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with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham
Volume 6 • Issue No. 11 • SEPTEMBER 2016
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Stonham Store
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01449 711 881
01473 213 858
Stonham Barns IP14 6AT Star Lane IP4 1JN Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm Sun 10.30-4.30pm Sun 10.30-4.30pm
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’ve been particularly fortunate in recent months to find myself in parts of our local countryside I’ve never visited before, not always by choice thanks to roadworks, but I have been reminded anew just how beautiful this part of the country is. Time and time again I have discovered hidden gems, stunning views, beautiful country pubs, lovely farms and cafes and community shops selling fabulous local produce. Despite the fact that I’m from another country I don’t actually like travelling. The actual physical process of getting there, wherever it may be, is enough to put me off going. I’ve done the ‘sun holiday’ and it’s not for me. I don’t function in 38 degree heat and I don’t tan so what’s the point? When we travel abroad we embrace new things, we seek out new adventures and force ourselves to ‘make the most of every minute’, almost to the point of exhaustion. I’ve only tried (and loved) windsurfing in St Lucia but could easily do it regularly here at home. I’ve run into freezing seas in Portugal and Cape Cod (which I’ve pretended to enjoy because that’s what you do on holiday) but barely dip my toes in the North Sea which is 30 minutes from home (and a warm bath). I’ve walked to mountain tops in sweltering heat in Italy, but go everywhere by car in East Anglia. When we stay at home our free time is too easily absorbed by real life responsibilities, but imagine what we might discover if we were to focus the same sense of adventure to a day spent within 10, 20 or even 30 miles from home. The next time you find yourself at a loose end, stick a pin in the map or just take a road you haven’t taken before and allow yourself to enjoy whatever comes your way. This month my colleagues and I are supporting Macmillan’s Big Coffee Morning and welcome readers, contributors and advertisers to pop in for coffee and cake from Monday 26 to Friday, September 30. It would be lovely to meet you. I shall be making scones.
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NEWS PCC WANTS TO TALK TO YOU ABOUT POLICING Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore is staging his next series of public meetings across the county through the autumn and is encouraging Suffolk residents to make a note in their diaries. This year, rather than staging a meeting in each of the seven district and borough areas, the PCC and Chief Constable will host a meeting in each of the 18 Safer Neighbourhood areas. The meetings are an opportunity for the public to ask questions of the Commissioner and the Chief Constable and to find out more about policing in the county. Tim Passmore said: “Having direct contact with the people of Suffolk that I represent is extremely important to me. This year we are reflecting the new SNT make-up and staging meetings tailored directly to the needs of our local policing areas. The major review of local policing identified 18 SNT areas and we are increasing our meeting programme to reflect this. “Public engagement is hugely important in this role and I make myself available to anyone who needs to speak to me through one-to-one surgeries and directly via e-mail and on the phone, but it is equally important to have these bigger meetings where people can question me in a more open forum. “I do hope people will accept this invite to come and find out more about policing. Gareth and I will be pleased to discuss any matter that arises. I have set up a meeting in each SNT to make it as easy as possible for people to attend and I am hoping for an open and frank two-way dialogue, so please spread the word as I really want to encourage a good crowd.” Each meeting will involve a quick overview from Tim Passmore and Gareth Wilson and then the public will have an opportunity to ask questions. There will be a senior police officer, responsible for policing in the local area, to add operational context. All meetings start at 6.30pm and there is no need to book.
with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham
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Scheduled meetings Monday, November 21: Hadleigh Town Hall, The Guildhall, Hadleigh IP7 5DN Thursday, November 24: Sudbury Town Hall, Old Market Place, Sudbury CO10 1TL
IN TOUCH WITH . . . • Hadleigh • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Needham Market, Creeting St Mary & Creeting St Peter • Sproughton & Burstall • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Woodbridge & Melton • Gt. & Lt. Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING LORAINE VICTORY HALL, BRAMFORD The management committee advises the AGM will be held on Tuesday, September 6 at the Parish Room, Ship Lane, Bramford. Representatives of village organisations and residents are very welcome to attend and new committee members are also sought to join the existing committee of this important village amenity.
IN TOUCH WITH . . .
OCTOBER DEADLINE 10 SEPTEMBER 2016 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
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NEWS BRAMFORD’S CONNECTION TO LANCELOT ‘CAPABILITY’ BROWN Three hundred years ago in August 1716 Lancelot Brown was baptised at the Church of St Wilfrid in Kirkharle, Northumberland. He later became famous as a garden designer for the rich who owned stately homes. ‘Capability’ Brown, as he was then known, was responsible for designing the sweeping landscapes with trees and lakes of many ancestral homes. So what, I hear you ask, has this got to do with Bramford? It’s only an indirect link, but for over 400 years, since about 1376, Kirkharle was the home of the Loraine family who came to England from France soon after the conquest in 1066. They settled mainly in County Durham, but moved to Kirkharle following the marriage of William Loraine to Johanna Del Strother whose family owned Kirkharle Tower. This tower was a defensive structure because the village stands close to the border with Scotland and was attacked many times by Scottish raiders. Near the church is a monument to Robert Loraine who was ‘barbarously murdered’ by Scottish raiders in 1483 while on his way home from church. His body was apparently cut into pieces and put into the saddlebags of his horse which was then allowed to wander home. Sir William Loraine, the second Baronet, built a hall close to the church between 1718 and 1738. His grandson, another Sir William and the fourth Baronet, extended the hall and added two new wings. The garden was laid out by local man Lancelot Brown. Was this his first attempt? Probably, and it must have started him on his famous career.
ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR Anti-social behaviour is one of our main priorities at Suffolk Police. Some of the main examples of this are noise, harassment, vandalism, graffiti and fly tipping, nuisance neighbours. street drinking, violence and hate behaviour (which can target a group of people or it can be directed at an individual or at a property). Suffolk Police are working with partner agencies to reduce anti-social behaviour issues. This has proved to be a very successful way of working, along with preventing crime and giving public confidence. Our promise to the public is: • To listen to victims • To take action to solve the problem • To prevent any further reoccurrences • To inform the victim what you have done If you need to contact the Hadleigh Safer Neighbourhood Team go to the Suffolk Constabulary website or email: hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk We are now covering 49 villages from Hemingstone to the north, Brantham to the south, Nayland to the west and Shotley to the east. Sgt Gary Milbourne Pc Di Porter Pcso Cooper
Pc Chris Garrod Pcso Adams Pcso Ford
If you need to contact the police in a non-emergency then call 101. In an emergency call 999. www.suffolk.police.uk Twitter: @BaberghPolice Hadleigh SNT, Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD
SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE Staff at the Suffolk energyfrom-waste facility have been undergoing first aid and confined space training as part of an on-going programme to improve their skills in every aspect of the job.
The Loraine family suffered financial difficulties following the collapse of the Newcastle banks at the time of the Napoleonic wars. In 1836 another Sir William Loraine, the sixth Baronet, sold the hall to Major Anderson. He had no use for such a large hall and demolished much of the main house leaving just the newer wings surviving to this day. The church dates from the 14th century and was run by the Premonstratensian monks of Blanchard Abbey until the dissolution by Henry VIII. Their order started in France in 1120 after which they expanded into England where they were known as the ‘white robe monks’ because of their pale garments. Although small, the church contains many memorials to the Loraine family and one to Lancelot Brown. Another of special interest to Bramford is that of Sir Percy Loraine, eleventh Baronet and last of the line as he died without children. It reads:
Pc Sarah George Pcso Bignell Pcso Page
The confined space training is particularly relevant during maintenance shut-downs, which in Suffolk are held twice a year in the autumn and spring. During these periods there are extra contractors on site, and the risk of someone getting trapped in a confined space is greatly increased. Many power stations hire in rescue teams for these periods, but in Suffolk it was decided it would be better to train our own staff, who would then have the skills year-round.
Memorial to Percy Lyham Loraine P.C. G.CMG Born 1880 Died 1961 His active life was spent in the service of his country He feared only his God and He was true to his King
Around 25 staff, including shift operators, the maintenance crew and day operatives have now undergone five days of training provided by Cleveland Fire Bridgade, including entry into and rescue from confined spaces and first aid. Cleveland were used as they also provide training at our sites in the Tees Valley.
Lady Loraine, wife of Sir Lambton, the tenth Baronet, inherited Bramford Hall from her uncle, Sir George Broke-Middleton, in 1887 but the family didn’t move to Bramford until 1903. She had four children: Eustace (killed in a plane crash in 1912), Penelope, Isaura and Percy, none of whom had children.
OPEN DAYS A further three open days, giving individuals living close to the site an opportunity to look round, were held over the summer. Group bookings, for between eight and 20 people can be made by calling Emily Pike: 01473 836812
Loraine Way, the B1113, and the Loraine Victory Hall are named after the family.
USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060
And this is how Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown is connected to Bramford. 4
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NEWS
COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: AUGUST 2016 Park & Ride A couple of months ago there was a risk that the Park & Ride operator would have been given immediate notice that the scheme would close in order to meet this year’s budget reduction plans. If no viable alternative service was agreed, we would have just passed the closure date without further decision. After a call in to scrutiny, we sent the decision back and there have been improvements. There must now be a Memorandum of Understanding with bus operators before notice is served on the existing contract and if the Park and Ride services have to close you will be consulted again and a decision by cabinet will be required. Of course, an alternative would be to fund the existing subsidy. Scrutiny: Domestic Abuse We undertook a lengthy examination of Suffolk’s multi-agency response to domestic violence. PCC Tim Passmore, Detective Superintendent David Cutler, SCC Protecting Vulnerable People service leads and national charity SafeLives attended. There were a number of issues of concern despite a nationally recognised commitment to tackle all aspects of the problem. Perhaps most critical was the lack of a clear governance arrangement. The Health and Wellbeing Board’s membership includes most agencies involved in tackling domestic abuse, local authorities, clinical commissioning groups, the Police and Crime Commissioner, Suffolk Constabulary and the Voluntary Sector Congress. Therefore, we believe the board should take overall responsibility. One emerging difficulty is the reduction in the Supporting People budget that funds sheltered accommodation for the elderly, support for homeless young people and women’s refuges. We intend to make recommendations along these lines: • current county council expenditure on services to tackle domestic abuse should be brought together so as to maximise their benefits as a first step towards joint commissioning with other agencies • there should be a commitment to longer term funding for services to tackle domestic abuse, with the aim of aligning commissioning cycles with other agencies • the budget for services to tackle domestic abuse should be protected to provide greater stability for providers and facilitate improvements in service planning • if long term change in the prevalence and patterns of domestic abuse is to be achieved the behaviour of perpetrators must be tackled SafeLives is a source of very useful expertise and advice which we wish to see used to full effect, particularly Suffolk’s Action Plan which should reflect learning from other parts of the country Roads There have been many difficulties with the cutting of grass verges, 6
particularly where the grass interferes with drivers’ view of other traffic. The verge-cutting schedule shows that in Mid Suffolk the first cut should have been in May. In June, people felt the length of the weeds was excessive and wanted action. Highways management commented: “Unfortunately there has been a delay to the commencement of the second cut due to complications with the single cut on the minor road network which has taken far longer than expected.” The second cut did start in the week commencing August 8. The problems come from the outsourcing of highways activity in the belief that contracting companies can deliver better value than in house teams. The practice appears less effective than the theory. As councillors, we have been constantly trying to explain the apparently disorganised results. County Highways really need to do better. District Council Work to complete a Memorandum of Understanding and make the Enterprise Zone at Stowmarket a reality is moving ahead. Mid Suffolk is working with the New Anglia LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership), the county, the government and other districts. This zone and the associated Food Enterprise Zone will be an area where planning approval is simplified if proposals fit a Local Development Order that specifies the type and height of buildings for instance. Companies based in the zone can get the incentive of a five-year relief from business rates, quite a significant sum, up to a total of £275k. Planning The outline proposals to develop Blackacre Hill in Great Blakenham will have been to Mid Suffolk planning by the time you read this. It intends to have a variety of enterprises employing around 600 people in IT and logistics. If approved it will provide some of the employment infrastructure that must go with the housing developments proposals we have seen. It should also see work on Addison Way to repair the surface and deal with the drainage problems that deposit water on Bramford Road. Sheltered Housing Mid Suffolk and Babergh are reviewing their older persons housing provision. Some sheltered schemes are difficult to let as they are far from shops or medical facilities and have little public transport. St Peters Court and Cherryfields in Claydon and Bramford are always popular and full, but Mid Suffolk propose to ‘de-shelter’ (what a term) the bungalows. This is a proposal, not yet a plan and I hope residents will have made their views known at the consultation meetings. 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 CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE On Sunday, July 31 the group of 18 children returned home, sad to be leaving but happy to be seeing their families again. On Tuesday, August 2 there was a parents’ evening at the school and the parents told of how happy they were that their children had such a wonderful experience. The children were all running around smiling and talking about their fantastic holiday in England. They wanted to pass on a very big thank you to everyone who had made this possible and said they were amazed at the generosity of the English people and how even the second-hand clothing was of such good quality. The children have made Memory Books and will always have these to look back upon as a permanent reminder. A video showing the highlights of the children’s visit can be accessed at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iqt0hcYudE We thank our host families for their work in this project and also the many people who support us throughout the year, raising funds to enable us to bring the children and providing sponsored outings and giving their time to arrange events for them during the visit, providing valuable dental services free of charge, collecting clothing, donating medicines to take home and many other items which all benefit either these children or those at home in Belarus. Ipswich Rotary very generously donated a 15 tog Duvet for each child to help keep them warm in the bitterly cold winters to come and also sponsored a day out Bowling which all of the children enjoyed as they had never been bowling before.
Coffee House for a slap up lunch. Beeston’s Coaches of Hadleigh took the children to Sea Life in Great Yarmouth which was a really fun day out, but also very educational. Stowmarket Lions sponsored the children’s school shoes and also our sports day with a BBQ and pig racing. So many local people have contributed to our cause and supported us in many ways with donations and gifts for the children and via our charity shop. It is not possible to mention everyone here, but without you the children would not have had the wonderful time they have had. This is appreciated more than you will know. On August 28 I will travel to Belarus as part of a group visit on a fact finding tour for one week and then will remain a further week to visit with the children from ‘our’ area. I will bring back news and updates for everyone in the next newsletter. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker, 01449 760343 www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk Support our children: www.justgiving.com/chernobylmidsuffolk
We must thank the committee of Needham Market FC who generously allow us the use of the centre during the visit. Also Needham Market Community Centre who not only allow us the use of their mini-bus but also took the children on a fun filled day to Easton Farm Park, Mid Suffolk District Council for a great morning pond dipping and Angels
SAVE THE DUKE CAMPAIGN It is widely accepted that pubs play a crucial part in the social and economic life of local communities. That is why the national average of 21 pubs closing each week is so damaging, and why there are so many supporters of, and investors in, the Save the Duke campaign. More than £260,000 has been raised in the effort to buy and reopen this historic pub that had been offering hospitality for over 500 years before its doors closed some 18 months ago. The campaign is keen to highlight the importance of pubs to local agriculture, malting and brewing. Committee chairman James Batchelor Wylam (pictured), farmer and NFU Mutual representative, says: “The Duke of Marlborough lies in a fabulous barley-growing area and within a stone’s throw of what is probably the country’s leading hop-propagation farm. Malted barley and hops are the key ingredients of beer, Britain’s national drink, and one of Suffolk’s best local products. Re-opening the pub will contribute to the success of all these parts of the supply chain as well as providing a fantastic social hub.” Somersham’s farming families at Church Farm and Park Farm are donating some of their barley and Ingham’s Farm will be donating some hops for the creation of a special brew for the Save the Duke campaign. As James says: “We may use the beer to raise funds to buy the pub or if we can attract a few more investors in the near future, perhaps we’ll be using it for the Duke’s re-opening ceremony.” Shares are still available and not only will you become part owner of the Duke of Marlborough if you invest, you will also receive 30% tax relief on your investment providing you are a UK tax-payer. Check out the details at: www.savetheduke.net 8
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NEWS SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP
A Community Shop for the local community, run by the local community The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm Saturdays: 8am-1pm A community shop for the local community and run by the local community Sunshine and warm weather meant that ice cream and cold drinks were best sellers over the last few weeks. Fresh seasonal vegetables and fruit were also quick to sell. We pride ourselves on having local produce in the shop and it’s a pleasure to know the producers who supply our goods. Bread, cakes, eggs, pies, meat and honey are all sourced locally. Most come from well within a 10-mile radius of the shop and so very much support our local economy, taste good and cut down on travel miles, thus helping the environment as well. Try our locally produced sausages – reported to be ‘the best ever’. A kind donation of six chairs has given our coffee corner a feeling of luxury and the seating arrangements are very comfortable. We can now seat a good number of people at the tables and this works really well when we have the petrolheads afternoon once a month. It will also provide more
room for visitors when we have tea and chat afternoons later in the year. Talking of petrolheads, a good number of people who enjoy motors and anything engine-driven, gather for a cup of tea and an exchange of ideas and experiences on the first Wednesday afternoon of each month. Sometimes there is an interesting motor-linked mystery object passed around to see if anyone knows what it is – always a good conversation piece. As you can see, there has been lots going on over the summer and summer has, of course, meant holidays. With many of our volunteers away at times, there were often big holes in the rota. So, a huge round of applause for all those who put in extra time to cover and help with the smooth running of the shop. New volunteers are always welcome – call in and see Lucy if you would like some information about volunteering. We’ve not seen so many students this year and really miss them. Any students with a bit of free time after studies or at weekends would be very welcome to help in the shop, which helps the community and gives work experience to put on that all important CV for the future. As mentioned, we always have fresh local goods in the shop as well as regular household items. We stock wine and local cider and also beer from a micro-brewery just down the road and take orders for cakes and bread which may sell out quickly. We offer a dry cleaning collection, a book exchange, newspapers and magazines to be ordered for collection at the shop and a delivery service for those with mobility problems. A fantastic shop manned and run by volunteers – come and have a look. Management team Lucy Barrett, 831890; Terry Fordham, 831529; Jenny Hitchcock, 832060; Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080
EUSTACE BROKE LORAINE TRUST (BRAMFORD) The Eustace Broke Loraine Trust was set up in 1935 by Sir Percy Loraine to provide money for “further or higher education of children whose parents are or have lately been permanent residents of Bramford and who have been educated in one or other of the Bramford Schools.” The role of the trust is to allocate small grants annually to former pupils of Bramford School who are carrying on their education at university or college. The trust has a small sum of money available at present and the trustees are willing to award grants to pupils who are undertaking further or higher education provided their application fits in with the above terms of the trust deed. The pupil is allowed to use any grant for the purchase of such items as books and equipment, and is not expected to use the grant for everyday living or travelling expenses.
I would be pleased to receive applications from students who fit in the above categories. The student should write to me explaining what he/ she is studying at college or university and what he/she would use any grant for. The sum of money available is finite, and therefore the more applicants there are, the less potentially each could get. The trustees will meet in October 2016 to consider any applications, so if we can receive your applications by the beginning of October it would be appreciated. If you have any queries prior to writing a letter, please contact me at: 01473 461208 16 Chapel Field, Bramford, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 4HR cbush@brooksandwood.co.uk Chris Bush
All the girls wore yellow, her favourite colour It’s the little things that make a funeral special
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OUT & ABOUT
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5
ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, September 10, 9am-12.30pm. A chance to buy a whole range of products from local people including fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items. 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.
Route 5 MIP/5A MIP/5B MIP/5C MIP/5D MIP/5E MIP/5F MIP/5G MIP/5H MIP/5I MIP/5J MIP/5K
Town/village Location Time Sproughton Church Lane 9.10-9.25am Sproughton Wild Man 9.30-9.45am Bramford St Mary’s Close 9.50-10.05am Bramford Paper Mill Lane 10.10-10.25am Great Blakenham, Chequers 10.35-1055am Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park, 11-11.15am Baylham Post Box 11.25-11.45am Claydon Crown 11.55am-1pm Claydon Edinburgh Gardens 2.05-2.20pm Barham Bacon Road 2.25-3.50pm Bramford Packard Place 4-4.30pm
DATES: September 27, October 25, November 22, December 20
New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777
NEWS FROM THE LEGION SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE Call 01473 353350 Here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Roy will be hosting the annual Macmillan Night on Saturday, October 8. If anyone can donate raffle prizes or items for auction please let us know as soon as possible. Thank you. We will be having a fashion show and pamper evening at the club on Thursday, November 10. The last one was a great success so if you want to book a table or take part in the fashion show please let Tracie know asap.
Helen Milford flute teacHer Have you ever thought about learning a musical instrument? What better way to take away the stresses of life than being able to produce your own music. Becoming part of a musical ensemble also enables you to meet new people, develop confidence and experience that ‘buzz’ of entertaining an appreciative audience. I have been lucky to have had many years experience of performing; playing flute and piccolo in the Army Reserves, with the Royal Signals (Northern) Band and RAF Honington Band. For more information about flute lessons or joining RAF Honington band please contact me by email h.milford@outlook.com or by phone on 07849 519648.
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BRAMFORD ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
Important Notice for Patients Registered at Needham Market Country Practice
Entertainment for September
FLU CLINIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR 2016
www.bramfordrblclub.co.uk Tel: (01473) 745198 or join us on Facebook
Sat 3 Thurs 8 Sat 10
If you are over 65, or have any of the following:- heart condition, asthma, COPD, kidney disease, diabetes, are pregnant, have a lowered immunity, have had a stroke or are a carer for someone else – you are entitled to a free Patients will NOT receive a letter asking them to come in.
JIMBOB C/W with KEVIN BARRY FREE JUKE BOX NITE. YOU CHOSE WE PLAY! QUIZ NITE MEL STEVENS & THE CLASSICS BINGO FUND RAISING NITE for Suffolk Family Carers with “BUSTA GROOVE“ DISCO.
Thurs 15 Sat 17 Thurs 22 Fri 23
The clinic for your area will be held on Tuesday 4th October 2016 AT SOMERSHAM VILLAGE HALL BETWEEN 9 – 11.30AM BARKING, BATTISFORD, BRAMFORD, ELMSETT, FLOWTON, GREAT BRICETT, LITTLE BLAKENHAM, NETTLESTEAD, OFFTON, SOMERSHAM, WATTISHAM & WILLISHAM
Tickets on sale at bar.
Sat 24 Wed 28 Thurs 29 Sat 8 Oct
SCORPIO RISING KARAOKE with DAVE STARR QUIZ ROYS MACMILLAN NIGHT.
If you are in one of the groups mentioned and are
Tickets on sale now. HOUSESHAKERS will be performing.
Needham Market Country Practice on 01449 720666 where information on further clinic dates can be obtained.
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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Ipswich Office Appointments at your convenience enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com 01473 556 900 Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336
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OUT & ABOUT CHAPS – OUR LOCAL MEN’S HEALTH CHARITY CHAPS is a men’s health charity dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health problems. Why? Because UK men’s health statistics are so poor in comparison to both women and our European neighbours across the whole spectrum of disease. Sixty-thousand UK men of working age die prematurely every year at a rate one and a half times that for women. The causes are well known: heart disease, smoking, cancers, diabetes, suicide and risk-taking behaviour to name but a few. There are numerous health programmes devoted to women’s care, but few equivalent services exist for men, while men themselves remain largely unaware of health issues and reluctant to use the services that do exist. For instance, NHS health checks aimed at detecting the top seven causes of premature death are offered to men aged 40-74, yet less than 50% are actually taken up! Furthermore, although prostate cancer kills 11,000 UK men annually, there is no national screening programme and only 8% of UK men avail themselves of the PSA prostate cancer screening test available to them via the NHS. Our objective is to raise awareness on the premise that if a man knows what can go wrong, he at least will have the knowledge to make an informed choice as to whether to take preventative action. Over the last five years CHAPS has run men’s health days, typically at football stadia, where we have provided free tests to men for aortic aneurysm screening, heart disease and stroke risk assessment, diabetes, skin cancer and prostate cancer screening. At ITFC last October 138 men attended and we even had a team from the Medical Detection Dogs collecting urine samples from men having prostate checks to train their dogs to recognise prostate cancer! So far we know 11/94 prostate checks were abnormal and one man with an unknown aneurysm underwent potentially life-saving surgery within two weeks of the event. Another first on the day was a successful seminar, Mental Health in The Workplace, run by Suffolk User Forum, Suffolk Mind and Picasso HR. At our last event in Clacton in December an exceptionally high attendance thoroughly endorsed our raison d’être. For instance, 21 heart checks and eight prostate checks were abnormal while eight skin cancers were diagnosed. These results typify our activity and overall in 2015 we performed a total of 1,944 clinical tests for 814 men at eight events. We are concentrating our activity in Essex and Suffolk on the principle that ‘charity begins at home’ and in recognition of considerable local unmet health needs. Sadly we have all lost friends to preventable and curable diseases, but through local support at local events we can make a difference. We are therefore encouraging male orientated groups such as Rotary, Masons and Lions and employers of male workforces to commission us to provide smaller, private health check events for the members or employees. To find out more, please check our website at www.chaps.uk.com or contact us at: chris.booth@chaps.uk.com / info@chaps.uk.com / 07734 747854
BURSTALL FLOWER FESTIVAL St Mary’s Church, Burstall will be holding a flower festival entitled Harvest in a Country Church on Saturday, October 1 and Sunday 2. The residents of Burstall will transform the church with beautiful flower arrangements and decorations to show harvest at its best in a rural setting. The church will be open from 10am-4pm on Saturday and 11am-4pm on Sunday and refreshments and cream teas be available in the village hall throughout the weekend. Entry to the festival will be via donations to church funds. St Mary’s Church can be found in the middle of the village, post code IP8 3DU. Off-street car parking will be signposted.
BRAMFORD CRAFT & CHATTER GROUP Please note – we have moved to a new venue. As from September we will be meeting in the Church Room. Dates and times as usual – second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 9.30am-noon. This month we meet on September 13 and 27. Hope to see you then.
BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB The club at Bramford Methodist Church meets either every Monday (7.30-9.30pm) or every Wednesday (10am-noon) in term time. No formal teaching, but one-to-one help for your problems. Membership is £1 for the academic year and £2 per session. Internet available. Meetings begin on September 5 or 7. Why not give it a go?
BRAMFORD WI Our next meeting will be on Monday, September 12. As usual it will be at The Loraine Victory Hall at 7.30pm. This time our speaker will be Sarah Doig with a talk entitled Curious Suffolk. You will need to think up all your silly Suffolk sayings because the competition is ‘A Suffolk Saying’.
This year’s event at Ipswich Town Football Club on Thursday, November 3 will offer the following health checks: • Aneurysm screening • Cardiovascular risk assessment – your risk of a heart attack or stroke over the next 10 years • Diabetes screening • Skin cancer • Prostate • Physiotherapy, blood pressure and BMI checks The day is co-ordinated by CHAPS and the clinical services will be provided by Onelife Suffolk, Ipswich Hospital, the Suffolk Nuffield Hospital, Day Lewis Pharmacy and the Co-op (hearing tests). www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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OUT & ABOUT 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 St Mary’s Church Gathering on July 19 By Dennis R Page Our July meeting, in the form of a picnic tea, was held in the beautiful gardens of Thornbush Hall by kind permission of Olive and Herbert Godbold. Listed as one of the warmest days of the current summer, we were most grateful our hosts acted with extreme forethought to strategically place the tables and chairs beneath the canopy of large trees which afforded maximum shade and the cooling benefit of a gentle breeze. We enjoyed an abundance of food and drinks which marvelling at the spectacular views of the beautiful countryside with a wealth of resident wildlife so actively encouraged by our wonderful hosts. As always we remain greatly indebted to our organiser and her team of most willing helpers who do all they can, without complaint, to make the gathering so enjoyable. A hearty round of applause to them and a very big thank you to Oliver and Herbert on our behalf for their kindness and generosity in making us all feel so relaxed, with the bonus of sharing the afternoon in such picturesque surroundings amongst most cherished friends. There remains little else one could wish for.
SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB In many ways the last few weeks have been quite uneventful. There have been no more outings and at this time there is none in the pipeline. Club attendances are down due to members being on holiday and, as a result, there is nothing to report. I hope to have some items upon which I can comment in next month’s issue. John Bates
SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Our July meeting was a visit to Rosedale Garden in Bures, Colchester. This was a very enjoyable evening despite early rain. The meeting in August was also a garden visit, an enjoyable time at Green Farmhouse, Shelland near Stowmarket. On Monday, September 12, we welcome Ian Tinton to give us a talk on compost. If you would like to join us we meet at Offton and Willisham Village Hall at 7.30pm. For further information contact: 01473 254941
SUFFOLK PET CHARITY INUNDATED WITH UNWANTED KITTENS Blue Cross pet charity in Suffolk is urging owners to neuter their cats as they take in a record number of unwanted kittens so far this year.
SOMERSHAM WOMEN’S INSTITUTE – OPEN TO NEW MEMBERS The newly formed Somersham WI held it’s inaugural meeting on July 18 and elected Fay Smart from Somersham as the new president. We launched with a welcoming lesson in making easy canapés – and a tasting session. By the time this goes to press, we will have held our August meeting when we are ‘let loose’ by ourselves as a newly formed WI. The following meeting is on Monday, September 19 at 7.30pm in the village hall. We are still welcoming new members of all ages, so do come along if you are interested. Our current age range is 30s to 80s so we are sure to dispel any myths about the ‘typical’ WI member. The committee has planned a variety of activities and speakers for the rest of 2016 to hopefully include an opera singer and social media for beginners, culminating in a Christmas-themed meeting in December. The dates for the rest of 2016 are September 19, October 10, November 14 and December 12, all at 7.30pm in Somersham Village Hall. From October onwards, the regular slot will be the second Monday of the month. If you want to find out more, contact Nicola Gibbons (07786 670987) or Terrie Goad (07766 168191), or email the secretary at: somersham.wi.sec@gmail.com Find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter: www.facebook.com/somershamWI / @somersham_wi
The charity in Wherstead is currently caring for 23 kittens, all in need of loving new homes. Already this year, the Blue Cross centre on Bourne Hill has helped 75 kittens find the second chance they deserve and the charity is reminding cat owners to neuter their pets as ‘kitten season’ gets into full swing. Operations Supervisor Clare Williamson explains: “We see a lot more kittens needing our help once the weather warms up and we call this time of year kitten season. We are getting lots of enquires from people whose cats are pregnant or have unexpectedly given birth. We are absolutely inundated at the moment and now have a waiting list for kittens to come in. “Getting your cat neutered will not only prevent the birth of unwanted litters, it also has health benefits for the cats. Many of the pregnant cats we take in are not much more than kittens themselves and having kittens can be really stressful – and potentially dangerous – for them.” Vera is just one of the 210 cats and kittens Blue Cross has cared for so far this year. The one-yearold tortoiseshell was discovered in someone’s back garden along with her five newborn kittens and the family were taken to Blue Cross. Vera and her kittens, named Stan, George, Bert, Cedric and Jack, are being cared for at the centre until they are ready to find new homes. Clare added: “The fact that we have already seen so many kittens already is really concerning. Kittens do tend to find new homes fairly quickly, but with so many kittens looking for homes, sadly lots of our older cats are left on the shelf for longer.” If you can rehome a Blue Cross pet, please contact Blue Cross in Suffolk: 0300 777 1480 / suffolk@bluecross.org.uk www.bluecross.org.uk
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SCHOOLS / SPORT BRAMFORD BOWLS CLUB What a fantastic season we are having. Our men have come up trumps in the Federation County Finals. Steve Zarkos is now the county 2-wood singles champion, Jason Smith the county 4-wood singles champion, and Christian Barber together with Rachelle Barber and Jason Smith are the county 2-wood triples champions.
‘under the cosh’ and were 6-12 down after 10 ends. They managed to pull themselves up by their collars and drew level 17-17 after 21 ends. They went into an extra end and managed to get the winning shot with the last wood of the game – phew! At this point it was not necessary for the Fours rink to finish as the game had been won.
It’s the first time that we have had men’s county champions in singles (apart from senior mixed pairs in 2010 and 2011 and the under 25 singles in 1984 and 1997), so a great achievement. They will represent Suffolk in the Federation national finals at Skegness – good luck to them all. We also had John Sharman and Joyce and David Thompson who lost in the semi-finals at Halesworth in the veteran’s singles and the senior mixed pairs respectively. Well done to them too for getting so far. By having so much representation in the latter stages of the Federation competitions, Bramford has won the area ‘C’ Victor Ludorum Trophy with 26 points. How good is that – the icing on the cake! Stella Utteridge has won through to the national finals in Leamington Spa in the national 4-wood singles.
What a fantastic season again in this competition with five wins out of the last six years. Here we see the winning team in jubilant mood.
The final of the Ladies BE County Top Team was played at Ipswich Ladies BC on July 13 against a combination team of Ipswich Bowls Club and Debenham. This was a nail-biting affair – Jean Taylor won the 2-wood singles very convincingly 16-5. Janet Paternoster was having a close game initially, but unfortunately finished 13-21. One set apiece. The Triples rink of Ann Thaine, Jo Whiting and Stella Utteridge were having a very good game and finished up 22-9. The Fours’ rink of Zoe Barnard-Rowland, Linda Fairs, Diana Wolton and Rachelle Barber eventually went ahead after 15 ends and it was then all in the balance.
The next round of the Stowmarket Knock-out Cup was played on August 5 against Stanton BC which we won by nine shots. We now go forward to the semi-final.
The Pairs rink of Joyce Thompson and Mary Saunders were once again
Mary Saunders
Claydon High School
We won the first round of the Stan Wright Cup by 50 shots against Ipswich Hospitals. This was followed by a win against Norbridge by 12 shots. The final will be played at Westerfield BC against Hadleigh BC. With regard to the leagues, our ‘D’ Team are currently top, as is the Samford Afternoon ‘A’ Team. Well done to them.
‘Ofsted Good’
The Headteacher, governors, staff and students warmly welcome you to our
Church Lane, Claydon, Suffolk, IP6 0EG Tel: 01473 836110
Open Evening
Wednesday 5th October 2016 6.30pm Come along and experience our superb facilities and resources, talk to our staff and students as they proudly showcase their work
The evening will begin at 6.30pm with a speech from the Headteacher at 6.35pm
For further details, please contact the School Reception on 01473 836110 or email: info@claydonhigh.com www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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FHP IPSWICH – CHARLOTTE DOWE I decided to train as a foot health practitioner while working within the care industry. I noticed that most of the clients I visited required routine foot care. However many found it difficult to arrange transportation or just to leave the house to attend appointments. Having now set up my own mobile foot clinic I am thoroughly enjoying visiting my own patients in the community, many of whom had been suffering with painful feet for months. So if you have painful feet or would just like to be pampered I look forward to meeting you.
SPORT BRAMFORD COCK FC Sunday, July 31: First friendly away to Walton Rangers It was great that 16 players turned up, giving manager Gary plenty of opportunity to cast his eye over prospective new signings and try different formations. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out too well as Bramford lost 4-1. As with pre-season friendlies, it’s always a case of experimenting before the new season starts so although disappointed with the result Gary wanted to give a run out to all the players, some of whom played in unfamiliar positions. Sunday, August 7: Our second friendly at home to Whitton Eagles Team manager Gary had 14 players to cast his eye over but with Whitton only having eight players some of our players ‘played’ for Whitton. Despite this, Bramford played some really good football and created plenty of chances. There were some good prospects for the new season. Some of the goals scored came from very good team work. Josh Turner scored two brilliant goals and was unlucky not to get a hat trick. Also on the score sheet with two was Sheldon Collymore. Our other scorers were Jamal Allen and Jerell Smith with one each. Final Score: 6-1 All in all a good morning and hopes are high as our last friendly was away to Snape FC on Sunday, August 14. The new season kicked off on Sunday, August 21 with an away match against Ipswich Postal Legends at Pauls FC. A fixture list can be seen on the new Bramford Cock FC What’s On at the Bramford Cock noticeboard in the pub. With reference to the Bramford Cock pub, due to a change in ownership last year many of the players ‘preferred’ not to go back after a match. This meant the social side of the club wasn’t as good as in previous years with things like the traditional after match food for the players not always forthcoming. Football clubs need a base to meet and socialise, hold meetings and raise much needed funds. This season will be very different as Nik Sparrow, vice-chairman of the footbacll club, and his wife Deanna are taking over the pub. This will not only be good news for the football club but for the many regulars who have waited for the pub to get back its vibrant life. It will be good for the area and heralds in a new era. With traditional home-cooked food, Sunday roast dinner, a good selection of beers and wines and some new ideas the pub will be buzzing. Getting players to sign for Bramford Cock FC will no longer be a problem either, as having its base in a pub which offers a warm and friendly welcome will be great. It’s a pity the summer has almost ended as Nik and Deanna have great plans for the improvement of the garden which will include the play area and a barbecue area which will be of benefit to all, but also for holding football club barbecues to raise muchneeded funds which for a while it has been not able to do. This new influx of life back into the pub comes just in time for the Bill Stoddart Memorial Cup on Sunday, August 28. All proceeds go to Bramford Cock FC and the club thank Nik and Deanna for promoting this event with posters in the pub.
SPROUGHTON SPORTS FC With the new league season fast approaching we have found the club searching for players due to our First team manager leaving for personal reasons. But with the hard work of our chairman Keith, who has taken over managing as well for now, and Leroy with the Reserves, we are hopeful the club will carry on. Interested players (16+) who would like to play, please contact 01473 747017. The SIL starts on Saturday, September 3 with our First team in division two playing Witnesham Wasps away at Gainsborough Sports Centre and the Reserves in Int C hosting Stowupland Falcons A. G Studd, secretary, 01473 747017 18
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SPORT CLAYDON FC Harrod UK present Claydon FC with new goal posts Harrod UK ran a competion earlier this year to find the saddest goal posts in Suffolk and Claydon FC submitted a picture of their senior training goals. These were picked as one of the saddest and we were rewarded with some fantastic new portable goals from Harrod UK. The club are extremely grateful to the team for these new goals and they will be used by all senior ages at the club (U13+) for many years to come. Claydon FC Summer Coaching Course
SPROUGHTON BOWLERS QUALIFY FOR NATIONAL FINALS August will be a busy month for Sproughton bowlers Julie Spice, Lesley Morgan and Ann Craigie. Julie Spice & Lesley Morgan with the BE Suffolk County Pairs Runners-up Trophy Julie Spice with the EBF Suffolk County 4-wood Singles Trophy Julie and Lesley will be representing Suffolk at the Bowls England Ladies Pairs National Finals in Royal Leamington Spa from August 17. Julie will also be representing Suffolk at the EBF Ladies 4-Wood National Finals in Skegness from August 23 having become County Champion at Sole Bay in July. In addition, Julie and Ann Craigie are members of the Suffolk team contesting the National Final of the Counties Silver Jubilee Vase competition also in Skegness on August 20. Good luck to everyone. As the season draws to a close we are already turning our attention towards the 2017 season. As part of our planning we are looking to boost the membership and playing strength of our club. To this end we are holding a ‘Bowls Experience’ afternoon from 2-4pm on Saturday, September 17. Whether you are thinking of taking up the game or returning after a break, why not come along and try your hand on one of the county’s best bowling greens? Woods will be supplied, all you need is a pair of flat shoes. Refreshments will also be available during the afternoon.
The summer coaching course held on July 28/29 was well attended this year with 24 players enjoying two days of coaching, fun and games at the club’s Blue Circle ground. The club would like to thank all the parents and players who supported the event and also the coaches and volunteers who gave up their time to run this event. We look forward to next year when we will do it all again, bigger and better than before. New U7 and U8 pitch The new pitch at Blue Circle is starting to take shape. A working party raked it flat on July 31 and Parkers Pitches are coming in shortly to run their stone burying machine over it to remove all the stones before they then seed the whole area. We are hopeful that we can start using this pitch around the first week of October. The club would like to thank all the volunteers who raked and removed top stones from the pitch as well as Claydon and Whiton Parish Council for the grant that has made this pitch possible. Further funds from the Summer Coaching Course have allowed us to get Parkers Pitches in to stone bury. Claydon U11 Tigers – Sponsor Wanted The Claydon Under 11 Tigers are looking for a local sponsor for one or both of our kits. If you are interested in getting your logo onto our kit please contact Simon: sime@claydon-fc.co.uk / 07903 398460 www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
Cup presentation to Paul Taylor and Joy Mackie
Cheque presentation to East Anglian Childrens Hospices
As part of David Biggs tenure the club held its annual President’s Cup competition on a hot and sunny day. After four eight-end matches contested by 18 sets, the final was played between the pairings of Erik Wicko and Rita Preston and Paul Taylor and Joy Mackie with Paul and Joy running out winners.
The afternoon also included the presentation by David Biggs of a cheque for £1,011, raised during the President’s Charity Day, to East Anglian Children’s Hospices. To find out more about our club, email: sproughtonbowlsclub@outlook.com www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com 19
SPORT / CHURCH NEWS BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Greetings guff lovers. With the wall to wall coverage on TV, and the associated Rio related articles in the media, such as how to learn to Samba and Zika virus warning signs, it’s hard not to suffer from Latin America overload at the moment. One sure fire way to banish all thoughts of Copacabana beach is to ponder the start of the winter league season... (Sorry, I had to stop for a moment to go and get a hot drink and a duvet.) We have entered a men’s team in the midweek floodlit league (once the team return from their pre-season cold weather familiarisation at the Antarctic research base). For those ultras in the club for whom that is not enough, we also have three pairs entered in the Sunday morning tennis (before the pub) league, proof that memories are short. What was I saying? The summer league season is now but history. Our men’s team finished in the middle of the league having won four and lost four of their matches, before going on holiday to Middlesex, Middlesborough and the Middle East presumably. We are thinking of asking Kate Middleton for Royal Patronage next season. The courts are looking pristine after their cleaning and it makes it much easier to maintain the opposition ball was out if you can see the lines. Clearly it also allows you to argue more vigorously that your shot was in at the other end. No such problems for Nick whose shots usually clear the fence, so no doubts there then. I watched him serve four balls from a new tin into the rough behind the courts. After unsuccessfully trying to find them he gave up and opened another new tin and promptly did the same thing. I asked him why he didn’t use some old balls. He replied that he never gets any! The playing field committee have taken on concerns regarding possible unfortunate events by installing a defibrillator in the sports club. This will be very handy as the last time Graham bought a round in the bar several of us needed oxygen from the shock. Joke of the Month A well dressed gentleman was on his way into the local pub when he saw an old pensioner fishing in a large puddle in the road outside the door. “Poor old chap,” thought the man and invited the old boy in for a drink. As the pensioner sat sipping his pint the man thought he would humour him and asked: “Have you caught many today?” The old boy sipped a bit more beer and said: “You’re the sixth.” More guff next month, Mick Russ
BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH Sunday Worship: 10.30am September 4: Mr B Loader September 11: The Rev G Baalham, 143rd Church Anniversary Service; also at 6.30pm The Rev G Baalham (United Service) September 18: Mr C Finbow September 25: Prof D Welbourn Families @ 4: 4-6pm on September 25 (a very informal get-together – come and go as you please – with tea provided) September 1: United Service at Cherryfields with Mr C Westren, 3pm September 17: Coffee Morning at Cherryfields, 10-11am Also see BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB, which meets at Bramford Methodist Church, on page 15. 20
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CHURCH NEWS
CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev John Boardman (Methodist): 01787 372738 Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am, including crèche and Sunday Club Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS Tiddlers: Monday 9.30-11am (term time) For mums and toddlers, 12 months to four years. Contact Hannah: 07969 482360 Scrabble Club: Monday 2-4pm New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Women’s Fellowship: Second Wednesday 2.30-3.30pm Contact Linda Hills: 01449 721258 Christians Together Ecumenical Group: Thursday, 10am Contact Ann Devereux: 01449 721575
with addictions. They are creating a purpose built residential, rehabilitation centre on the outskirts of Ipswich for women recovering from addictions, primarily but not exclusively drug and alcohol addictions: www.talithakoum.org.uk When you visit events such as our coffee mornings or the Christmas Festival and put donations in the pots, you too will be helping to support this charity, so thank you in anticipation. Our Harvest Festival Service will be on Sunday, September 25 and will be one of our cafe style mornings. If you’ve not been before, please know you are very welcome – but make sure you are there around 10.20am for a cup of tea or coffee before the service starts. Finally, I’d like to wish all children, parents and teachers a smooth and happy start to the new academic year, with special thoughts for those who will be venturing away to university for the first time. In the words of a ninth century blessing: May your life in this world be a happy one May the sun be warm and may the skies be blue May each storm that comes your way, Clear the air for a brighter day May the saints and Saviour watch over you. The Rev Mary Playford
Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon Always with a selection of cakes for sale. OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Monday, 7-9pm Children’s Musical Theatre: Tuesday, 4-6pm. Contact Faye: 01449 722354 Karate: Wednesday; juniors 6.30-7.30pm / adults 7.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday, 6.30-7.30pm (term time) Self Defence: Thursday, 8-10pm Hall lettings: 07851 742847 Church contact: Ann Devereux, 01449 721575 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk How can it be September already? Before you know it the Christmas decorations will be up and we won’t be able to move for glitter, tinsel and Christmas trees! Many people will be celebrating Harvest Festivals during the month, and these are increasingly seen as an opportunity to provide food for those in need, with many charities benefiting from the generosity of others. And that’s a good thing, however people need food all year round which is why charities such as Stowmarket Foodbank and Christian Aid along with others really need help for 12 months of the year.
CHRISTCHURCH CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL This year Christchurch is planning something different on December 2, 3 and 4. We would like to fill our church with a Christmas display and we are inviting individuals, families, groups and businesses to take part. There will be display areas for Marvellous Mangers (Nativity/ Crib Scenes), Stupendous Stars (Stars), Holy Heralds (Angels) and Tremendous Trees (unusual representations of Christmas trees, no taller than 60cms). We will also have a children’s corner where children can draw and display their own Christmas pictures, look at books or listen to a storyteller. Refreshments will be available for you to sit and enjoy amongst the displays. If you have, or can make, cribs, stars, angels or trees that fit our categories above and you would like to enter them in our Christmas Festival, please contact Sheila Norris for more details: sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk / 01449 720871
At Christchurch we regularly support charities, and have recently chosen our local charity for the next two years. It is an Ipswich based project called Talitha Koum whose mission is to reach out with love, compassion and practical support to women struggling
www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford
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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 Morning Prayer at Bramford: Monday to Friday, 8.30am Quiet Reflective Communion Service: Wednesday at the vicarage, 9.30am Please check porch notices for any changes. www.stmarybramford.co.uk SEPTEMBER SERVICES Thursday 1 3pm United Service at Cherryfields Sunday 4 8am 10am 6pm
Trinity 15 Holy Communion, Lt Blakenham Holy Communion with Bramford / Prayer for Healing Evening Prayer for Rogation, Baylham
Sunday 11 Trinity 16 8am Holy Communion, Bramford 10am Parish Communion, Nettlestead 5pm 5 O’clock Service, David & Goliath, Parish Room 6.30pm 143rd Methodist Anniversary Service, Methodist Church Tuesday 13 11am Communion from Reserved Sacrament, Baylham Care Centre
It is an odd fact that many churches have crypts underneath them. They may be large or small, but some of our buildings have quite large voids underneath which have become lost in the mists of time. These were often places where wealthy families buried their loved ones, in niches which were sealed up. Unfortunately we have had to seal the crypt up for safety reasons, and it will rest safely under the floor of the new toilet and servery, but I hope we will be able to ensure that the history and some of the photos we have taken are documented for future generations. I really hope that we will be able to announce a celebration service at Baylham so that we can bless the new facilities, and thank all those who have been involved in planning, building and problem solving! Again, watch this space, as soon as we have a date we will let everybody know. On a sadder note, during late July/August there was some vandalism in some of our church yards. Please keep up your vigilance, pop into your local church yard and enjoy the peace and quiet. It will deter those who wish to harm these wonderful resources. Blessings to you all. Jenny Suffolk Historic Churches Trust Bike and Stride Saturday, September 10, 9am-5pm Pease may I ask, once again, for the help of all you cyclists and walkers. Our churches are all in need of funding to help keep them open, especially those which have had lead stolen from their roofs. Saturday 10 is the date that churches are open from 9am until 5pm to visit. Sponsorship forms can be obtained from the church noticeboard or from me, Janet Jackaman, Maytime, Leggatt Drive, Bramford / 01473 744655.
Wednesday 14 7.30pm
Healing Service, Methodist Church
Sunday 18 10am 10am 3pm
Trinity 17 Holy Communion, Bramford Holy Communion, Baylham Harvest Festival, Nettlestead
PARISH REGISTERS
Saturday 24 10am
Coffee Morning, Church Room
Cleaning Rota: V Mather and K Orvis
Sunday 25 10am United Parishes Harvest Communion, Bramford 3.30pm Harvest Songs of Praise, Bramford School Harvest Service, date and time to be confirmed. Dear friends September is here again. It’s a time I, as an ex teacher, associate with new starts. I am just back from holiday, the schools are going back to work and we are beginning to prepare for the last few months of this year. It is always a busy time, a time with lots of services to invite others to. We are beginning with Harvest Festivals in all our churches and at the school, and as usual we will be running a harvest appeal. Watch this space for details. Last year the goods we collected really went to help out those in need in our own area. We then move on to All Souls and on to the season of Remembrance in November, and swiftly on to Christmas. I hate to use the C word so early, but it is always good to look forward. I am hoping that when this comes through your door we will be well on the way to finishing the re-ordering at St Peter’s, Baylham, but as I write a Crypt has been found under the area we are hoping to convert into a toilet and servery and it looks as if things are about to get complicated! If we don’t finish when we promised, please bear with us. Sometimes our wonderful ancient buildings throw up surprises of their own. 22
Many thanks.
Baptism Sunday, July 31: Arlo Jack Hollands May he grow in grace and the knowledge of God.
Flower Rota: Sept 3 & 10 V Mather / Sept 24 Harvest Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church August 1 in memory of Christopher Bradshaw on his 66th birthday August 5 in memory of Margaret Driver’s birthday August 29 in memory of Sue Cave on her birthday If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week 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.
September 4 Jer. 18:1-11
Trinity 15 Phil. 1-21
Green Luke 14:25-33
September 11 Jer. 4:11-12, 22-28
Trinity 16 Exod. 32:7-14
Green Luke 15:1-10
September 18 Jer. 8:18-9:4
Trinity 17 1 Timothy 2:1-7
Green Luke16:1-13
September 25 Jer. 32:1-3a & 6-15
Trinity 18 1 Timothy 6:6-19
Green Luke 16:19-31 In Touch online:
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