moving – albeit very short legs for some! The smile that greeted those holding the finish line was worth the wait. Next came the egg and spoon race. Trying to get the children not to hold the egg on the spoon was a challenge in itself. However the older children knew to put their arm behind their back and that speed does not always win this particular race – one child
remembering “slow and steady wins the race”. We then moved to the more advanced races like bean bags in a bucket and rings on the head, finally finishing with a brothers and sister race which was very competitive. With refreshments being served and some side shows to have a go at, the afternoon was a real joy and with tired children going home, all with a medal round their neck, made for a very happy occasion. Our next adventure at nursery is our visit to Foxburrow Farm when we are Going on a Bear Hunt! Check out our website or email us to arrange a visit over the summer holidays: theoldschoolnursery@btinternet.com
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Greetings guff lovers. In the midst of glorious weather at the time of writing, I am watching Wimbledon and marvelling that this thing of beauty is the same sport that I have struggled to play for more years than I care to remember (let’s just say that when I started all matches were in black and white – including mine). The participants have the same sort of equipment and clothing as me, but seem to be able to get the ball in the court (and there is hardly any swearing or racket throwing). Nevertheless I think that my games are much more entertaining, certainly judging by the amount of laughter. A group of lads were on the playing field the other day when I was walking my dog. As I approached I heard one of them say: “Oh look, it’s that clown coming”. I laughed to myself as I walked past, because my dog’s name isn’t Clown, it’s Bonzo! The coaching sessions seem to be a great success and the club has gained several family memberships as a result. The weather has helped and having some sessions for starters and improves means that we may see Nick get some much needed coaching with his serve. It would certainly help his finances as it costs him a tin of balls every time he serves with most of them ending up in the Gipping. I am not having a joke of the month this time out of respect for a very good friend of mine who recently passed away as a result of a tragic accident. He was assistant brewer at Adnams where, during his duties, he tripped on a gantry, fell into a huge vat of Ghost Ship (other brews are available) and unfortunately drowned. When his wife was informed of his passing she was at a loss to understand how he could possibly drown, because he was a lifeguard at his local swimming pool. The manager told her that two men nearby had successfully managed to pull him out to safety twice, but both times he fought them off and jumped back in! More guff next month, Mick Russ
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CHURCH NEWS CHURCH NEWS FROM SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING TIMES OF LIFE “Life must be lived forwards, but it can only be understood backwards.” I believe there’s a lot of truth in these words of the Danish theologian, Soren Kierkegaard. One year ago, my husband and I began discussing retirement from our respective posts this summer with many factors entering into our discernment. The year, however, seems to have flown by and now, on the brink of major transition we wonder what lies ahead. Like anyone approaching a new phase of life, I have feelings of excitement and anticipation while simultaneously fearing the actual moment of departure – leaving that which is known, meaningful and valued. When recalling my six years amongst these communities of the Carlford Benefice, I have so much to be thankful for. Firstly, Clare, as friend, colleague and Priest-in-Charge second-to-none – fully giving and forgiving – has supported me totally, every step of the way. So too, the ministry team, who at our Thursday morning prayer-times have shared wisdom, tears and laughter. Thank you. And yourselves, who encapsulate a vast array of special relationships through my ministry of pastoral care, particularly in Hasketon and Grundisburgh, of the occasional offices (weddings, baptisms and funerals) of teaching, preaching, school assemblies and Open-the-Book, of lunch clubs, swap-shops and sharing my passion of creativity in music and art. Truly, I have loved serving God in this place. Retirement, however, is an act of withdrawal from a place or situation for the purpose of moving on, turning to a new phase, a new chapter in life. It is not loss understood in the same way as physical death. As a priest, I remain a priest, with my vocation and calling to God continually being re-shaped and moulded for future purposes. Many of you know that I love reading and take considerable time researching material when preparing sermons, services and Bible studies such as the Beyond Alpha Group. On particularly challenging occasions (yes, I have had some!) I take comfort from two special bookmarks kept close at hand. One I received 34 years ago when I was church organist at Cretingham, a time well before any inkling of becoming an Elder, then Reader, then ordained Priest. It reads ‘God is going with you. He will not fail you. Be strong.’ The other, given six years ago on the occasion of my ordination, reads ‘You are to be taken, blessed, broken, distributed, that the work of the incarnation may go forward’ (St Augustine). Why do I place such importance on these sayings? Well, both succinctly point me back to God, reminding me to stay grounded in God’s promise of care, at all times and in all places. These profound words, when taken into my mind and actions, have given confidence and courage when the going has been tough; have brought a returned sense of humility when the ego/self has grown too big for its own boots; have helped me reflect on the rich blessings I’ve been privileged to enjoy; and call me onwards to live out my life for God wherever that might lead, even, as now, beyond the immediate life of the Carlford Benefice. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all for being part of this recent, very happy chapter in my life. Also, I pray that in a year’s time, when the new chapter has evolved, you and I will reflect further upon special occasions of relationship together.
WHAT’S ON ACROSS THE CARLFORD BENEFICE SOCIAL GROUPS Baby Café: August 1, 9am at Grundisburgh Craft and Coffee: August 1, 10am at Hasketon Hobbies Group: August 2, 10am at Clopton Swapshop: August 2, 10.15am at Grundisburgh Hasketon Community Lunch: August 24, 12.15pm Tiddlywinks: Resumes again in September PRAYER AND STUDY GROUPS Going Deeper: August 2 & 16, 10am at Ashbocking Grundisburgh Prayer Group: August 14 at 5pm Monday Housegroup: August 14, 7.30pm at Grundisburgh August 5: Hasketon Fete on the green and in the hall from noon-3pm, plus an exhibition of Teddies in Hasketon Church from 2-4pm where cream teas will be available. August 13 & 27: Grundisburgh Sunday Club, 10.45am in the Parish Rooms August 23: Visiting Bell Ringers at Grundisburgh, 3.30pm August 24: Hasketon Community Lunch, 12.15pm GOING DEEPER HOMEGROUP We meet at Manor Farm to study the Bible, pray and encourage each other to go deeper in our faith in Jesus together. We will be meeting on Wednesdays, August 2 and 16 and thereafter every first and third Wednesday from 10am-noon. For more details contact Jan or John Bates: 01473 892605 THANK YOU Thank you to all who delivered envelopes and collected for Christian Aid in May, and to all who supported the collection in Burgh, Grundisburgh and Hasketon. A total of £1,768.64 was raised. Nicky Seabrook OTLEY OPEN CHURCH MORNING The coffee morning in Otley will be held on August 10 in St Mary’s Church at the normal time of 10am-noon. As well as the usual conviviality over a cuppa there will be added items of interest this month. The vestry will be open and the full immersion baptistry will be on display. This unique feature is rarely seen by the public so this is an ideal opportunity to come and view it. Church members will also be on hand to exhibit and explain other items of the church ‘regalia’ which often remain a mystery to many people. FANCY A COFFEE? Grundisburgh: Wednesday 2 from 10.15-11.30am and Saturday 5 from 10.30-11.45am, both at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms Ashbocking: Friday 4 at the home of Jan and John Bates, 4 Ashley Grange, Ashbocking, 10am-noon
Thanks be to God.
Swilland: Saturday 5 at St Mary’s Church, hosted by Shirley and Andy at 10am
The Rev Wendy Gourlay
Otley: Thursday 10 at St Mary’s Church, 10am (see above)
AUGUST SERVICES
Clopton: Wednesday 16 at the village hall, 10am-noon
Sunday, August 6: 9.30am Holy Communion, Swilland
Do come along and join us.
Sunday, August 13: 11am Holy Communion, Ashbocking
https://carlfordchurches.org / www.facebook.com/CarlfordChurches
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CHURCH NEWS WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH I’ve just come back from visiting Witnesham Village Show for the first time since I’ve been pastor here. I should have gone before! It was really good to see all the different things people had made or grown to various levels of perfection. It was also good to see a good number of visitors’, not just exhibitors enjoying the afternoon. This year the church had a presence therae with a puppet show. I hope people of all ages enjoyed it and I’m grateful to friends from St Augustine’s Church, Ipswich for presenting it on our behalf. The church’s mission is to tell people of the love of Jesus Christ. Using puppet and song was an excellent way of doing that, so while enjoying the show I hope you picked up something of the message. If you did and want to know more, then please contact me or visit the church. August tends to be a month where there is less activities going on across all sections of society. However, here at the Baptist Church the only activity we don’t have is the Mums and Toddlers Group on Friday mornings. The reality is that the Christian life is not just a Sunday thing, but is everyday life so joining together regularly is something we value whatever month of the year it is. Being a follower of Jesus or not, all are welcome to come along to the church when open during the week and on Sundays. It would be good to see you! Have a good summer, Pastor Andrew We welcome you to worship at 11am each Sunday.
Sunday, August 20: Team Ministry Sunday, August 27: Mr Robert Foster We welcome all families to our new Family Time on Sundays at 9.30am. EVENTS Tuesday • Drop-in Café 2-4pm. Everyone is welcome to call in for tea and friendship. Combine a visit to the post office with a cup of tea. • Varied Church Open House, 7.30pm Friday Babies and Toddlers Group, 9.15-11.15am. Contact Jean: 01473 785478 Please note no Babies and Toddlers Group in August Monday, August 7: The Munch Bunch Lunch Club, 12.30-2pm. Light lunch and good company. Contact Karen: 01473 251787 Wednesday, August 9: Prayer Fellowship, 2pm Wednesday, August 23: Bible Study, 2pm The church is open for prayer and listening every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am to 5pm. At other times please contact Pastor Andrew. The post office is open in the conservatory on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings.
Sunday, August 6: Morning Service including Holy Communion – Pastor Andrew
Pastor: Andrew Croft, 07851 060482 Secretary: Anne Camp, 3 Acre Close, Witnesham / 01473 785448
Sunday, August 13: Pastor Andrew
www.witneshambaptist.org.uk
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In Touch with WTW “You have been recommended for training for ordained ministry”. These words were relayed to me in May 2016 and after the initial joy had worn off, not surprisingly the doubts and anxieties set in. I had spent two years discerning my calling to be a priest which had culminated in a three-day intensive selection panel. And now it appeared that others also felt I was called to be a priest.
Random thoughts went through my mind – how would I cope with residential training at theological college in Cambridge for two years and what would preaching a sermon be like?
Well, residential training has been an enjoyable and at times, challenging experience, not least because I have had to get used to living in community with others who are also in training. We worship in chapel together, we study together, we eat all our meals together.
The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham
The hardest thing was getting used to sharing a bathroom with seven other people especially when I’d been used to having a bathroom to myself at home!
6th August Trinity 8
13th August Trinity 9
20th August Trinity 10
27th August Trinity 11
3rd September Trinity 12
10th September Trinity 13
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Sarah Jenkins
Singing out in Witnesham
Being placed with the Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham for my Parish attachment has given me the perfect opportunity to put into practice what I have been learning.
On Saturday 1st July Village Voices (and a couple of friends) celebrated the recently completed work at the church with a free concert of all musical sorts. The audience was very appreciative of the wide range of music on offer (from the sublime to the ridiculous!) and enjoyed refreshments in the village hall afterwards.
I have been warmly welcomed by the ministry team and the congregations of all three churches and have had the opportunity to assist at worship services, attend social events and meetings and take part in the celebrations at Christmas and Easter. I have now preached twice and it wasn’t quite as scary as I initially thought it would be!
CHURCH SERVICES August-September Day / Date
skills into practice before, God willing, being ordained as a deacon next summer.
I’ve learnt so much during that first year and am looking forward to what’s to come in the second year.
I’m delighted to be able to spend another year with the Benefice, getting to know everybody better and having the opportunity to put new
St Martin’s Tuddenham St Martin
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Many thanks to all who took part and especially Paul and Christine for their planning and organisation. The latest improvements to the building have meant it’s now possible to use the church more flexibly and comfortably.
This information was correct at the time of going to press (early last month) occasionally it can be necessary to make changes—please cross reference with our website for the most up-to-date information at www.wtandw.org.uk
St Mary’s Witnesham
St Mary Magdalene Westerfield
9.30am Family Communion
10am All-Age Worship
11am Family Communion
9.30am All-Age Worship
10am Family Communion
9.30am Family Communion
10am Morning Worship
11am Family Communion
[no 8am Communion this month] 9.30am Morning Worship
10am Family Communion
11am Morning Worship
9.30am Family Communion
10am All-Age Worship
11am Family Communion
9.30am All-Age Worship
10am Family Communion
8am Holy Communion 11am All-Age Worship
8am Holy Communion 11am All-Age Worship
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The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham
Church Diary—August 2017
Who’s Who:
Mothers’ Union—are having a break for August and return on Thursday 14th September with a service in church followed by tea in the church room (contact Ann Bennett 785685)
MINISTRY TEAM:
Benefice Youth Group—are having a break during August and will recommence on Wednesday 13th September and meet again on 27th September, 6pm (contact Julia 785497) Village Voices—are having a break for August and will recommence on Thursday 7th and meet again on 21st September, 7.30pm in the back room of Witnesham Baptist Church (contact Christine 785138) Kingdom Kids—are having a break during August and will recommence in September (contact Gill Thorley 890821) Wednesday Prayers—said Morning Prayer in Westerfield Church Room each week at 9.30am (Holy Communion is said on the first week of each month except January and August)
A Celebratory Sunday—18th June Archdeacon Ian said, ‘Take it all out and put it back the way it was!’ When he first visited St Mary’s Witnesham 25 years ago (when he found it) the church was dark, cold, unwelcoming. He couldn’t hear, he couldn't see and his seat (the stone step of the font) was very uncomfortable—it was, he said, ‘everything the Church of
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PARISH PRIEST: REV’D ALAN FORSDIKE t: 01473 252904 e: Alan@wtandw.org.uk ASSOCIATE PRIEST: Rev’d Catherine Forsdike t: 01473 252904 e: Catherine@wtandw.org.uk To enquire about Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, telephone or email Rev’ds Alan & Catherine Forsdike. READERS: Paul Laughlin
01473 785138 Paul@wtandw.org.uk
Carol Rivett
01473 717404 Carol@wtandw.org.uk
ELDER Julia Farmer
01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk
CHURCHWARDENS: Tuddenham 01473 785296
Jim Punton Jim@wtandw.org.uk
Tuddenham 01473 785272
Monica Pipe Monica@wtandw.org.uk
Westerfield 01473 230188
Judy Northfield Judy@wtandw.org.uk
Witnesham 01473 785673
Derek Austin Derek@wtandw.org.uk
KINGDOM KIDS—WITNESHAM Gill Thorley 01473 890821
Gill@wtandw.org.uk
BENEFICE YOUTH GROUP Julia Farmer
England should be! [paused for laughter] and now look at it,’ he went on, ‘it’s bright and clean and comfortable and inviting… so get people to come and see it.’ Village Voices under the confident direction of Paul Laughlin led some splendid singing and the sound of all our voices (100 of us) was really uplifting. Christina DarellBrown was commissioned as Local Giving Adviser to the benefice and then we went across to the Village Hall for a welcome lunch. My thanks to everyone for all the work which brought us to this point and helped us celebrate God’s generosity on Sunday. Rev’d Alan That evening, Archdeacon Ian wrote on his Facebook page: “Witnesham - to celebrate brilliant refurbishment of the church, it's stunning., huge congratulation to all concerned. Alan Forsdike remembered to thank everyone except himself… outstanding
Congratulations to Christine Laughlin The Sue Poole Award for Innovation in Domestic Abuse Work is provided by the family of the late Sue Poole in her memory and presented by her husband. Sue Poole worked tirelessly to support adults, young people and children affected by the impact of domestic abuse. Christine was this year’s recipient in recognition of the work she does with “Lighthouse” women’s aid.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield
01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk
Westerfield Church Fete Saturday 12th August 2pm in the Paddock Thanks to good weather and a great community effort, Tuddenham Fete on 10th June raised £2,500 and Witnesham’s on 24th June raised £2,000.
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