In Touch News with Bramford - June 2017

In Touch

™© ™©

with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham Volume 7 • Issue No. 8 • JUNE 2017

March Accounting & Taxation Services Ian Coombes FCCA MBA

• FREE initial consultation to discuss any tax, accounting and general business issues • Payroll, Auto Enrolment,VAT, Self Assessment, and full accounting service • Personable and professional tailored support • Fees agreed in advance • Out of office hours service available Individuals, self employed and limited companies

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

A Sunny Day on the River by Gavin Hodge

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I heard an interesting term the other day, ‘world whelm’, defined as ‘crashing anxiety caused by a never-ending, nerve-fraying news feed’. Most of us will have experienced this at some point in recent months, but I hope we can provide a brief respite. I have my moments and occasionally despair when I watch the news, but as deadline day approaches and my inbox fills with emails from groups and individuals organising fundraising events or undertaking personal challenges to raise money for charity, I find comfort in knowing there are many, many, many good people doing good things every day of the week to help others.

So when ‘world whelm’ strikes, pick up your In Touch magazine to ease the anxiety and perhaps you’ll be inspired to do ‘your bit’. You don’t have to jump out of a plane! Just supporting others in their efforts, whether it’s a local event or a fundraising activity, is worthy, and you’ll discover other benefits too.

Living in a place where you don’t know your neighbours, where you don’t have any shared sense of space or don’t know what’s going on socially or politically, can feel isolating. That’s why it’s important to engage or to foster community spirit, to find ways to bond with neighbours and to build a life which extends beyond your front door. So turn off the TV, take a walk, shop locally, attend local events or join a committee, maybe even start a club, offer help when you can and ask for it when you need it.

NEWS

BRAMFORD FLOWER SHOW The Loraine Victory Hall Saturday, July 1 Doors open at 3pm

I’ve occasionally been accused of being naïve, but I believe people are innately good and that social connection is a basic human need. I’ve read that strong social connection strengthens our immune system, helps us recover from disease faster, and may even lengthen our life. People who feel more connected to others have lower rates of anxiety and depression. Moreover, studies show they also have higher self-esteem, are more empathic to others, more trusting and cooperative and, as a consequence, others are more open to trusting and cooperating with them.

You’ll have no problem finding things to do or events to support this month.

Your problem may be fitting it all in!

In Touch

with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: 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.

ADVERTISING Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 DISTRIBUTION Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 PRINTING Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk

01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints.

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Tennis for Kids is the LTA’s flagship programme to get more kids playing tennis following Great Britain’s historic 2015 Davis Cup victory. The idea was to inspire the next generation to play and follow in the footsteps of GB tennis heroes such as Andy Murray, Jaimie Murray and Jo Konta.

The first year of the programme in 2016 aimed to introduce over 10,000 five to eight year old kids to tennis through a free six-week programme run by hand-picked qualified coaches. Kids who attended at least four of the six sessions also received a free racquet and certificate to celebrate their success and to encourage them to continue to play. By the end of the first year 854 coaches across the UK had delivered 1,420 courses to over 13,200 children!

Due to the success in 2016, Tennis for Kids has returned in 2017 with even bigger ambitions, aiming to introducing a further 20,000 five to eight year olds to this exiting sport. One such course was held at Riverhills Health Club from April 22 to May 27. The course was run by Carl Douglas, an experienced coach who recently moved to Great Blakenham and who is passionate about getting more children away from their consoles and into playing sport instead.

The course was oversubscribed and was a great success with kids and parents. As Carl himself said: “The kids were fantastic, full of enthusiasm and every child improved massively over the six weeks, we even ran a series of kids v parents challenges throughout and needless to say the kids won all of those, despite some underhand tactics by the parents!”

JULY DEADLINE

Massive congratulations to all kids who completed the programme including George Moore, George Prentice, Harry Cullimore, Phoebe Cullimore, Harley Airey, Joshua O’Donnell, Maddison Clarke, Mohammed Al-Amin, Rishad Al-Amin, Lola Dod, Ottilie Dod, Ariene Few and Charlie Wolton-Hughes.

is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

For more details and to sign up to any of the forthcoming junior coaching programmes in the Bramford area please visit: www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/CarlDouglasCoaching

© 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 & Willisham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

TENNIS FOR KIDS IN BRAMFORD

10 JUNE 2017

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

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NEWS BURSTALL FLOWER SHOW & FETE: SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 It’s nearing that time of year again, not that anyone could possibly forget! The first Saturday in August means it’s time for Burstall Show, now – incredibly – into its 64th consecutive year.

STRAWBERRY FAIR Sunday, June 25, 3-5pm St Mary’s Church, Nettlestead Followed by an Evensong Service Come along for strawberry teas and cake, children’s games, craft and book stalls and a treasure hunt.

Raising funds for St Mary’s Church, Nettlestead

MEMORY LANE CAFÉ A coffee morning will be held at The Brook Inn on Wednesday, July 5 to raise funds for Memory Lane Café. The café will be open on Tuesdays, commencing in early July, in The Rosary Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich. The café is open specifically for those living with dementia and their carers. We aim to provide a welcoming, relaxed and safe atmosphere, and provide a light lunch and various activities.

If you’ve been before it’ll already be in your diary, but if you haven’t, you have treats in store.

We take pride in the fact that this is a truly traditional village show and fete, so come along with your friends and family and enjoy refreshments, including legendary lunches (from noon), brilliant barbecues (from 1.30pm), tasty teas (from 3pm), inviting ices and super snacks.

The flower show marquee opens at 1pm and the fete starts at 2pm with entertainment from Hoxon Hundred Morris Dancers, Punch & Judy, a children’s entertainer and fun sideshows and games including target sports, tug of war, croquet, stocks, children’s fancy dress (Punch & Judy theme), face painting, bingo, bottle tombola, white elephant, quiz and a grand draw.

All of this takes place in or around Burstall Village Hall (IP8 3DR). If you want to know more about the event, please contact either Ann Burchnall (secretary) on 01473 652262 or Keith Raby (chairman and master of ceremonies) on 07940 574593. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you on the day.

SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA) In the autumn of last year, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no. 4494/16.

Full details can be found at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-andbuilding/planning It is important to be aware that this is not a renewal of the original planning approval for SnOasis, which remains in place. Reserved Matters cover the detail of such topics as design, appearance, transport, drainage, ecological mitigation, etc. This means that your local council and residents are not being asked whether they want the development to go ahead. Instead, the developer will put forward their plans regarding, for example, the external appearance of the ski slope, and we will be asked for comments on that and similar matters.

SPA is committed to working with Mid Suffolk District Council to obtain the information that is necessary for councils to be able to make informed and constructive comments. Therefore, it is particularly worrying that yet another month has passed with no information being available on any of the outstanding Reserved Matters. As the August deadline comes increasingly close, the SPA is concerned that all the information will only be available at the last possible minute, meaning that not just the SPA, but all the organisations involved in commenting, will be forced to consider a great amount of detailed information in an impossibly short timescale. This will mean that this project, which will have a great impact on the local area and it’s residents, may not be given the detailed level of scrutiny it needs, despite the best efforts of the SPA. Sadly, the delays in receiving information mean that, yet again, there is nothing new to report this month.

For further information, please email Janet Gobey, the clerk to the SPA on: snoasispa@icloud.com Regards, Steve Plume Chairman – SnOasis Parish Alliance 4

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BRAMFORD SOCIAL CLUB (Formerly known as Bramford RBL Club)

Entertainment for June 71-73 The Street, Bramford IP8 4DX Tel: 01473 745198

Thurs 1

QUIZ NIght

Sat 3

Mr toUcaN

Thurs 8 Sat 10

JaZZ NIght BoNNIE DIaMoND aND coE

Thurs 15 Sat 17 Wed 21 Sat 24 Thurs 29

QUIZ NIght 80s NIght DISco KaraoKE MEL StEVENS QUIZ NIght

Every Sunday night Bingo at 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.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

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NEWS SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM THE LEGEND OF BLOOD HILL For those unfamiliar with this location you will find it as you travel along Somersham road to Little Blakenham. Until a few years ago it was a landfill site operated by Suffolk County Council, having previously been a chalk quarry.

The hill, into which the original pit was dug, is called Blood Hill on Ordnance Survey Maps today. Its name was also mentioned in records back in the 13th century. At its peak, it is about 40 metres (about 130 feet) above sea level and gives a clear view across the Gipping Valley to Broom Hill, in Paper Mill Lane – another site of many years of quarrying.

Older residents will tell you that the name Blood Hill relates to a battle fought there in the distant past. Although you might pass this off as an old wives’ tale there is an element of truth in this legend.

In 2006, archaeologists discovered a small burial ground in addition to various other features dating back to the Early Neolithic Age (about 10,000 years ago). At least five graves were uncovered with evidence of seven burials. One group related to the Late Neolithic / Early Bronze Age, around 2000 BC, but the others were much later and dated to the Roman period (late fourth century).

With summer close by, here’s just a little reminder about shed and garage security.

Think about: • Fitting a good quality padlock (there are even alarmed ones that are activated if tampered with) • Checking that your door hinges are secure • Obscuring windows with a net curtain or fitting internal bars/grille • Keeping doors and windows locked • Security marking items of value with your postcode (make a note of any serial numbers and photograph items) • Install external dusk till dawn lighting and consider an alarm which can deter intruders Should you require any further advice please contact: • 101 in a non-emergency or 999 for emergency calls • Email the Safer Neighbourhood team: hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk • Follow us on Twitter @HadleighPolice • Join up to Police Connect: www.suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect

The Roman burials were three graves in a tight group. Two burials were identified as mature males, but the other was that of an adult woman and two children buried together with grave goods of jet and glass beads, a pottery vessel, a finger ring, bracelet and two anklets.

Alternatively for any further crime reduction advice please contact the local crime reduction officer on 01473 613500 or visit: www.suffolk.police.uk

The woman is believed to have been around 30 to 35 years old, the older child about eight and the younger about four. Detailed forensic examination of the skeletal remains indicated that this group had enjoyed a relatively good diet and had not performed heavy manual labour in their lives. They were likely, then, to have been from a fairly prosperous group of people.

Regards, PC287 Sarah George, Hadleigh SNT

Any information you may wish to pass about any crime can also be passed by calling CRIMESTOPPERS: 0800 555 111

However, the most dramatic discovery in relation to the woman and older child was the evidence that they had suffered a vicious attack that had led to their deaths. The conclusions in the report, which even in its clinical language still makes uncomfortable reading, was that they had suffered several blows to the head by some form of blade – probably a sword. Not evidence of a battle maybe, but certainly an attack which could have shocked the local population enough to give the hill its name.

What is also clear from the evidence is that this family was buried with care, so not a hurried attempt to cover up a murder, but left to be found by family and friends. Of course, there could be more evidence somewhere nearby of wider bloodshed yet to be discovered. Perhaps these burials are just one small part of the story of Blood Hill?

To learn more about the history of Bramford visit: www bramfordhistorygroup.org.uk

DRINKSTONE OPEN GARDENS SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY, JUNE 17 COME AND BE INSPIRED There will be 12 (so far) gardens open including two NGS gardens, all loved and cared for.

See beautiful vistas, amazing planting, something for everyone to enjoy.

Entry by programme £5 per person, available on the day to include a cup of tea/coffee. Accompanied under 16s are free.

Delicious homemade cakes and savouries available in the village hall together with our plant sale, where you can pick up a bargain to add to your plant collection.

For the work of All Saints’ Church lynnewoodward44@gmail.com

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ADVERTORIAL

Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number

of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing

a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

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NEWS

Fri 9th - Thurs 15th June

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY 2 (12A) Fri 9th: 5.00, Sat 10th: 7.15, Sun 11th: 12.15 Mon 12th - Thurs 15th: 7.45

A DOG’S PURPOSE (PG) Fri 26th May - Thurs 1st June

Fri 9th: 2.30, Sat 10th: 4.00 Sun 11th: 3.00, Mon 12th & Tue 13th: 2.30 Wed 14th & Thurs 15th: 5.15

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN MISS SLOANE (15) SALAZAR’S REVENGE (12A) Mon 12th & Tue 13th: 5.00 Fri 26th - Thurs 1st: 1.45, 4.30, 7.15

Wed 14th & Thurs 15th: 2.30

SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP

A Community Shop for the local community, run by the local community

SMURFS - THE LOST VILLAGE (U) THEIR FINEST (12A) Sat 27th - Thurs 1st: 11.30am

Fri 2nd - Thurs 8th June

Sun 11th: 5.15, Thurs 15th 11.45am

Fri 16th - Thurs 22nd June

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD (12A) SALAZAR’S REVENGE (12A) Fri 2nd - Sun 4th: 1.45, 4.30, 7.15 Mon 5th - Thurs 8th: 5.00 & 7.45

Fri 16th - Sun 18th: 2.30 & 7.45 Mon 19th - Wed 21st: 7.45 Thurs 22nd: 11.45am

SMURFS - THE LOST VILLAGE (U) ALIEN COVENANT (15) Fri 2nd - Sun 4th: 11.30am

THE PROMISE (12A)

Mon 5th - Thurs 8th: 2.15 EVENT CINEMA

World Class Theatre - Beamed to Stowmarket

Friday 9th June at 8.00pm - Tickets £14.00

Live from the 02

Fri 16th - Sun 18th: 5.00

WHISKY GALORE (PG)

Mon 19th & Tue 20th: 2.30 Wed 21st: 5.15, Thurs 22nd: 4.45

MINDHORN (15)

Mon 19th & Tue 20th: 5.00 Wed 21st & Thurs 22nd: 2.30

TAKE THAT - WONDERLAND A DOG’S PURPOSE (PG) Saturday 10th June at 12.30pm Tickets £12.50, Under 17’s £10

Sat 17th & Sun 18th: 12.15

POCKET MONEY MOVIES

Recorded live from the National Theatre GREAT FAMILY FILMS, KIDS £2.50, ADULTS FREE!*

PETER PAN

Thursday 22nd June at 7.00pm - Tickets £12.50

National Theatre Live presents

SALOME

www.regalstowmarket.co.uk / 01449 612825 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1AY

SING (U)

Sat 27th & Sun 28th: 9.30am, Wed 31st: 9.30am

THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE (U) Fri 2nd - Sun 4th: 9.30am

BEAUTY & THE BEAST (PG)

Sat 10th & Sun 11th: 9.30am, Sat 17th & Sun 18th: 9.30am *1x free adult per paying child. Under 10’s must be accompanied.

The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm Saturdays: 8am-1pm ANNIVERSARY COFFEE MORNING Help to celebrate the fifth anniversary of our community shop on Saturday, July 8, 10am-12.30pm. You are invited to join us for cake and a drink to help us celebrate and to say thank you to all our volunteers and customers without whom our local shop would not be possible.

It’s unimaginable to think that our shop has been open for nearly five years. It’s a real success for our locality to have such a friendly and useful village shop and it’s all thanks to the people in the community.

Our delicious cakes are made locally in Elmsett. We have some on daily display, but it’s also possible to order anything special you require such as birthday or other celebration cakes. Just put your order in at the shop. It’s also possible to order locally made bread and rolls, sausages, pies and other meats, so you won’t be disappointed when we sell out.

Some really lovely strong shoulder bags have recently been acquired showing our shop logo. They are really useful and handy for carrying shopping and much more. Do have a look when you come in. Thanks to Anne for locating and purchasing such a fine and reasonably priced new item.

The long-running Golden Link group has relocated their meetings every other Tuesday afternoon to our coffee corner. It’s a chance for a chat with others over tea and cake, and maybe other outings on offee, so come along and see what’s happening. Petrolheads is also going strongly on the first Wednesday afternoon of the month, so lots going on in coffee corner these days.

Jenny Hitchcock, a long-serving committee member, has reluctantly had to resign from the management committee which organises the running of the shop. We thank her very much for her valuable contribution and are happy that she will still continue as a volunteer. However, this does leave a gap in our management side and if anybody thinks they could contribute in this way to the valuable asset that is our village shop, we would be delighted to hear from them. Please contact Terry or Lucy in the first instance to let them know of your interest and know that you would be contributing greatly to the life of our community We have been having a promotion for new volunteers recently and have had some success. Volunteering in the shop not only helps the community, but also helps the individual, especially anybody new to the village, to get to know people and what’s happening locally and to be involved in village life. We also like to have young students volunteering as they gain lots of work and life experience which is good for putting on CVs. If you’re thinking of volunteering, either for personal interest or to gain experience, come along and we will be very happy to see you.

Management Team: Lucy Barrett, 831890; Terry Fordham, 831529; Peter Jousiffe; Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080

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NEWS but we have yet to see an eel going up! Our understanding is that it is only for a few weeks in April each year that the eels ‘return home’ for breeding so while we observe all year round, it is very much a passive activity.

SPRING 2017 PROJECT UPDATE Winter thankfully proved uneventful for BOS in respect of storm/ weather damage to Bramford Meadows. As part of the flood defences for Ipswich there were instances of the north meadow being under water, but not for any extended period of time. Storm Doris did bring with it some minor tree work that was picked up by our own volunteers using our new volunteer toolkit.

Public access improvements with funding support from Community Trust SUEZ The new picnic tables, riverside seats, display boards and new signage were installed in February and March. Response from visitors to the meadows has been positive and encouraging. It is rewarding for us to get feedback and also to see an increase in visitors.

Woodland Trust Tree Planting In November last year volunteers planted 105 saplings donated by the Woodland Trust. The first few years of a new trees life are the most critical and we are pleased to say that most appear to have survived the winter and are developing new spring foliage.

Fingers crossed!

Grow Wild: national outreach initiative of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew It was by coincidence that our second batch of wildflower seeds from Kew Gardens were sown just as the Plantlife report on continued reduction of wildflower species was published to the media. We now have 60m² of seed beds and a temporary information board with illustrations of what the fully grown flowers should look like. Again fingers crossed that our patches of bare earth green up and we get to see an abundance of colour later this year and next.

Volunteer Work Parties We had our first work party of the year completing a spring clean of the south meadow and also the public foot path on Ship Lane. While the footpath is not our responsibility it is something we do for the benefit of local residents and especially our younger residents walking to school. It was great to see new faces on the day and the tool kit funded by Community Trust SUEZ in full use.

Eel Pass Eels have been seen swimming around the bottom of the eel pass,

Environment Agency Lock Inspection We enjoy a good working relationship with a wide range of public bodies. An example this month was the Bramford lock inspection.

This is a key part of the Ipswich flood protection system and was scheduled for an engineering review to ensure it remains solid and secure.

To inspect the lock, the river level had to be significantly lowered (almost empty between Bramford and Rushbrook Mill), which was a first in recent years. Fortunately this all went smoothly through effective planning and communication and at the end of the week the river was all back to normal.

Plans for 2017 to 2021 The aims of our charity are to protect, conserve and improve. To support this for the longer term the committee are in the process of reviewing the various ideas and suggestions that have been sent in to us. Naturally there is a balance to be made.

For example, an idea for increasing public access could interfere with wildlife habitat. If you have any ideas that fit with our aims, please do let us know so that they can be considered.

Get involved There are a number of ways to get involved with the charity. For Bramford residents free membership gives you voting rights at the AGM each year. It also gives you the opportunity to get involved in the future direction of the charity by joining the committee.

For non-residents there are two options. Joining as a friend, at no cost, means you will get our quarterly newsletter emailed to you and have the opportunity to get involved in our volunteer work parties.

By joining as a non-resident member for a £5 annual fee you get to vote at the AGM and also the opportunity to sit on the committee.

Feedback Bramford has always, we think, been an open community with people feeling free to share their thoughts about the village and what we could do to improve the area. If you have any ideas about improving the meadows or other open spaces in Bramford, please feel free to get in touch via our website, by email to BramfordOpenSpaces@ gmail.com or by letter to the Parish Rooms, Ship Lane, Bramford IP8 4AN. www.bramfordopenspaces.onesuffolk.net

We stopped to look at our favourite view It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day

01473 858517

www.eastofengland.coop/funerals for your local funeral director

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: MAY 2017 I am pleased to say that I was re-elected as county councillor for Gipping Valley by a narrow majority of 30 votes, a nail biting experience for me and for my Conservative opponent John Whitehead. Thank you to all who voted for me and can I assure those who did not that I did collect their views while canvassing and will work for them just as hard as I work for my supporters.

The Liberal Democrats lost three members in Belstead Brook, Hadleigh and in Bosmere where Julia Truelove retired after many years advocating improvements in services for children and young people.

County Council Activities County council meetings have yet to re-start and there will be quite a period of induction activities before we really get started again.

Committee positions will be re-allocated in line with the new political ratios and the dominant Conservative group will appoint cabinet members and chairs of committees.

I hope to retain a position on the Scrutiny Committee where I can exert some influence on the reviews of service efficiency and on the effectiveness of policy. Time will tell, as it will for the Pension Committee where I was involved for the last four years.

It will be no surprise that the dominant issue on the doorstep and in the residents’ surveys that I carried out was the repair and subsequent rapid failure of potholes. The new structure in Highways will I hope address these issues, but requires a close watch.

I will now be able to follow up on the flooding, parking and mud on roads issues and, of course, the zebra crossing in Great Blakenham just as soon as I establish the new contact points in the Highways integrated teams.

District Council Mid Suffolk and Babergh are pressing ahead with their plan to borrow

a joint £50 million to invest in commercial property. This will yield some 7% rent they hope to be offset against the need to raise council tax. Similar investments have been successful for other councils, but the risk of borrowing from the public works loans board to invest on what is currently a falling market is for me a risk too far. I hope I shall be proved wrong, that rental yield is high and the capital value grows rather than shrinks.

Parish Councils I attend almost all parish council meetings, but there are problems when they clash with school governor meetings or with each other, a common occurrence. I am asking for meetings to be arranged on different days of the week or on differing weeks. I believe I and my fellow district councillors should be available to answer your questions and hear your views. If this were a division with some obvious place to meet, a library perhaps, it would be much easier to hold regular surgeries. Compared to the market towns we are rather spread out for that.

One good point is that I understand that SALC (Suffolk Association of Local Councils) is changing the guidance that has been restricting resident participation and encouraging a more flexible approach to meetings. I hope that if you can contribute more freely, you will find it rewarding to attend and challenge us all on our performance. However, the parish councillors remain the decision makers.

If you have queries please phone me on 01473 831306 (you will need to say your name and press #) or 07545 423808. You can also email me at: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk Twitter @JohnFieldjd Facebook /fieldjd accounts www.johnfield.suffolk.libdems.org

CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE MID SUFFOLK LINK Unbelievably we are now in our tenth year and to date more than 200 children have benefitted from our program coming to the UK, plus many more in Belarus who were unable to travel but received support from the people of Mid Suffolk.

Having returned from Belarus with details of all of the children who will be visiting in July, we are now really busy raising the necessary funds to make sure we can cover all the expenses for bringing them here. We also want to make sure they have a great time during the visit and are able to go home with plenty of aid to help them and their families through the coming months.

All of this will go towards creating memories that will last them a lifetime, a ‘forever’ gift that will be both priceless and irreplaceable.

Please help us by coming to our Pig Racing night on Saturday, June 17. This event is being held in The Old Timber Barn, Church Farm, Somersham, approximately 12 minutes from Needham Market and a bit longer from Stowmarket. (See page 13) The Pig Racing is hosted by Stowmarket Lions and tickets will include a lite bite supper and dessert. There will also be a bar providing a selection of beers, wines and soft drinks. This is a family event and will take place between 6.30 and 9.30pm to allow children to attend without being too late to bed!

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The event provides great fun for all. Eight pigs will run in each race, each with their own jockey on board. Jockeys change pig for every race so no one pig can be identified as the fastest on two batteries. Each pig has an ‘owner’ who gets to name their pig for that race and the winning pig owner also receives a prize. Some of the best names we have had to date are: That’s an Offal Joke, Porkie Pies, Auntie Chops and Smokin’ Bacon & Cracklin Rosie. Could you do better? Get in touch and find out about sponsoring a race.

Tickets for the tote are £1 each and 50% of the money from bets received will go to the charity with the other 50% being divided amongst the holders of the tickets for the winning pig. The value of each ticket is announced before the start of each race. There will also be our usual fantastic raffle with enough prizes for everyone to stand a good chance of winning.

Tickets can be purchased from the Chernobyl Children’s Charity Shop in Needham Market, or by calling 07771 550868 or 07905 791207 and are £6 for adults and £4 for children under 10.

With grateful thanks to all who support us throughout the year.

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT FILM RELEASED ON SUFFOLK ENERGY FROM WASTE FACILITY

CLAYDON AND BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE

Grimshaw Architects, the firm who designed the Suffolk energy from waste facility, have released a short film about the process of designing the facility and the importance of good design.

Church Lane Claydon Ipswich IP6 0EG 01473 831805 / info@candbcc.co.uk

The film features interviews with representatives from Suffolk County Council, SUEZ and Grimshaw. Bryn Griffiths, Assistant Director Environment at Suffolk County Council, explains the importance the council placed on good design from the outset and the need for the facility. Kirsten Lees and Andrew Usher from Grimshaw outline the design process and how this sought to reduce the impact on the Suffolk landscape and include an element of transparency to help address local concerns. Jean Claude Sartenaer, Project Director at SUEZ, talks of his pride in the building, noting it is both useful, treating waste as a fuel to produce energy, and beautiful.

The film not only features interviews with representatives from the project team, it also includes two local residents, Penny Pearson and Chris Studd, who compare how they felt about the project when it was first announced with their thoughts on it today now the facility is up and running.

To learn about the design process and hear what Penny and Chris have to say, visit: Grimshaw’s Youtube Channel Introducing our new Community Liaison Manager Emily Pike has recently moved on from her position as Community Liaison Manager at the Suffolk energy from waste facility. We’re pleased to say Emily is staying with us at SUEZ and will continue to work at the facility in a different role.

Claire Davies is taking over the Community Liaison Manager position.

Claire is passionate about the environment and sustainability, holding a degree in Environmental Science from the University of East Anglia. She previously worked with Suffolk County Council’s Waste Management Team during her Year in Industry placement in 2014-2015.

Facebook: claydonandbarhamcommunitycentre Daily activities currently include the Community Café, Monday to Saturday inclusive, zumba on Monday evenings and karate from 4.457pm on Tuesdays with junior and senior classes. The club opens the bar at 7pm until approximately midnight and we have indoor bowls most weeks and occasionally ladies darts. Wednesday is bingo, with the bar opening at 7pm until approximately 11.30pm. The bar doesn’t open on Thursdays and on Friday there is karate again from 4.45-7pm and the bar opens until approximately 12.30am. On Saturday the bar opens at noon through until 3pm and reopens again at 7pm, through till approximately 12.30am. On Sunday we open at noon and usually close around 5pm.

The hall has received a lot of bookings enquiries, some well into next year. So if you are thinking of hosting an event, party or celebration at the club please call us ASAP to reserve your dates.

Forthcoming events include an 80s Tribute night on Friday, June 23, 8pm until late. The tickets cost £7.50, optional 80s dress code.

On Saturday, September 23 the community centre is hosting a cabaret event featuring the extremely talented Richard Whymark. Richard is a comedy magician, ventriloquist and impressionist and was voted one of East Anglia’s funniest comedians. We also have the very talented Mr Terry Lee Travis, an accomplished solo singer and entertainer. Doors open at 7pm with entertainment due to start at 8pm.

We hope you will join us in welcoming Claire and wishing Emily all the best in her new role.

We were fortunate to receive funding from a variety of sources to help towards the purchase of an AED defibrillator. Donations were received from Claydon & Whitton and Barham Parish Councils and from the short mat and indoor bowls clubs, together with In Touch money and money raised from the Christmas cake raffle. The defibrillator is now ‘live’ and is situated on the outside of the premises. Our sincere thanks to everyone involved.

BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB

BRAMFORD TREFOIL GUILD

Now that the May Bank Holidays have passed, the Monday (7.30-9.30pm) and Wednesday (10am-noon) groups will meet every week in June.

Cost £2 per session, with membership of £1 per school year now payable in September. We meet in the room above the Methodist Church and aim to help you to get the most out of your computer. Why not give us a try?

The guild met on May 8 and had a short but interesting insight into Riding for the Disabled by Judith whose granddaughter Hannah uses the facility. Our meeting on June 5 is a trip to Sandringham. I’m sure the members who are going will have a wonderful time and I hope the weather is good to them. In July we are meeting at the Washbrook Brook Hotel and going on a nice walk.

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In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT

Saturday 17th June Grand Pig Racing Evening!

SCARECROW WORKSHOP IN BURSTALL VILLAGE HALL

Including Lite Bite Supper

Saturday, July 8 from 2-5pm: Free fun day for the family – children must be accompanied by an adult

Bar serving a range of Beers, Wines & Soft Drinks

Tote and Pig Races hosted by Stowmarket Lions

Doors open 6:00 pm first race 6.30 prompt

Come and make a scarecrow to enter into Burstall Flower Show to be held on Saturday, August 5. There is a class for family entry so come along and make one at our workshop

To be held at: The Old Timber Barn, Church Farm

You will need to bring any clothing and accessories for your scarecrow.

Suggestions for clothing are: leggings, tights or trousers (child’s size), old sweaters, tops or a dress for a lady scarecrow. This is a free workshop, lots of help available. Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits provided.

Church Lane, Somersham IP8 4PN (10 mins from Needham Market)

We hope that every scarecrow will be entered into Burstall Show, schedules will be available on the day or at: wwwburstall.onesuffolk.net Booking is essential as the numbers will be limited. Please contact Ann: 01473 652262 / ann.burchnall@gmail.com

Tickets £6.00 each under 10’s £4.00

Tickets available by calling 07771 550868 or 07905 791207 Also available from CCLL Charity Shop Needham Market; 9 Coddenham Rd. A Charity event for Chernobyl Childrens Lifeline Registered Charity Number: 1014274

ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET

The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, June 10, 9am-12.30pm.

Fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items which helps present buying.

East End Butchers are pleased to be the market’s resident meat supplier. If you would like to place on order with them it can be collected at the market each month. Their number for orders is 01206 392190.

Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue.

New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777

SPEND AN EVENING WITH JULIET BARKER Juliet Barker is a historian specialising in the Middle Ages and literary biography. Her books include The Brontës, Conquest and the bestselling Agincourt. Her latest book is The Brontës: A Life in Letters, described as “exhilarating because it is a portrait of six extraordinary people in their own words”.

Juliet will be appearing at the Ipswich Institute Reading Room (15 Tavern Street, IP1 3AA) on Wednesday, June 7 as part of Suffolk Book League’s 2017 programme of events. Doors open at 7pm with the event starting at 7.30pm. General admission is £8 (members £4). Students free with ID. Tickets to be paid for on the door. Reservations can be made by emailing: tickets@sbl.org.uk www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

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OUT & ABOUT AFTERNOON TEA DANCE WITH THE THREE CHORDETTES

BRAMFORD WI

The Three Chordettes bring you an afternoon of traditional afternoon tea and live vintage swing music at the Loraine Victory Hall, Bramford IP8 4AL on Saturday, June 24, 2-3.30pm.

Tickets (£12 including afternoon tea) are available from: www.ticketsource.co.uk/thethreechordettes For more information, contact Sarah – thethreechordettes@gmail.com / 07508 472142 – or visit: www.thethreechordettes.co.uk You can also follow The Three Chordettes on Facebook, Twitter @ ThreeChordettes and Instagram.

BAR-CLAY MUSIC MAKERS LOOK AHEAD

The competition is a fascinator (headband hat) embellished by you. It would be great if we all wear hats.

BRAMFORD CRAFT & CHATTER GROUP We are now firmly settled at the Parish Room and this month we will meet on Tuesdays 13 and 27 from 9.30am to noon. Visitors (male and female) are welcome to come along and join us in doing something crafty or playing Scrabble. Just £2 per session.

BRAMFORD LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

Following another successful panto in January 2017 (Goldie Locks and Some Other Guys), Bar-Clay Music Makers are gearing up for our next production. With no fewer than six scripts to choose from at the recent AGM, members voted by a large majority for The Little Mermaid.

This original show, written by BMM member Linzi Hall, will be staged on the last two weekends of January 2018. But first you are invited to a read-through on Wednesday, July 12 and auditions a week later on July 19, both at 7.30pm in Claydon and Barham Village Hall. Director Linzi Hall and assistant director Tom Hitchcock look forward to welcoming members old and new (including youngsters who will be in Year 6 in September 2017) to join in the fun, on stage, back stage or front of house. What better way to fill those long winter evenings?

For more information contact Vera Rogers: 01473 836972 / vera.rogers1@btinternet.com

IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5

Town/village

Location

Time

MIP/5A

Sproughton

Church Lane

9.10-9.25am

MIP/5B

Sproughton

Wild Man

9.30-9.45am

MIP/5C

Bramford

St Mary’s Close

9.50-10.05am

MIP/5D

Bramford

Paper Mill Lane

10.10-10.25am

MIP/5E

Great Blakenham, Chequers

10.35-1055am

MIP/5F Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park

11-11.15am MIP/5G

Baylham

Post Box

11.25-11.45am

MIP/5H

Claydon

Crown

11.55am-1pm

MIP/5I

Claydon

Edinburgh Gardens 2.05-2.20pm

MIP/5J

Barham

Bacon Road

2.25-3.50pm

MIP/5K

Bramford

Packard Place

4-4.30pm

2017 DATES: June 6, July 4, August 1, August 29, September 26, October 24, November 21, December 19 14

We will be on starting orders in the Loraine Village Hall at 7.30pm on Monday, June 12 as we are going to the races with Barbara Faulkner. Her talk will be about Ladies Day at Ascot.

On Thursday, June 15, Janette Robinson will be telling us all about Flora Sandes. She may not be widely known, but was a remarkable woman. It will be an interesting evening. We will meet in the Church Room, starting at 7.30pm as usual. Visitors welcome £3.

SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB On April 19, following a satisfying lunch at the Wild Man, 18 members attended the club’s AGM. It had been a quiet year, with outings mainly restricted to local pub meals because most members did not want to go on coach outings. It was hoped that the next committee would have some ideas. The club secretary agreed that there had been little activity as many members were not so able to negotiate coaches, stairs and walking. Several planned outings had been cancelled due to lack of support by members. The treasurer reported a healthy bank balance because little had been spent on outings. This subject would be discussed at forthcoming committee meetings and the outcome may lead to no grant application this year to the parish council.

Election of Officers and Committee Members In the absence of any volunteers, the existing officers agreed to stand again for the next year. There were no nominations for committee members and, after some deliberation, all committee members agreed to stand again this year. Pat Gilbert agreed to fill the vacancy of the seventh committee member, caused by the resignation of Christine McMahon earlier this year due to ill health. The current club committee are: Chairman: John Bates Secretary: Olive Matthews Treasurer: Heather Earey Members: Margaret Ballard, Pat Gilbert, Ann Ward, Christine West It was proposed and agreed that birthday cards should no longer be sent to members by the club.

Message from the Chairman I regret that I have not been to the club for three weeks. As most of you know, it has been due my leg trouble which has worsened the last few weeks. I have trouble walking and have been told to keep my leg up. I hope to come to the club in the near future, but have been informed that recovery will probably take a few weeks. Although I live alone, I have close family members who are a great help.

John Bates In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB The club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet from 2-4pm on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House, with its own parking area at the rear. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.

In April we had an Easter themed social afternoon which included a yellow raffle and at our meeting on April 24 we were pleased to see Peter Banham on a return visit with his interactive talk on old sayings and their meanings which everyone found very entertaining as well as informative.

We were also pleased to welcome Maureen and Michael Hall, Gill Glaister and Pam Rudland as new members to the club.

Our programme up to our summer break is: June 14: Social Afternoon with Brenda June 28: A visit by Hannah Barton from the Citizens Advice Bureau explaining the work they do and the services they provide to the community July 12: Social Afternoon with Sandra July 26: Summer Tea Party with entertainment by one of our members, Dot Chapman, on her accordion As you can see we have quite a varied programme. New members are always welcome but if you would just like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you.

SOMERSHAM WI Our June speaker is Jenny Gibbs from Turkish Talks and Travels.

Jenny travelled to Turkey to set up a bed and breakfast so has many tales to tell, but will be speaking to us about Turkish silks and pashminas. She will also demonstrate some ways of wearing scarves and pashminas and will have some authentic Turkish pashminas for sale afterwards. Sounds like a must if you enjoy wearing more than just a woolly scarf in the winter or want to cover up in the summer!

We will also be holding our inaugural members’ competition on the theme of travel photography. Check out our Facebook page to see some of the entries afterwards: www.facebook.com/ SomershamWI If you haven’t been to one of our WI meetings, why not come to this one as a taster session? The meeting starts at 7.30pm and costs just £3. Everyone is welcome.

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: 741331

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired business gentlemen. The primary objective is to provide fellowship between members and to share similar interests in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

We meet at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us.

If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

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SCHOOLS

CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL

As I write this article, we are heading into summer and it’s hard to believe how quickly this year has flown by! We are now coming to the end of the GCSE examination period and Year 11 students have made the most of revision days and catch-up clubs, demonstrating maturity and commitment as they approach their final exams. They have contributed greatly to school life and we wish them all the very best of luck and hope that all their hard work is rewarded with success. I would like to take this opportunity to thank parents/carers of Year 11 for their support during the last five years. Students are looking forward to celebrating the end of their exams at the school prom on June 22.

In May, we were delighted to hear that Claydon High School achieved accreditation for transforming practice under SSAT’s Framework for Exceptional Education. The Framework for Exceptional Education is a self-review and planning tool incorporating SSAT’s 30 years of experience in school improvement. Co-developed with a group of high-performing schools and reviewed by leading academics, the framework supports schools in quality assuring their work and sharing effective practice. To achieve accreditation as transforming in practice, two other high-performing schools and an independent moderator from SSAT reviewed us. SSAT’s Chief Executive, Sue Williamson commented: “For a school to be accredited for transforming practice is a real credit to their team and the quality of the work that they are doing.” I would like to take this opportunity to thank my dedicated team of staff for their hard work and support.

On Tuesday, May 2, students in Years 7 and 9 took part in a three-day ‘Humanutopia’ workshop. An external group of skilled team leaders visited the school and worked with both year groups to guide them through a process that helps them to reflect on some of the major issues and barriers that young people face. On day one, using the flagship programme ‘Who am I?’, Year 9 students were asked to consider how their past actions have led them to be the person they are today and to identify what changes they need and may want to make. It was an opportunity to realise that they can be in control of their life, their future and their own destiny. At the end of this powerful experience, they were given the opportunity to become advocates and ambassadors by volunteering to become a ‘hero’. Day two was spent with these new volunteers, training them in how to be effective Hero Mentors for students in Year 7. On day three, the Hero Mentors helped facilitate the ‘Who are You?’ experience to the whole of Year 7 as a kick-start to mentoring them.

The aim of this project is for students to get involved with activities that have an impact upon their own personal development, but in

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doing so they make a huge contribution to a better community and society by ‘being the change’ they wish to see in their world.

Last month a large number of Year 10 students applied and were interviewed to be prefects. Claydon High School appoints prefects each year to undertake various roles and responsibilities around the school, both during the school day and at extra-curricular events.

This is a perfect role for students in Years 10 and 11 who want to take on extra responsibility, extend their experience, develop leadership skills and provide themselves with opportunities which will support their applications to sixth form, college or an apprenticeship.

The interview process is quite formal and applicants were questioned about the qualities they possess to be an effective leader as well as their solutions to making an impact on the future development of Claydon High School. As usual, I was very impressed, not only by the original and creative ideas that students presented to us on the day, but also the effort and commitment that all applicants had put into the process. Prefects are expected to establish and maintain the highest standards of behaviour and attitude at all times, providing a positive role model for other students across the school and I have no doubt that the successful candidates will do a fantastic job when they are trained and take up their posts in September.

On Tuesday, June 27 and Wednesday 28, we will be putting on our Claydon Spotlights Show. The cast have been extremely busy rehearsing and are looking forward to showcasing their music, drama, dance and performance skills. Tickets are now on sale and can be obtained at reception from 8am-4pm. We hope you will be able to join us for a fantastic evening. Both performances start at 7pm with refreshments available.

Congratulations to all the students who took part in this year’s sponsored fancy dress fun run. There were some great costumes and £2,557 was raised. This money has been spent on outdoor table tennis tables for use at lunchtimes.

Finally, we have lots still to look forward to in the last half-term of this academic year including: Sports Day, Year 5 Primary Arts Festival, Community Tea Party (see page 12), Transition Days, GCSE Art Exhibition, Headteacher’s Praise Tea Party and Sports Award Evening.

If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Thursday, June 22. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen, to book a place: 01473 836110 Headteacher Mrs S Skinner

In Touch online:

SCHOOLS / SPORT CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB

Well hasn’t the first half of summer term gone quickly? We have all enjoyed the week long break, ready to see the last half term before the six week break.

In an earlier edition of In Touch we alluded to some exciting developments at Bramford Tennis Club and we are pleased to finally be able to share those developments with the local community.

The children who will be leaving us to move on to Reception have been having lots of information and visits to help them with their transition in September. All the children are enjoying being able to play in the garden and see how all the fruit and vegetables are growing. They can’t wait to try them. There have been lots of activities going on to help the children bring on their creative side.

Firstly, we have completely relaunched our club website through which we are now able to offer access to online memberships, online court booking and a range of coaching services. The site is fully responsive so that it supports laptops, tablets and mobile devices. Feel free to have a look around via the following link:

From September 2017 the government is introducing free 30 hours funding. This means that working parents who both earn the equivalent of 16 hours at National Minimum Wage (£115.20) or more per week and less than £100,000 per year (or just one carer if a single parent) will be eligible to claim up to 30 hours of funding. You can register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible and also register for the Government Childcare Vouchers Scheme.

As part of the relaunch of the club website we are offering reduced membership rates for adults, families and juniors looking to try tennis for the first time, or those returning to the game after a prolonged absence. These special rates represent significant savings over normal membership and are offered on a limited basis at adults £25, juniors £10, family £60, so act quickly to secure your place by visiting the membership page.

The pre-school will be open for the five weeks in August of the summer holidays. Any child from two years old to Reception age is welcome to attend. We will be open from 9am to 3.30pm. Prices are £20 per day (bring a packed lunch) or £12 for half day (9am-noon or 12.30-3.30pm). Further information and a booking form are available from the pre-school.

If you would like an application form or any further information please contact Lisa Read, administration assistant: Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk / 01473 831648

HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL Henley Pre-School is located in the village of Henley, a short five minute drive from the centre of Ipswich. We operate from the Boughton Room in Henley Community Centre and have sole use of a lovely outdoor garden which allows free flow play throughout the session. Session times are Monday to Friday 9am-noon and noon-3pm with an optional lunchtime club each day. We open term time only.

This term the children have been busy in the garden planting strawberries, runner beans, potatoes, peas, spinach and herbs and we are planning on developing our flower bed over the next few weeks. Many thanks to Bob, our wonderful volunteer gardener, for all his hard work with the children which has transformed our garden.

We have also been looking at pets and have put together a pet board of photos of all our lovely cats, dogs, rabbits, fish, ducks, horses and even a rhea. The children have also enjoyed various craft and cooking activities and we will soon be thinking about Father’s Day and transition to school.

We aim to provide a safe, friendly and stimulating environment where children can expand their own individual and creative skills through imaginative and social activities. We cater for the individual needs of the children and ensure quality of opportunity through carefully planned activities to help them develop in all areas of learning.

Come to our open day on Saturday, June 24, 10am to noon. Refreshments will be available and plenty of fun, family activities to take part in. Our friendly, qualified staff will be on hand to chat and answer any questions you may have. If you already attend our pre-school we would love to see you and if you are thinking about sending your little one this is the ideal opportunity to find out what we do. We look forward to meeting you.

Bridget and the team www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/BramfordTennisClub

Finally, we are very excited to tell you that adult and junior coaching will be returning to Bramford Tennis Club from this summer. Coaching will be delivered by Carl Douglas who is an LTA Accredited + Coach with many years experience. Carl is also one of the national coaches for Tennis for Kids, the flagship programme for junior beginners run by the LTA. More information is available via the coaching page on the website.

There has never been a better time to get involved in tennis in the UK with the success of Andy Murray and Jaimie Murray in the men’s game and Jo Khonta in the ladies game. So why not get involved in the wonderful sport of tennis yourself by getting in touch and meeting us out on court?

BRAMFORD BOWLS CLUB Having had good weather for several weeks prior to the start of the season, it changed to the normal cold windy bowls weather as soon as we started, apart from the open day which was reasonably warm.

The first club competition of the season was the Open Day Triples. Our president, Rachelle Barber, cast the first bowl. There were 48 players for the two-wood triples, a very good turnout indeed. The afternoon went well and the format was four games of six ends. The two sets coming out with all four wins were Ray Paternoster, Andy Roberts and Maurice Woollard, and Tony Fisher, Arthur Lockwood and Norman Spicer. They will play each other on finals day in September. An enjoyable afternoon was had by all.

The Peter Taylor Cup, the local ‘derby’ between Bramford and Sproughton, was held on April 30 and was the 38th year of the competition. This is always a closely contested game and after our good win last year Sproughton were up for revenge which they duly got. Despite winning on three rinks and drawing on one Bramford unfortunately lost overall by 23 shots. Well done to Sproughton. The afternoon was, however, played in good spirit and afterwards we all retired to the clubhouse for a cup of tea and biscuits, or something a bit stronger for some.

The first round of the Federation Senior Cup was held on Friday, May 7 against California BC. Unfortunately it was not to be our night, as we lost on all rinks.

The first round of the Bert Edwards was held on May 8 at Norbridge.

Once again we did not get ourselves into gear and lost by 40 shots to 60.

However, our saving grace was the rink of Mike O’Shea, Allen Davey, John Sharman and Andy Roberts being the only rink to win.

The only way is up!

Our good wishes for the future go to Sally Hollingsworth and Tony Fisher who recently announced they are engaged.

Mary Saunders 17

SPORT SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB BRAMFORD UNITED

Bramford Reserves with the S.I.L Intermediate B Division Trophy The 2016/17 season ended on a high for the Reserves on April 29. In a must win home match against Bacton United ‘89 Reserves to gain promotion to the Intermediate ‘A’ Division, Bacton proved a hard nut to crack. We took the lead with David Downes scoring on 16 minutes against the run of play, but Bacton levelled the scores three minutes later which was the half time scoreline.

We put more pressure on the opponents in the second half with young substitute JP Akakpo scoring within two minutes of coming on with a sublime header to restore our lead. Within two minutes of this goal Thomas Padmore beat Bacton’s offside trap to volley home a long range shot, which we hoped would seal the match. Bacton came back hard to try and pull the deficit back but we played some excellent football to get the required victory to take the title and promotion. This has been an excellent season for manager David Downes and his assistant David Steele as this is only their second season at the club. Not forgetting the entire Reserves team squad who have battled hard throughout the season to gain enough points to secure promotion. Onwards and upwards next season.

The First Team has secured fourth spot in the Senior Division for the second year in succession. It has been a difficult year for manager Adam Waspe with players being unavailable at crucial times along with long term injuries and players leaving which has seen him not being able to select the same squad at least two weeks running. That said we have played some exceptional football at times and in other matches we seemed to have lost our way, but that’s football I guess.

Two main teams have dominated the Senior Division over the past seasons, namely Crane Sports and Achilles who have always been able to attract the cream of the players. It has not helped this season as newly promoted Henley Athletic has also been able to attract some high calibre players from higher competitions. Hopefully for next season we can retain most of the players (in both teams) and attract other players in to build on this for next season.

Next month: who won what in our end of season awards.

Brammie

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Well, the bowls season is now underway, hence the marked deterioration in the weather! Club president Kate Sarginson delivered the first bowl of the new season on Saturday April 22 in front of a large gathering of club members.

Club members also played the first two tournaments on opening weekend, with Hilary Crick winning the Sheila Herring Trophy in the opening day drive and the trio of Di Roper, Tony Caley and Iain Selby victorious in the blocks competition on Sunday.

Here at Sproughton Bowls Club we have already played for, and won, two annual trophies. Firstly the Roy Mills Cup was competed for between Sproughton and Woodbridge with Sproughton winning by a comfortable margin at home. This was followed by a trip to neighbours Bramford where Sproughton regained possession of the Peter Taylor Cup after a hard fought but enjoyable match.

League matches are also well underway and details of fixtures and results can be found at: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com In a postscript to last month’s piece, we are glad to report that Sproughton’s Joy Mackie is now Suffolk indoor four wood champion.

Well done, Joy! Finally, it may seem like wishing the season away, but members of the club committee have been hard at work organising events towards the end of the summer. John Thompson would be pleased to receive balances due for the annual tour, this year to Weymouth, departing on August 30. Also tickets for the annual dinner and dance featuring live music from Talk of the Town are already selling fast. See posters in the pavilion for details.

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 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.

In Touch online:

You’re invited to make an appointment at our Wherstead Park office to discuss:

Powers of Attorney Probate

Wills Court of Protection

Our out of town Ipswich location is very convinient for parking and has great disabled access. Contact us for an appointment at your convenience: enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ

01473 556 900

Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

19

ON THE GRAPEVINE QUESTIONS ON CASH With Independent Financial Adviser, Nick Plumb

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE LAUNCHED WITH APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEERS Suffolk Libraries is launching this year’s Summer Reading Challenge and appealing for volunteers to help inspire thousands of children to get reading this summer.

The Summer Reading Challenge takes place every year during the summer holidays and helps to get three quarters of a million children into libraries across the country. The number of children taking part in Suffolk has been increasing every year since 2013.

It’s a fun way of encouraging children to keep reading during the holidays and is produced by the Reading Agency and delivered by libraries. The theme for 2017 is Animal Agents and a whole host of clever creatures has been created, ready to solve all kinds of crimes. The animal characters have been brought to life by Tony Ross, illustrator of the Horrid Henry series.

The idea is for young children to read six library books of their choice and collect special stickers and other incentives along the way. A key part of the campaign is encouraging children to visit the library and speak to someone about the books they’ve read.

The role of volunteers is vital to the success of the Summer Reading Challenge and it’s a chance to really make a difference to children’s reading and literacy skills. You just need to be able to come to the library for an hour or two every week during the holidays.

Anyone interested can contact their local library or register online via: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/src Krystal Vittles, Suffolk Libraries Development Manager and Children’s Lead, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a very important campaign for us. Children’s reading can dip during the long summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books and encouragement to read for pleasure and every year it seems to get more popular in Suffolk’s Libraries. Although it doesn’t start until July, the role of volunteers is vital so we’re always keen to get people on board as early as we can. It’s a great opportunity to get some experience working with children, it’s very rewarding and is something people of all ages can get involved with.”

The Summer Reading Challenge will be running in all the county’s libraries and this year children coming to the new Suffolk Libraries Local sessions in Shotley, Red Lodge and Moreton Hall (which is due to launch in May) can take part too.

In 2016, 8,260 children signed up to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge in Suffolk supported by hundreds of volunteers.

There is no other free reading activity that involves so many children, introduces families to their library, encourages children to choose books freely and independently and is endorsed by parents, teachers and the Department for Education.

For more information visit: www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

20

Jeanette from Ixworth asks: “I read with interest an article that you published on a financial advice website, where you indicated how it is possible for a married couple to save inheritance tax by having an Interest in Possession Trust drafted in their wills. My husband passed away just over a year ago and we did not do this with our wills before he died. Is there anything I can do now to save the potential inheritance tax that my children will face?”

A classic example of using an Interest in Possession (IPDI) Trust is that of a married couple, who want to reduce inheritance tax for their children. Under the will of the first partner to die an IPDI Trust is created, allowing the surviving spouse the trust income for life but preserving the trust capital for the children. When the surviving spouse dies the trust ceases and the capital will then pass to the children. The surviving spouse would be the ‘life tenant’ and the children would be the ‘remaindermen’ of the trust.

Although the trust assets do not actually belong to the life tenant, for inheritance tax purposes, they would be treated as if they owned them.

Thus, when the ‘life tenant’ dies, the assets of the IPDI are aggregated to their estate and inheritance tax is due on the whole amount (minus any Nil Rate Band allowances).

However, the IPDI buys the surviving spouse and the wider family another two or seven years. The trustees of the IPDI trust can either elect to invest the assets of the trust into assets that qualify for Business Property Relief (BPR) or they can make gifts into other trusts or absolute gifts of capital to the remaindermen.

If the trustees invested into BPR qualifying investments, the life tenant could take an income from the investments for life, but the capital value of those assets would be outside the inheritance tax regime after just two years. Thus, on the death of the life tenant after two years, the assets of the trust would pass to the remaindermen with no inheritance tax being due.

The good news for you Jeanette is that there is still a window of opportunity for you to take advantage of an IPDI Trust for your inheritance tax planning. Believe it or not, you can effectively ‘turn time back’ to a point before the death of your husband and re-make his will to include an Interest in Possession Trust, as if he had done this himself. This process is called a Deed of Variation. Providing all the beneficiaries are in agreement, it can be effected within two years of the date of death of your late husband. A notional will takes this process a stage further, allowing you to create a will for someone who died without one. Again, this must be done within two years of the date of their death.

Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, The Old Police House, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham IP6 8JP, email nick at nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone him 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 and without obligation initial consultation to discuss their own position and requirements.

Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH Minister: The Rev Derek Grimshaw 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msn.com Steward: Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Please feel free to contact either of us with any queries.

Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement with the minister, who will also arrange Holy Communion for the housebound.

Sundays 10.30-11.30am* Morning Worship with Holy Communion every second Sunday 10.30-11.30am

Lighthouse Club for children, term time only

4-6pm Families@4 – informal get-together with tea provided. Come and go as you please – not a service but our minister usually joins us (once a month, please check diary) Mondays 2-3pm 7.30-9.30pm

Bible Study, every third Monday – informal look at issues those present wish to discuss Computer Club – term time only

Tuesdays 2-3pm* Network/MWiB ladies meeting, although gentlemen are always welcome. Second and fourth Tuesdays of month from October-April and second Tuesday from May-September.

Wednesdays 10am-noon Computer Club – term time only 7.30-8.30pm Prayers and Laying on of Hands for Healing, second Wednesday Thursdays 3-3.30pm*

United Service (very informal) at Cherryfields, first Thursday

Saturdays 10-11am Coffee Morning – either at the Methodist Church or at Cherryfields (see diary below for location), third Saturday *tea and coffee served afterwards Diary for June Please see our noticeboard for details of this month’s coffee morning.

Thursday 1: United Service at Cherryfields, 3pm Sunday 4: Morning Worship, The Rev Y Haye, Pentecost, 10.30am Sunday 11: The Rev J Jacobs, Holy Communion, 10.30am Tuesday 13: Network/MWiB, Hospital Chaplain – The Rev Tony Brookes, 2-3pm Wednesday 14: Prayers and Laying on of Hands for Healing, 7.30pm Sunday 18: Morning Worship, The Rev D Grimshaw, 10.30am Sunday 21: Morning Worship, The Rev M Cassidy, 10.30am Monday 19: Bible Study, 2pm Sunday 25: Morning Worship (preacher by local arrangement), 10.30am Sunday 25: Families@4, The Rev D Grimshaw, 4-6pm

J O I NT H EA D V EN T U R E L e ade rs and H e l pe rs R e q uire d Every year we help over 450,000 young people in the UK enjoy new adventures; to experience the outdoors, interact with others, gain confidence and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. And it’s not just young people who can get in on the action. Working alongside our youth members are thousands of adult volunteers, with a huge variety of roles and opportunities available.

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C A NY O UI N SPI R E? © Copyright The Scout Association Registered Charity number 306101/SC038437. 1st Claydon Charity No: 293366

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21

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 www.stmarybramford.co.uk Please check porch notices for any changes Wednesday, 9.30am: Quiet Reflective Communion Service SERVICES IN JUNE Thursday, June 1 3pm United Service at Cherryfields Sunday, June 4: Pentecost 10am Holy Communion with Prayer for Healing, Bramford 6pm Evening Prayer, Baylham Sunday, June 11: Trinity Sunday 8am Holy Communion, Bramford 10am Parish Communion, Nettlestead 5pm Five o’clock Service, Bramford Tuesday, June 13 11am Communion from Reserved Sacrament,

Baylham Care Centre Wednesday, June 14 7.30pm Healing Service, Methodist Church Sunday, June 18: Trinity 1 8am Holy Communion, Bramford 10am Holy Communion, Baylham

our tentative launch, this has gone from strength to strength, and has prompted us to put in another service at 10am on the fourth Sunday of every month which is also becoming very popular.

These services are informal, and are held in the church room. There is always a story, something to do, some great songs and a chance to chat with each other. The services are open to all, and we encourage families to come and enjoy them together. All are welcome.

Our 5pm service this month is on June 11 at the church room at Bramford, and the fourth Sunday service is on Sunday, June 25 at 10am, also in the church room.

We look forward to seeing you.

Blessings Jenny Church Events In April our coffee morning raised £210 which was donated to the East African Famine Appeal via Christian Aid. Coming up in July – the fete – and as Jenny said we need helpers, not only to set up but to pack stuff away at the end. All welcome.

PARISH REGISTERS Funerals April 6: David William Stannard April 19: Dick Pearson April 24: Peggy Wardley We extend to their families our sympathy and prayers.

Tuesday, June 20 2.30pm The Gathering, Church Room

Floodlighting of the spire of St Mary’s Church

Saturday, June 24 10am Coffee Morning, Church Room

June 1: To celebrate the birthday of June Andrews

Sunday, June 25: Trinity 2 8am Parish Communion, Bramford 10am Family Service, Church Room 10am Morning Prayer, Nettlestead

If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week.

Dear Friends June is here already and we are nearly half way through the year. We are looking forward to Bramford Fun Day on July 1, which of course happens on the same day as the flower show and preparations are well under way.

You can expect the usual extravaganza, and I understand that this year it will include the Scouts’ famous duck race. If you have a bright idea for a money making scheme, then there is still time to book a stall – please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Flower Rota: June 10 & 17 S Alderton, June 24 & July 1 S Heath

We could do with offers of cakes, and practical help, including folk to help set up and clear away. This is not just a church fete, but a really great chance for the village to come together and spend time with each other.

On a different note – looking back at articles I have written in the past, I note that it is three years since we announced the launch of a new Five o’clock Service for families on the second Sunday of each month. From 22

May 4: In memory of Phil Sawyer on his 71st birthday June 12: In memory of Walter (Boy) Carmen, from his wife and family

Cleaning Rota: J Sillett

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.

June 4 Acts 2: 1-21

Pentecost 1 Cor12: 3b-13

Red John 20: 19-23

June 11 Isaiah 40: 12-17, 27-31

Trinity Sunday 2 Cor 13: 11-13

White or Gold Matt 28: 16-20

June 18 Gen 21: 8-21

Trinity 1 Rom 6: 1b-11

Green Matt 9:35, 10:8

June 25 Gen 21:8-21

Trinity 2 Rom 6:1b-11

Green Matt 10:24-39 In Touch online:

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

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

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23

Looking for a venue?

Bramford Golf Centre is delighted to announce the opening of its new function room which is now available for hire

this year, the room has already hosted Opened earlier birthday celebrations, quiz nights, music events,

race nights, charity functions, breakfast clubs, pilates and yoga sessions and corporate team building events.

We are happy to provide catering for your event too.

Flexible venue with full power, wifi, licensed and integral bar, conveniences and ample free parking

The new room could be the answer to your happy event.

For more details and to arrange a tour contact Sarah or Chris on 01473 830694 or email bramfordgc@gmail.com Bramford Golf Centre, Loraine way, Bramford, Ipswich Ip8 4JS