In touch with manningtree – october 2017 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

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with Brantham, Lawford Manningtree & Mistley

Volume 7 • Issue No. 12 • OCTOBER 2017

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Tuesday 7 November 2017 at 7.30pm

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Gosh life is a juggling act sometimes. I find myself running from one responsibility to the other at such a ferocious pace these days I wish I didn’t need to sleep and could use those hours to catch up instead. Add something extra to the mix, such as making an Iron Age costume for school, sewing on Beaver badges, ordering a guitar case which has no chance of arriving on time, feeding the neighbour’s chickens while they are away... well I don’t know which way to turn. But I cope, perhaps not to everyone’s satisfaction, least of all my own, and treasure the moments when I can hit the pause button, take a deep breath and just stop. Everything we do to relax has involved some degree of work or stress for someone else, whether it’s watching a movie (consider how many hours of planning and effort go into making a 10 second clip of a movie like Moana) or going to the football (imagine the paperwork required to run an Under 8 football team), but when I snuggle up on the sofa or sit on the side of the pitch with a nice cup of tea I really don’t care. It’s my turn to escape. I’m ashamed to admit I’m equally selfish when it comes to many local events. Of course I want them to happen, but I want to enjoy the experience without any of the responsibility. Thank goodness there are others who are far less selfish than I. Presumably they find other ways to escape, but as you read through this month’s edition consider those who do make things happen, who open village halls, who schedule speakers, who organise fundraising events, who make the calls, send the emails, get the quotes, who cajole and harangue others to help, who take the minutes, boil the kettles, buy the biscuits, put up the posters, complete the funding applications... These are the people who provide moments of escape and fun and togetherness for the rest of us to enjoy. One day soon I will raise my hand and get more involved, but right now I need to make a torque!

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with Brantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley

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NEWS THE MOGUL RAISES £2,300 FOR CANCER CENTRE CAMPAIGN The proprietor of the Mogul Restaurant in Manningtree hosted a specially prepared meal for 100 people to raise funds for the Cancer Centre Campaign in Colchester. The idea of the evening came about following conversation between Minah, owner of the Mogul, and a friend who had been diagnosed with cancer. Minah’s father, together with the father of his head waiter, had both died from cancer and this inspired Minah to do something for the cancer campaign. Present on the evening was the director of the campaign, Peter Wilson. During the evening, Mr Wilson outlined the need for the unit and explained the difference this would make to the patients who would be treated there. He expressed his gratitude to Minah and his staff for all the hard work that went into the evening. The restaurant was full to overflowing, there was a wonderful atmosphere and the total sum raised, including the raffle, was £2,300. A big thank you to all who supported this event.

HALLOWEEN CRAFT FAIR The local branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society is holding a craft fair at Lawford Venture Centre on Saturday, October 21 between 10.30am and 4pm to raise funds to support local people who are affected by MS, a neurological condition that affects around 100,000 people in the UK. Thirty local crafters will be selling a wide range of unusual crafts including candles, pyrography, shabby-chic homewares, jewellery, cards and even decorated gourds. Sample a locally-made apple juice, enjoy a cup of tea and a bacon roll or a home-made cake and get inspiration for that perfect Christmas gift while your children have their faces painted and enjoy the trick or treat stall. They may even meet a witch or two! There’s something for everyone. Free entry, free car park, refreshments, fully accessible. For more information: 01206 396868 / louisejoplin@btinternet.com

YOUTH WORKED REQUIRED Youth Worker sought for a few hours per month to assist with the East Bergholt and Brantham Benefice Youth Group which meets on Sunday evenings in St Michael’s Church, Brantham. An honorarium is paid to the right person who must be in sympathy with the Christian faith and values which are our reason for existing. This would suit a student or someone considering youth work or ordination perhaps. The candidate will also be expected to undergo safeguarding clearance. Apply in the first instance to The Rev Steph: 01206 392646 / revstephvdt@googlemail.com

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 3

NEWS OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD Time again for filling the shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child to bring happiness to needy young people throughout the world. Full details of what to include and where and when to deliver can be had from 01206 395263. The Methodist Church, South Street, Manningtree CO11 1BQ is a local collecting centre and boxes can be delivered by arrangement by contacting the above number or by emailing nandes@tiscali.co.uk no later than November 5.

BRANTHAM PARISH COUNCIL The next meeting of Brantham Parish Council will take place on October 4 at Brantham Village Hall. Come along to find out what your parish council is up to and to raise any questions or concerns. You can find out more about Brantham Parish Council at: www.brantham. onesuffolk.net. The site includes copies of recent parish council meeting minutes, details of upcoming events and other items of local interest. The parish council meets on the first Wednesday of every month (except August) in Brantham Village Hall at 7.30pm. The public are welcome to attend. Contact Brantham Parish Clerk at: 07702 490212 / clerk@branthamparishcouncil.co.uk Follow Brantham Parish Council on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/BranthamParishCouncil Parish Clerk Surgeries Brantham Parish Clerk holds monthly ‘surgery’ sessions at Bake and Blossoms café so that parishioners and others can meet her, ask questions, raise concerns or even just have a chat and a cake. This is the perfect opportunity for you to get to know your parish clerk and chat through all those local issues that have been bothering you. The dates of the next parish clerk surgeries are October 12 and November 9, both 10am-noon.

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 council minutes on the parish council noticeboards and at: www.essexinfo.net/lawford-parish-council Minutes can be collected from the parish office by prior arrangement as the offices are not open to the public.

MISTLEY PARISH COUNCIL The full unapproved minutes of council meetings are displayed at the noticeboards near to the bus stop at Rigby Avenue and also outside Mistley Post Office in the High Street. The approved minutes can be accessed online at: www.essexinfo.net/mistleypc/parish-council/meetings Dates of next meetings in Mistley Village Hall Planning Committee: Thursdays, October 12 and November 2 at 7pm Full Council: Monday, November 6 at 7pm 4

A WARM WELCOME FOR THE REV TOM OSBORNE More than 100 well-wishers from Tendring Methodist Churches, local denominations and Manningtree Town Council welcomed The Rev Tom Osborne and family and The Rev Christine Preece to their new appointments in the Tendring Methodist Circuit. The service in Manningtree Methodist Church was led by The Rev Crawford Logan and the preacher was The Rev David Chapman, Chairman of the Essex, Beds and Herts District. This was followed by a very generous tea. Greetings were given on behalf of the local Anglican churches of Lawford, Mistley & Bradfield, Trinity Free Church and the Mayor of Manningtree. The picture shows (l-r) The Rev Tom Osborne, The Rev David Chapman, The Rev Crawford Logan and The Rev Christine Preece in the entrance to Manningtree Methodist Church.

MANNINGTREE & DISTRICT DEMENTIA CAFÉ This is a new venture, supported by the Patient Participation Group of the Riverside Health Practice, to be held on a monthly basis, offering a meeting place for those living with dementia and their carers. We will provide a safe, friendly and secure meeting place, with refreshments, together with an opportunity to meet others in a similar position. As the café develops activities will be added, as will the possibility of specialist support from other organisations. The meetings are held on the third Friday of the month from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Foundry Court, Colchester Road, Manningtree. Here are the dates for the rest of 2017: Friday, October 20 Friday, November 17 Friday, December 15 Please note that on Wednesday, December 13, Christmas Lunch will be served at Mistley Church Hall, to which those living with dementia and their carers are very welcome. All are welcome to our café, carers, those living with dementia and volunteers to join our team of helpers. For more information contact: Ted Beckwith: 01255 870955 Ann Watson: 01206 397312 Joy Baker: 01206 391918

CONSTABLE SINGERS CONCERT Constable Hall, East Bergholt Saturday, October 28 at 7pm. Doors open at 6.30pm Raising funds for MIND Raffle, bar open during interval Tickets £7 including coffee/tea For tickets contact choir members or Mel: 01206 298628 In Touch online:

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NEWS ARDLEIGH SURGERY CONFIDENTIALITY MATTERS One of the first things anyone working in the NHS is taught is the absolute right a patient has to confidentiality. A breach of this, whether accidental or deliberate, could have far reaching consequences for the patient, the practice and the employee, who would face disciplinary action. This right gives you, the patient, confidence that whatever is contained in your medical records will not be told to your neighbour or gossiped about in the local pub. I am sure that this is something we all agree is a good thing. However, the flip side of this is we cannot share information with a partner, parent or child without permission. I am sure it seems perfectly reasonable for a mum to ring up for her 20-year-old daughter’s blood results – particularly when she has been asked to do so – but we don’t know that. I am aware that this causes frustration and the receptionists often face unpleasant criticism for ‘being difficult’. For clarity, we cannot tell you if someone other than you has an appointment, discuss medication, treatment options or give any results. You can make an appointment on behalf of someone and cancel appointments too. We would encourage all patients to take responsibility for their own health from an early age – you would be amazed how many parents are still booking their children’s appointments and ordering medication for them into their late 20s and 30s! However we recognise that it is not always easy for someone to deal with the surgery, particularly if they have a disability, and if consent has been given to the surgery in advance, we are able to speak to someone other than the patient. The practice has forms which can be completed to give this consent, but we are happy to discuss this with patients either in consultations or by telephone. Online access also has a place here. If patients sign up for this service they can book secure appointments, order prescriptions, send messages to the surgery securely via the internet and also check their medical records including test results and immunisations. This can save anyone having to contact the surgery and can obviously be done at any time of day or night to suit individual lifestyles. Speak to one of the receptionists about this service.

REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR ALASTAIR MCCRAW JOINT LOCAL PLAN CONSULTATION This might seem to be one just for the politics junkies and nerds, but the results will affect a large swathe of Suffolk for the next 20 years. Babergh & Mid Suffolk have a consultation on the above running until 5pm on Friday, November 10, so it’s quite lengthy. http://www.babergh.gov.uk/jointlocalplan The consultation for the current plan, the Core Strategy 2011-2031, was both confusing and frustrating. How effective it proved to be can be judged by the fact that we’re doing it all over. Government policy keeps changing too! This consultation is intended to be more considered and logical with a proper structure. Now there are 77 questions contained in the consultation which is a little intimidating. Most respondents therefore are going to be parish councils, planning professionals and the like. But it is open to all and you don’t have to answer all the questions. Officers from the Strategic Planning Team will be holding events for the public. The closest one for anybody on the Peninsula is at Tattingstone Village Hall, School Road, Tattingstone IP9 2NA on Monday, October 9. It’s an open walk-in event from 2-7pm where you can ask questions and discuss the plan with the people who understand it. Your parish councils are already working on their responses and I’m holding myself open to providing any support and understanding I can, not least as part of the Brantham Parish Council team. It is technical, it can be boring and even tedious, but it’s also necessary. The eventual Local Plan will be the prime document for deciding planning applications here for up to 20 years. It would be nice to get it right this time.

Keats described the autumn as a season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. For the surgery, autumn is the season for flu jabs! If you are entitled to an NHS flu jab, please make an appointment at the surgery to have this done. We are aware that you have a choice to have these done at other places, such as pharmacies, but we would be grateful if you would support the surgery by having them done here.

As an aside, I got into this whole district council thing starting from the 2013 responses to late modifications to the last plan. Since then, I’ve built up a much better understanding of the principles and policies. There is reason to it, but you have to understand the language. You could consider this document as the dictionary and grammar. You too, can be as boring on the subject as me.

Stephanie Durrant

PUBLIC ACCESS To view Babergh’s End of Year Report visit: https://tinyurl.com/ycqsfqkg

FRANKENBERG PARTNERSHIP FILM NIGHT On Friday, October 6, the partnership will host another film night at the Manifest Theatre, Oxford Road, Manningtree. The film is The Lives of Others (German with English subtitles / PG15) which won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2007 and also the European Film Award for Best Picture. It’s a powerful, riveting drama depicting the terrifying presence of the Stasi in East Berlin. An agent is instructed to spy on a playwright but becomes increasingly uncomfortable doing so. The film is full of suspense and intrigue that will keep you on the edge of your seat and the characters will linger long after you have left the theatre. Doors and bar open at 7pm, film begins 7.45pm. Just £5 for Manifest Theatre members, £7 for non-members. Pay on the door, but to avoid a queue contact Pat Chandler: 01206 396686 / paddychandler@aol.com 6

It’s a mixed bag of good and not so good (in my opinion), but it is worth a look. In the modern age it also contains some video links. Contacting the council is now best done through www.babergh.gov. uk or by phone on 0300 123 4000. I think the phone service has improved recently, but let me know. Walk-in access, very rarely used these days, will be at Stowmarket and Sudbury from October 1. The council itself will be at Endeavour House in Ipswich, as will most meetings from the same date. As ever, I can be contacted as below, or look for me on the Blue Claud Butler bicycle, visiting a variety of places, but back to wearing the high visibility jacket and warmer clothing. alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk / 07812 564188 Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (an open group)

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NEWS ACORN VILLAGE

MANIFEST THEATRE It is with great sadness we have to inform you that Jan Watkins, who served on the Manifest Committee and was elected as social secretary at this year’s AGM, passed away on July 30. Many of you will remember Jan for her performances on stage, but she was also a driving force behind the scenes. Jan started our youth group this year and made it a success. She also directed the very successful Lynn Brittney short play A Different Way to Die in 2015. It picked up the award as part of the best drama production in our district from NODA as well as no less than four awards in Brantham Play Festival last year. The Manifest Youth Group evenings will resume in October.

Thank you to all of the wonderful volunteers supporting adults with learning disabilities by being involved with Manningtree Acorn Charity Shop. The sun was shining for the opening and it was lovely to see so many people there. It was officially opened by Councillor Carlo Guglielmi along with Mary Green (now in her 30th year of volunteering) and resident Susie. If you would like to volunteer with them please contact us or pop into the shop to pick up an application form. Trees wanted Do you have any small trees or shrubs that you would like to donate to Acorn Village to put around the grounds to help add to the tranquil environment? Thank you for any help you can give. Save the Date Our Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland (this year’s theme is Beauty & the Beast) will be on November 18. If you would like to help volunteer on the day or have some items we can use for a raffle, we would love to hear from you. If you can help with volunteering, donating trees or events please contact us at: 01206 394124 / info@acornvillages.com

BRANTHAM BOX OFFICE Film Night Wednesdays at Brantham Village Hall Doors open at 7pm, film starts at 7.30pm Wednesday, October 18 Their Finest (cert. 12A) Starring Gemma Arterton and Bill Nighy a former secretary, newly appointed as a scriptwriter for propaganda films joins the cast and crew of a major production while the Blitz rages around them. Wednesday, November 15 Jackie (cert. 15) Starring Natalie Portman this film depicts the life of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy following the assassination of her husband as she fights through grief and trauma to regain her faith, console her children and define her husband’s historic legacy. Tickets £4 in advance from Bakes and Blossoms café, £4.50 on the door, £2 for under 16s Refreshments available on the night Facebook.com/BranthamBoxOffice

MAKE-A-WISH CHARITY MUSICAL EVENINGS The recent production of Songs From the Musicals, organised by Ryan Maslen, a Make-A-Wish Foundation ambassador, raised £1,200 for the charity over two nights. Thanks to all of you who came to support this worthwhile cause. OUR FORTHCOMING PRODUCTION Following the success of The Lady in the Van, we will be staging three of Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads this autumn. Of the six that are available for stage performance, we will be presenting three. In the first, A Cream Cracker Under the Settee, we see an elderly lady, aware of causing her own situation but perhaps unaware that it derives from both her obsessive nature and determination. The second, Her Big Chance, features Lesley, a young aspiring actress who believes she has much to offer, both as a person and especially as an actress with ‘stardom’ in her sites. Lady of letters, the third story, concerns Miss Ruddock who writes copious letters. She regards herself as public spirited in the comments she makes. This appears to be her downfall, but is it? Performances run from Wednesday, November 1 to Saturday 4. Tickets (£7) are available now via our website or by calling: 07444 724271 MANIFEST MOVIES On Friday, October 6 the Frankenberg Partnership host The Lives of Others (see page 6). 2017 NORTH ESSEX THEATRE GUILD AWARDS We are proud to have received no less than 16 nominations for our 20162017 productions in this year’s North Essex Theatre Guild Awards. These include nominations for best play (The Lady in the Van) and best musical (Scrooge), as well as nominations for costume, technical achievement, best actor and best actress in the musical and drama categories. The awards will be announced this month. Let’s all keep our fingers crossed and I will update in the next edition. www.manifesttheatre.co.uk / Facebook /Twitter

BENTLEY TODDLER GROUP FUNDRAISING JUMBLE SALE Saturday, November 11 from 2pm at Bentley Village Hall If you have anything you wish to donate, please bring it along to the hall from 9am on the day or telephone Pam (01473 310283) or Aimée (01473 311311) and we will arrange to collect it from you. 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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NEWS STOUR VALLEY ARTS & MUSIC

QUIZ NIGHTS AT OGILVIE HALL

Castalian String Quartet: Sunday, October 22, 4pm at St Mary the Virgin Church, East Bergholt

Ogilvie Hall, Lawford is a valuable local amenity not only for Lawford, but also for Mistley, Manningtree and Brantham. It is used by many groups and clubs but the hall is now in urgent need of repair at significant cost. The Hall Management Committee has started fundraising and will be holding a number of Saturday night quizzes. The first of these was on September 23.

Programme: Haydn’s Quartet op20 no2, Schumann’s Quartet in A minor op41 no1, Beethoven’s Quartet in A minor op132 Formed in 2011, this outstanding young quartet with its “richly romantic energy and passion” (Strad Magazine) is fast becoming a favourite of audiences in the United Kingdom and abroad. Almost immediately they were offered an award by the Elias Fawsett Trust and also the Countess of Munster Trust among others. In 2011 they achieved a Masters Degree in Chamber Music at the Hannover University of Music, Dance and Theatre.

The next quizzes will be at the hall on October 21 and November 25 at 7.30pm. £5 per person for teams of between four and eight, please choose a team name. Categories are varied enough to have something for everyone. There will be prizes for the winners and a raffle. All proceeds go to the repair fund. Bring your own food and drink and make a special night of it. To book a table contact Steve Marr: 01206 390293

SVAM’s 67th season continues with:

YOGA FOR MIND AND HEART

Sunday, November 12: Trio con Brio Copenhagen, St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm

A 50-minute film of an interview with the late Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) Organisation, will be shown on Wednesday, October 11 at 7.30pm at Colchester Centre for Voluntary Services in the High Street (opposite the Minories).

Sunday, December 3: Gold and Dirt – Reflections on an Architectural Journey, illustrated lecture by architect John Lyall, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, January 21: Bartosz Glowacki, classical accordion, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, February 18: Savitri Grier (violin) and Richard Uttley (piano), St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, March 4: Young Musicians Concert* with talented local musicians 16 and under, Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt, 4pm Sunday, March 18: Sacconi Quartet and Michael Collins (clarinet), St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm *not included in season ticket 01206 298426 / svamtickets@btinternet.com / www.svam.org.uk

THE LONG DAY CLOSES Music for an autumn evening by The Abbot Consort of Voices, directed by Martyn Bagnall, presented by Brian Robinson at St Michael and All Angels, Woolverstone on Saturday, October 7 at 7.30pm. Tickets (£10 / £5 students including light refreshments in the interval) are available on the door. Venue details from: 01473 780777 / jane.gould@btinternet.com Fundraising concert for St Michael’s Church. Facebook: @AbbotConsortofVoices

Yoga means integration and TM integrates mind and body, intellect and emotions, the individual and environment, and develops higher states of consciousness. Maharishi called his simple effortless technique Transcendental Meditation as in the West yoga is identified with physical postures. Maharishi encouraged independent research to objectively measure the deep rest and increase in brain integration a person gains during TM. In 2013 the American Heart Association reviewed all types of meditation and based on the scientific evidence, it could only recommend TM for reducing blood pressure. TM is used in schools, universities, businesses, prisons and the military. It reduces anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder by increasing peace and creativity. The David Lynch Foundation makes TM available to vulnerable people and receives support from film stars and musicians such as Sir Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Hugh Jackman, Oprah Winfry, Jennifer Anniston, Amy Schumer, Clint Eastwood, Jerry Seinfeld, Mike Oldfield, Tom Hanks, Katie Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Martin Scorsese, Russell Brand, Liv Tyler, Naomi Watts and Ellen Degeneres. TM is also practised by many businessmen and government leaders. TM is natural, easy to learn, enjoyable to practise, can be learnt by anyone and requires no changes in diet, beliefs or lifestyle. Entrance to the film is £2. For more information phone Barry Spivack on 01394 420455 or visit: www.uk.tm.org

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OUT & ABOUT MANNINGTREE & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY A haven of peace, coffee and scones in the Tendring District can be found at Beth Chatto’s Garden in Elmstead Market. Captured here by Ella Garnham, is the vivid geranium with its parasol like petals complementing the green leafy background. Members were pleased to take part in this enjoyable hands-on session during the summer break and also a sunset photography workshop at West Mersea ably led by George Fossey, chairman of Harwich and Dovercourt Camera Club.

FUN PALACES AT MANNNGTREE LIBRARY Celebrate Spain and learn all about Spain and Spanish culture, find out about lace making, the Spanish guitar and piñata, with craft activities for children on Saturday, October 7, 9.30am-12.30pm. For further information contact Essex Libraries on 0345 603 7628 or visit: www.libraries.essex.gov.uk www.funpalaces.co.uk

FUTURE MEETINGS

TEA & SUPPORT

September 28: A Humorous Look at my Photography by David Hall LRPS

Tea & Support is a friendship and self-help group, formed some four years ago for those who have been bereaved or are living alone. We meet on the third Wednesday afternoon of each month, from 2-4pm in the Church Hall, New Road, Mistley. These meetings usually consist of a talk or activity followed by an opportunity to chat over tea and home-made cake. Several times a year we have an outing to somewhere local for either lunch or afternoon tea. As our numbers have increased we have needed to hire transport for these outings. To cover our costs we now ask our members for a donation of £1 each per meeting attended.

October 12: Encouraging a Photographic Eye by Alan Sarsby October 26: Open Colour Competition (Digital Projected Images) Judge: Roger Winter October 30: Five Way Challenge Competition at Harwich & Dovercourt Camera Club Our autumn/winter programme commenced in September and runs through to May 2018 comprising a series of talks, competitions and practical sessions. Our friendly group includes members with a wide range of abilities, always willing to share their advice and experience.

The dates up to Christmas are as follows: Wednesday, October 18 – an afternoon outing

We meet twice monthly, on Thursday evenings at 7.30pm at St John’s Centre, Station Road, Manningtree CO11 1EB. New members are welcome to join (subscription £40) or may attend initially as a visitor (£3).

Wednesday, November 15 – at the Church Hall

Please contact our secretary, Margaret, for details: 01206 396958 / madps@post.com

For further information please contact Joy or John Baker on 01206 391918. For transport please call Paskell’s on 01206 396709. The 2017 Programme is now available from Paskell’s in Manningtree, in St Mary & St Michael’s Church and Bradfield Church or from the Benefice Office on 01206 392200.

www.manningtreeanddistrictphotographicsociety.co.uk

Wednesday, December 13 – the Christmas Lunch

FUNDRAISING QUIZ NIGHT

MANNINGTREE POETRY GROUP

Saturday, October 14 at Bradfield Community Centre (CO11 2UU), 7.15pm for prompt start at 7.30pm.

The next meeting of Poetry Plus will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, October 10 at the Red Lion, South Street, Manningtree.

Why not get a team together? Teams of six, £7.50 per head, ploughman’s supper included. Bring your own drinks.

All those interested in poetry are invited to attend either to listen to the spoken word or to read poetry themselves. Some people will read their own poetry and some will choose to read the work of other poets.

To book your team please contact Norma Barrow: 01255 870681 / norma.barrow@keme.co.uk Fundraising event for St Lawrence Church, Bradfield.

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There is no admission charge. To keep up-to-date with this group, please visit: www.poetryplus.org.uk

OUT & ABOUT ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY

FAMILY HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS DISCO PARTY 1st Lawford Scouts are hosting a Family Halloween Fancy Dress Disco Party on Saturday, October 29 at The Venture Centre, Lawford, from 7.30pm to midnight. There will be a disco, bar and hot food available (hot-dogs, bacon roll and burgers). Prize for the best dressed under 16. Tickets £5 for adults and £2 for under 16s. All money raised to go to the Scout Fund. Tickets from Mick: 01206 395581

September 6 saw our first meeting of the new season and everyone agreed that the talk by Mark Hill of Antiques Roadshow fame was, in the words of our president, fantastic. Mark entertained and enlightened us with his exposition on Curves, Colours and Cool – An Introduction to Mid-Century Modern. The antiques market has changed dramatically in recent years and now pieces that were made during the 1970s can fetch many times more than a piece made in the 1770s. This practical and inspirational lecture looked at furniture, ceramics, glass, lighting and metal ware, identifying key designs and designers, and examining the revolutionary design movements they began. Mark’s friendly approach, enthusiasm and willingness to involve his audience, left us all wanting more. Our talk on Wednesday, October 4 will be given by Hugh Belsey, a former curator of Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury. It’s entitled Sir Edwin Lutyens: Domesticating the Country House. So why not join us and enjoy good company and interesting talks? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks start at 2.15pm and last about an hour, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

BARN DANCE AT BRANTHAM VILLAGE HALL Saturday, October 21, 7.30pm Live music and caller, licensed bar, buffet supper Tickets (£10) are available from Bakes and Blossoms café or from Sarah on 07702 490212.

BRANTHAM WEA Starting on Tuesday, October 3 (7-9pm) and running for seven weeks at Brantham Leisure, illustrated talks on The Wild Habitats in East Anglia. Come and discover some of the wildlife treasurers in our region. October 3 is a taster evening – new members very welcome. Full details from Penny Hynes on 01206 396376. No need to book – just turn up.

Stowe Veterinary Centre

Moreton Hall Veterinary Centre

Ipswich Veterinary Centre

The Mustard Pot Veterinary Surgery

The Old Tea Room Veterinary Surgery

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ADVERTORIAL

GRANITE TRANSFORMATIONS GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Granite Transformations is the company that started with “the top that fits on top”. Owners Steven Leech and Darren Cribb – the current holders of the prestigious Franchisee of the Year award – have taken their business from strength to strength and now offer so much more. Not only do they do amazing worktops, splash-backs and flooring in the same amazing materials, they also offer hand cut glass mosaics, a large range of kitchen doors, full kitchen installation and bedroom wardrobes. Steve believes Granite Transformations is successful because the company’s products are unique: “Our extensive range of surfaces are made from Italian granite, natural quartz or recycled glass. All materials are mixed with a high-grade polymer resin to make them non-porous and heat, scratch and stain resistant. All worktops come with a lifetime warranty. The range of products we offer has something to suit every client. “Our growth over the past few years indicated to me that we needed bigger showrooms. With the opening of our showroom within Hatfield’s of Stanway and Ipswich we feel we are perfectly positioned to offer the best possible service and products to our ever-growing list of satisfied customers. “Our worktops are fitted directly over the top of existing surfaces so

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there is no need to remove the old tops first, this means no mess. They are also perfect for new kitchens as we supply the substrate that we need to cover free of charge. “The sheets are engineered to be a flooring and has been used as a flooring since the 70s. We source all the materials ourselves and manufacture the sheets. We only have employed staff fitting the granite, quartz and doors. All of these factors enable us to offer a life time warranty.” Over the past three years the sale of doors has doubled, an increase which Darren believes is due to the quality for the doors. He explains: “We offer four types of doors that are made to measure and all come in 20+ colours and 20+ styles and with a six-year warranty. This increase has also been helped by the increase on new kitchens. All the units we offer are made to measure and come colour matched to the door given you a bespoke kitchen without the big costs. “You can use Granite Transformations for any project. The installations we do now are a lot larger than ever before as we now oversee everything. We can do it all for you making it simple to do major work on your home.” If you have a project you need help with then come and see us at one of our showrooms. Hatfields Home Furnishers Peartree Road, Stanway Essex CO3 0LA 01206 807347

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OUT & ABOUT STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB Returning after our summer break on Wednesday, September 6, Tom Williams presented Everyone Has a Book in Them, and two weeks later on Wednesday 20, Philip Roberts talked about The Mary Rose. Both presentations were enjoyed by our members. Our first October meeting is on Wednesday 4 when Andrew Morton will talk of the work undertaken by Colchester Food Bank, followed on Wednesday 18 by David Ablewhite who returns to present The Royal Family. On November 1 Ted Wheatley presents Overland to India and on November 15 Dennis and Ann Kell will present Wildlife in the Falkland. On December 6 Paul Oliver presents his popular Christmas quiz and at the final meeting of the year Barbara Faulkner will tell us about The Man in Red. 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.

ROTARY CLUB MANNINGTREE STOUR VALLEY The club has just achieved a complete restoration project by replacing the weed ridden old boat display in the centre of Manningtree with a new boat and flowers. Thanks to Roger Sutcliff of Dovercourt who donated the boat and Hearts Delight Garden Centre, Lawford who donated the compost and plants and the four Rotarians (pictured l-r) who completed the task in record time: David Shearmur, David Perrott, John Bishop and Rob Sharratt.

STOUR VALLEY U3A Our speaker on September 13 was David Whittle, vice-chairman of the Harwich Society, with a presentation entitled I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside. The presentation informed us how the Victorians were suddenly able to travel due to the harnessing of steam in the form of paddle steamers and railways, leading to the development of seaside resorts on the Essex and Suffolk coasts, including Harwich and Dovercourt.

We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202

Being a woman racing driver and racing at Le Mans is the subject of our talk by Celia Stevens on October 11. She will talk of her experience of racing historic cars three times at Le Mans Classic, once at Nuremburg and all over the UK. And she is still racing!

VILLAGE LINK CLUB

On Wednesday, November 8, event organiser Eve Regelous, who worked closely with Harrods, will give a glimpse of behind the scenes of day-today life in this world famous company, including its history.

On October 11 John Wrigley will present a talk entitled Jewel of the Canaries. Future talks this year: A Year as Mayor of Ipswich, Christmas Special Message & Carols, First Aid & AED, Dad’s Army Legendary TV Programme, History of Scarecrows, Pray Silence for ? and History of Butley Priory. Meetings are held at 10am on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall. Following the speaker we have refreshments (when there is time for a chat with other members) and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us. Roger Felgate: 01473 311684

MANNINGTREE FREE FIT CLUB Open to anyone looking to lead a healthy active lifestyle Every Wednesday evening from 7-8pm at Mistley Village Hall, Shrubland Road, Mistley CO11 1HS. Contact: Bridie 07403 316735 / Tanya 07920 76245

We don’t have a speaker meeting in December, but have our popular Christmas lunch at the Constable Hall on Wednesday, December 6. This is always a popular event so early booking is advised. Our purpose is to encourage 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 range of groups including language study, country walking and computer studies and groups that visit gardens, churches and historic buildings. 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, have over 260 members and 21 groups. For further information please visit www.stourvalleyu3a. org.uk where membership secretary Gillian Gibbs may be contacted. We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except August and December. .

Alton Water Café & Visitor Centre, Holbrook Road, Stutton, IP9 2RY Tel 01473 328268 www.keepingintouchwith.com/manningtree

OUT & ABOUT / SPORT LAWFORD & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY The autumn show on September 2 was a riot of colour, and much appreciated by a good crowd of members and visitors. They enjoyed the displays of fruit, vegetables, cookery, handicrafts and photographs, but the huge chrysanthemums and dahlias were the real stars, and they were particularly splendid this year. The trophies were handed out by the society’s president, Mr Les Way. Toni Spurgin entertained a large number group of members at the last monthly meeting with her advice on how to arrange flowers in pedestals, using candles as part of an arrangement. She kindly allowed these beautiful arrangements to be added to our raffle and they were much sought after. Thank you Toni. On October 19 we will be having a return visit from Matthew TantonBrown who will be talking about herbs. Don’t forget everyone is welcome to come along.

MANNINGTREE HIGH SCHOOL A top teacher is celebrating after the whole of her GCSE maths class achieved straight A grades for the second year in a row. Ania Kolendo and her former class are still in disbelief after they all achieved grade 9s, grade 8s and grade 7s, the equivalent to A*s and As, in their maths GCSE. For this year’s GCSEs the government introduced a new grading system which will gradually see all A* to G grades replaced with a 9 to 1 system, with 9 the highest mark. Miss Kolendo, who has been teaching at Manningtree High School for the past six years, said she was so proud to see 14 of her students achieve grade 9s, seven achieve grade 8s and eight achieve grade 7s. Last year, her class also achieved record-breaking results for Manningtree High School with her class getting 22 A*s, and seven As. Miss Kolendo said: “I am amazed with the results again and so proud of my students.” Miss Kolendo taught the class for only a year as the previous teacher was on maternity leave, and despite being apprehensive about the new grading system her students excelled. She said: “I received emails from two girls who just couldn’t thank me enough and they can’t believe they did so well. One of them got grade 9 and the other got grade 8.” One of the students who emailed her said: “I just wanted to thank you so much for all the help and encouragement you have given me over the last year. I honestly don’t know what I would’ve done if it wasn’t for you. Never have I ever known a teacher so passionate about the subject she teaches and your love for maths has started to rub off on me.” Miss Kolendo said they key to teaching is setting very high expectations from day one, setting lots of work and doing exam papers. She said: “It is important to offer positive and constructive feedback after each mock exam and believing in every single student. All these things had an impact on the fantastic results and helped students to perform to their highest ability with confidence.”

BRANTHAM BABY & TODDLER GROUP Relaxed and friendly group meeting every Monday during term time from 9.30-11.30am at Brantham Village Hall. Just £1.50 per family including a well-earned cuppa for grown-ups and a healthy snack for the kids. Come and join us and meet other parents, grandparents and carers. Every third Monday of the month we are joined by Hadleigh Health Visitors for your local Baby Clinic. For more information contact Charlotte: 07858 891217 18

EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FC The season has kicked off for the First Team and Reserves, albeit a limited schedule and a slow start for both teams. However, from September 8 there is a full fixture list. UPCOMING FIXTURES 1st Team / Senior Division Sat, Sep 23: Grundisburgh (A) Sat, Sep 30: Bramford Utd (H) Sat, Oct 7: AFC Hoxne (H) Sat, Oct 14: Bramford Utd / Suffolk Senior Cup (A) Sat, Oct 21: Haughley Utd (A) Sat, Oct 28: Henley Athletic (H) Sat, Nov 4: Colpestonians (A) Reserves / League A Sat, Sep 23: Mendlesham Reserves (H) Sat, Sep 30: Newmarket Town Res / Suffolk Senior Res Cup (A) Sat, Oct 7: Sporting 87 Res (A) Sat, Oct 14: Wenhaston Utd Res (H) Sat, Oct 21: Ipswich Athletic Res (H) Sat, Oct 28: Henley Athletic Res (A) Sat, Nov 4: Framlingham Town Res (H) A Team / League B Sat, Sep 23: Benhall St Mary Res (H) Sat, Sep 30: Claydon Res / Suffolk Primary Cup (H) Sat, Oct 7: Cedar Park Res (A) Sat, Oct 14: Trimley Red Devils Res (A) Sat, Oct 21: Haughley Utd Res (A) Sat, Nov 4: Stowupland Falcons Res (A) Fixtures are subject to change. To confirm visit: http://fulltime.thefa.com/Index.do?league=4358069 EVENTS Saturday, September 30: Quiz November 18 (provisional): Race Night We are always looking for people to help the club as committee members, either 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. Steve Butcher: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

MISTLEY CRICKET CLUB August 100 Club Winners 1: Michael Green (26) £105 2: Bruce & Pauline Gladwin (72) £50 3: Bruce & Pauline Gladwin (73) £50 Cricket Week went very well, the weather and the cricket was good. It started with a Junior’s Day which featured a session with former Essex star Graham Napier and concluded with a good win against MCC with close to 150 supporters watching on and enjoying a first class lunch. The week seemed to provide some impetus for the First Team as they then won the next three games, two of them against the sides in first and second place in the league, to give themselves a good chance of maintaining their Division One status. The Second and Third teams had a mixed month and are still holding mid-table positions. The Sunday sides also had mixed results, but the NECL side did qualify for the T20 Final’s Day at Castle Park where a young side won their semifinal before losing to Wivenhoe in the final. The champion ladies had completed their league fixtures, but they entertained a touring side from Moreton and won that game quite comfortably. New players are always welcome, please email: mistleycc@btinternet.com In Touch online:

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CHURCH NEWS

Meeting at Old St Michael’s School on Trinity Road, Manningtree What will you be doing on October 31? Recent tradition is to celebrate all things dark and spooky, but that seems, to me at least, to be an excuse for a party and for the supermarkets to fleece us again! I hope you will forgive my dissing these things. It is because there is something so much more wonderful to celebrate at this time of year. 500 years ago on October 31 an Augustinian monk by the name of Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to the church door in Wittenburg, Germany. Little did he know he was about to change the whole of Europe and the world and spark a movement which is still going strong today. Luther just wanted a debate about how you get to heaven, and his 95 sentences were the opening exchange. What followed was that whole countries and continents were drawn into the question: “Can you buy your way to heaven or is it by believing in Jesus Christ alone?” The result is known as the Protestant Reformation, which resulted in the birth of new and vibrant Bible centred churches. These churches still today hold that the Bible’s teaching must be more important than any church tradition, and so we proclaim that Bible teaching, which we find in the words of Jesus (John 14:6,7): that none of us gets into heaven “except by me” and that those who know Jesus also know His Father in Heaven. Now that is glorious good news!

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As the nights get darker and longer, we remember the wonderful light and the amazing truth, that however dark and difficult this world, my life can get be rescued for this glorious future in Heaven with Jesus. Why not come and join one of our celebrations? We meet every Sunday with lively worship and fantastic fellowship at 10.30am and again in the evening at 6.30pm. Services last between 60 and 90 minutes and refreshments follow the morning service. KEY NOTES FOR OCTOBER Mondays 2, 9, 16 & 30: Monday Madness 4.30-6pm: KOGS (KS 1 & 2) – Crafts, Games, Tea and Bible Stories 6.30-8pm: BRiaN Reloaded (ages 11-18) – Serious Bible Study with Serious Fun thrown in. Call Ruth Cross for info: 395808 Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday w/b October 8 & 29: Home Groups, Bible Study and Prayer Tuesdays 3, 17 & 24 at 7.45pm: Prayer Meeting Meeting Place, October 3: You’ve Got a Friend! with Joan David, ihome coordinator of Friends International Tuesday, October 31, 5-7pm: Super Heroes Party A party for all school ages to celebrate Heroes of the Faith: The Reformation. Come dressed as your favourite hero! For the latest information on these or any of our activities visit www.trinity-manningtree.org.uk or call Pastor Gaius on 01206 393745.

CHURCH NEWS MANNINGTREE BENEFICE Welcome to Manningtree Benefice, an all-age Anglican Church, meeting in St Lawrence’s Church, Bradfield, and St Mary & St Michael’s Church, Mistley. October, with the nights drawing in and the air turning cool, can sometimes feel like a dark time. The summer is definitely over and autumn colours are beginning to fade. The fallen leaves have become mushy and slippery underfoot. We’re not yet in winter, and the hope and joy of Christmas is still a little way off (although the shops are inevitably beginning to build up towards it all). But there is real joy and hope at this time of year, too. The conkers have fallen and are becoming the centrepiece of many backyard battles. And, at the end of the month, many people will be celebrating Halloween together. As Christians, it’s quite difficult to know how to respond to this festival: on the one hand, the imagery of evil is unpleasant and unwise, but on the other, we know that Jesus has overcome evil with his love, and through his death and resurrection. Even in the times of darkness, there is always hope. On November 4 at 11am we will be holding an All Souls’ Service where you can light a candle to remember a loved one, and where we will pray together for God’s hope in dark times. If you’re struggling with loss and grief at this time, you’re very welcome to come and join us.

Sunday, October 1 10.30am Churches Together Service with Kid’s Work at Foundry Court 6pm Evening Prayer at Bradfield Sunday, October 8 10.30am Family Worship with Treasure Seekers* at Mistley 10.30am Holy Communion (Common Worship) at Bradfield 6pm Evening Prayer at Mistley Sunday, October 15 10.15am Family Worship with Treasure Seekers* at Bradfield 10.30am Holy Communion (Common Worship) at Mistley 6pm Quiet Communion at Bradfield Sunday, October 22 8am Holy Communion (Book of Common Prayer) at Mistley 10.30am Morning Prayer at Bradfield 10.30am Café Church with Treasure Seekers* at Mistley Sunday, October 29: 10.30am Joint Worship with Communion and Treasure Seekers* at Bradfield *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 Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Dom Turner 01206 391218 / dom@manningtreebenefice.co.uk

If you’d like us to read out the name of your loved one you can either let us know when you come, or let me know in advance by emailing me (dom@manningtreebenefice.co.uk). If you can’t be at the service we can still read out the name – just let me know by the end of October.

Associate Minister: The Rev John Brien 01206 397549 / brienfamily@btinternet.com

I look forward to meeting you at that service, and to seeing many others around the time of Halloween. If you’re out and about on Halloween, you’re welcome to visit us at the Rectory where we’ll try and keep a ready supply of hot chocolate and sweeties on the go!

Church Office: Available 10am-1pm, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 07436 398801 / info@manningtreebenefice.co.uk

CATHOLIC MASSES Saturday at 6.30pm, St Mary & St Michael’s (Anglican) Church, Mistley Sunday at 8.50am in St Mary’s (Anglican) Church, Ardleigh Wednesday at 9.45am in St Mary and St Michael’s, preceded by Morning Prayer Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Ardleigh is served by the Parish of St John Payne, Greenstead, Colchester. The Parish Priest is Father Jon Ravensdale: 01206 870460 / sjpchurch@btinternet.com. Also resident in the parish are Father Michael Rear (01206 392695) and Father Mathias Odigbo.

LINK LINE CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES Un-denominational / meeting at the Venture Centre, Bromley Road, Lawford CO11 2JE (unless otherwise stated) Sunday Services: 3pm Sunday, October 1: Harvest Thanksgiving Service Saturday, October 7: Our popular monthly Café Oasis Coffee Morning at Ogilvie Hall, Wignall Street, 9.30-11.45am Monday, October 9: Minibus Fellowship visit to Harwich Sunday, October 15: Community Outreach Service Wednesday, October 18: Minibus Fellowship Mystery Tour Friday, October 20: Prayer Meeting at the Venture Centre, 10am Sunday, October 29: Link Line Fellowship Service

Curate: The Rev Claire Scargill 01206 395417 / revclairescargill@gmail.com

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KEY TO LOVE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Where Jesus is Love and Love is Jesus 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. 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@thekeytolove ministries.co.uk www.thekeytoloveministries.co.uk

For pastoral visits, further information and bookings, contact: 01206 272064 / linklinecm@hotmail.co.uk 22

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CHURCH NEWS BENEFICE OF EAST BERGHOLT & BRANTHAM Rector: The Rev Canon Stephne van der Toorn 01206 392646 / revstephvdt@googlemail.com www.constablecountrychurches.co.uk OCTOBER SERVICES Sunday 1 8am 10am 11am 4pm

Harvest BCP Communion, East Bergholt Harvest Family Service, East Bergholt Harvest Family Service, Brantham Family@Church, East Bergholt

Wednesday 4 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt

RAMBLING RECTOR Our trip to SA was memorable in many ways, meeting with family and friends some last seen 16 years ago. We gazed at the magnificent scenery, and I am deeply grateful that I can still see enough to glory in its magnificence. We also enjoyed the sign in the mountain hut kitchen: ‘Kindly refrain from chopping wood with the kitchen knives!’ Less enjoyable was the note in the game reserve visitor’s book: ‘No swimming in the dam, there are crocodiles, hippos and pythons. If one of your party is attacked by a python, remain calm and dislodge the tail. Without a frim tail grip the snake cannot strangle its victim.’ We did not swim in the dam! Sitting round the campfire at night and listening to the jackals singing to the full moon I felt deeply at peace and one with the world. You can feel the silence in the bush, and every rustle means something.

Thursday 5 9.30am

East Bergholt Primary School Harvest Assembly

Sunday 8 8am 10am 11am

Trinity 17 BCP Communion, East Bergholt Communion with guest Diane Payne of the Salvation Army, East Bergholt Baptism of Ella Clifford, Brantham

I was startled by a deep snort off the path and realised we had walked passed a warthog without even noticing it. Good thing it wasn’t a buffalo – they are notoriously short tempered.

Sunday 15 8am 10am 3pm

Trinity 18 BCP Communion, East Bergholt Benefice communion and celebration of The Rev David Searle’s Ministry, East Bergholt Celebration of Guide Dogs for the Blind, East Bergholt

The Rev Steph

Sunday 22 8am 10am 11am

Trinity 19 BCP Communion, East Bergholt Choral Matins with Healing, East Bergholt Informal Service, Brantham

There will be an opportunity for anyone who has lost someone they love either recently or long ago to remember them especially in a simple service at St Michael’s in Brantham at 3.30pm on Sunday, November 5.

Sunday 29 8am 10am 3pm

Bible Sunday BCP Communion, East Bergholt Benefice Communion, East Bergholt Baptism of Harriet Hughes, East Bergholt

Wednesday, November 1 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt Sunday 5 8am 11am 3.30pm

All Saints BCP Communion, East Bergholt Benefice Communion, Brantham All Souls’, Brantham

Check the website for details. There is a BCP Communion every Sunday at 8am and Choral Matins is usually on the fourth Sunday. This service schedule may change without prior notice if needed.

How easy it is then to miss what is very obvious, just because we are not listening properly, or expecting to see it. AN INVITATION TO ALL SOULS’ – A SERVICE OF HOPE AND MEMORIES At the end of October, the church celebrates All Saints’ and the next day All Souls’ – the commemoration of the Faithful Departed.

There will be three ways for remembering. A bowl will be placed at the back of both St Mary’s and St Michael’s from Sunday, October 22 and removed after the morning service on Sunday, November 5. Please write the names of those you remember before God on the paper provided and place the paper in the bowl. The names of those for whom we have conducted services in the last year will be read out from our records so you don’t need to write these down unless you wish to. During the All Souls’ service at St Michael’s, Brantham the bowl with all the names will be brought up and placed gently on the altar at the beginning of the service. These names will not be read out; they will be silently offered to God. Secondly there will be an opportunity to light a candle during the service. A lit candle is a symbol both of God’s presence with us and of our prayers offered to him. Thirdly the names of those on our records who have died during the last year will be read aloud. Please accept this invitation to the All Souls’ Service, a special time of remembering. You do not need to reply to this invitation, and anyone who wishes to come is most welcome on the day. I am most grateful to Brantham Community Choir who will be singing during the service. The Rev Steph HARVEST FESTIVAL St Michael’s Brantham Sunday, October 1, 11am Donations for Tools with a Mission to fund a container gratefully received.

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CHURCH NEWS BRANTHAM & CAPEL METHODIST CHURCHES SURPRISE, SURPRISE! When I was 18, I went to a big youth gathering in the Potteries. There were about 150 young people meeting every week. I was struck by the number of young people who were saying “God said this to me”. I felt uncomfortable. I knew a story from the Bible of how young Samuel had heard God calling him, at night. He didn’t realise it was God and thought it was Eli, the elderly priest. Three times he went to Eli, in answer to the call. On the third visit, the penny dropped, and the priest said “it is God calling you”. Eli had grown so accustomed to God not speaking because many people were doing lots of wrong things – so even he was taken by surprise. As an 18-year-old, I had thought that it was just super good spiritual people who would hear God speaking to them. Here at the youth meeting ordinary young people like me were talking about what God was saying and doing in their lives. At the end of the session a 16-year-old girl got up and spoke and used the words of a very old hymn, Whosoever Will May Come. I realised I had learnt lots of facts and stories about Jesus, but hadn’t ever ‘come’ to Jesus. I knew about Jesus, but didn’t know him. Like I know about the Queen, but I can’t say I know her. At that meeting, I didn’t leave my seat, but I knew something had changed in me. Jesus knew all about me and my mistakes and failures and still loved me. As I read some of the stories of Jesus again, I realised how Jesus’s friends made so many mistakes and got things wrong. I was in good company when I didn’t get it right. The invitation of the hymn is to all but we have to choose to respond. My prayer life began to change – not just talking at Jesus, but with him – giving him a chance to get a word in. At church yesterday we had a timely reminder of the importance of prayer and listening for God’s voice, both as individuals and together as a Church. As in Eli’s time, we can get used to silence from God and forget he wants to communicate with us. That’s blaming God! The fact is He wants to communicate, and we are bad listeners, we are taught independence and choose not to give God time. Whether you have begun that journey or not, or whether you are in the doldrums and not hearing, you can always start again. If I can help, please get in touch. Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Brantham & Capel Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 AT BRANTHAM METHODIST 11am Worship with Prof David Welbourn Sunday 1 3pm Sunday 8

Ecumenical Harvest Service with The Rev Andrew Sankey

Sunday 15

11am

Worship arranged locally

Sunday 22

11am

Worship with Mr Luke Rokobuli

11am Sunday 29

Worship and Communion with The Rev Andrew Sankey

ST MARY’S CHURCH, LAWFORD Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Simon Heron, 01206 392659 SERVICES FOR OCTOBER New service times: Morning services at Lawford Church are now at 8am and 10.30am. Sunday 1 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday 8 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Harvest Festival 6.30pm Evensong Sunday 15 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Holy Communion 6.30pm Cafe Church Sunday 22 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Morning Worship Sunday 29 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Benefice Service

MANNINGTREE METHODIST CHURCH South Street, Manningtree CO11 2JB Minister: The Rev Tom Osborne, 01206 396654 Sunday Services: 10.15am; we welcome visiting and outside preachers. Holy Communion Services: Please check dates and times on the noticeboard outside the church. Bible Study: First Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm in the Committee Room with Holy Communion at 2.30pm on the fourth Wednesday. Activities with tea and coffee on the second and third Wednesdays. Treasurer: Mr Gordon King. Church Bookings: David Shearmur, 01206 395263 Also meeting on our premises: Monday • Workers Education Association, 2.30pm • Stour Choral Society (Sept-June), 7.30pm Tuesday: Women’s Guild, 7.15pm Wednesday • Gentle Fitness Class, 9.15am • Art Painting Group, 10am-noon • Manningtree & District Chess Club, 7.30pm • Museum & History Group (bi-monthly), 7.30pm

AT CAPEL ST MARY METHODIST Home Groups on various days and times – contact the Minister Sunday 1

10.30am Worship with The Rev Bev Barclay 6.30pm Prayer

Sunday 8

10.30am Worship with Mr Victor Jack 6.30pm Worship with The Rev Andrew Sankey

Sunday 15

10.30am Worship with Mrs Alyson Ellis

10.30 am Worship and Communion with Sunday 22 The Rev Andrew Sankey 7.30pm United Prayer at St Mary’s Sunday 29

10.30am Worship with Mr & Mrs Tom & Lou Boswell

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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 OCTOBER 2017 Sunday 1 26th Sunday In Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 3 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 8 27th Sunday In Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 10 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass Sunday 15 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 17 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 22 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 24 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 29 30 Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass th

The weekly newsletter, with weekly mass times, is always displayed in the cabinet alongside the church front door. Catholic Commentary Our parish hosted a visit from the Catholic Bishop of East Anglia over the weekend September 2/3 which has boosted hopes for keeping Fr Christopher Smith as parish priest should there be clergy moves and reorganisation of the Ipswich parishes later this year. Change is often difficult, especially as we grow older; organisations and institutions including churches face the same problems.

Church leaders usually readily accept the need to read ‘the signs of the times’ but how far they should go gives rise to debate, especially if social change challenges traditional Christian doctrine; new ethical dilemmas have arisen along with environmental degradation and many other evils. Catholic Christians have long held that reason and intellect are important tools to deal with human problems (for example see: Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas and in recent times Pope St John Paul). Aquinas was the great exponent of rational analysis in all things human. Aquinas’ thinking extends through into the present world still influencing peoples’ views on freedom, law, morality and political understanding. That there is a natural order under God is a principle which is regarded as self-evident. In spite of many failings, the Church is a teaching authority we can respect in matters of faith and morals. Events & Diary Dates The 100 Club draw took place on Sunday, September 24 when three lucky winners shared a record £150. The club, set up to support the life and mission of our parish, has grown from strength to strength since its launch. New members are always very welcome and the newsletter, that includes an application form, can be found at the rear of the church or please visit the parish website. The next draw takes place on Sunday, October 22. Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv and Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am-noon. We are raising funds for the Parish Room refurbishment and all are very welcome to join us. The next event is on Thursday, October 26. Supporting our local hospice All parishioners are asked to collect used postage stamps (all year, not just at Christmas) and to 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 Welcome 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.

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