In Touch with Manningtree - April 2016 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

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with Brantham, Lawford Manningtree & Mistley Volume 6 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2016

Bluebells at Layham by Peter Cutts

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

NEWS

In a month when many of us will celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s 90th birthday I will also be thinking about another wonderful lady who has had an incredible impact on those who have known and loved her, my husband’s Grandma Ida. Sadly she is no longer with us but I think of her often and invariably find myself smiling when I do. Ida wasn’t just a perfect grandma, she was the life and soul of the party. There are too many stories to recount here, but Daniel often talks about playing Sardines with his then 83-year-old grandma who deviously abandoned the search and hid herself away in the shower, patiently waiting for her grandchildren to realise the game had taken an unexpected turn! Ida was the first older person I ever developed a genuine relationship with and I can honestly say she changed me for the better. She stirred both my curiosity and my respect. Meeting someone who was born 70, 80 or 90 years ago can be fascinating if you take the time to get to know them. In doing so you too will come to appreciate the fact that age in itself is a mark of achievement! Just imagine how many challenges and changes an 80-year-old has encountered and overcome, how many moments of despair and possibly even heartbreak they may have endured. The technological revolution is one of the most significant challenges my generation has encountered. Ida faced and overcame far more serious challenges and still had a twinkle in her eye at 90. Perhaps we need to remind ourselves now and again just how lucky we are (most of the time) and to acknowledge that a lack of interest in or respect for older people speaks volumes about our own character. Enjoy the celebrations and take a moment to consider how you might like to be treated when you ‘are old and grey and full of sleep’ (WB Yeats).

In Touch

with Brantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley

In Touch with Brantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley is 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 Brantham, Lawford, Manningtree, & Mistley is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with. . . ” series of magazines.

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IN TOUCH WITH . . .

• Hadleigh NEW • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Needham Market, Creeting St Mary & Creeting St Peter • Sproughton & Burstall • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Bramford, Offton & Somersham • Woodbridge & Melton • Gt. & Lt. Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton

Join St Mary & St Michael’s Church, Mistley with Manningtree, and St Lawrence’s Church, Bradfield in celebrating 90 years with the Queen To celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s 90th birthday we are planning a weekend of special services and activities across the Manningtree Benefice on June 11 and 12. We will be holding an exhibition in both churches of photographs, dresses and other mementos from the last 90 years in the community, celebrating the connections and relationships that have been made at baptisms, confirmations, weddings and other community services. The exhibitions will be open on Saturday, June 11, 10am-4pm at both churches, and on Sunday, June 12, 10am-3.30pm at Mistley and noon-3.30pm at Bradfield, with music, refreshments, and opportunities to share experiences, memories and stories. If you have any items from the last 90 years with connections to the churches of Bradfield, Mistley or Manningtree, whether they are photos, letters, christening robes, wedding dresses, or anything else of interest, we’d love to hear from you, and borrow them if possible! Items for Mistley with Manningtree: Joy Baker, 01206 391981 Items for Bradfield: Sue Reeve, 01255 870043 General Enquiries: 01206 392200 / info@manningtreebenefice.co.uk We will also be holding several services of celebration and thanksgiving on Sunday, June 12, giving thanks for our servant-hearted Queen and worshipping the God she serves. Please join us for: Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving with Holy Communion, 10.30am at Bradfield All-Age Family Celebration, 3.30pm at Mistley Celebration Tea, 4.30-6pm at Mistley Songs of Praise Celebration with the Benefice Choirs, 6pm at Mistley

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

“I hope that, like me, you will be comforted by the example of Jesus of Nazareth who, often in circumstances of great adversity, managed to live an outgoing, unselfish and sacrificial life…

MAY DEADLINE

He makes it clear that genuine human happiness and satisfaction lie more in giving than receiving; more in serving than in being served.”

10 APRIL 2016 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

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From the Queen’s Christmas Broadcast, 2008

NEWS CLOSURE OF ST MARY & ST MICHAEL’S CHURCHYARD & BURIAL GROUND, MISTLEY

FOG CELEBRATION LUNCH FOG (Friends of Guiding), which began as Babergh Vale District Girl Guides Local Association, met for the first time on February 23, 1976. Its function was to help commissioners and guiders with outside administration work and responsibilities and to take an interest in and support the work of the local units, including Rainbows, Brownies and Guides, bearing in mind that it had no responsibility for their running. The name was changed to Babergh Friends of Guiding (FOG) in May 1991.

Many of you might have already seen the formal notice or heard that St Mary & St Michael’s Church in New Road is applying to close the churchyard and burial ground. As The Rev Christine Hills explained to the congregation: “The reason for the application is because the churchyard and burial ground are full. I also want to assure local families that closure will not affect any burial in a family grave with sufficient space; or for persons who have a Faculty (permission from the Chancellor of the Diocese) for burial in a grave space. Access to the churchyard and burial ground will also not be affected.” The closure order, if granted, will not apply to the Mistley and Manningtree Cemetery which is next to the burial ground.

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

Currently FOG raises money to support local guiding units, subsidising guiders’ uniforms costs and helping units when they need extra money for special activities. On this, the 40th anniversary of the very first FOG meeting, 23 ladies, all past or current members, met in the Benneworth Lounge at East Bergholt for a celebration, where they enjoyed lunch provided by the present FOG committee. Some reminisced about their own guiding days and even sang a few guiding songs, remembering the words and actions from many years ago. Margaret Wheatley, one of the longest serving members of the committee, cut the special birthday cake as they enjoyed a glass of fizz. Here’s to the next 40 years! The FOG AGM will be held on Tuesday, May 10 at The Red Lion, East Bergholt at 7pm. If you are interested in helping to support local guiding please come and join us then. We have only three committee meetings a year and an annual ploughman’s lunch in November to raise funds. For further information contact Elaine Wright: 01473 311009

Women’s World Day of Prayer is an international, ecumenical prayer movement that invites women from a different part of the world each year to prepare a worship service through which their hopes and fears for their country may be brought before the whole world in prayer. Some 45 people met at St Mary’s and St Michael’s Church, Mistley on Friday, March 4 for our local service, led by Joy Baker and a team representing churches in Mistley, Manningtree, Lawford and Bradfield. Around the world an estimated three million people in more than 170 countries and islands gathered to observe the day of prayer using an order of service written by Christian women in Cuba. This service has been translated into more than 60 languages and 1,000 dialects. In the British Isles alone more than 6,000 services were held. The day began as the sun rose over the Island of Samoa and continued until it set off the coast of American Samoa, some 35 hours later. The theme, Receive children − Receive me, reflected St Mark’s Gospel, Chapter 10 verses 13-16, which is the focus of the service and a reminder that everyone is a child of God and equally worthy of our love and respect. Joy Baker

MISTLEY PARISH COUNCIL The full minutes of the meeting held on March 7, 2016 are displayed on the noticeboards near to the bus stop at Rigby Avenue and also outside Mistley Post Office in the High Street. The minutes can also be accessed online at: www.essexinfo.net/mistleypc/parish-council/meetings The next meeting of the parish council will take place immediately after the Annual Parish Assembly on Monday, April 18 at 7pm in the village hall.

2016 HERO RIDE Is anyone interested in cycling to the Imperial War Museum for breakfast on July 3 as part of the 2016 Hero Ride? A group of us are leaving in the ‘wee small hours’ to be part of this Help for Heroes fundraiser. As things stand at the moment we have a van and driver to return with the bikes (no cycling back unless you want to!) and some of the team are organising a return coach. This is not a race but a social cycle with a few laughs chucked in along the way I’m sure, and regular grub stops to keep everyone fully fuelled. Please contact me if you fancy the idea. It’s a special year for me as its 25 years since I was involved in the first Gulf War so I know what a difference organisations like Help for Heroes make. Andy White 01473 830135 / 07854 876722 / wandywhite216@aol.com

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NEWS MANNINGTREE TOWN COUNCIL The minutes of Manningtree Town Council meetings are available on their website, on the two town noticeboards (one at the Co-op Fiveways store and one beside the library) and at the clerk's office by appointment: 01206 390285 www.manningtreetowncouncil.org.uk

LAWFORD PARISH COUNCIL You can read the council’s minutes on: • www.essexinfo.net/lawford-parish-council • on the parish council’s noticeboards

ST HELENA HOSPICE’S BIGGEST LADIES ONLY EVENT IS BACK FOR ITS EIGHTH YEAR

• minutes can be collected from the Parish Office by prior arrangement as the offices are not open to the public

CONSTABLE COUNTRY PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP (PPG) Thanks once again to everyone who has contacted us personally by phone, email or using the comments cards in the waiting rooms. Our email address is: constablecountryppg@gmail.com

St Helena Hospice is running its eighth Midnight Walk event for ladies on May 28. Participants can choose between the event’s usual 7.5 mile walk or its brand new three-mile route introduced for 2016. Both routes will start at 10.30pm from Colchester United’s Weston Homes Community Stadium. The new three-mile route is a great choice for those who are keen to try their first night time charity walk or would like to be in bed a little bit earlier. Participants aged 11 and upwards can join in the fun and the hospice hopes to see as many ladies as possible dressing up in the ‘neon glow’ theme. Many ladies take part in the event to walk in memory of a loved one and the hospice will be holding its Memory Stop for ladies to take a chance to reflect and hang a personalised tag on the special memory tree. Sharon from Colchester will be walking in memory of her dad Eric who died under the care of the Hospice at Home team and Single Point services. She is looking forward to taking part in the event and says: “I get very choked as I see so many people who have all suffered in some way and are trying to do their part in giving a bit back to St Helena Hospice which has helped them or someone they know.” The event is a fantastic chance for the local community to do something positive for a local cause. The hospice needs to raise £8.7million a year in order to continue to provide its care services for free and it relies on people in the local community to raise sponsorship at events like Midnight Walk. The hospice’s fundraising team is on hand to provide tips and advice on fundraising activities and can be contacted at: events@sthelenahospice.org.uk / 01206 931468 For more information and to sign up visit: www.colchestermidnightwalk.co.uk

Contact details for PPG members are on display in both waiting rooms and on parish council noticeboards. We always do our best to deal with your queries and complaints. Minutes of our meetings are available at: www.constablecountrymedicalpractice.co.uk/ppg.aspx A number of issues have been raised with us recently: • Text message reminders We are aware that people are getting these sometimes weeks in advance of their appointment instead of the day before. This is a computer software issue and the practice has raised this with the software suppliers. • Difficulty with booking online appointments This issue has been logged with the practice manager, Pete Keeble, who is trying to sort it out. • Ongoing problems getting local phlebotomy appointments As mentioned previously other staff are taking blood samples, but some patients are having to go to the Riverside Clinic in Ipswich for urgent blood tests. We will give you an update when we have any more news. • Overhead displays in waiting rooms We are aware that people who have sight problems can’t read their name on the overhead displays when they are being called for an appointment. Please tell the receptionist so that either the doctor can come and collect the patient or the receptionist can make them aware that they are being called. Do you have trouble getting to appointments? A reminder that if you live in East Bergholt or Brantham there is a voluntary car service. Please let the receptionist know at the time of booking if you need a lift to an appointment. A service will also be available soon in Capel St Mary. Thanks to Chris Yule for organising this. Please get in touch if you have any ideas for ways in which the PPG can better engage with patients in the practice. Members of the group continue to attend coffee mornings and other events in the practice area. If there is a particular meeting you would like us to attend please get in touch. Kathy Pollard, 01473 311384

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WATCHDOG SEEKS VIEWS ON DIABETIC FOOT CARE SERVICES IN SUFFOLK Healthwatch Suffolk is working with a leading Consultant Physician of Diabetes and Endocrinology at the Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust Diabetic Centre to explore local experiences of using diabetic foot care services in Suffolk. Good foot care is essential for people living with diabetes because it can prevent complications caused by high blood glucose levels including damage to nerves and blood vessels. In fact, active foot disease is a leading cause of amputation in the UK. That is why Healthwatch is keen to explore whether people at high risk of developing foot disease in Suffolk are receiving appropriate care. It is interested in your experiences about the full range of services that may care for your feet and this includes those accessed in GP practices, hospitals and in the community. Andy Yacoub, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Suffolk, said: “Our aim is to ensure that these essential services are shaped by the experiences of people using them. This survey will help us to independently check that patients are receiving the right messages to help them manage their condition and that there is fair and appropriate access to foot care services across the county. If you have diabetes or know someone that does, please take part. It only takes a moment and your views could make a positive difference to care in Suffolk.” To take part, visit: www.surveymonkey.com/r/suffolkdiabetes You can also contact Healthwatch Suffolk on 01449 703949 or by email to info@healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk to request a hard copy survey. This survey will close on April 30, 2016.

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NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES: Alton Ward Babergh District Councillor Alastair McCraw DEVOLUTION The devolution agenda continues to rumble on. A bid by Suffolk added Norfolk to be stronger. Now Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are added. My fear has been that each council would find itself more remote from decision making. Now we risk ending up as an agricultural and tourist hinterland to Cambridge and Peterborough. Elected mayor aside, the ruling ‘Council of Leaders’ will be dominated by one political group. How many of these councils are likely to be led by a non-Conservative administration? We have many different strands of opinion to be taken into account. Think of every council area as a sort of ‘super seat’ and we have a winner takes all approach. Not very representative, democratic, accountable or local, I would say! You can follow this through the front page on Babergh’s website: http://www.babergh.gov.uk/ BUDGET AND COUNCIL TAX Babergh passed the 2016/17 budget at the end of February. I’ll write about the breakdown later. For the moment though, I will break down the council tax division for the ward. Your total annual council tax for Band D (the average and the base level) will be: Brantham £1,521.87, raising about £1.3million; Stutton £1,506.37, raising about £0.5m; Tattingstone £1,512.60, raising about £0.33m. Around 76% of that goes to Suffolk County Council (£1,150 pa). Another 11.5% goes to the Police and Crime Commissioner (£173 pa). Both of those parts are increasing by 2% . Babergh district makes up just shy of 10% of the total (£150 pa). The increase is £5 a year, or 10p a week, the most allowable. It’s 3.5% but, to be fair, there has been a long freeze and we have to prepare for a steady reduction to zero in the Revenue Support Grant. The only point of variation in these figures is the parish precepts. These vary from 2.3% in Stutton (£35) through 2.7% in Tattingstone (£41) to the dizzy heights of 3.3% in Brantham (£50.55). I’m an active parish councillor myself and firmly believe that our parish councils are a bargain in local government. The average PC precept for Babergh is £75.68. The bottom line is about a 2.1% overall increase in council tax. More number fun next time. PLANNING AND HOUSES This subject occupies more of our minds, more press coverage and more passion than any other. That’s true everywhere I go. Housing needs to be built to make up for the sad shortfalls of many years. Babergh has a policy of 35% provision of social housing, but somehow it doesn’t seem to be achieved very often. There are also nearly half a million outstanding planning permissions in England that have been granted and not acted upon. The last figures available show that house builders built under a third of that in one year. So planning permissions are by no means the end of the story. People are going to get upset though when applications are being considered. All I would ask is that we examine the evidence carefully and keep a cool head. Nobody is taking this lightly, but the current policies in planning, and their interpretation, have a very firm predisposition in favour of building, sustainability, viability and proportionality. Opinions differ on the meaning of these seemingly flexible words. In favour of a rational approach to these issues, I refer to the Babergh Planning page to view, follow and comment. Information is the key here. http://tinyurl.com/z4zpjaf If you want to talk anytime, please contact me or just say hello (I’m on a blue Claud Butler bike). alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk / 07812 564188 Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (an open group)

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CREDIT UNION IN MANNINGTREE

Every Friday from 10am-noon, at The Hub, 1 The Lane QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Who is the Credit Union for? It’s for anyone living, working or studying in Tendring or Colchester who wants to save as part of their budgeting, either on a regular basis by standing order or ad hoc in cash, by cheque or bank transfer. Who runs the Credit Union? It is a co-operative, run by its members, who are all volunteers. Is there a guarantee that my money is safe? Yes. The CU is regulated like any bank and savings are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. Is it easy to withdraw money? If you want to withdraw a larger amount of cash at the Hub, we need about one week’s notice. Requests for cheques or bank transfers can usually be dealt with on the day, as can cash withdrawals up to £50. What if I need access to my account on a different day? Because we are part of the Colchester Credit Union, you can contact the Colchester office on different days. Who can get a loan from the Credit Union? Any member can apply for a loan after having saved regularly for 13 weeks. An independent ‘Credit Committee’ of volunteers assesses all applications. How much credit can I get? For a first loan the maximum is up to twice your savings or £500. Larger loans may be available after the first loan has been repaid and depending on your savings. How much does a loan cost? Interest is 2% per month on a reducing balance. Typically, that is £13.47 interest per £100 over 12 months. There are no fees and no penalties for early repayment. Do I get interest on my savings? Credit Unions are not allowed to pay interest, but if profits permit they can pay a dividend. Why should I use the Credit Union? It is an ethical way of saving, offering choice in the local community, especially in Manningtree where there are few options for banking and it makes sensible loans available at reasonable rates. How do I join? We need two forms of ID and your National Insurance number. Just bring these into The Hub on a Friday morning and you can join the Credit Union there and then to set up your account with a minimum deposit of £1. Tendring District Council supports Credit Union membership and pays the £3 joining fee for anyone living, working or studying in Tendring. If you can’t come to the Hub on a Friday morning, phone 01206 398082 during our opening hours or 07891 963005 to request an application form or more information. We look forward to seeing you and not only for Credit Union business. The regular Fridays@TheHub all-age drop-in is also open on Friday mornings from 10am-12.30pm with coffee, tea and biscuits always on offer − and for anyone with a little time to spare, a chat and a listening ear. All services at the The Hub are offered by local churches for all members of the community.

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT NEWS FROM LAWFORD SURGERY The results of NHS England’s GP Patient Survey were announced in February. Survey questionnaires had been sent out to selected adults who were registered with GP practices in England. Out of the 42 practices in the North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group area, Lawford Surgery was voted at 97%, putting us at second position in the Colchester area (first position scored 98%) and in joint first position with Thorpe Surgery in the Tendring area.

showed how all the GP surgeries were rated for their overall experience by patients. The full results also can be found on NHS England’s website, and comparisons can be made with other local surgeries.

These survey results were reported in the local newspapers, which

Practice Manager Patricia Lee

ACORN VILLAGE

EAST BERGHOLT DRAMATIC SOCIETY

Celebrate St George’s Day (Saturday, April 23) with us by getting your hidden treasures valued between 10am and 1pm by the lovely Marc Winter, Michael Bowles (from BBC’s Flog it!) and the team from Reeman Dansie. There will also be some St George’s Day refreshments to enjoy in the Oakroom at Acorn Village, Mistley. All proceeds go to supporting adults with learning disabilities. Simply turn up on the day and have your item valued for £2.

Old Actors Never Die… They Simply Lose the Plot by Lynn Brittney

If you’re looking for something to do the second week of half term we are having Acorn’s Book Day on Tuesday, April 5 in the coffee shop from 10am to 4pm with lunch themed specials, a prize for the best dressed book character, story-telling and games. To book call us on 01206 394124 (ext 239). Acorn Village would like to say an enormous thank you to Riverside Taxis and all of their supporters who raised a phenomenal £5,161 to help towards supporting our local adults with learning disabilities after taking on their road challenge from John o’Groats to Land’s End and back.

Acorn Village Charity Fundraising

We would like to thank all patients who took part in the survey. Dr Ahmad, the nursing team, dispensers, admin team and myself would like to thank you all for your continued support.

The Mount Home for Retired Theatricals is more like posh hotel than a home for the elderly and the residents are very happy at being waited on hand and foot. When Walter Neville (veteran of over 200 films) arrives, he’s delighted to find his best friends living there and looks forward to many enjoyable hours living in peace and harmony. But when the serial womaniser ex-husband of three of the ladies (Mrs Sullivan 1, 2 and 3) goes missing – apparently on the run from the Russian Mafia – the peace is about to be shattered. Come and enjoy this very funny play which is full of wonderful characters ranging from the dramatically eccentric to the downright scary at The Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 14-16 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £6 in advance (£7 on the door if any left!) from Fountain House Café and from 01206 396674 / 07891 974844.

EAST BERGHOLT DRAMATIC SOCIETY PRESENT

Clacton Road, Mistley, Manningtree, CO11 2NJ Tel:01206 394124

Saturday 23rd April 2016

10am to 1pm ‘The Oakroom’ Acorn Village, Mistley Supporting Adults with Learning Disabilities since 1975

(They simply lose the plot) BY

Lynn Brittney 7.30 pm A huge thank you to Marc Winter, Michael Bowles and their colleagues from Reeman Dansie who have taken time out from BBC’s ‘Flog It!’ to help us.

Bring your antiques between 10am & 1pm to be valued for £2.00 an item. St George’s Refreshments Available. Acorn Village - Charity No:263954 Clacton Road Mistley, Essex, CO11 2NJ Tel:01206 394124

Our Thanks to Reeman Dansie Auctioneers & Valuers

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Thursday - Saturday

THE CONSTABLE HALL, EAST BERGHOLT Tickets £6 in advance

Call 01206 396674 or text 07891974844 or from The Fountain

House Tearoom, East Bergholt or £7 on the door if there are any tickets left

This play is performed with kind permission of playsforadults.com

OUT & ABOUT VENTURE CENTRE 2000

THE MANIFEST THEATRE

Saturday, April 2: Purple Feather Events Well-being MBS Fair

2 Oxford Road, Manningtree, Essex CO11 1BP

Therapies to include reflexology, Indian head massage and reiki, also oneto-one psychic readings, a variety of retail stalls including crystals and body products, fresh cooked food, cake and drinks. Free workshops all day. £2.50 entry, everyone welcome. Supporting The Robin Cancer Trust. www.purplefeatherevents.co.uk / Facebook

We are now well into rehearsals for Accolade, an intriguing thriller written and set in the fifties. The storyline could as well apply to the present day when, because of achieving celebrity status, someone’s personal life becomes public with repercussions for family and friends when a lie is told and a careless moment is witnessed by a third party. When this happens to a successful, well known personality the consequences can be life changing for everyone.

Monday, April 4, 7.30-9pm: Little Acorn Spiritual Friends A demonstration of clairvoyance by Mark Came www.little-acorn-csc.com / Facebook Wednesday, April 6: Flower club demonstration with Barbara Collins, 1.45pm Sunday, April 10, 7-9pm (doors open 6.30pm): Healing Sound Journey Sound healing meditation using sacred sound vibrations of harmonic instruments from around the world, including symphonic gongs, didgeridoos, Native American flutes and overtone and throat singing. Seating is available but if you wish to lie down please bring your mat, pillow and a blanket for your comfort. www.ramivana.com Thursday, April 14: Blood donor day / Singing 4 the Brain, 2pm Saturday, April 16, 10am-4pm: Simple Events Spring Craft Fair with more than 30 handcrafted gift stalls. Entrance free.

Alison Baker and Paul George

Sunday 17: Link Line meeting Regular classes Monday: table tennis, quilting, patchwork classes, Active 4 Life keep fit, Debbie Millar Dance Exercise, Tuesday: yoga, art classes, choir Wednesday: Weight Watchers, body conditioning and pilates for beginners and improvers Thursday: Self-help upholstery, Jo Jingles, Slimming World Friday: Active 4 Life and pilates, Boogie Shoes Saturday: Ashtanga yoga / available for private hire Sunday: Fortnightly Link Line meetings / available for private hire Sunday: Come and join us in our new fellowship – everyone is welcome. Hear the teachings of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus with our lively worship and service with refreshments afterwards. We meet Every Sunday morning at 11am.

This is a well written, tense play by Emlyn Williams, one of the foremost playwrights of the mid-twentieth century, and is directed by Kate Sheffield. Alison Baker and Paul George, who played the lead roles in RolePlay last year, play Mr and Mrs Trenting. Alison won an award for Best Actress 2015 from the North Essex Theatre Guild for her part in RolePlay so we’re delighted she is treading the boards once again at The Manifest Theatre. Performances are Tuesday to Saturday, April 5-9, at 7.30pm. Tickets (£7 for members / £9 for non-members) are available from Saturday, March 26. To book call 07444 724271 or use the online booking form at: www.manifesttheatre.co.uk Check us out on Facebook and Twitter.

For further information on times and contact details visit: www.venturecentre2000.co.uk Reptile exhibition The Essex Reptiles & Amphibians Club together with Snakes Alive are holding an exhibition of member’s animals at the Venture Centre on Sunday, May 22, 11am-3pm. You will be able to see and handle a wide range of these fascinating animals. The day will also offer the opportunity for help and advice on keeping reptiles in captivity. Open to the general public: adults £2, concessions £1 (under 5s free). Also see 1st Lawford Guides on page 19.

BATS JUNE PRODUCTION : HOLIDAY SNAP

STOUR CHORAL SOCIETY

We are pleased to announce our June production of Holiday Snap, a comedy by Michael Pertwee and John Chapman. The play can be seen from Thursday, June 9 to Saturday 11 at 7.30pm in Brantham Village Hall.

Stour Choral Society present an afternoon concert in Frinton Parish Church at 3pm on Saturday, April 23 with Brahms German Requiem, Handel’s Organ Concerto in B Flat and pieces to celebrate St George’s Day. The soloists are soprano Susanna Hyman and baritone Gary Griffiths, accompanied by Stephen Smith on concert organ, all under the baton of Duncan Archard. Tickets for this popular programme are £10 (under 18 free) and are now on sale from St Mary’s Frinton Parish Church (Mon-Fri 9.30am-12.30pm) or 01255 679164/395263. The society will be welcoming the Kantorei from Frankenberg, Germany at the end of May and giving a concert in Old Hall, East Bergholt, featuring songs from The Sound of Music, at the end of June.

This tale of comic predicament and mistaken identity unfolds with real wit and style. A Portuguese time-share villa has been double-booked, unknown to the company rep, the myopic tippler Commander “Chitto” Chittenden. When Mary and Henry arrive shortly after Eve and Leslie, Chitto manages to remain unaware that there is more than one couple on the scene. Watch the confusion compound with the missing housekeeper and her husband. How will the arrival of Henry’s mother-in-law cause even more problems? Who is the real Sir Piers? Answer these questions by coming along to see this hilarious play. Tickets (on sale from May 1) will cost £7 from Bakes & Blossoms Café at Acacia Court, 01026 396674 or (text) 07891 974844.

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The East of England Co-op has been your local funeral service for 90 years. We are not part of the national Co-operative Funeralcare chain based in Manchester.

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OUT & ABOUT

BRANTHAM’S 2016

East Bergholt High School Association Registered Charity no. 1017476

(and maybe LAST *)

ANNUAL CHARITY GARAGE SALE Open garages selling items throughout the village. look for the balloons & signs throughout Brantham, on the A137 TABLE TOP SALE at the Village Hall with WI REFRESHMENTS, HANDICRAFTS and PRESERVES. TOMBOLA, BBQ, ICE CREAM VAN and much much more……. so please make a note in your diaries and calendars:

Saturday 11th June 2016 From 9:30am till 4:30pm

We need a £5 minimum donation to book your garage / village hall table. For more details call: Ronnie 01206 395557 or Yvonne 01206 392296 If you would like to help in any way either on or before the day, or donate items for the Tombola, please contact Ronnie or Yvonne. Every offer of help is welcome. Proceeds will go to St Elizabeth Hospice (Carla Dawson's Tribute Fund) and other local charities.

see In Touch, Volume 6, Issue No.4, February 2016 - page 3. We Need Volunteers to help organise future Garage Sales.

Sunday, May 22 In the grounds of the high school 9.30am-noon Admission 50p – free car parking PITCHES In advance: cars £5, cars with trailers £7, domestic vans £10 On the day: £1 extra NO TRADERS Gates open 8.30am for sellers, 9.30am for buyers To book please phone: 01206 298122

ACTIVE KIDS ARE HAPPY KIDS Courtesy of Essex Gazette

SPRING SALE AND COFFEE MORNING The Friends of the historic Lambe School in East Bergholt warmly invite you to their popular Spring Sale and Coffee Morning on Saturday, April 23, 10am-noon, at the school on Gaston Street.

Anglia Sports Management specialise in quality sports coaching, and will be keeping children both active and happy this Easter with an extensive holiday programme for five to 13 years olds at Brantham Leisure Centre. The programme includes a variety of activities including football, multi sport games, arts and crafts, T-shirt making, dodgeball, kango boots, dance and more.

Attractions include cake and plant stalls, a raffle, a bucket raffle, cards, Blind Lucky Dip, Name the Bear, children’s toys, toiletries, bric-a-brac and books. Entrance £1 including coffee and biscuits. Children free!

Clear the lutter – bag a bargain

All activities are available from 9.30am to 3.30pm with an early drop off option for working parents at 8.30am

Bentley Toddler Group is holding a jumble sale to raise funds on Saturday, April 30 from 2pm at Bentley Village Hall.

Paul Skingley, head coach at Anglia Sports Management, said: “We are passionate about providing healthy, active programmes for local children, where parents can feel confident and reassured that their children are in safe hands. All our coaches are fully qualified and experienced in delivering exciting and entertaining activities in a safe environment”

If you have anything you wish to donate to our sale, please bring it along to the hall from 9am on April 28 or call Pam (01473 310283) or Aimée (01473 311311) who will arrange to collect it from you.

For full details of the Easter holiday programme and to book and pay for sessions visit: www.angliasportsmanagement.com

If you would like to come to our sale, the hall will be open from 2pm. Tea and coffee will also be available. We look forward to seeing you and thank you for your support.

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Wedding Open Day

Sunday 8th May, 11am - 3pm

Woolverstone Hall, Woolverstone, Suffolk IP9 1AZ

Woolverstonehall.co.uk

01473 201039

enquiries@woolverstonehall.co.uk The perfect place for your perfect day

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OUT & ABOUT ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE DEVELOPING WORLD PROJECTS

MANNINGTREE & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY

St Joseph’s College’s Developing World Projects continue to flourish. The college has established an ongoing partnership with Osiligi Obaya School in Kenya, a school for the most needy children living in the Maasai. Each summer staff and students visit the school so that over a sustained period of time the college family can follow the development of the children, the school and its community.

In the age of the ‘selfie’ it could be argued that portrait photography has never been more popular. Indoors it’s not so easy, especially in artificial light and in the company of what seems like our very own good humoured ‘paparazzi’.

This summer five sixth form students will spend two weeks running a summer school for these children accompanied by staff from the college. Every child attends. Not only because the learning activities are fabulous, but also because each child receives a mid-morning meal of porridge and tea, as well as a wholesome lunch. It is likely that this will be their only solid meal of the day. In addition, the school needs culturally relevant learning resources: English, mathematics and science equipment, teachers’ resources, thinking activities and games, art and design materials; musical instruments; consumerables (pens/paper, etc) and construction equipment. Dr Hine, head of the prep school at St Joseph’s College, also works regularly with Osiligi’s headteacher and all the school’s teaching staff on their school development plan. This is really taking shape and a new set of locally sourced reading books will be in situ in the coming weeks. HORN FACTORY FUNDRAISING CONCERT Friday, April 22 at St Joseph’s College, Belstead Road IP2 9DR If you would like to support the staff and the fabulous-five St Joseph’s College students who will be travelling to the Maasai during summer 2016, please join with the incredible Horn Factory Band (featuring Steve Stone from Mansion House Publishing!) in concert at St Joseph’s College on Friday, April 22, 7.30-10pm. For tickets (£14 / under 16s £7 – including nibbles) please visit: www.redrosechain.com For further details or to make a donation to enable the purchase of practical equipment from local Kenyan sources for these worthy children please contact Martin Hine: M.hine@stjos.co.uk

STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB

Nevertheless our studio workshop evening in February, ably led by George Fossey from the Harwich Club, proved to be a busy yet rewarding event. We are indebted to Dave for helping to organise the evening, including supplying the necessary studio lighting, and to Danielle for kindly acting as a model. This is a demanding role requiring a number of scene changes which was much appreciated by all present. In a review of the results later in the month, Sharon Smith’s portrait, shown here, was acclaimed as one of the best. FUTURE MEETINGS March 31: Secrets of the Digital Darkroom by Phillip Shaw, a change from the previously published programme April 14: Open Colour Competition / Judge Gill Adams April 28: Group photographic walkabout in Colchester New members are welcome to join the society or may attend initially as a visitor (£3). Meetings are held at the St John’s Centre, Station Road at 7.30pm. For further details contact our secretary, Margaret (01206 396958 / madps@post.com) or visit: www.manningtreeanddistrictphotographicsociety.co.uk

STOUR VALLEY U3A On Wednesday, March 9 Charlotte Harding presented An Introduction to Warner & Sons, a talk on the 120 years of textile design and manufacture in London and Braintree, highlighting the company’s royal connections.

On March 2 Richard Walker presented When Pirates Ruled the Waves, a very local issue a few decades back, and we held our annual general meeting on Wednesday, March 16 when Graeme Forsyth stepped down after his year as president.

On Wednesday, April 13 Rebecca Parry BSc, Director of Conservation, Education & Research, will talk on Zoos and Conservation. Her talk will include the history of zoological collections, including Colchester Zoo, the zoo’s current modern roles, its breeding programmes and conservation projects in the wild.

On April 6 David Carman will interview our new president Hew Naylor in his Desert Island Discs in what promises to be a most interesting meeting. At our second meeting of the month on April 20 Phil Hadwen will speak about the life of Edith Cavell, a British nurse who saved the lives of soldiers from both sides, without discrimination, and helped some 200 Allied soldiers escape from German-occupied Belgium during the First World War.

We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 and this entitles members to attend the meetings that take place on the second Wednesday of each month.

We meet at the convenient St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB. Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed. We meet on the first and third Wednesday of each month in Manningtree at 10.30am. For further details please contact secretary Brian Rolfe: 01206 393665

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Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. We have a wide range of groups including language study, country walking, computer studies and gardens, churches and historic buildings visits. In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust and have more than 200 members and 18 groups. For further information please visit www. stourvalleyu3a.org.uk where membership secretary Val Pretty can be contacted. It’s never too late to learn. Join the 361,477 members across 969 U3As throughout the UK today.

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OUT & ABOUT MANNINGTREE CELEBRATES SHAKESPEARE’S 400th Residents of Manningtree are planning to celebrate their distinction of being the only town in this part of Eastern England to feature in one of Shakespeare’s plays by organising two events to coincide with the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death on April 23, which was also the date of his birth. The town’s fame in the time of William Shakespeare comes from its mention in Henry IV Part 1 (Act 2, Scene 4) where Falstaff is described as: “that roasted Manningtree ox with the pudding in his belly.” The Rotary Club of Manningtree Stour Valley honoured this connection in the year of the millennium by erecting a metal sculpture of an ox high on a wall in the centre of the town, with a lighted globe inside it to represent the pudding.

millennium so we feel a real connection to it. It was officially unveiled for us by the actor Warren Mitchell of Alf Garnett fame, a personal friend of its creator. “We hope that as many people as possible will come along and support these events, both of which are free. We need a really good turnout for the world record attempt and hope that people will be excited about the chance to be part of it. Anyone interested should assemble in the lower section of South Street, adjacent to the ox, from 5pm on the Saturday afternoon.”

On the evening of the anniversary itself, a street gathering will be held in the centre of the town adjacent to the ox sculpture in order to make a world record attempt for the most people reciting Henry V’s famous St Crispin’s Day speech. On Sunday, April 24 a concert of music, speeches and entertainment, ending with the speech featuring the Manningtree Ox, will be held in Manningtree Methodist Church at 7pm. Rob Sharratt, president of the Rotary Club of Manningtree Stour Valley, said: “We are delighted to help organise these two events which will emphasise the town’s links with William Shakespeare. The sculpture of the ox was designed and made by a member of our club to mark the

TEA & SUPPORT IN MISTLEY

1st LAWFORD GUIDES QUIZ NIGHT

Tea & Support, the meeting place for those who have been bereaved or left living alone, is held on the third Wednesday of each month at the Church Hall, New Road, Mistley. Meetings are usually from 2-4pm, are free of charge and transport can be arranged. Come along to meet new friends in a safe, friendly environment.

1st Lawford Guides are hosting a quiz night on Saturday, May 7, 7 for 7.30pm, at the Venture Centre 2000, Bromley Road, Lawford, Essex CO11 2JE.

Our next meeting on Wednesday, April, 20, will be an outing to a local garden centre for afternoon tea. Please be at the hall promptly at 2pm for transport and note that we are likely to be back slightly later, between 4.30 and 5pm. For more details please contact the Church Office of St Mary’s and St Michael’s Church (01206 392200), Paskell’s of Manningtree (01206 396709) or Joy Baker (01206 391918). Copies of our 2016 programme will be available shortly from Paskell’s or from the church.

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All are welcome – guides, parents, friends, members of the public and anyone else who would like to support 1st Lawford Guides. Maximum six per team, £6 a person which includes a cheese ploughman’s platter to share. Drinks available to buy from the bar (please do not bring your own). To book a table contact: 07826 527150 / michellestimpson@rocketmail.com

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OUT & ABOUT ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY Our next meeting is on Wednesday, April 6 when Dr Sam Newton (of Time Team fame) will be telling us all about the Easter Festival in Early England, how significant it was and how it was celebrated. In March lecturer Ian Swankie took the audience through the story of Grayson Perry. With wonderful illustrations Ian recounted how Turner Prize-winning Perry progressed from Chelmsford punk to become a veritable national treasure. His wonderful creations (pots, frocks, tapestries and even a holiday home in Essex) highlight his individualistic take on art. A great lecture about a unique, multi-talented character. Why not come along and enjoy some good company and an interesting talk? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months and we also organise interesting day visits. The wonderfully illustrated lectures which are presented by national and international lecturers start at 2.15pm, but we advise people to arrive by 2pm if possible. Guests and non-members are welcome, provided we have available space. A £5 donation is asked. For more information contact Jean Bradberry: 01473 710921 / odfasmemsec@btinternet.com. www.orwelldfas.org.uk

1334 (MANNINGTREE) SQUADRON, AIR TRAINING CORPS

BRANTHAM OVER SIXTIES CLUB Since writing last, we have had two speakers. The first was Mr Peter Regelous on February 23 who gave us a lovely talk about his life on the road as a professional entertainer and jobbing actor. Peter started out in life doing many and various jobs, until he discovered his true vocation and has enjoyed treading the boards for three decades. He regaled us with stories, lots of them humorous and involving many stars and celebrities that he has worked with. Altogether an enjoyable and interesting hour. He stayed with us afterwards for tea and a chat. On March 8, a return visit by Mrs Barbara Faulkner with a talk entitled Spend a Penny about the history of loos, starting back in Roman Times where a trench was dug in a field, and where people met for a chat while ‘sitting’. Over the centuries, people tried to find ways to dispose of the waste products, and it mainly went into the rivers. One year in a heat wave the Thames smelt so bad that even parliament refused to sit, and met elsewhere. Urine was recycled and used for different things such as the tanning of leather and in making gunpowder. Barbara’s talk continued up to the present day and involved toilet rolls, what was used before them, and privies in the back garden. She also brought a set of different undergarments worn by women, which got smaller as the years went on, from Victorian knee length gussetless knickers to today’s g-string. A talk full of humour and very interesting. Forthcoming meetings April 12: Food Bank with Mr. Simon Prestley April 19: Another Try at Being Spry April 26: Beyond the Taj with Mr David Brown Visitors are always welcome at our Tuesday meetings, and we would love to have some new members. We meet from 2.30-4.30pm at Brantham Leisure Centre. Transport can be arranged for members. For more details contact Mrs Jean Lace: 01206 396242

Congratulations to Cadet Sergeant B Miller and Cadet Corporal C Walsham who have both gained a Pearson BTEC Specialist Level 2 Diploma in Aviation Studies. This widely recognised qualification is accredited on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) and will help them in their future careers. To a potential employer being an Air Cadet is impressive enough, but BTECs will really show them what you’re made of. Cadet Corporal Walsham (pictured right) was recently announced as the Air Training Corps Cadet of the Year for the Manningtree Branch of the Royal British Legion. This is a great honour for Cpl Walsham and very well deserved one. She has shown tremendous self-commitment during her time with Manningtree Air Cadets. She is very self-motivated having achieved her BTEC Diploma in Aviation Studies and attended the ATC Nation Band Camp at RAF College Cranwell on three occasions. As well as the above she has attended Blue camps at RAF Stations and participated in many Squadron activities including local community events, one being reading out the nominal roll of those fallen during First and Second World Wars and other conflicts of war during our Remembrance Day parade in 2015. All of the above being a remarkable achievement as Cpl Walsham joined the squadron in July 2013.

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS LAWFORD & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

Explorer Scouts are young people aged between 14 and 18 years old, and Cattawade Unit meets on the second Friday of each month in Cattawade with other meetings on the fourth Friday of each month or as agreed as outdoor activity meetings or weekend events. The unit has recently recruited an additional leader to support the scout and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programmes with those registered for the award programmes increasing each month. Most of the Explorers have recently completed our ‘out of season’ winter/spring expedition training programme and are now preparing for practice expeditions for DofE Bronze and Silver in Suffolk and DofE Gold expeditions in the Peak District and Snowdonia. Several unit members have signed up for this year’s ocean going offshore sailing organised by Suffolk Scouts or the international events being run in the UK and overseas. We also have a limited number of places available for young people aged 14 to 24 who wish to complete their DofE or Queen’s Scout Awards especially those who have been unable to complete their expedition section with their local organisation. If you are a holder of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and would like to help more young people achieve theirs too, or wish to know more, please contact Roger for an informal chat. Cattawade Explorer Scout Roger S Dann, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Leader: 01206 395285 / 07778 463172 / catt-explorers@outlook.com

In the 19th century auriculas were so popular that plants changed hands for enormous prices similar to tulipmania in Holland, but now sadly they are out of fashion and we are missing out on their delicate beauty. Lucy from Wooten’s of Wenhaston gave a very detailed talk and showed beautiful photographs at the last meeting. It was obvious that auriculas mean a lot to her, and Wootens grow and breed many. Maybe it’s time to build ‘theatres’ to display our auriculas and perhaps start a show as the early growers did.

SPRING SHOW The spring show is on April 9 at Ogilvie Hall, open to visitors from 2-4pm with the usual plant and cake stalls. It’s always worth a visit. April 21 will be our next meeting, an evening about the creation of Bressingham with William Butcher. Do come and join us.

CAPEL COUNTRYSIDE CLUB We had a lively and entertaining visit from Speak Easy at Martlesham in March. Five of their members attended and were introduced by Sonya Burrows who then gave them a subject relating to the countryside, ranging from favourite countryside walk to technology and the most dangerous thing in the countryside. They were given one and a half minutes to talk on the subject and it really was off the cuff. One of the members also gave a short informative talk on carriage driving with some good slides which prompted questions from members. Next meetings April 12: A talk and slides on Suffolk estuaries and wildlife by Alex Bass May 10: A talk on Ipswich Waterfront by Ann Day Visitors are very welcome to join us in the lounge of the Methodist Church Capel at 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of the month, refreshments are provided after the talk.

BROOKLANDS PRIMARY SCHOOL Spring appears to have crept up on us and the daffodils are cheerily nodding their heads at the front of the school, heralding the arrival of brighter days. With the changing season we have a number of new developments to look forward to over the next few months thanks to the amazing work of Brooklands Friends and Family (BFF). These include a science area in the grounds incorporating a range of habitats for us to learn about and the installation of a greenhouse in our gardening area. Plans are also in place for outdoor seating and playground markings. Bring on the warmer weather. This year the school will be supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Trust as its chosen charity. One of our children has a younger sibling who has recently been diagnosed with the disease and while the family wish to remain anonymous as they are coming to terms with the news, they are happy for us to name the Cystic Fibrosis Trust as our chosen charity for 2016. Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited, life-shortening disease which currently affects more than 10,000 people in the UK. Our school council is currently organising a Penny Trail to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Sainsbury’s are offering shoppers the opportunity to collect Active Kids vouchers until May 3. If you are asked if you would like them, please say yes as they are a great way to help us get fantastic new sports and

cooking equipment. If you have any that you would like to donate to Brooklands please drop them in. Brooklands have been chosen for this round of the East of England Coop token scheme, which will run for three months from February to the end of April. Participating stores include Brantham, Manningtree and Holbrook. The more tokens in our box means a bigger share of the £1,000 that will be awarded to fund resources for our Beach School activities. Have you considered coming in to school to listen to our children read? If so, we would love to have your help. It would be great to have more volunteers as not all classes have a reading volunteer. We welcome any offers of help for this and if you would like to help or find out more about what is involved, please speak to the office staff and complete a DBS check available at the school office. Brooklands celebrated Safer Internet Day with the slogan Play your part for a better Internet on February 9. As part of Safer Internet Day the children watched a performance of Sticks and Stones by Firehorse Productions. Parents also received a copy of Digital Parenting, published by Vodafone. This useful guide is packed with advice on how to keep your child safe while using technology. Christine Davy, headteacher

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Stowe Veterinary Centre

Moreton Hall Veterinary Centre

Ipswich Veterinary Centre

The Mustard Pot Veterinary Surgery

The Old Tea Room Veterinary Surgery

54 Bury Road, Stowmarket

2 Boldero Road, Bury St. Edmunds

Scrivener Drive, Ipswich

Coddenham Road, Needham Market

Station Road, Elmswell

Tel: 01449 613 130

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SPORT MISTLEY CRICKET CLUB With the new season just around the corner we are always keen to hear from anyone who wishes to join the club. The season starts on April 9 with a round robin 20/20 involving Coggeshall and Wivenhoe CCs. Two Counties cricket starts the following week with the April games as per our website: http://tinyurl.com/jywoftl Junior and ladies cricket starts in May but junior enrolment night will be Tuesday, April 12, 7pm at the cricket club. Outside practise for adults will start on Wednesday, April 13 from 6pm sharp. Mistley Cricket Club provides cricket to a large number of men, women, girls and boys in the area. We run sides in Divisions 1, 3, 9 and Division C of the Two Counties Championship as well as a team in the North Essex Cricket League and a ladies team in the Beaumont Seymour League. We

are always in need of players to maintain and strengthen these sides, so if you are new to the area or fancy a game let us know. Our ground is one of the most picturesque in Essex or England and our pavilion and changing facilities are second to none. We also have our own bar so you can enjoy a beer after the game. Men practise on Wednesday nights from 6pm and ladies on Thursday nights from 6pm. We also run a junior section with teams competing in age groups from Kwik Cricket through to U15s. The juniors are coached by a number of ECB Level 2 qualified coaches, and there is plenty of opportunity for youngsters to play competitive cricket with age group sides from U11 through to U15 against other local clubs in the Tendring district. The youngsters practise on Tuesday nights from 6.30pm. For more information contact: mistleycc@btinternet.com

NINETY YEARS OF MISTLEY & MANNINGTREE BOWLS CLUB

Mistley & Manningtree Bowls Club was formed, it is believed, by four farmers in 1926. It is rumoured that they stripped a field of turf to form the first green. The clubhouse was just a wooden shed. The club was originally all male with the first lady, Mrs A Hartnell (far left), being ‘allowed’ to play in a friendly match in 1950. Her performance was said to be “very creditable”! She was also part of a mixed team that were Tendring Hundred League Champions in 1953. In 1966 a new clubhouse was built by the members and other volunteers to replace the wooden shed. The green was also upgraded to full size standard. In 1986 the clubhouse was extended to provide new facilities. During the Great Storm of 1987 the equipment shed was lifted from its foundations and deposited on the cricket field! However, it was retrieved and is still in use today. There were many sporting successes including Tending Hundred League Champions six times and Colchester Borough League Champions five times. Many players have been chosen to play for Essex County and other members have gained their county badges. Aside from the sporting achievements club members have also played their part in raising money for charities. The biggest event being a 24-hour bowling marathon that raised £3,100 for St Helena Hospice.

For the part 90 years members of Mistley & Manningtree Bowl Club have played their part in the local community and have left the legacy of a club, in an enviable location, where present and future members can meet to socialise, play bowls and snooker and join in other social events such as coffee mornings and quiz nights, all of which we hope will continue to serve everyone for many more years. Complied with the help of information gathered by former member Fred Partridge, now deceased.

OPEN DAY at Mistley & Manningtree Bowls Club New Road, Mistley CO11 1ER (next to the church) Saturday, April 30, 10am-4pm Come and try bowling and see what fun it can be! All you need are flat-soled shoes or trainers. FREE TUITION TARGET BOWLS

Free tea, coffee and soft drinks Light refreshments also available For further information contact: 01206 230996 / 395856 If you can’t make it on April 30 a second open day is scheduled for Saturday, May 7

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB

CAPEL PLOUGH FOOTBALL CLUB

THE LAST MONTH

The First team were beaten 2-1 by Crane Sports in the Bob Coleman Cup after a close game in which a well-taken goal from Nick Middlebrook gave us an interval lead but we conceded two goals after the break to go out of the completion.

As we entered March, and the final stages of the campaign, the 1st team were still heading the table in the Senior Division having taken seven points from a possible nine through February. Unfortunately, injuries had mounted up and a weakened team exited the Bob Coleman Cup at the quarter-final stage. The Reserves had a storming February, collecting a maximum 12 points and scoring 23 goals in the process. This leaves them with a reasonable chance of achieving a third place finish in the league. The A team had a mixed month with two wins and two losses, but remain well placed in third position in the table. As you will see from their fixture list their season will be almost over as we move into April. The players and officials are now wearing their smart new team wear with pride. This has been generously sponsored by TravelPlus Tours. You can follow the progress of our teams at http://touchlinesil.co.uk, referring to the Fixtures and Results tab and selecting the appropriate date(s) and competitions. Upcoming fixtures and events Fixtures

DATE

1st TEAM Senior Division

RESERVES Intermediate A

Sat, Mar 26 Mon, Mar 28

Capel Plough

Sat, Apr 2

Westerfield Utd

Wed, Apr 6

Ipswich Athletic

Sat, Apr 9 Sat, Apr 16

Wickham Market

Wed, Apr 20

Leiston St Margarets

Thu, Apr 21 Sat, Apr 23

Haughley Utd

Wenhaston Utd Res

Somersham Res

Capel Plough Res

Bacton United 89 Res

Grundisburgh

The Reserves moved off the bottom of the Senior Reserve League after beating Mendlesham 3-2 thanks to goals from leading scorer Joe Bigmore and a brace from new signing Keiron Dilloway, but were beaten 4-1 by Sporting 87 and then lost 2-0 in the return game against Mendlesham. Several teenagers from the village play for the team with Oliver Miller playing well in defence, Daniel Dixon putting in some good performances in midfield and Harry Taylor, who scored our goal against Sporting 87, showing his class and speed up front. (That’s a pint you owe me Harry!) Our Sunday side played one game in February, beating Worlingworth away 2-0 with goals from Abdul Kaium and Andy MacDonald while our Veteran side (over 35) had all their games called off due to unfit pitches. The club continues to run nine youth sides with ages ranging from seven to 16 with the youngsters enjoying their football under the watchful eyes of our qualified coaches. Bob the ploughman

Achilles Res

Coplestonians Res

KEY TO LOVE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Achilles Res

Where Jesus is Love and love is Jesus

Westerfield Utd Res

COME AND JOIN US IN OUR NEW FELLOWSHIP – EVERYONE IS WELCOME.

Capel Plough Res

Thu, Apr 28 Sat, Apr 30

A Team Intermediate C

In the Senior League the team beat Ipswich Valley Rangers 3-1 with goals from Lloyd Dodsworth, Shaun Webb and Lee Barrett, but then lost 1-0 to Bramford United , a defeat which saw the lads slip to fifth place in the league − the lowest position that the side had been in all season.

Ipswich Valley Rangers Res

A H

Fixtures subject to change. Please refer to http://tinyurl.com/hlv54p6 and chose the appropriate competition to confirm. Events: Awards Dinner, May 21 We are always looking for people who can help the club as committee members, whether on the playing side or just in the background. If you would like to sponsor the club in some capacity we would also be delighted to hear from you. EBUFC is a community club with very strong village traditions. The majority of the players either live in, or have links to, the village. Please come along and give us a look sometime. Steve Butcher, secretary: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

Hear the teachings of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus, with our lively worship and service. Refreshments served afterwards. Every Sunday morning at 11am in The Ivell Suite at Venture Centre 2000, Bromley Road, Lawford CO11 2JE. If you or someone you know needs prayer for anything, please contact us. David and Rosie Rhule: 07787 572977 / 01206 397533 / info@thekeytoloveministries.co.uk www.thekeytoloveministries.co.uk

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Mon

Seated Exercise Counselling with Hannah

Tue

Farmers Market 9.30am - 12.30pm Beautician 9.30am Complementary practitioner 12.30pm Relaxation and meditation 7pm

1.30pm 9am

Wed Podiatry Belly Dancing Choir Wednesday Paper Craft (last Wednesday of month) Thur Massage Therapist Hearing Aid Specialist Fri

9am 7 - 8pm 1pm 1.30pm

10am Alternative weeks

Tai Chi Computers for the Terrified

1pm 1.30pm

Foundry Court Community Centre Colchester Road, Manningtree

01206 397283

www.foundrycourt.co.uk

Physio and Acupuncturist available on Monday and Friday afternoons - appointments required. Venue available for hire for parties, wakes and anniversaries - all occasions considered. For more details or to make an appointment please contact Carole on 397283

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CHURCH NEWS MANNINGTREE BENEFICE

SERVICES FOR APRIL

An all-age Anglican Church, meeting in St Mary & St Michael’s Church, Mistley, and St Lawrence’s Church, Bradfield This April we are continuing in the mission and ministry of the church, empowered by the saving work of Easter! In the quiet weeks following Easter, we’re particularly focussing on how this amazing, life changing event empowered people who felt like they were not just powerless, but were worriers, doubters, deniers and failures. Please do come along to our services if you, too, have ever felt like this, and hear the amazing good news for yourself! See the website for more details of themes, times and places. This month we are also holding our annual meetings. We particularly invite anyone who feels that they are part of the church family, but everyone is welcome to come along and hear what has happened in the last year, and where we’re going next! We will be holding the second of our Café Church events on a theme of prayer this month. If this is something you’ve ever wondered about, we really encourage you to come along and join in the discussions. There’ll also be food and drink, children’s work, and lots of other ways to connect and find out more! Finally, we’re preparing for a weekend-long event over the Queen’s birthday, June 11-12, celebrating the last 90 years of our churches in the community. We’re particularly looking for memorabilia from that period to borrow and exhibit, and please do also put it in your diaries now and come along! See the website or page 3 for more details. Please do join us for any and all of these services and events, and don’t forget to check the website and publications in and around the churches for more information and events. If you’d like to get weekly updates please email the office to request weekly emails.

April 3 10.30am Joint Worship with Communion & Treasure Seekers* at Mistley 6pm Evening Prayer at Bradfield April 10 10.30am Holy Communion (Common Worship) at Bradfield 10.30am Family Worship with Treasure Seekers* at Mistley 6pm Evening Prayer at Mistley April 17 10.30am Family Worship with Treasure Seekers* at Bradfield 10.30am Holy Communion (Common Worship) at Mistley Noon Mistley Annual Parochial Church Meeting 6pm Quiet Communion at Bradfield April 24 8am Holy Communion (Book of Common Prayer) at Mistley 10.30am Morning Prayer at Bradfield 10.30am Café Church with Treasure Seekers* at Mistley Noon Bradfield Annual Parochial Church Meeting *Treasure Seekers is our children’s programme for ages 3+ All services are at St Mary & St Michael’s Church, Mistley (CO11 1ER) or St Lawrence’s Church, Bradfield (CO11 2US) unless otherwise stated. Contact Information Vicar: The Rev Christine Hills, 01206 392200 Associate Minister: The Rev John Brien, 01206 397549 Curate: The Rev Claire Scargill, 01206 392018 Church Office: The Rectory, 21 Malthouse Road, Mistley CO11 1BY 01206 392200 / info@manningtreebenefice.co.uk www.manningtreebenefice.co.uk www.facebook.com/ManningtreeBenefice

BENEFICE OF EAST BERGHOLT AND BRANTHAM Good Friday 10am Family Service, Brantham 2pm At the foot of the cross, East Bergholt Easter Saturday 7.30pm Easter Vigil and lighting of the fire, East Bergholt Easter Resurrection 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am Communion Service, East Bergholt 11am Communion Service, East Bergholt APRIL Sunday 3 Easter 2 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 11am Benefice Communion, Brantham Wednesday 6 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt Sunday 10 Easter 3 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am Communion Service, East Bergholt 11am Family Service, Brantham Sunday 17 Easter 4 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am Baptism of Sophie Slade, East Bergholt 11am Communion Service, Brantham Sunday 24 Easter 5 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am Choral Matins, East Bergholt 11am Informal Service, Brantham MAY Sunday 1 Easter 6 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt Wednesday 4 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt

Thursday 5 9.30am Sunday 8 8am 10am 11am

Ascension BCP Communion, East Bergholt Easter 7 BCP Communion, East Bergholt Communion Service, East Bergholt Family Service, Brantham

This schedule may change without notice if needed. RAMBLING RECTOR One of the gentlemen on my guide dog training course had been tragically blinded in a winter head-on car accident. He lost his sight, the other driver lost his life. During the course there was time to sit and chat to the other trainees while the instructors were busy with individuals. One day he and I were sitting chatting over a cup of coffee and he said to me: “If I could win the lottery and have anything I wanted for one minute, I would ask to see my daughter’s face. She is 35 and I have never seen her.” I found that very moving, but it got me thinking. If I could win the lottery and have anything I wanted for one minute, what would it be? Mary Magdalene went to the tomb on Easter Day expecting to find the body of her Lord. She had seen him die, she knew he was dead. The last thing in the world she expected to see was the empty tomb, never mind an angel! And while she was struggling to get to grips with what these things meant, she saw Jesus who spoke her name. The gospels record that Jesus appeared to his disciples on many occasions before he ascended to heaven. Paul records that he appeared to 500 people gathered

together at one time. No hallucination this! Christians believe that Jesus is still calling us by name to follow him. He called my name in 1968 when I was 15. I didn’t see him but I certainly felt him. A blast of fiery heat filled me from top to toe with an assurance of his presence and his love for me and purpose for my life. For almost 50 years I have been trying to help people to experience the risen Lord Jesus too. I have found him to be a faithful friend who has been prepared to forgive my lapses and failures. And during my ministry I have seen lives changed when people find Jesus for themselves. May you find him unexpectedly this Easter. The Lord is risen. Happy Easter. The Rev Steph Thank you very much for your kind welcome of Coco. If she is in harness, she is working. Please ignore her all together as otherwise she may abandon me and come to you asking to have her ears tickled. Guide dogs are on a very strict diet and may not be given treats however imploringly they look at you. She is adjusting very well to church life and was not overwhelmed by the bevy of bishops at Bishop Mike’s installation. In fact she was the best behaved of the lot. BUILDING WORK HAS BEGIN The long awaited work on our toilet and kitchen at St Michael’s has begun and we hope to have it functional by Easter, or at least very soon afterwards.

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CHURCH NEWS HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB Parish Priest: Fr Christopher Smith, 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ / 01473 684963 We are part of St Mark’s RC Parish, Ipswich. For up-to-date information please visit: www.stmarksparish.org.uk Services for April Sunday 3 9am

Second Sunday of Easter Mass

Tuesday 5 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 10 9am

Third Sunday of Easter Mass

Tuesday 12 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass Sunday 17 9am

Fourth Sunday of Easter Mass: Children’s Liturgy

Tuesday 19 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 24 9am

Fifth Sunday of Easter Mass

Tuesday 26 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Catholic Commentary The Pope’s Encyclical ‘Laudato Si’ (the Care of our Common Home) was an important

influence at the Climate Change Conference in Paris. The Encyclical demonstrates the church’s commitment and awareness of the challenge faced by humanity over a range of ecological issues. There were strong words too on the need for the richer countries to help poorer ones to make the transition away from fossil fuels to cleaner, renewable forms as individuals and at parish level. In January members of local churches met at St Michael the Archangel Church, Brantham for the annual Unity Service and it was good to note how harmonious the relations between the different churches are now. In February at another level, the very top, we saw a meeting of Pope Francis with the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow. The meeting took place in an airport lounge in Havana, Cuba when they spoke about their respective churches, the situation in the world, wars, orthodoxy − all matters of pastoral concern for the two leaders. Pope Francis had touched down in Cuba on his way to visit Mexico which has the second largest number of Catholics after Brazil. We hear much of the problems of Mexico but little about the people and institutions that give Mexico its pride and distinctive culture. As a Latin American himself the Pope was well versed to speak to and mingle with the people of this country. In spite of all the problems there are, we must never lose the sense of what is normal and good about people and the beauty and giftedness of the world we have been given. Christian hope is real and always carries through.

Minor Basilica status has been granted to the Catholic National Shrine of Our Lady, known as England’s Nazareth, at Walsingham in North Norfolk by Pope Francis. This rare designation is given by the Holy Father to places of worship which are of particular historical significance. Tens of thousands of pilgrims make their journey to the shrine every year. Diary Dates Every last Thursday of the month a bring and buy coffee morning takes place at Viv and Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am to noon. We are raising funds for the Parish Room refurbishment and all are very welcome to join us. The next event is on Thursday, April 28. Supporting our local hospice All parishioners are being asked to collect used postage stamps, all year, not just at Christmas, and place them in the box at the rear of the church to help support the outstanding work of our local hospice. Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital Fr Adrian Gates is the Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital (01473 726701). Please phone him if you or a Catholic is in or due to go into hospital and requires his services. All are very welcome at Holy Family, Brantham All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services. It’s not necessary to be a Catholic and enquiries about the Catholic faith are always welcome. Please contact the presbytery, as above, or a local person whom you know is a Catholic.

TRINITY FREE CHURCH Meeting at Old St Michael’s School on Trinity Road, Manningtree OVERCOMING DIFFICULTIES Life appears to be one long struggle sometimes. How often do we struggle with ourselves? How often have we wished we could be better people? It isn’t easy to change, hence the saying ‘a leopard never changes its spots’. Sometimes, we’d just like to wipe clean, like we are pages in a book that we’d like to blot out. The problem is the ink stains show through. We are what we are, we tell ourselves. A Victorian preacher called JC Ryle tackled the problem most of us, if we are honest, face from time to time. He wrote and preached about how, through Jesus, we can change. He didn’t say it would be easy. He talked about holiness; what is its nature, its hindrances and its difficulties. Come and visit Trinity Free Church and discover how JC Ryle and his teaching are relevant in the 21st century. You may find what you are looking for.

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You’ll receive a warm welcome at our public worship services each Sunday at 10.30am (with an all-age programme) and again in the evening at 6.30pm. Services last between 60 and 90 minutes and refreshments follow the morning service. KEY NOTES FOR APRIL Mondays, April 18 and 25 Monday Madness! our weekly youth work • 1.15-2.30pm: Trinity TOTS (pre-school plus carers); Play, good company, refreshments, music and a Bible Story. • 4.30-6pm: KOGS (KS 1 & 2); crafts, games, tea and Bible Stories (Children’s University Learning Destination). This month: What’s in the Bible with Buck Denver. • 6.30-8pm: BRiaN Reloaded (11-18s); serious Bible study with some serious Fun thrown in. Tuesday, April 5: Meeting Place (see below) Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday w/b April 10 and 24: Home groups, Bible study and prayer from Nehemiah.

The Meeting Place at 3pm on Tuesday April 5: Jesus Revealed Do you remember the Morecambe and Wise shows? Every week a special guest appeared as a surprise to the audience. That guest was somebody very famous and somebody you would not expect to turn up on a 50-minute comedy show. Guests included André Previn, Joanne Lumley and even Harold Wilson. But how was Jesus made known to the world? Why were people surprised and changed once Jesus revealed who he was? Full knowledge of who Jesus is may shock you today. Come and find out! Our usual excellent tea will be had after the talk and transport is available to the church building on Trinity Road. Please call Andrew Rowe (01206 393586) or David Boorman (01255 671891) to arrange a lift or for more information. For the latest information on these or any of our activities call Pastor Gaius on 01206 393745 or visit: www.trinity-manningtree.org.uk

CHURCH NEWS THE METHODIST CHURCH South Street, Manningtree

Minister: The Rev Andrew Bell, 4, Elmdale Drive, Mistley, Manningtree CO11 2HP / 01206 396654 Sunday Service: 10.15am Second Sunday: Holy Communion Bible Study: First Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm in the committee room Holy Communion: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm Welcome Wednesdays: 2.30pm every Wednesday; drop in for a chat and tea/coffee. Activities on the second and third Wednesdays. Also meeting on the premises:

ST MARY’S CHURCH, LAWFORD Priest In Charge: The Rev Simon Heron, 01206 392659

Services for April Holy Communion BCP Prayer Breakfast Holy Communion

Sunday 17 8am Holy Communion BCP 10am Holy Communion 6.30pm Cafe Church

Sunday 10 8am Holy Communion BCP 10am Family Service 6.30pm Evensong

Sunday 24 8am Holy Communion BCP 10am Morning Worship

Sunday 3 8am 8.45am 10am

Monday September to May, Stour Choral Society WEA (during sessions), 2.30pm

LINK LINE CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES

Tuesday Co-op Women’s Guild, 7.15pm

Evangelical Free Church at The Venture Centre, Bromley Road, Lawford. A designated free mini bus service covers the district.

Wednesday Gentle Fitness Class, 9.30am Art Group, 10am-noon Manningtree and District Chess Club, evenings Museum & History Group, 7.30pm, bi-monthly

Sunday, April 3, 3pm: Special Neighbourhood Guest Service

Secretary: Mrs M Cuthbertson Treasurer: Mr G King

Wednesday, April 20: Church Fellowship Outing − Market Day at Bury St Edmunds. To join us call Valerie Worskitt: 01206 272064

Contact for church hall bookings: David Shearmur, 395263

We welcome folk of all ages. For more information: 01206 272064

Sunday, April 17, 3pm: Outreach Service with Witness Team Friday, April 15, 10am: Monthly Prayer Meeting at Honeycroft, Waldegrave Way

CAPEL ST MARY & BRANTHAM METHODIST CHURCHES “YOU CAN’T KEEP A GOOD MAN DOWN” Do you ever remember odd lyrics from a song but can’t remember the rest? It increasingly happens to me, but Google often helps to alleviate my frustration. In this instance at least three songs – by Alabama, the Bee Gees and New Song – came up, all using the line: “You can’t keep a good man down.” I remember an inflatable toy that was all the rage a few years ago, a bear about four foot high when inflated which could be punched or knocked over, but would immediately right itself for another blow. You could knock it over as hard and as often as you wanted but: “You can’t keep a good man down.” I’ve ‘Amazoned’ the toy and they are still available now as Despicable Me minions! The song by New Song told the story of the death of Jesus on a cross, how he was put in a tomb but how 36 hours later – despite a guard on the tomb – Jesus was alive. The enemies of Jesus thought they had won when they had got the Roman government to crucify him. He was cut down from the cross late on Friday afternoon, his body limp and lifeless. He was laid in the tomb and this was sealed with a huge stone. To ensure no deception Roman soldiers guarded the tomb, but by early Sunday morning the tomb was empty, and Jesus began to appear to his friends. “You can’t keep a good man down.” An eminent lawyer in the 20th century didn’t believe the story and set out to write a book rubbishing all the so-called sightings of Jesus after his crucifixion. As he examined all the evidence meticulously as a lawyer, he became convinced of its truth and the book he wrote was so different from the one he had planned to write. The New Song lyrics say “You can close your eyes, you can say it’s a lie, You can stick your head in the sand, You can turn away, even try to explain, He was just another man”, but all the evidence was that “You

can’t keep a good man down”, and I and many others will tell you of the reality of the presence of Jesus still today in our lives. We are each faced with choices, either we convince ourselves against all the evidence that he didn’t come back to life or we believe. Hatred had done its worst, but the love of God could not be kept down. Christ is Risen – we are Easter People. The Rev Andrew Sankey Minister at Capel and Brantham Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07726 299968 AT CAPEL METHODIST Sunday 3 10.30am 6.30pm

Worship led by The Rev Kathy Flynn Prayer Stations

Sunday 10

10.30am 6.30pm

Worship with Mr Rod Stone Worship with The Rev Andrew Sankey

Sunday 17

10.30am

Worship with Mr Eddie Vass

Sunday 24 10.30am

Worship and Communion with The Rev Sankey

United Prayer Time at St Mary’s (CoE)

7.30pm

AT BRANTHAM METHODIST Sunday 3 11am Worship with Mr Paul Walker Sunday 10 11am Worship with The Rev Andrew Sankey Sunday 17 11am Worship with Mr Richard Brooks Sunday 24 11am

Worship and Communion with The Rev Michael Ayden

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