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with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham Volume 6 • Issue No. 2 • December 2015
© Svetlana Sewell www.landmstudio.co.uk
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR My son is remarkably indecisive and it’s not a trait he has inherited from me! He and I have attempted to write to Father Christmas on no less than eight occasions now and each list has been completely different save for a bouncy egg which has topped the list every time. I kid you not! A bouncy egg is the thing he wants more than anything else. Basically it’s a egg shaped bouncy ball which costs about £1.50, but I suspect Jack will have hours of fun playing the same trick on us over and over again! Oh joy! But despite the frustration of trying to force Jack to make a final decision I’m quietly pleased that he is so keen to have a simple, inexpensive gift. I know Lego will make it onto the final list in one form or another and possibly some football ‘stuff’, but while Jack is still relatively immune to the power of advertising I clearly don’t need to overspend in order to have a happy five-year-old. Next year might be more difficult. I dread the day he asks for a mobile phone, but I’m going to copy my brother John and agree to Jack having a phone for his 14th birthday. I can hear you scoffing in disbelief, but John’s four teenagers still speak to him – when they’re not on their phones! This is a wonderful time of the year with lots to do, places to go, things to buy and, if we are lucky, people to buy for. But spare a though for those who may not be so lucky. For some, Christmas amplifies their isolation and if Jack has taught me anything it’s that it doesn’t take much to bring a little joy. A smile, a conversation, maybe a mince pie and a cup of tea… Take a moment to consider whether there is someone in your local community who appears to be alone and how you might be able to give them a bouncy egg moment (not literally of course!). Happy Christmas from all the team here at Mansion House Publishing. It has been a joy to be part of your lives in 2015.
NEWS SEND LOCAL CHRISTMAS CARDS FOR ONLY 25P For the 29th year running, Ipswich Scouts are running their Christmas post collection and delivery service. This service provides great value for money and also raises much needed funds to support young people in the local area. We collect and deliver cards to all IP1-IP5 areas as well as: Rushmere, Kesgrave, Martlesham, Pinewood, Grundisburgh, Great and Little Bealings, Playford, Claydon, Great and Little Blakenham, Bramford and Sproughton. Last year we collected and delivered more than 112,000 cards. Cards cost 25p each and will be collected between November 25 and December 9 for delivery before Christmas. All proceeds go to the 10 groups involved. The local collection points are: Bramford Newsagent, The Street; Sproughton Community Shop. Cards and correct payment should be put in a sealed bag and dropped off at either of the above collection points. If you have any enquiries, please contact me: rhona.clement@gmail.com / 07967 094391 Rhona Clement, 4th Ipswich Assistant Scout Leader
In Touch
with Bramford, Offton & Somersham
In Touch with Bramford, Offton & Somersham is published by:
Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Send editorial copy to:
Bramford@intouchnews.co.uk
Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
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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.
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© 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 Bramford, Offton & Somersham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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NEWS ANDREW RENTON BEATS THE ODDS YET AGAIN In February 1994, 27-year-old Andrew Renton travelled to Scotland with friends for what Andrew refers to as “a seasonal break in the snow”. On February 10 he and his friend Peter chose to watch the others skiing on the mountains of Glen Coe, but as they walked back down the mountain Andrew slipped and fell. Peter left Andrew to seek help but returned to discover that Andrew had slipped further down the mountain and crashed his head on a rock. Andrew was airlifted to Fort William Hospital, then moved to Glasgow where the true extent of his life threatening injuries became clear. In fact his parents, Maureen and Allistair, were faced with the possibility of having to switch off his life support. Thankfully it never came to that. When Andrew came out of his coma three months later he couldn’t speak and, again in his words, “only one finger on my left hand worked”. At this point he was moved to Ipswich and his mum Maureen recalls how Andrew managed to use that “working” finger to scoop icing of the birthday cake which Ipswich Hospital staff had made for him, a simple act which is typical of Andrew’s attitude to his ongoing recovery. After brief stays at Addenbrokes and Papworth, Andrew left Ipswich Hospital for good on March 10, 1995. However his injuries were extensive and with limited movement in the right side of his body he is wheelchair bound and has poor short term memory. But he is a man who never gives up and Andrew took his first steps in public at Suffolk Headway’s first neuro conference at Kesgrave Community Centre on September 2 this year. Headway have been working with Andrew and his family since his accident. He spends two half days at Headway’s Neuro Hub in Ipswich every week where he continues to make good progress. Andrew’s monumental steps on September 2 have raised awareness of Headway’s services and the challenges facing people with brain injuries. His walk also raised £600 for Headway and Andrew’s certificate of achievement is proudly displayed at home.
Andrew & Maureen
Andrew lives in Bramford with Maureen and Allistair, who are determined to look after their son at home. Andrew’s elder brother Ian visits regularly and spends a week with Andrew every year while their parents take a holiday. They also take Andrew to Cyprus every year. Andrew’s weekly schedule is rather hectic with two visits
to Headway, the gym every Friday, visiting a friend for tea and chat, sailing with EAST in the summer months and trips out and about with his dad. Andrew is also a member of Bramford Local History Group, has an extensive movie collection, enjoys computer games, has designed a number Andrew helming his favourite Squib Keelboat leaving Suffolk Yacht Harbour on a of websites and gets involved with several activities at sunny afternoon in June Headway, including drama. In June 2014 Andrew published a book entitled My past and present interest in Computers, a brief summary of how he has used computers before and since his accident. The book is dedicated to Headway with the following statement: With grateful acknowledgement to Headway Suffolk for dedication, support and encouragement in my continuing rehabilitation and recovery. Andrew’s closing statement is: “I don’t think I’m a geek. What do you think?” No comment Andrew! Andrew’s accident changed his life but not the man. Maureen talks about how as a young man Andrew never stood still, was always off on one adventure or another, had travelled extensively even driving coast to coast across America. The challenges he faces have changed, but Andrew meets them head on with a wry sense of humour. Yes there have been frustrations but when I met with Andrew it was his sense of fun which stood out. They say the apple never falls far from the tree and I see a lot of Andrew in his mum, a remarkable woman with seemingly endless energy and a beautiful smile. Andrew’s inspirational story has been reported numerous times in local and national press and will be again I’m sure. There’s no stopping him now. Sharon Jenkins Andrew received the Outstanding Bravery award at the Stars of Suffolk 2015 ceremony which took place on Thursday, November 19 at Wherstead Park. The event was organised by the Flagship group in partnership with the EADT and Ipswich Star and hosted by the East of England Cooperative Society. Image provided by Brenda Ransome
COURSES FOR FAMILY CARERS – FIND OUT MORE FOR FREE Suffolk Family Carers is a Suffolk wide organisation which aims to offer support and information to anyone caring for a friend, family member or neighbour with any kind of illness, disability or frailty. If you offer support, help or encouragement to a friend or family member who is unwell then you are a Family Carer and are able to access our free Caring with Confidence courses. These courses provide information and tips on ways to confidently care for your friend or loved one. A variety of topics are covered such as effective communication to get your needs met, ways to manage your emotions and take better care of yourself, balancing caring with other commitments you may have, and looking at day to day
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challenges. We also have a wealth of resources which may help with a variety of issues and concerns you face within your caring role. If you care for someone with dementia you could also access our Caring for Dementia with Confidence course which is specifically designed for those caring for someone with dementia or memory loss. These sessions are not only a great way to gain useful information, but also give you the opportunity to meet others in a similar situation. These sessions run regularly so to find out more about either Caring with Confidence or Caring for Dementia with Confidence please contact us: 01473 835446 / cwc@suffolkfamilycarers.org
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www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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NEWS
END OF AN ERA Doris and the late Derek Lockwood have been running country music dances on the first Saturday in every month for the last 25 years. They also organised concerts three times a year until competition from bigger venues made it time to call it a day. All profits from both went to Great Blakenham Village Hall. Sadly Derek died in May, but Doris said she would carry on until the end of the year. The last dance is on December 5. All the country music lovers who have enjoyed the dances and concerts would like to wish Doris all the best and to thank her for all her dedication and hard work. Thanks to Brian who has been a great MC and for printing tickets. He also organises country dances every third Saturday of the month so there will still be dances at Great Blakenham Village Hall. See you there.
CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE On October 16 we held a pig racing evening at the Cedars Hotel in Stowmarket. It was a great evening and very well attended. Everybody appeared to have a great time and I achieved something I had always wanted to do. Someone was kind enough to donate back to us their raffle prize of a plate of handmade piggie cup cakes. For a few minutes I was able to become an auctioneer which was amazing fun and a very big thank you to the final bidder who bought the cakes for £20!
Council tenants who want to buy their own homes are being urged to apply for £20k grants to help them onto the property ladder. Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils were successful in applying for funding from the government’s £84m Right-to-Buy Social Mobility Fund which was launched earlier this year. This two-year funding opportunity, called HomeOwn, is designed to help Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council tenants to move out of their existing rented accommodation and to buy a home that best suits their needs on the open market. The scheme enables Babergh and Mid Suffolk to make one-off payments to council tenants of up to £20,000 as a cash incentive to buy a house for the first time – freeing up a council house for someone else in the process. Initially the scheme was offered to tenants living in one and two-bed-homes. It has now been opened up to all eligible tenants regardless of the size of their current property. A maximum of ten tenants from each council area can use the grants, but so far only one grant has been successfully applied for. Former council tenants Andrea Brown and Samuel Bennett are the first tenants to take advantage of the scheme. They moved into their new home in Needham, Norfolk, last month with their children Skye and Lewi. Andrea said: “When we first started looking for a home to buy, we saw this bungalow and with the amount of mortgage we could borrow along with our savings we couldn’t quite afford to buy the property. Then, luckily for us, about a week later we read in the local newspaper about the HomeOwn scheme and the grant enabled us to buy a home we could only dream about before. “The application form was extremely easy to fill in and we received a quick decision from Babergh and Mid Suffolk allowing us to have our own home and to free up a council house for someone in need.”
The atmosphere was buzzing, the company was great and the food delicious. A big thank you to everyone involved in the event and in particular to the Stowmarket Lions who are Keepers of the Pigs and are kind enough to bring them along and run this event for our charity. I must also thank The Cedars Hotel for all their hard work.
Councillor Nick Gowrley, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “These grants are a great opportunity for our council tenants to be in a really good position to buy their own home. We all know how difficult it is for people to actually get a foot on the housing ladder so any assistance we are able to offer is fantastic.
The total (profit) raised was almost £1,400 with further pledges to be received which will take the total over £1,500. A very big thank you to the gentleman who bet on every race and then donated his winnings back to the charity.
“Housing is a strategic priority for both councils. We need to free up council properties to help more people move off of the housing register so if you think may be able to do just that and eligible for one of these grants, then get in touch.”
Well done everyone and we hope to see you all at our next big event, the return of Chocolate Bingo on March 5 at Needham Market Community Centre.
And Councillor Jennie Jenkins, Babergh’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, added: “Both councils are delighted that our first family to take advantage of these grants have bought their house and are now enjoying family life in their new home.
The charity shop continues to enjoy your support and for that we are extremely grateful. Please remember, if you are having a clear out before Christmas, all those unwanted gifts you have put away and don’t know what to do with make fantastic raffle prizes for our fundraising. Also before we close for Christmas we will be donating the best unsold stock to needy families. We will close at 1pm on Wednesday, December 23 and we would please ask that you don’t leave donations outside the shop as it is in a residential area and causes inconvenience to our neighbours and could attract vermin. The shop will reopen on Tuesday, January 5 as usual.
“I am so pleased that we were successful in gaining this government funding. Babergh and Mid Suffolk tenants can now have access to a choice of homes on the open market which they may otherwise have not been able to afford. Anyone who thinks they could take advantage of this offer should contact us immediately.”
I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy festive season and look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.
For further information on this scheme – and to check eligibility – please contact Paulina Malinowska, Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils’ Home Ownership Officer: paulina.malinowska@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 724753
Link Chair Elizabeth Parker, 01449 760343
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GRANTS OF £20K AVAILABLE TO HELP COUNCIL TENANTS BUY THEIR OWN HOMES
To apply for the incentive, tenants will need to show that the purchase of a property on the open market will be a sustainable one, they must have a clear rent account for the past 12 months, be purchasing a property that meets their current housing needs (all of the household must move into the new property) and prove that they can re-pay a mortgage.
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NEWS THE BROOK INN Customers of the community-owned Brook Inn in Washbrook are being urged to dig out their best Christmas jumpers for a festive quiz night on December 13.
Brook Inn last January. The pub has earned a growing reputation for its gluten-free menu and in the summer won accreditation from Coeliac UK after a lengthy application process.
Landlord Dave Clarke said prizes would be handed out to the quiz winners and the entrant with the most ‘festive’ sweater.
As well as the quiz and Christmas jumper evening, the Brook Inn will hold a Christmas Carol evening on December 17 at 6pm and a pyjama party and karaoke celebration on New Year’s Eve, with the Christmas menu available throughout December.
He said: “It’s a bit of fun – we’ve all got a Christmas jumper hiding in the cupboard so this is a good chance to get it out and show it off for an evening. The best (or should I say worst) will win a prize with all the money raised from the event going to a charity of the winner’s choice.” This Christmas period will be the first since major renovation work at the
Dave Clarke added: “It’s been a great year for the Brook Inn and we’re going from strength to strength. We’d like to thank all our customers for their patronage and wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
COUNTY AND DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT John Field’s Report to Gipping Valley, November 2015 Locality Budgets We still need requests to help local groups fund their projects. For Little Blakenham I am hoping to provide the 11% matched funding that Suez Environmental need to unlock funding for a playground upgrade. Claydon Village Hall needs a replacement kitchen. Do you have a project that will help the community? Devolution The councillors directly involved appear satisfied with their ‘challenge’ meeting with Michael Heseltine. They were told to press ahead with negotiations and not worry about the need to complete before the autumn statement from the chancellor. What should we call Norfolk and Suffolk combined council? County Scrutiny On October 29, we looked again at the performance of the highways contract with Kier. We felt that the new assistant director (Highways Operations) was taking necessary steps with Kier management to improve operations. Despite our concerns, we saw signs of progress. I cannot list all our recommendations here but the gist of the most significant was: • To improve performance – the Babergh lean systems pilot must be completed as a priority and the processes rolled out across the county at the earliest opportunity. • That sampling inspection techniques for ensuring the quality of works provided should be developed. They should provide clear evidence of quality achieved and clear corrective measures to be undertaken without incurring high inspection costs. • To welcome moves to speed up and reduce costs of the design process by moving to standard detail and from fit for purpose to special service standards. • That the work to improve highways online information and reporting systems should continue, ensuring problem reporting is easy and feedback effective. • That officers and councillors should make every effort to ensure that people use the online information and reporting system as it is effective and saves tax payers money. Disruption due to works by utilities Julia Truelove and I have been fighting for a reduction in the disruption caused by utilities work. There is a problem in that all utilities must inform the county when they intend to undertake work, but it is their responsibility to plan the work, communicate with the population and undertake the work safely. It is essential that accuracy of information and effectiveness of the communication is improved. We must ensure roads are not closed unnecessarily, that they are re-opened as soon as possible and that signs do not advertise closure long before it occurs or long after it ceases.
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Fire and Rescue A 14-week consultation looking at the future of Suffolk’s Fire and Rescue Service started on November 16. The service wants inputs from the public, staff and interested parties. Please get involved if, like me, you are concerned that we retain the fire and rescue service we need. Suffolk’s service is currently low cost but high performance and we want to keep it that way. We must be sure we have a service that keeps risk to a level we can accept. Driven by the chancellor’s cuts, the Conservative administration proposes to reduce funding for the fire service by £1.3million from £22million. This is much less that the 30% cut in government grant we are told is on the way, but still severe. The £22million is half government grant and half council tax. The change would recognise the 30% reduction in 999 call demand over the last 10 years. However, this reduction is largely in false automatic fire alarm calls. Fire engines are dispatched if there is a real risk, to a care home for instance. In 2014/15 Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to 4,780 emergency calls. These include false alarms, fires in homes or businesses, industrial accidents, rescuing people from road traffic collisions and dealing with chemical incidents. In outline, the changes proposed are to reduce the number of fire engines and associated fire-fighters: •
Ipswich from six to three, for 1,992 call outs per year
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Lowestoft from four to three, for 972 call outs
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Bury St Edmunds from three to two, for 634 call outs
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Sudbury two to one, for 273 call outs
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Close Wrentham Fire Station
Call outs are of course only part of the picture. The number of engines needed at an incident and the probability of two incidents at the same time is critical. In addition, some appliances are crewed by fulltime and some by on-call fire-fighters. This complex subject needs a look at the full data! The full details, including aerial appliances and other equipment not listed above, are on the county website. If you have queries please contact me: 01473 831306 / john.field@suffolk.gov.uk www.john.field@suffolk.libdems.org
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NEWS DAVID CARD, MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLOR Covering the parishes of Barking, Baylham, Darmsden, Nettlestead, Offton, Somersham and Willisham
MAGNIFICENT START TO SAVING THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH It’s not too late to buy shares, but you’re urged to do so soon
Community Led Planning A simpler scheme than Neighbourhood Plans is being proposed. It’s called Community Led Planning and guidance is expected to be made public shortly. MSDC Treasury Management Plan Following my question to the September full council meeting reassurance has been given that making long term investments of up to £10million from reserves for a new income stream is allowed under the rules. The council had previously agreed in principle to borrow up to £25million aimed at mitigating reduction in central government grant. Stowmarket Food Enterprise Zones Local food businesses can expect to be invited to a meeting to learn what this could mean for them. I await details of date and venue. Stowmarket Technology Hub A proposal is being developed that may be useful for us in the surrounding villages. Barking and other road closures After a number of complaints, although this is not a district council responsibility, I suggested that SCC ought to call a meeting to discuss the inconvenience long-term 24/7 road closures cause. I am told the next Barking Road closure will be after Christmas in the New Year. District Councillor £5,000 Community/Locality Grant Fund Any organisation with a community project should start their bid by completing a grant application form. So far I have had no formal approaches and we have until early January 2016 to get bids in. Community Achievement Awards Nominations are sought across four categories – Rising Star, Community Hero, Action in the Community and Outstanding Local Business – with a closing date of December 31. Devolution of powers debate The ‘bid’ to run functions currently delivered centrally is being worked up behind the scenes. Suffolk registered its interest in time only to be told to think again, to work with Norfolk and consider an elected mayor. This fast moving debate has already consumed much time and resource. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. David Card: 01449 722267 / david.card@midsuffolk.gov.uk
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE Call 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. The Suffolk Dementia Helpline can support anyone who needs to talk. Perhaps you have memory worries yourself or even a recent diagnosis and want someone to talk to. Maybe you have concerns about a loved one, or need support in your caring role. Perhaps it’s just information you are after, or a confidential chat with someone. The line can help anyone who is looking for practical support and is able to provide you with local information and get you in touch with organisations that can help. So call us today, we are here to help.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
The CrowdfunderUK campaign to help save the Duke of Marlborough in Somersham has ended on a high with more than £185,000 of shares already bought – and there’s still an opportunity to join in. “This is a fantastic achievement,” says Dr Sarah Caston who started the campaign, “and just goes to show how keen people are on re-opening the doors of the pub and turning it into a vibrant hub of the community – with a welcome for all. The challenge now is to push up the total raised so far so that an offer can be put in for the pub.” The Duke of Marlborough closed because the owners retired, not because it was losing money. Campaigners are determined to make a success of it, ensuring a welcome for drinkers as well as diners. They are urging people to become hero investors – and if they can’t afford the £250 minimum shareholding, to make a donation. All contributions are welcome. “Whatever you can afford to chip in, you will be helping create a fabulous asset, a vibrant hub,” says Sarah. “A great place to eat, drink and socialise, whether for coffee in the morning, lunch in the middle of the day or dinner or drinks in the evening. “By investing in shares, you will become part-owner of a picturesque rural pub with centuries of history, and a future full of promise. You will be helping ensure that 500 years of hospitality doesn’t come to an end under this generation.” Anyone putting capital into shares should, as a UK taxpayer, be entitled to 30% tax relief on their investment. Also, once the pub is making enough, the aim is to pay interest to shareholders at two per cent above bank rate. Additional benefits will come in the form of rewards and special offers. You can find out more at: www.savetheduke.net There are four community-owned pubs in Suffolk: the Sorrel Horse in Shottisham; the Case is Altered in Bentley the Punchbowl in Battisford; and the Brook in Washbrook. David Westley, who led the fundraising campaign for the Case is Altered says: “The whole process of raising the money took longer than anticipated. We had to keep reminding people to buy shares. “Yet here we are now with a thriving village pub at the very heart of our community. It’s a social hub used by people in our area – and further afield. It’s brilliant to have it up and running, busy and successful! “Our message to everyone who cares about the Duke of Marlborough is to keep going, to refuse to give up. You’ve made a magnificent start – and you will get there. We did. Best of luck.” You can pay for shares by cheque or BACS. You’ll need to fill in a sharepurchase form which is available on the website, as a magazine insert or can be sent to you on request. For information, please contact Save the Duke treasurer Gerard Kroon: grdkroon@gmail.com / 01473 657178
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NEWS SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm; Saturday, 8am-1pm
SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility has won Civil Engineering Project of the Year at this year’s British Construction Industry Awards, with judges describing the site as providing ‘an elegant solution’ to waste management.
Customers are invited to sample some of the Christmas goodies currently available in Somerhsam and District Shop. “Let us help you with your festive food,” says Lucy. “There’s lots to try and buy, and other produce which can be ordered for Christmas. There are also cards, including local scenes painted by our local artist, Nicky, so come and see what’s available.” Being a community shop means not only that the shop is owned by, belongs to, and is run by the community, but is also there to provide services to the community. The shop provides essential household goods and provisions, a few more special items, and delicious fresh local produce saving on travel miles for both the producer and the customer, and is very handy when the weather is cold and miserable. We also endeavour to be at the heart of the community and as such we have our tea and chat afternoons on the last Wednesday of each month through the winter in the coffee corner. We have had two so far this year. There won't be one in December because of Christmas and the New Year, but the coffee corner will still be open if you would like to come along and have a hot drink and chat. We will be hosting the next tea and chat on Wednesday, January 27, 2-4pm. We are very pleased to have a decorated tree from the shop in the church during the Christmas Tree Festival being held during December. In other years this has been a very successful event for the church with lots of visitors. We wish them well for this year's event. Following a survey of our customers needs and wants from the shop it was discovered that wine and beer would be a very welcome addition to our stock. You’ll be pleased to know Terry has now taken a statutory course and become a licensee. All being well it should now be possible for the shop to stock a small range of alcohol in time for Christmas. Our regular services are available too: as well as the coffee corner we also have a book exchange, a dry-cleaning service, village diary, and if you need help with your shopping please get in touch with a member of our management team (listed below) who can deliver to your door. Also, to make sure you always get the fresh products you want, make use of our ordering service, either as a one-off or a regular order.
The awards recognise outstanding achievement in building and civil engineering projects and aim to showcase and celebrate the best the British construction industry can offer. The Suffolk site won the award for schemes costing £10-50million. Construction of the facility, a joint project between Suffolk County Council and SUEZ, started in January 2012, with Lagan Construction Group as the principal civil contractor. Their work was valued at £43million out of a total project cost of £180million. Work was completed on time and on budget, and with an excellent health and safety record – no-one had time off because of an accident at work during the full three years of construction. Since becoming fully-operational at the beginning of December last year, the site has met or exceeded every target for putting Suffolk’s waste to good use. It had its first major shut-down for maintenance and cleaning at the end of October into early November this year. Useful contact numbers Site offices: 01473 839149 Site control room: 01473 836828 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SITA Trust: 01454 262910
Do come along to see what’s happening if you haven't already, and new volunteers are always welcome. Even a couple of hours a month can make all the difference – it helps the community, it's good for a CV, for meeting new people and making new friends. Management team: Lucy Barrett, 831890; Terry Fordham, 831529; Peter Jousiffe, 833577; Jenny Hitchcock, 832060; Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080. A community shop for the local community and run by the local community.
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BRAMFORD ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
Entertainment for December www.bramfordrblclub.co.uk Tel: (01473) 745198 or join us on Facebook Sat 5 Wed 9 Thurs 10 Sat 12 Wed 16 Fri 18 Sat 19 Christmas Eve Christmas Day Boxing Day
The Glamtastics Line dancing Christmas Party Jazz with The Gipping Valley Stompers The Invited Karaoke Robin Hood Professional Pantomime for all the family / Tickets on sale now. Adults £5 Children £2. Starts at 6pm Children’s Christmas Party 3pm - 6pm Evening: Retrio Infra Red Join us for a drink, we are open noon-2pm Traditional Karaoke, we are open noon-6pm
New Year’s Eve Bob Whiting and Shoot The Drummer All ticket adult members only - on sale now
Bingo every Sunday night from 8pm. As well as a snooker room and pretty outside seating area we now have hot drinks available at the bar, so come and join us for coffee or beer.
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OUT & ABOUT CLAYDON AND BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE Wow, where has 2015 gone? We have had a wide variety of acts gracing the stage this year, from soloists to groups, from swing to blues, from pop to country, and we would like to thank everyone who has supported us through the year. This is on top of the special events for St Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s and Halloween. So what have we got lined up for the last month of 2015? Feedback from last year suggests that parents want their children in bed early on Christmas Eve so we have decided to move our Christmas Disco forward to Saturday, December 19. This will be a family disco and as well as some great music, there will be a visit from Father Christmas and a present from him for all children who have pre-booked. Tickets are on sale behind the bar. Please contact us on 01473 831805 to reserve yours. And to say goodbye to 2015 and hello to 2016 we welcome back local vocal harmony trio The Skittlez. They are guaranteed to have you dancing the night away with their range of hits from across the years. This event is a family event and therefore children are welcome. We only ask that young children are supervised at all times, including on the dance floor to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable evening. We have designated the members lounge as an adult only area. However, there are limited tables so if you do require a table in this area, please make this known when you book your tickets. Tables will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Ticket are available now – member adult £12.50, child £5 and we have a special offer for members with a family ticket (2+2) £30. Guest adult is £15 and child £7. A child is 16 years and under.
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5
Town/village
Location
Time
MIP/5A
Sproughton
Church Lane
0910 – 0925
MIP/5B
Sproughton
Wild Man
0930 – 0945
MIP/5C
Bramford
St Mary’s Close
0950 – 1005
MIP/5D
Bramford
Paper Mill Lane
1010 – 1025
MIP/5E
Great Blakenham Chequers
MIP/5F
Great Blakenham Blue Leighs
1035 – 1055
Mobile Home Park
1100 – 1115
MIP/5G
Baylham
Post Box
1125 – 1145
MIP/5H
Claydon
Crown
1155 – 1300
MIP/5I
Claydon
Edinburgh Gardens
1405 – 1420
MIP/5J
Claydon
Bacon Road
1425 – 1550
MIP/5K
Bramford
Packard Place
1600 – 1630
Calling every four weeks on Tuesdays: December 22 and January 19
BAR-CLAY MUSIC MAKERS Are you ready to pantomime?
We wish you a very happy festive season and look forward to seeing you in 2016.
What better way to keep the Christmas mood going into January than coming along to the annual pantomime in Claydon and Barham Village Hall?
Bar-Clay
If you have been before then you'll know it's always a hoot. And if you haven't been before, shame on you!
Music Makers
C I N D ER L A L E Present
Claydon Village Hall
FRIDAY 22 Jan at 7.30pm lt SATURDAY 23 Jan at 2.30 & 7.30pm Chil u d A 7 £3 d FRIDAY 29 Jan at 7.30pm £ SATURDAY 30 Jan at 2.30 & 7.30pm To order tickets phone 01473 830538 or email Webbfamily1@googlemail.com 12
This year it's Cinderella and has a cast bursting with fizz and talent, including some new faces. As usual it's on the last two weekends of January. So this means you need to choose between the following dates: Friday, January 22 at 7.30pm; Saturday, January 23 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm; Friday, January 29 at 7.30pm; Saturday, January 30 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. If you fancy coming along to either of the two matinee performances, then do book early because they always sell out fast. What else is there to say? Oh yes, it's being put on by Bar-Clay Music Makers and the tickets are £7 for adults and £3 for children. You can book them by calling 01473 830538 or by emailing: webbfamily1@googlemail.com
HENLEY PLAYERS PRESENTS OUR FIFTH AND BIGGEST PANTOMIME YET
AT
Wri$en by Tom Hitchcock
HENLEY COMMUNITY CENTRE Fri 8th Jan (7:30pm) and Sat 9th Jan 2016 (2:30pm & 7:30pm) HOW TO BOOK TICKETS Email: henleyplayersboxoffice@gmail.com Box office open every Sunday from 3pm to 4:30pm (From November)
PRICES £7 Adults Concessions £4 £18 Family of 4
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
SPECIALIST SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY INDIVIDUAL WHO HAS MOBILITY OR DISABILITY REQUIREMENTS Looking after a family member with a severe illness or disability can be one of the most challenging things we tackle in our lifetime. We want our love and dedication never to waiver, to ensure we’re making those closest to us feel comfortable in their time of need. Through all our support though, it’s supremely important that the right facilities and solutions are readily and reliably available, that the needs and necessities of both carer and patient are taken care of, allowing us to properly focus on the day to day welfare of those in need; and that is what we here at AGA Mobility Systems are all about. Started by Lee Thrower in 2003, AGA is a company kindled and brought to life by first hand experience. When Lee experienced the true extent of the difficulties of caring for an ill family member, he realised something had to be done to ensure those in his position had access to the utilities they needed. AGA Mobility Systems was born, dedicated to providing specialist solutions for every individual who has mobility or disability requirements. A family-run, personable company, AGA strive to imbue patients with a new level of independence, through dignified and easy-to-use solutions. The bespoke, state-of-the-art AGA Mobility Systems showroom was launched three years ago, and is still the only showroom in Suffolk with three fully functional, full size stair lifts available for you to come and try. With three comprehensively equipped wet rooms and level access showers on display as well, alongside an expansive array of mobility scooters, rise and recline chairs, profiling beds, rollators, wheelchairs and everyday living aids, we can show you just how your home can be revolutionised through these products, making every day life that much easier. We are based in Needham Market (Lion Barn Industrial Estate), there is ample free parking and the easily accessible showroom is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. As of December 2015, our brand new online shop will go live, ensuring you have immediate, round-the-clock access to our responsive and speedy ordering system. No matter the products or utilities you’re in need of, or the time of day, they are now just a click away. We offer free nationwide delivery on purchases over £50, and a free regional delivery and assembly service on certain larger items as well. With home visits and demonstrations, chair assessments, equipment hire, and expert help and advice available on all our products, give us a call today on 01449 720809 and speak to our friendly, knowledgeable team to find out more. Alternatively, point your browser to our new online portal at www.agamobilitysystems.co.uk or come visit us at our showroom today!
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OUT & ABOUT
DO YOU WANT TO FIND THE TRUE FESTIVE SPIRIT? Maybe in a rich, slow steeped Christmas cake or pudding, or a special festive preserve? Are you looking for a unique, handcrafted gift that offers something different this year? You’re not too late! Ipswich Country Market at Rushmere Village Hall on Humber Doucy Lane can provide all your festive needs. We are ready and waiting with a warm, truly festive welcome on Thursday mornings from 10.15 until 11.30am. As well as our festive fayre we offer a wide range of handmade pickles and preserves, savoury and sweet baking, including gluten free items. Our crafts include practical sewing, fine beadwork and colourful knitwear and all producers of both food and craft are happy to make to order. Our last market before Christmas is on Thursday, December 17 and we re-open again on January 7. So come and see what we have to offer before it’s too late!
HI DE HI ACTOR CELEBRATES CONSTABLE COUNTRY WITH NEW DVD A former Hi De Hi actor turned film maker is set to release a DVD celebrating the charm of Constable Country and the local area. David Webb, who with his brother Tony played the twin Yellowcoats in the popular BBC comedy series, has spent the last three years making A Journey through Constable Country… and Around. From the Dedham Vale to the Stour Estuary and from Roman Colchester to medieval Lavenham the video explores towns and villages John Constable would have known and loved and which inspired him to create some of England’s best loved paintings. David, who grew up in Mistley, hopes that his video will appeal not just to the many tourists who visit, but to local people keen to know more about the area in which they live. A Journey through Constable Country… and Around is presented by his daughter and TV journalist, Victoria Lampard. The DVD, priced at £14.99, is available from Co-op stores as well as local tourist centres and independent shops. It can also be obtained directly from David who can be contacted at: webb.springbank@btinternet.com
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CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL St Mary’s Church, Bramford
Saturday, December 12, 11am-4pm Sunday, December 13, 11.30am-4pm Free entry – suggested donation £2. Further details from Judith Paterson: 01473 748125 / 07821 716636 / judith882paterson@btinternet.com
Christmas Carols at the Wild Man, Sproughton
Come and sing carols with the community from our carol booklets, or perhaps play your own instruments in between as well. There may even be time for Christmas poems and prose. The Wild Man bar will be open as usual. We meet in the lounge. When: Sunday, December 6 from 7pm Who: Maggie and Stan from Suffolk Folk
Why? Because it’s good to celebrate Christmas together
For more details contact Jackie Sears: 01473 214125
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Saint Mary’s Church, All Saints Road, Creeting St Mary Saturday, December 5, 10am-5pm Sunday, December 6, 11am-4pm Crafts, draw, refreshments, teas/cakes and warming soup lunches in the vestry on both days. On Sunday there will be a performance by the Needham Market Skylarks Choir at 3pm, followed by a closing service at 4pm. Entrance: adults £1 / children free. IN AID OF THE CHURCH ROOF FUND
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OUT & ABOUT BRAMFORD WI A reminder that our party on Monday, December 14 begins at 7pm. Please bring a plate, dish and cutlery. We will also be collecting donations of tins or packets of food for FIND.
BRAMFORD LOCAL HISTORY GROUP As usual we won't be having a speaker this month, but instead will get together for our Christmas meal at the Bramford Cock on Thursday, December 17, 7 for 7.30pm. This will be our fi rst year without Bill to greet us and he will be greatly missed. Perhaps we should raise our glasses to absent friends.
SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB I think most of the club notices for Christmas and the New Year have already been covered, but I hope to include the normal annual details of the club in the January issue. Please save your used postage stamps over Christmas and pass direct to Betty Game, or any club member, in aid of charity. Please also leave a small margin around each stamp when cutting from the envelope. The chairman, committee and members wish all readers a Happy Christmas and a joyful 2016. Keep warm and keep smiling.
BRAMFORD SCOUTS TREFOIL GUILD LOST ITEMS Unfortunately during the sale of items in the scout auction in the summer, some very treasured processions belonging to the Trefoil Guild in Bramford got mixed up and may have been sold to those who attended. Items included some china cups with a red flower design and also a red silk tablecloth reading Bramford Trefoil Guild and decorated with a yellow trefoil. If you know of the whereabouts of these items I would I appreciate if you could give me a call so that I can see about returning them back to the rightful owners. Many thanks, Claire Bickers, Group Scout Leader: 07576 350296 BRAMFORD BEAVER AND CUB SLEEPOVER On October 31 the Beavers and Cubs took part in a Halloween party and sleepover at the scout and guide HQ and lots of fun was had by all. They all looked great in their costumes and we had fun doing science experiments, cookery, craft, smell and feel tests, disco and a spooky movie.
BRAMFORD CRAFT AND CHATTER GROUP Our only meeting this month will be on Tuesday, December 8, following which we will retire to the local hostelry for food and refreshments. As usual we will start at 9.30am at the Loraine Victory Hall. See you then.
BRAMFORD AND DISTRICT TREFOIL GUILD Bramford and District Trefoil Guild is flourishing having had two more ladies join in November. We welcome Linda and Janet. Our annual ploughman's, held at the later part of September, was more successful than usual with 66 Trefoil members and friends sitting down to a two-course meal consisting of a full ploughman’s followed by a choice of apple pie or fresh fruit salad, tea or coffee. Proceeds go to the Suffolk Trefoil project of the year, Suffolk Family Carers (with the emphasis on young carers). Our contribution was £300 for which I am very proud. October's speaker was an authority on stag beetles so we are all well read on the subject. At the November meeting Carole, our secretary, helped us all make very pretty Christmas wreaths from pieces of Christmas coloured material and ribbon. Eight members attended the Remembrance Day Service at Bramford. It would have been good to see more, but many either go to their own church or join the parade on Christchurch Park. Our Christmas meal will be once again at Gresham's with 22 members attending. On behalf of the Trefoil ladies may I wish all the readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Pat Caddick, chairman 01473 402152 / pandj83@gmail.com Does anyone know the whereabouts of our red silk tablecloth embroidered with Bramford Trefoil Guild and a gold trefoil taken by mistake from the Scout HQ auction? Nobody appears to know if it was purchased or disposed of. It clearly is of no use to anyone but us. A speedy return would be much appreciated. Thank you.
BRAMFORD ART GROUP We have now moved into the Loraine Victory Hall and at present we are able to invite more budding artists and beginners to join our group. We meet on Wednesday mornings between 10am and noon; the cost is currently £8 a month. For further details please contact Ann Woolnough on 01473 743794 or come along and meet us any Wednesday after 10am.
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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH AND DISTRICT ANIMAL WELFARE 181 Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich IP4 5DA / 01473 727496 Thank you so much for your donations to the charity this year. They are very much appreciated by staff at the centre to help fund their work with animals in need and their owners. The shop is open from 10am-noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings if you fancy a look round and an opportunity to meet some of the staff. Also, if you are thinking of giving a cat or kitten a good home, please remember the centre has a constant need of homes. I am happy to collect your donation if you are unable to leave them at 5 Chapel Lane, Somersham / 01473 830068. Thank you also for the used postage stamps which I collect for Redwing Horse Sanctuary, again they can be left or I can collect. Wishing you a peaceful Christmas and a healthy New Year. Heather Dickinson
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB The Great Blakenham Over 50s Club is open to anyone of that age living not only in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. The cost per meeting is £1.50 and includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers public house and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It is fully accessible and has disabled facilities within. At our meeting on October 28 we enjoyed a social afternoon playing games such as Rummycub, Kan-U-Go, Ludo and Snakes and Ladders. It had been a long time since many of us had played these games and proved most enjoyable. We also had a small bring and buy of items that may be useful for Christmas presents. Our last meeting for 2015 is the Christmas party on December 9. This will be a social afternoon with afternoon tea and games, and everyone contributing a ‘plate’. Details to be agreed nearer the time. We will start back again on Wednesday, January 13, and will be pleased to welcome new members. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
ST MARY’S CHURCH GATHERING Every third Tuesday in the month, 2.30-4pm, in the Church Room. Do come and join us; we will be very pleased to see you. If transport is required please contact Janet on 741331.
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MID SUFFOLK AXIS Daytime club for adults with physical and/or sensory disabilities With the holidays approaching everyone will soon be in a panic to do their Christmas shopping. Most people will drive to their nearest town, race around the crowded shops, and maybe even come away with a present or two. For an adult with a physical and/or sensory disability the mad rush is even more challenging. Imagine you are in a wheelchair and dependent on public transport: not only must you wait in the cold, but most buses only have one suitable seat. If this seat is taken you have no choice but to wait, with no guarantee of a seat on the next bus either. Once you get to the shops, aisles can be too narrow and parts of shops completely inaccessible. With an aging population these are problems that more and more of us will soon be facing. Here at Mid Suffolk Axis we are helping to tackle such issues. Every Christmas we take our members on a Christmas shopping trip to a disabled friendly shopping centre and their only worry is what presents to buy! We are a social and active club for adults with physical/sensory disabilities and this is just one example of life at Axis. As a user led organisation we like to get out into the local community and enjoy new experiences. As part of our mystery tours, members recently watched a fantastic play at St Felix Independent School in Southwold, as well as enjoying a trip to visit local chocolatier The Chocolate Lady. We pride ourselves on the atmosphere of our club. Whether we are enjoying one of our regular trips or simply taking pleasure in each others company, we are always having a laugh. In this sense Axis is similar to being part of a sports club, social group or going for a meal with friends. Every session members catch up with a cup of tea, take part in the day’s activity, and enjoy one of two freshly cooked meals from our very own trained chef. (Or the “damn good cook” as one of our member’s recently described her!) As one of the few charities in Suffolk that accepts any adult with a physical/sensory disability we have a diverse membership: our members range from 30 to 70+ (we accept anyone over 18) and members also have a variety of backgrounds, including teaching, finance and floristry. There are of course a number of reasons why people are attracted to Axis, but the main reason our members enjoy themselves so much are the friendships they make. So if you are an adult with a physical/sensory disability, or if you know anyone interested in joining a vibrant and friendly club, please contact Axis today. We would love to hear from you. Call Axis today on 01379 678703 or email us at: midsuffolkaxis@outlook.com
In Touch online:
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SCHOOLS BRAMFORD PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP As we write, the children are busy rehearsing the nativity, which they will perform for parents towards the end of term. We are certainly getting in the festive mood, with lots of winter crafts and Christmas songs. The term will end with our annual Christmas party and there’s even a rumour that the man in red might make an appearance. Co-op Token Scheme The playgroup has been selected for the Co-op Green Token Scheme. The more green tokens collected between now and the end of January, the higher the donation we receive. Session availability and Tot’s Group Due to the high demand for spaces at the playgroup, we have decided to open up our Tuesday afternoons for sessions.
Our Tot’s Group will now be held at the primary school on Thursday afternoons between 1.30 and 3.15pm (term time only). Watch the children play while you have a cuppa and a chat. £1 a child, 50p for each subsequent child, includes a drink and a snack for parent/carer and tot. We have limited sessions remaining for this school year and are now taking applications for 2016/17. If you are interested in your child joining us or would like more information about the playgroup, please contact us: info@bramfordplaygroup.org / 01473 740782 The committee and staff wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. www.bramfordplaygroup.org
CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL Our annual WOW Week took place at the end of October and was action-packed, exciting and very rewarding for all year groups. Year 7 had a fabulous time at camp (despite some wet weather), taking part in adventurous activities such as the high ropes and assault course as well as art, science and drama activities, all designed to build confidence and encourage creativity, curiosity and collaboration. Years 8-10 certainly wowed us all with their talent, fresh ideas and commitment to their enterprise tournament. Students were split into 25 teams and tasked to choose one of four ordinary household objects and create and present a marketing campaign, including producing a leaflet, poster and billboard as well as a filmed TV commercial and recorded radio advert plus jingle. Guest judges and speakers from the world of media and advertising were invited in to support the event and choose an overall winner of the prestigious WOW Week Cup. I would like to say a big thank you to Town 102 FM, Mansion House Publishing, Archant, Banbury Howard, Suffolk One, I.E.M. and the school’s governing body for their help.
Year 11 demonstrated great maturity and focus, impressing our business guests and the outside agencies they visited during WOW Week, preparing them for the next step of their education/training. They spent a day at a college/sixth form of their choice, a day at the Suffolk Skills Show held at Trinity Park and a day in school listening to talks from guest speakers and completing application forms and CVs in preparation for a Learning About Work Day on Wednesday, December 9. Well done to everyone for their positivity and hard work over the three days. I am pleased that Claydon High School can develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning and I hope to be able to provide more stimulating experiences beyond the classroom that engage, excite and challenge students. Now that the weather has turned and we are moving swiftly into the festive season, I hope you will be able to join us at our Christmas concert, Once Upon a Christmas, on Tuesday, December 8, 7pm at the Church of St Mary and St Peter in Barham (tickets on sale at the school). Our talented students are busy preparing some wonderful instrumental, vocal and poetry pieces, interspersed with traditional congregational carols, all performed in the backdrop of the beautifully decorated church. GCSE drama students are busy rehearsing for their Christmas panto which will be toured round the local residential care homes and watched in school by our feeder primary schools. Selected music students are also rehearsing for a singing event at Snape Maltings Concert Hall which will be broadcast live across the world. Claydon High School will join around 800 students from other schools in Suffolk for the performances. The rest of the school is busy creating fabulous Christmas hampers which will be donated to a local charity for the homeless. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, then please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Thursday, December 17. To book a place, please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen: 01473 836110 Finally, I would like to thank staff, parents/carers, governors and the wider community for their support this term and wish everyone a Happy Christmas. I look forward to keeping you updated with all our news in the New Year.
The winning team, Trigger Can, pictured with the WOW Week trophy
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Sarah Skinner, headteacher
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SCHOOLS / SPORT CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL The children are all getting into the festive spirit with lots of activities going on. They are enjoying lots of Christmas themed activities as well as practising their singing for their Christmas concert. They are all getting really excited for December 2015 and looking forward to a well-earned break.
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Our carol concert will be held on Thursday, December 10 at 4pm and our Christmas party is on Wednesday, December 16, 4-6pm. We are also holding a Christmas Fayre on Saturday, December 12, 11am-2pm. Entry is free and everyone is welcome to attend. There will be lots to do with stalls, raffles, refreshments and also a chance to visit Father Christmas! If you would like more information regarding any of the above events or just to find out more about Claydon Pre-school please contact the administrator Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool. co.uk We are now sorting applications for children to come and join us in January 2016 for the spring term. The pre-school is open Monday to Friday, 9am-3.30pm, during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to Reception. Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a lunch club (noon-12.30pm) for £1.60. We are happy to accept Childcare Vouchers and we offer two year funded places for any eligible children. We also run a holiday club in the Easter and summer holidays for ages two to eight – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator.
BRAMFORD COCK FC Sunday, September 11: Away to table topping, high scoring Felixstowe Harpers Utd. With Bramford finding their form the previous week and scoring seven goals, this match promised much. Within five minutes the home goalkeeper had already made two very good saves. The football Bramford was playing was some of the best seen. Barthie, who scored six the previous week, opened the scoring on 10 minutes. The home side were being totally swept aside and with Bramford in control, Wadie scored the second after 18 minutes. Further goals came from Matty Sharland and Yani to underline Bramford`s dominance. A brilliant first half by Bramford. Half time: 0-4. The second half started with the home side trying to get a breakthrough, but Bramford were better organised and came close to increasing their lead on a couple of occasions. The home side did hit the bar from a corner, but five minutes later the match was effectively ended as a contest when Barthie scored his second. Final score: 0-5. A really good team performance which pleased players, management and the hardy band of supporters who turn out every week. Sunday, September 18: Home to second placed AFC Chelmondiston With Bramford scoring five and Chelmondiston seven goals the previous week, this promised to be another exciting match. However, for Bramford things didn’t go as sweetly as the previous week. One-nil down after five minutes and then two-nil down after 12 minutes stunned Bramford. The visitors continued to control the game with Bramford struggling to get any flowing football played. Things did not improve, as leading scorer Barthie had to go off with a pulled calf muscle after 15 minutes. Chelmondiston continued to dominate and scored their third goal on 35 minutes. First half: 0-3.
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They say football is a game of two halves and this was one of them. Having had a poor first half, Bramford immediately put pressure on and were rewarded when Josh Hunter scored from six yards in the 50th minute. This spurred Bramford on and they began to find their form and were getting closer to scoring, but it seemed the Chelmondiston goal had a charmed life. It wasn’t until the 80th minute that Bramford finally got a second goal when Matty Sharland scored. This set up an exciting last 10 minutes with Bramford going close on a number of occasions but they couldn’t get that elusive equaliser. Final score: 2-3. Sunday, November 1: Away to Yourshirts With only 10 players, Bramford seemed up against it from the start. However, Bramford had the better of the first half. Yani opened the scoring after 15 minutes. Yourshirts equalised five minutes later. Bramford scored their second after 30 minutes when Rob Stewart slotted home. Half time: 2-2. The second half was fairly even, although with their extra player Yourshirts started to come closest to a third goal. Bramford were holding out and with it looking to end all square, the hosts scored their third goal with a good volley from the edge of the penalty area following a corner. Final score: 3-2. So, another close defeat for Bramford, but had they had 11 players things could have been so different. Forthcoming fixtures November 29: Home to Pauls FC. December 6: Home to Kitchener Taveners Bramford Cock FC play their home matches at Sproughton Sports Field, Church Lane, Sproughton, kick off at 10.30am.
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Trusted by local families since 1925 Meredith Greengrass 9 Marriotts Walk Stowmarket 01449 612765 47 St Helens Street Ipswich 01473 257242 283 Norwich Road Ipswich 01473 232837 364 Foxhall Road Ipswich 01473 728445
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.
THE NEW WOLSEY THEATRE presents
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SPORT SPROUGHTON SPORTS FC With the winter fast approaching both out teams are still doing fairly well in their games. On October 3 our First 11 travelled to Boxford and recorded a good 4-1 win with goals coming from Craig Parry, Calvin Laws, Nick Tigges and Mikey Sneddon. The following week away at old foes Barham we inflicted their first league defeat for nearly two seasons in a close 3-2 victory, our scorers being Calvin Laws, Mikey Sneddon and Ronaldo Wright. On October 17 we suffered a poor 4-0 defeat at home to Cedars Park after losing our keeper mid-game. On October 24, making the long journey to higher opposition Sporting 87 of Bury, we won a very close match 3-2 with scorers being Jamie Brittain and Ronaldo Wright who was back to his best with two. The last match in October saw us host Bartons with a depleted squad and lose 3-0 in a poor performance with stand-in keeper Andy Roche being the man of the match. After losing 3-1 against a very strong Ufford Sports (scorer Keith Brett) on
October 3, our Reserves had a brilliant month. On October 12 at Cedars Park we won 5-1, the goals coming from Jamie Basham (2), Dan Hall, Kyle Page and Keith Phairs. At new club Adastral FC the following week we found ourselves 3-1 down at 70 minutes against a very good side, but in a rousing comeback we scored three times to take the points in a 4-3 win with goals from Keith Brett, Kyle Page and two from Dan Hall. On October 24 at home to Chantry Grasshoppers we recorded another good win (63) with two goals from Kyle Page, and one each from Keith Phairs, Leon Studd, Jamie Basham and Shaun O' Leary. The last game in the month saw us go to old friends Kesgrave Kestrels, again winning out, with Kyle Page scoring four goals and Jamie Basham getting one in. We only have three games in December due to the Christmas break with the First team playing away to Tattingstone on December 5 in the Bob Coleman Cup and the Reserves at home to Stage Event Security. Our Christmas Draw is on Saturday, December 19, weather permitting. G Studd, 747017
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Christmas greetings guff lovers. The run up to the festive bun fight that passes for Christmas is usually marked by the media doom mongers splashing headlines about how the NHS will break under the strain of the expected rush to A&E, so it is perhaps fortunate that no reporters were present for our ladies match vs. Woodbridge when from all accounts the courts resembled the opening scenes from Saving Private Ryan. First Ann decided that suffering a rather bad ankle sprain in the first game would not affect her mobility (having partnered her it is difficult to disagree) and decided to play on, which in turn meant extended after-match application of frozen peas, resulting in a rather magnificent bit of bruising. Now that she knows what it looks like I suspect a tattoo will not be her gift of choice this Yuletide. Not to be outdone, Corrine then suffered a face injury (which to add insult was self inflicted) that ended up with the courts and
Corrine looking like a scene from a Hammer Horror! Fortunately no lasting damage was done and Corrine is probably back on her bike in customary winter kit of a tee shirt and cut offs (sleeveless fleece if the temp drops into the minus). Unsurprisingly given the sequence of events, the match was lost, even though some of the opposition probably needed counselling afterwards, but more importantly no permanent damage was done and I have already contacted BUPA who are thinking of sponsoring our next match. I have also given the blood transfusion service advance notice of our two fixtures before Christmas.
usually caused to passers-by or their dogs who are the unsuspecting recipients of a blow from a miss-hit serve. They normally calm down when I point out that it was obviously an accident as he very rarely hits anything he aims for.
I have had my share of injuries including a rather nasty one when Graham's wallet fell out of his sports bag and landed heavily on my foot. Luckily I was wearing a sturdy pair of tennis shoes that prevented a fracture, though the bruising was extensive (and in the pattern of several £50 notes). Nick is very familiar with a lot of injuries, though in his case they are
If you would like to find out more about our club please contact the treasurer, Clive Jones: 01473 464589 / bramfordtc@outlook.com
Just time for a festive joke of the month. A man goes into a large toy store at Christmas and buys the biggest train set on display. The assistant starts to wrap it and says: "I am sure your son will love this." The man pauses and then says: "You're right, I had better have another one!"
I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. More guff next month, Mick Russ
HAT TRICK OF TITLES AND SUFFOLK COUNTY RECORD FOR BENTLEY SWIMMER REG LLOYD Bentley’s own Reg Lloyd dominated the Men’s Freestyle events at the ASA East Region 2015 Short Course Championships recently held at the Inspire: Luton Sports Village. The Teamipswich swimmer won the 100m, 200m and 400m titles breaking the 200m Suffolk County Record on the way. He became the only Suffolk swimmer to ever hold all three titles and the second swimmer from the eastern region to have his name on all three trophies in one year. His performances have gained him entry into the ASA National Swimming Championships this December at Ponds Forge in Sheffield. It’s a great start to the season for 18-year-old Reg following on from the decision to dedicate all his time to
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swimming, after completing his A Levels at Suffolk One in the summer. His dedication cannot be questioned. Since moving to Bentley he is up at 4am every morning to train at Crown Pools in Ipswich and returns in the afternoon for more pool and land training. As a Sporting Ambassador for Abbeycroft Leisure he has free use of The Gym in Ipswich and hopes in the coming months to obtain further sponsorship to help continue to compete at the highest level. Unfortunately training, nutrition and rest periods limit the time for Reg to work, so he is reliant on his parents for funding. If any local business people would like to sponsor Reg please email him at: reg.r.lloyd@sky.com
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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE BRAMFORD UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB It’s been an eventful few weeks since my last round up. Starting with the Reserves, their season has stuttered a bit after a good start, which did see them take top spot, but they have only gained one point in their last three matches. A 0-0 draw against Coplestonians was followed by a narrow 3-2 defeat away at Haughley, and then a 2-1 home defeat against Ipswich Athletic. This match would not have been played had club stalwart Rob Stollery not stepped in to referee the match (with the agreement of Ipswich Athletic) as the appointed referee failed to show up. On Saturday, November 7 the Reserves match at Trimley was postponed because of the heavy overnight rain. The First team have had an eventful few weeks. After our narrow 2-1 defeat against Crane Sports, our next match took us to Capel St Mary, home of Capel Plough, where we were once again on the end of a loss (2-0). Could managers Waspie and Skinner rally the troops (sorry players) for our next match, a Suffolk Senior Cup first round match at Lakenheath, the cup holders? Indeed they did rally the troops as we raised our game and played out of our skins to comprehensively beat them 5-1 to go into the next round, a home tie against Waveney.
This tie will be played before you possibly receive this edition of In Touch as it’s on November 28. Hopefully we will progress to the next round. This win against Lakenheath set us up for our next match at home to league leaders Westerfield Utd, where in an action-packed match we scored another five goals and conceded two. Our next match at Stanton secured another win (3-1) although we had to battle hard in the last quarter of the game. On Saturday, November 7, Ipswich Athletic came to The Acton. There’s not much to say about this game. It was for most of the time as dull and gloomy as the weather, as both teams saw chances wasted and we ground out a 0-0 draw with points dropped. As this is the December edition, a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Bramford committee to our supporters and readers. Brammie
DR DAN POULTER, YOUR LOCAL MP, REPORTS BACK Should we legalise cannabis? Over the last few months a new system has been introduced to allow members of the public to petition parliament by e-petition. Under this new system a petition with more than 100,000 electronic signatures may be put forward for debate in the House of Commons and I was recently pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to one of these parliamentary debates on the controversial subject of the legalisation of cannabis, which was put forward by Paul Flynn MP. As an NHS doctor working in mental health, I am unable to support the legalisation of cannabis not only because of my medical experience but also on the evidence evaluated by the Royal College of Psychiatrists which outlines both the mental and physical health problems associated with cannabis use. Although there is currently a de facto decriminalisation of the possession of cannabis in many parts of the country, the legalisation of cannabis is a very different matter to decriminalisation as legalisation would provide a legitimacy to the supply of a substance which we know to be physically and mentally harmful. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has made clear the strong link between cannabis use and poor mental health, especially in young people. For example, a study of 1,600 Australian school-children aged 14 to 15 found that children who use cannabis regularly have a significantly higher risk of depression than non-users. Adolescents who used cannabis daily were five times more likely to develop depression and anxiety in later life. There is also growing evidence of a link between cannabis and physical health problems. New research has found that the cannabis plant contains cancer causing materials that can damage peoples’ lungs. In this country we have long taken measures to discourage cigarette smoking and it would be inconsistent to legalise the supply of cannabis given the increasing evidence of the harm it causes to physical health.
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Dr Dan Poulter MP in the House of Commons Chamber However, an important issue that I raised in the debate is the growing evidence from around the world which supports the use of cannabis and cannabis products in the treatment of people with chronic pain and its medicinal use for palliative care. I believe that there is a case to review the law to better facilitate the research and use of cannabis for medicinal purposes, but this is quite a different matter to supporting the legalisation of the drug. I valued the opportunity to bring my medical knowledge and experience to bear in this important Parliamentary debate, and it is important to remember that most countries in the world have not legalised cannabis. I remain unconvinced that legalising the supply of, and access to, a substance that is harmful to both physical and mental health would be a good thing for people in Suffolk or for this country. For more information please visit: www.drdanielpoulter.com
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ON THE GRAPEVINE
QUESTIONS ON CASH
with Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb
Clive and Lisa from Blakenham ask: “We have around £120,000 in an offshore investment bond with Canada Life International in the Isle of Man. Will this money form part of our estate for inheritance tax when we die, or is offshore money exempt from all UK taxes?” Unfortunately, although your offshore investment is income tax efficient, it is not inheritance tax efficient. The investment will form part of your estate for inheritance tax purposes when you die. As you are both UK resident and domiciled, your beneficiaries will pay UK inheritance tax on all of your worldwide assets – not just those you own on the UK mainland. However, they will only pay inheritance tax on assets which exceed the value of the current combined nil rate band of £625,000 (being two allowances of £325,000 as you are a married couple and have transferable Nil Rate Bands). If you do not require access to the capital held within your offshore investment, and only require access to the income, you should consider talking to Canada Life International about moving the money into a Discounted Gift Trust, as this could provide significant inheritance tax savings, whilst still providing a regular income for you ongoing. Sam from Needham Market asks: “I have a with-profits investment with Phoenix – formerly Royal Sun Alliance – which currently has large penalties if I try to get my money out. What is the significance
Christmas & New Year
Waste & Recycling Collection Schedule 2015/16
of this policy being almost 10 years old next month?” The significance of the 10th anniversary could be that you can get your money out without having to pay a penalty. Many with-profits investment providers offered a penalty-free withdrawal of capital on the tenth anniversary of the policy. In the current climate of encashment penalties and market value adjustments or MVA’s for with-profits policyholders, this could be a valuable lifeline for you. Check your policy documents carefully – if your policy has this option, give written notice to Phoenix that you intend to exercise that option. In my opinion, you would be wise to get your money out of this under-performing with-profits fund without any MVA penalty whilst you have the opportunity to do so. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham, Suffolk IP6 8JP, email nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
THE BURSTALL BOOK SALE AND COFFEE MORNING
BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCIL
IMPORTANT CHANGES
Due to the bank holidays during the Christmas and New Year period it has been necessary to amend the usual collection schedules. Please see below for your revised collection days.
Please ensure your bins are presented by 06.30am on the day of collection. Usual Collection Day Monday 21 December 2015 Tuesday 22 December 2015 Wednesday 23 December 2015 Thursday 24 December 2015 Friday 25 December 2015 Monday 28 December 2015 Tuesday 29 December 2015 Wednesday 30 December 2015 Thursday 31 December 2015 Friday 1 January 2016 Monday 4 January 2016 Tuesday 5 January 2016 Wednesday 6 January 2016 Thursday 7 January 2016 Friday 8 January 2016 Recycling collection this week
Revised Collection Day No Change No Change No Change No Change Monday 28 December 2015 Tuesday 29 December 2015 Wednesday 30 December 2015 Thursday 31 December 2015 Saturday 2 January 2016 Monday 4 January 2016 Tuesday 5 January 2016 Wednesday 6 January 2016 Thursday 7 January 2016 Friday 8 January 2016 Saturday 9 January 2016 Rubbish collection this week
All brown bin collections are suspended for two weeks over the Christmas and New Year period. Please check www.babergh.gov.uk for details. From Monday 11th January normal waste and recycling collections resume
Waste Helpline: 01449 778678
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The Great Burstall Book Sale on October 31 was a huge success and raised £200 for Bumblebee Children’s Charity in Burstall Lane. Lesley would like to thank all those who attended and bought lots of books. She hopes to run another sale in the spring. Alongside the book sale Burstall WI members launched their oral history project by inviting a number of ex-Burstall villagers to a coffee morning. The Burstall village archive was on display which stimulated people’s memories and as a result names were put to some of the faces in the old photographs. Everybody seemed to enjoy the opportunity to get together with old friends and neighbours, but most rewarding of all is that the WI has now made contact with people who are happy to have their memories recorded for posterity. Thank you to all those who attended and helped – it was a very successful morning.
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ON THE GRAPEVINE GO WACKY IN WOOL FOR THE HOSPICE THIS CHRISTMAS
BE BRAVE AND TAKE A DIP THIS CHRISTMAS Are you brave enough to take a dip in the cold North Sea this Christmas morning for a good cause? Join St Elizabeth Hospice and hundreds of other hospice supporters for the annual Christmas Day Dip – what better way to begin the festivities! Every year around 400 people start their holiday celebrations on Felixstowe beach and at 10am when the horn sounds they run into the freezing sea to raise money for the local hospice. Joanne Rodger, St Elizabeth Hospice’s events and challenges fundraiser, said: “The Christmas Day Dip is in its 12th year and it’s still such a popular event. It’s a tradition now for families and friends to come down to the beach on Christmas morning and join together to take a dip or watch from pier as their loved ones run into the cold sea. “There’s always such a great atmosphere at the event, not only with the hundreds of people taking part, but with the thousands who turn out to watch. A lot of people do it in memory of their loved ones who were cared for by the hospice, and all the sponsorship money raised from the event goes towards improving life for local people living with a progressive illness.”
L-R: Isabelle (aged 6), Jessica, Amelie (aged 2) and Oliver (aged 5) Prosser
St Elizabeth Hospice is urging friends, colleagues and classmates to go wacky in wool this December. The charity is holding its first ever Christmas Jumper Week between December 14 and 18 and is asking local businesses, schools and groups to don their craziest knit and do their bit for their local hospice. Organisations choose a day during the week and on their nominated Christmas Jumper Day, everyone has to wear their silliest sweater and donate £2 to St Elizabeth Hospice. Felicity Rook, St Elizabeth Hospice’s head of fundraising, said: “Christmas jumpers have become such a popular phenomenon in recent years, nearly everybody has a festive top, and Christmas Jumper Week is a great excuse to get yours out and wear it to work, school or wherever. “Holding a Christmas Jumper Day is sure to get you in the festive spirit in the run up to
Christmas and is an easy and fun way to raise vital funds for your local hospice and help ensure nobody has to face their illness alone this Christmas.” Throughout the week the hospice will be offering prizes for the best, craziest and most outrageous jumpers through their Facebook and Twitter pages, so if you want to get involved, make sure you like and follow the hospice’s social media channels for your chance to win some great giveaways. To find out more or to request your Christmas Jumper Week festive fundraising pack, visit www.stelizabethhospice.org. uk/jumperweek or call 01473 723600 or email fundraising@ stelizabethhospice.org.uk
The event was launched in November with the help of Disney’s Frozen characters, Elsa and Olaf. Miss Rodger added: “We get a lot of people dressing up to take part. We see all sorts, from people dressed as turkeys and Christmas trees, to others in their penguin onesies or even a mankini! This year we were joined by Olaf and Elsa to launch the event – and we attracted quite a bit of attention as Olaf lay on the sand, draped in tinsel. We expect to see quite a few Frozen characters on Christmas morning ready to run into the sea.” Anyone from the age of 13 upwards can take part for just £5, or £10 with a T-shirt. You can register in advance at www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/ events or on the day from 8.30am on Felixstowe beach, opposite Manning’s Amusements.
If you would like to donate £2, just text JUMPER to 70300. Every pound you donate will help make a difference to the lives of local people living with a progressive illness such as cancer, motor neurone disease or heart failure.
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CHURCH NEWS ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD, ST MARY NETTLESTEAD, ST MARY THE VIRGIN LITTLE BLAKENHAM, ST PETER BAYLHAM Priest-in-charge: The Rev Jenny Seggar 01473 748914 / Stmarybramford@aol.com Assistant curate: The Rev Julian Fennel, 01473 833250 Assistant priest: The Rev Pat Wright
was the day it was installed. Unfortunately we have been let down by 110-year-old pipework which has failed somewhere underground. We will keep you informed of progress.
www.stmarybramford.co.uk Morning Prayer at Bramford: 8.30am, Monday to Friday Wednesday morning Communion Services: 9.30am at the vicarage, unless otherwise advised. Please check porch notices for any changes. December 3 3pm
United Service at Cherryfields
December 6 8am 10am
Advent 2 Said Prayer Book Communion Parish Communion with prayer for healing
Bramford
December 13 10am 3pm 6.30pm
Advent 3 Parish Communion Carol Service and mulled wine Carol Service and mulled cider
Bamford Nettlestead Baylham
Little Blakenham
December 15 2pm School Carol Service
Primary School
December 20 10am 10am 5pm 6pm
Bramford Baylham Little Blakenham Bramford
Advent 4 Parish Communion Parish Communion Carol Service Carol Service
December 21 4pm Carol service
Baylham Care Centre
December 22 12 for 12.30pm The Gathering, Christmas meal
Church Room
December 24 11am Christmas Communion by extension 3pm Posada Crib Service 5pm Crib Service 11.30pm Midnight Communion, the first communion of Christmas December 25 Christmas Day 10am United Christmas Service 10am Christmas morning Communion Service
Baylham Care Centre Bramford Baylham Bramford Methodist Church Nettlestead
December 27 First Sunday of Christmas 10am United Parishes communion Service with the Methodist church Bramford Dear Friends I must admit that I genuinely enjoy Christmas and its build up, the planning and the sheer busyness. We have some exciting services coming up, which hopefully, despite the lack of a heating system, we should still be able to host in the church. The exception to that will be the school carol service which will be held in the school. It may be useful to note at this point that our ordinary Sunday services will be in the school room, probably now until the spring (or until the heating is fixed, whichever is sooner). Several people have asked whether this is boiler trouble again, but our new boiler is just as wonderful as it
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Back to Christmas and its run up. Last year we started something called ‘Posada’ in Bramford. Posada is a way to join in the journey Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem. We have a set of knitted crib figures (with a donkey), which last year took a journey around the school and to the homes of several parishioners. This year we would like to have three sets, one out in the other parishes, travelling from Bramford, through Little Blakenham, Nettlestead and Baylham, and back again in time for Christmas, one going round the school, and one journeying round Bramford. Look out for our figures, you never know where you might see them. Also, it may well not be too late to sign up to host our figures for a night or two. That journey was important, and mirrors our own journeys to the Christ child. It’s well worthwhile taking part – last year our little family and the donkey found homes in a number of places and gained a tin to sit in, and a great deal of love along the way. This reaches its culmination at the Crib Service on Christmas Eve, when I hope that all our crib figures will have reached the stable. Even if you cannot host a figure, it would be good to see you at one of our Christmas services to join in the celebration. Blessings to you all, Jenny PARISH REGISTERS Funerals October 28: Vera Brown, Bramford October 29: John Welham, Bramford November 5: Christopher Loverage, Bramford November 9: Tina Garratt, Bramford November 11: Karen Eastleigh, Baylham Care Centre We extend to their families our sympathy and prayers. Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church December 5: In loving memory of Vic Testeer from Julia and Victoria December 9: In loving memory of Ron and Marjorie Earthy If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 a week. Cleaning rota: H and P Hart Flower rota: Advent. December 20 – Christmas Lectionary Bible Readings for our Sunday Worship are taken from the Revised Common Lectionary. It’s good to share the reading of Scripture with Christians – both Catholic and Protestant – across the world. December 6 Mal. 3:1-4 December 13 Zeph. 3:14-end December 20 Micah 5:2-5a December 24 2 Sam.7:1-5, 8-11,16 December 25 Isaiah 9:2-7 December 30 Exod.33.7-11a
Advent 2 Phil. 1:3-11 Advent 3 Phil. 4:4-7 Advent 4 Heb. 10:5-10 Christmas Eve Acts13:16-26 Christmas Day Titus 2:11-14 Christmas 1 1 John 1
Purple Luke 3:1-6 Purple Luke 3:7-18 Purple Luke 1:39-45 Purple Luke 1:67-79 Gold Luke: 1-14 (15-20) White John21.19b-25
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