In Touch with Claydon - February 2016

In Touch

™© ™©

with Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton Rural Volume 6 • Issue No. 4 • February 2016

Snowdrops

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Moreton Hall Veterinary Centre

Ipswich Veterinary Centre

The Mustard Pot Veterinary Surgery

The Old Tea Room Veterinary Surgery

54 Bury Road, Stowmarket

2 Boldero Road, Bury St. Edmunds

Scrivener Drive, Ipswich

Coddenham Road, Needham Market

Station Road, Elmswell

Tel: 01449 613 130

Tel: 01284 747 000

Tel: 01473 555 000

Tel: 01449 722 198

Tel: 01359 241 761

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NEWS

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR We had a friend coming over to play last Saturday and I asked Jack if we should invite him to stay for dinner. “He loves Chinese,” my oh-so-quick sesame prawn toast loving son replied, so I said I’d send a message to his mum. “Is a message just a slow way of telling someone something?,” Jack asked and I must admit it would have been quicker and easier to pick the phone up and actually speak to Emma. Three texts later we knew Adam was staying for dinner, that he liked Spaghetti Bolognese and didn’t have any food allergies, so the answer to Jack’s question, at least in this circumstance, was probably YES. Information technology has transformed our lives for the better it so many, many ways, but nothing beats direct communication and social media can never replace actual physical, social contact. I’m reminded of a submission from Elaine Bamber in Washbrook which I’d like to share. I hope it gives you a giggle FACEBOOK FOR THE OLDER GENERATION For those of my generation who do not comprehend why Facebook exists!

I am trying to make friends outside of Facebook while applying the same principles. Therefore, every day I walk down the street and tell passers by what I have eaten, how I am feeling at the moment, what I did the night before, what I will be doing later and with whom. I give them pictures of my family, my dog, of me gardening, taking things apart in the garage, watering the lawn, standing in front of landmarks, driving round town, having lunch and doing what everyone and everybody does every day. I also listen to their conversations and give them the ‘thumbs up’ and tell them that I like them.

It works just like Facebook! I already have four people following me... two police officers, a private investigator and a psychiatrist!

In Touch

with Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton Rural

In Touch with Barham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton Rural is published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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EAST ANGLIA POTATO DAY 2016 Potato Day Poem by Buddy Lawrence from Harwich, a first time visitor 2015 It only happens once a year.

It’s called Potato Day. You go into a big marquee, and out there on display, there’s boxes placed on tables, and inside them they hold, A myriad of seed potatoes there’s one called Yukon Gold.

The whole thing is well-organised you have to queue in line, and wait until they open up.

It starts at half-past nine.

Then in like ants, swarm connoisseurs, and amateurs as well, each looking for their favourites, and maybe - who can tell?

They’ll find something that’s different, they didn’t know about.

Varieties they thought long gone; they’re still there, have no doubt.

The volunteers who run the day, some regular, some new, will still be there at next year’s day, and hope to see you, too.

Mr Lawrence kindly submitted this poem in 2015 and we think it sums up potato day brilliantly.

For any potential potato growers who haven’t been before, this years’ East Anglia Potato Day is being held on Saturday, February 13 at Mid-Suffolk Showground, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket IP14 6AT (on the A1120 approximately two miles from the A140), from 9.30am-1.30pm.

There is a small admission charge of £1.50.

For a list of the varieties expected visit: www.eapd.btck.com As well as seed potatoes (sold per tubor) we have various stallholders including refreshments, secondhand tools, seedswap, King Seeds, Rougham Nurseries, chip tasting and lots more.

2016 will be our 21st year and is organised by Suffolk Organic Group, Norfolk Organic Gardeners and Ipswich Organic Gardeners Group and we look forward to seeing everyone again in February.

ADJUSTMENT TO SERVICE 88 BUS TIMES From Monday to Friday the 07.20 from Claydon to Stowmarket will run 15 minutes later at 07.35.

In the opposite direction the 09.15 Claydon to Ipswich will run 10 minutes later at 09.25.

This increases the gap in the morning service to Ipswich to 76 minutes (the 08.09 bus being the previous departure). Claydon and Whitton Parish Council is expressing its concern about this gap in service to First Eastern Counties.

Barry Moore, Transport Representative, Claydon and Whitton Parish Council A downloadable version of the new timetable is available on the Claydon and Barham website: www.claydonandbarham.onesuffolk.net

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NEWS SAVE THE DUKE UPDATE You’ll be pleased to hear that progress has not stopped. More than £190,000 was raised in just three months – and people are still buying shares, so the total is edging its way upwards. If you haven’t already joined in, it’s not too late, so please do. Just go on the website to invest or contact Gerard Kroon: 01473 657178 The fantastic support and encouragement from local communities has kept the committee going, ploughing through laborious tasks and layers of bureaucracy to get to the strong position we’re now in. We’re determined to make 2016 the year we get our pub back.

The committee Having started the Save the Duke campaign, then tirelessly driven it forward over the last year – while also working as a doctor – Sarah Caston is stepping down as chair. She has made an invaluable contribution and been an inspirational leader and our sincere thanks are due to her. She will continue to sit on the committee and support the campaign going forward. We are pleased to announce James Batchelor-Wylam from Somersham as new chair. James runs a branch of the NFU/NFU Mutual in Lavenham and his business acumen will be of great use to the committee as we move to a new phase of the project with the purchase of the pub this year.

Buying shares We are in constructive discussions with the pub’s owners about its purchase. In order to buy and operate the Duke of Marlborough a further £150,000 is needed. This can, and will (!), be raised. Other communities have done it – and so can we. But we need your help.

• • • •

If you are not already a shareholder, could you invest £250 or more?

If you are a shareholder, would you be prepared to increase your current shareholding?

Could you help us find more supporters – refer friends, colleagues or family who would consider buying shares?

All donations (however small) are also very welcome

Loaning big lump sums – great new scheme with attractive payback In order to buy the pub as soon as possible, we need to borrow money. If you have £5,000 to £50,000 to invest for a period of four years and if your tax liabilities are over £3,000 a year, then you may well want to benefit from a fantastic new scheme.

The government’s Social Investment Tax Relief should enable you to reclaim 30% of your loan against your tax bill. The end result is equivalent to a whacking 7% a year interest – and your loan returned in full after four years.

The good news is that the loans will cost the pub nothing: the benefit to savers comes direct from the taxman. We’re in the process of registering with HMRC for the scheme, and are seeking expressions of interest. Please email marlboroughsomersham@gmail.com or call James on 01473 831042 if you’d like to get involved or to know more about it.

BASH IN THE BARN 2: Fundraising event on March 19 Put March 19 in your diaries for Bash in the Barn 2. More details to follow – our Facebook page is a good way to keep abreast of latest news: www.facebook.com/marlboroughsomersham Follow us on Twitter: @helpsavetheduke

ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY UPDATE Suffolk’s energy-from-waste facility attracted more than 2,600 visitors in its first year and 99.5% said they were either happy or very happy with their visit.

As well as seven open days, aimed primarily at those living very close to the site, the centre has hosted 37 school or children’s groups and 92 adult groups during the year. Visitors have come from right across the county and beyond, but over half of the visitors live in Mid Suffolk or Babergh.

The feedback has been very positive, with local people welcoming the opportunity to learn more about the energy-from-waste process, as well as recycling and the need to produce more energy from renewable sources.

One local resident commented: “Very informative. I feel a lot happier with the facility being here now as it has all been explained to me. Thank you.”

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A typical visit includes a presentation, a tour of the facility including the control room where the emissions monitoring information can be seen, and time in the visitor centre rooms.

The chimney emissions monitoring information is also available on our website: www.suffolkefw.co.uk Before the site opened, Suffolk County Council set up a monitoring station close by to measure general air quality before, during and after construction. This information is available on the Green Suffolk website at: http://tinyurl.com/zd6jdlr USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SITA Trust: 01454 262910

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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT John Field’s Report to Gipping Valley: January 2015 Local Government Financial News The county and district now know their settlements for the next four years and both have suffered rather more than they expected.

The county will receive £4million more next year than it estimated, then £4, £6 and £8million less over the next three years. Overall, the reduction from now will be £41.9million by 2019/20. The estimate is that inflation will cost an additional £8 million and demographic change £5.2 million per year, which all makes it difficult or impossible to maintain services for the vulnerable and the rest of us. I will report the proposed budget actions when the administration reveals its revised proposals.

The district core budget will lose £730k government grant next year and another £1 million over the next three years. This will be replaced from the £2.6million New Homes Bonus which will drop to about £1.8 million over the period. There will still be £8.4million of Transformation Funds available for investment in 2016/17.

The government ruling that rents must no longer rise by CPI plus 1% but now must fall by 1% in cash terms will challenge the district’s housing revenue account. This change is good for residents but takes a substantial sum from the finance for continued building of new and replacement council houses.

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The proceeds from right to buy sales can form 30% of the cost of replacement homes but the remaining 70% must come from surplus rent income, grants that we may win from government and borrowing. The rent reductions make a hole in the total and a major checking exercise is in progress.

Devolution It is a bit hard to get excited by devolution. Does it matter to you? Will you get better and more efficient services? Does it matter who rules you as long as they take notice of your views and are good at it?

The Enabling Bill is certainly progressing through parliament with the last minute addition of some significant powers to allow the government to overcome resistance from local authorities.

We will be examining progress in Scrutiny on February 10 asking, among other things, why is it important that Suffolk pursues devolution, what are the advantages, what are the potential benefits to the people of Suffolk and what does it seek to achieve in terms of outcomes?

Broadband The plan for the next nine months includes Chapel Lane, Great Blakenham (80 premises) and Claydon Business Park (75), which leaves a few remote villages, like Baylham where I live.

Houses in Bramford Development of 130 houses north of Acton Road has received outline planning permission.

Infrastructure development gets £79k for preschool, £962k for education, £28k for libraries and £66k for highways. Open space and social infrastructure should receive £725k, much of which will go to the village. However, we must remember a lot can change even at this stage.

Houses in Great Blakenham There is a scheme proposed to develop the area of Great Blakenham between Chequers Rise and the allotments and by the time you read this a public exhibition will have been held. Yet another large development proposed in a village that has expanded dramatically and is feeling the strain.

The contributions for infrastructure to support such a development would be similar to that above except that the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is likely to be operational by the time the developer makes a planning application.

That would provide a certain non-negotiable sum which would depend on the floor area of the houses and would exclude any affordable dwellings. At some £10k per house, there would be perhaps £1,00k available.

If you have queries please contact me at: 01473 831306 / john.field@suffolk.gov.uk www.john.field@suffolk.libdems.org

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NEWS Â Â

CLAYDON & WHITTON PARISH COUNCIL

The future of policing In Claydon & Whitton Rural There has been much speculation in the press regarding the future of policing in Suffolk following the latest reorganisation carried out by Suffolk Constabulary in order to meet savings targets up to 2020. At present Claydon & Whitton Rural (C&WR) share the costs of a PCSO with Barham and Great Blakenham Parish Councils and also receives sponsorship from Sackers to pay for the running costs of a police vehicle. During recent weeks representatives from C&WR Parish Council have spent a considerable amount of time attending meetings with the Police and Crime Commissioner and Suffolk Constabulary and also having discussions with other parish councils in the area to try and raise sufficient finance to maintain the current level of police presence in the village, which would be greatly missed if it was reduced.

To date, the response received has been positive, but further discussions will be taking place with interested parties during the next few weeks with a view to agreeing a new contract with Suffolk Constabulary for the provision of police services to all participating parish councils in the future.

Claydon & Barham Recreation Ground Despite numerous appeals, much time and effort from members of the parish council and an open day, there has been no response for additional volunteers from the community to join the Recreation Ground Management Committee.

Given the number of regular users, this is extremely disappointing. As a result, the future of the recreation ground is now in serious doubt.

In order to keep the recreation ground open to the public it is essential that it is managed and maintained both to ensure the safety of users and to meet the requirements for insurance cover. The parish council does not have the resources to carry out this work on a permanent basis and unless more members can be found to join the recreation ground committee, it will have to consider whether it will be necessary to restrict public access in future. If you would like to volunteer and help save the recreation ground for the community, please contact our parish clerk.

Emergency Plan Committee Residents are still needed to join the Emergency Plan Committee or to just agree to be contacted if an emergency occurs. For more information please contact Councillor Anne Dunford: 01473 831846 / annedunfordcwpc@gmail.com Parish councillor vacancies There are still two vacancies for parish councillors. The duties and responsibilities of the parish council are wide ranging and varied. If you would like to contribute to the running of your community on a voluntary basis and help make a difference, becoming a parish councillor is an ideal way in which to do so. Please contact our parish clerk for further information.

Parish clerk, Mrs S Eagle: 01473 687384 (answer machine available) / claywhit@btinternet.com / 7 Leicester Close, Ipswich IP2 9EX http://claydonandbarham.onesuffolk.net / Twitter: @claywhitpc

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NEWS TRIANON MUSIC GROUP Established for over 50 years, Trianon Music Group is taking the opportunity to celebrate their famous presidents this year as part of a full programme of large-scale and community concerts.

Imogen Holst, the daughter of Gustav Holst, was their first president.

She spent 20 years as joint artistic director of the internationally famous Aldeburgh Festival and was a composer, arranger, conductor and teacher.

Sir Malcolm Arnold is also a former Trianon president and the current holder of this role is John Rutter, whose ever-popular music is widely performed.

The Presidential Suite concert is at Ipswich Corn Exchange on April 16 and Trianon makes a return visit to Snape Maltings on September 17 to perform a feast of choruses and variations, including the magnificent Belshazzar’s Feast.

With a full symphony orchestra and choir, Trianon is always interested in recruiting new members. If you would like to join Trianon please get in touch with Dorothee Double: publicity@tmg.org.uk / 01473 727852 You can pick up a copy of Trianon’s 2016 brochure at Ipswich Tourist Information Centre or download a copy from their website, which also has details of community concerts in local venues throughout the year and details of how to book your tickets.

For further details visit: www.tmg.org.uk You can also follow Trianon on Twitter @MusicTrianon

BARHAM PARISH COUNCIL (BPC) Report from January meeting Barham Picnic Site The chairman confirmed that following advice from Suffolk County Council’s legal team and revised advice from Prettys, the parish council’s solicitor, the Licence to Charge document between the parish council Claydon Football Club was signed by the chairman and vice-chairman.

Road Markings County Councillor Field confirmed that 30mph roundall road markings will be installed on Norwich Road. He will approach SCC Highways to see if these can also be installed on Barham Church Lane near the church.

Finance Councillors considered the Budget 2016/17 and agreed the final precept figure of £24,208 be requested from Mid Suffolk District Council. This represents an increase of 2% over the current year.

Dog Waste Bin Councillors gave approval for a dog waste bin to be installed on the corner of The Crescent at the junction with Norwich Road.

Future of the PCSO for Barham Village

TIME FOR CHANGE IN CLAYDON AND BARHAM? As an outsider (I have only lived here for 30+ years) and because in my role as webmaster of the joint Claydon and Barham site I am required to pull together the various activities in our locality, I probably see things from a slightly different perspective than most.

I do find it amazing that we still have two annual meetings for the residents of our community in April – one for those who happen to live in Claydon and another for those who happen to live in Barham. Sadly, having attended some of these meetings, it is clear that residents show little interest in either of these meetings and therefore they appear to serve no real purpose and certainly do little to improve communications between elected councillors and the general public.

In other communities, it is normal for organisations in the village to get together at these meetings to say what they have been doing and to solicit new members. It’s also a time when the community comes together as a whole and not just because they go to the school, church or community centre.

So just for a change how about we organise a joint annual meeting where we invite residents from both parishes to take part. In my simplistic view all we need to do is hold the previously held meetings at the same place and at roughly the same time. Given the amount of hard work they put in I am sure the councillors would appreciate some residents actually coming along once a year However, to move the idea to reality probably requires you to support it and say something to your local councillor. We can always continue as we are but in my view this achieves nothing other than a tick in a box.

One final point, for those who aren’t aware, it is possible to sign-up to email distribution of our local news items without having to go to the website every day on the off chance that something has changed. Just search for Claydon and Barham Website and you’ll find instructions to do it on the home page.

The chairman was meeting with Claydon, Henley and Great Blakenham Parish Councils to discuss the possibility of jointly funding a PCSO following notification from Suffolk Police that their funding of the scheme will end at the end of March 2016. The parish councils would need to fund 100% of a PCSO post. Barham Parish Council fully supported the continued appointment of a PCSO for the village but had to consider the impact of raising the precept to fund this post.

Parking on Coopers Way Parking problems on Coopers Way had been bought to the attention of the parish council. The matter will be referred to Suffolk County Council Highways Department to see what can be done to manage the situation, with the installation of double yellow lines on the bends a possibility.

Planning Applications 15/4077/FUL – erection of 14 dwellings with associated landscaping, open space and infrastructure on land at Norwich Road: The parish council supports this application but raised concerns regarding the inadequate time to respond to a major application in the village, the road layout and access onto Norwich Road, the flood zone implication, Section 106 monies and how the application will be determined

by MSDC. Future Meetings Mondays, February 1, March 7 and April 4, all 7pm at Claydon and Barham Village Hall.

If you would like a specific topic discussed as an agenda item please contact the parish clerk Claire Lee: 01473 839784 / barhampc@outlook.com Your councillors (and their phone numbers) are: Stephen Carr (chairman) 831122; Gordon Musson (vice-chairman) 830759; Neil Cooper 01449 760493; Jeremy Lea 07956 149905; Darren Millward, 830891; Claire Webb 832622; Phil Usher 830168.

John, Claydon and Barham webmaster

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

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CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE

December 30 saw a somewhat sad farewell to the children who had been with us in December. Previously the only children to visit at this time of year have been those on repeat (private) invitations so having been before they would know what to expect and the inviting host would know who was coming.

For hosts to take the first time travellers was quite something as they had no idea how the children would fit in with their family and their lifestyle. I am delighted to report that this was a great success. I would like to extend my thanks to the families who hosted for their generosity and selflessness in reaching out to these children despite their own family commitments. Also a very big thank you to their children who so unselfishly let complete strangers share their family time at Christmas.

During the visit many new experiences were enjoyed and again we have been touched by the generosity of our sponsors. The children experienced bowling for the first time, had a fantastic experience at a cookery school, a tour around a fruit and veg wholesale facility, decorated their own miniature Christmas cakes to take home and many other memory making experiences. They spent long hours working on their memory books, recording minute details and saving scraps for mementos that we would discard without a second thought. Even the smallest of gifts became a treasured item to take home, wrapping paper, cards and bows all being carefully saved as well. A link to a short video showing the activities that took place during the month can be seen on our website.

We now look forward to the 2016 group visit which takes place in July. We do hope that you will be able to support our forthcoming fundraising events to make sure this can take place: Pig Racing evening on February 13 and Chocolate Bingo on Saturday, March 5 – see our adverts opposite for full details. Tickets are now on sale.

Our very grateful thanks as always to our supporters and here’s looking forward to a great 2016.

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / enquiries@ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk

URGENT APPEAL TO HELP CHILDREN OF CHERNOBYL Could you host a child from Belarus for four weeks in July this year?

We urgently need to find individuals or families who could open their hearts and their homes to welcome a child or children for four weeks from July 3. Our annual invitation has already been issued due to the time required to process documentation and visa applications. The education authorities will now be in the process of selecting the children who are eligible for our program and it would be devastating for a child to be told they could no longer travel as we didn’t have enough host families to receive them.

All that is needed is a minimum of a mattress to sleep on and a loving home with people who care. Financial circumstances are immaterial. Age is not a barrier, single parents will be considered and families may or may not still have their own children at home Hosts are able to follow their own occupation/interests as the children meet daily Monday-Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm at our day centre in Needham Market where they enjoy a range of activities and outings.

They are then free to return to their host families to enjoy quality time during the late afternoons, evenings and weekends.

Supporters, families or individuals who cannot host provide assistance to hosting

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families or with the children on activities and day trips and are on hand to collect or look after children at other times if needed, or to provide an overnight stay if required.

Could you give a temporary home to one or two children from Belarus? These children are not sick but do live in areas that have suffered greatly from the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster which took place on April 26 1986, and unbelievably 30 years on the situation is still affecting second and third generation children. Not only are the families suffering from the problems associated with the disaster, but factor in increased poverty caused by a collapsing economy, wages being cut, jobs being lost and the cost of living rising monthly without wages keeping pace and one can begin to see how a simple visit to the UK can be so beneficial. Despondency is replaced by hope and optimism, compromised immune systems are revitalised, children arrive grey and tired but return home looking healthy and happy with a whole new outlook on life and memories to treasure forever as the majority of these children will never leave their village in their lifetime, let alone have the opportunity to go abroad. So, in hosting these children you truly will be giving a forever gift that will remain priceless to the recipient.

The children are brought to the UK on a

respite visit to help their health improve; four weeks breathing clean air, eating nourishing food and drinking clean water can rebuild their currently compromised immune systems to such a degree that it can take up to two years to return to the current levels after their return home.

This can help to extend the children’s life expectancy which has already been severely compromised by living with the after effects of the Chernobyl disaster.

Host families welcome children into their homes as part of their own family. Over the years many hosts have enjoyed the experience so much that they have acquired extended families when they decide to keep in touch with ‘their’ children. A hosting family is not paid but a high level of support is provided in many ways and the reward comes in seeing children blossom during their time in the UK. Children will be aged between eight and 10 years. During their stay the link will arrange many fun days out and activities and also essential care such as dentist and opticians.

If you would like to be considered as a host parent or helper and would like more information please contact Link Chair Elizabeth Parker: 01449 760343 / 07771 550868 / enquiries@ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk

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OUT & ABOUT CLAYDON AND BARHAM VILLAGE HALL Dates for February Monday 1 Thursday 4

Friday 5

CDC Street Dance Barham PC Meeting

Monday 8

Tuesday 9

Silver Surfers Slimming World

11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm

Stowe School of Dance

4-5.30pm

Craft Addicts CDC Street Dance

Women’s Institute Claydon Table Tennis

Young Families Silver Surfers

Slimming World

Friday 12

Stowe School of Dance

Monday 15

CDC Street Dance

Thursday 18

Sunshine Service Silver Surfers Slimming World

Monday 22

Craft Addicts CDC Street Dance

Tuesday 23

Thursday 25

Young Families Silver Surfers Slimming World

Friday 26

7pm 7.15pm

9.30-11.30am 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm

4-5.30pm 4.45-6.45pm

10am 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm

Claydon Table Tennis VHMC Meeting

1-4pm 4.45-6.45pm

Love Your Gloves month at Ipswich Country Market Did you know that February is statistically the coldest month?

Raynaud’s condition, where small blood vessels at the body’s extremities are oversensitive to changes in temperature, affects about one in six people in the UK. During February, Ipswich Country Market will be supporting the Raynaud’s and Scleroderma Associations’ Love Your Gloves campaign. Fifty percent of sales of our handmade polar fleece gloves will be donated to the charity.

Also available are hand-crafted scarves, headbands hats and welly socks to keep you warm. All items can be made to your specific requirements too.

February is also a month full of food celebrations. Why not choose one of our many varieties of homemade jam or some local honey to top your pancakes on February 9, Pancake Day? Cakes can be ordered and made or bought for Valentine’s Day. Perhaps you could buy a red tasty jam as a treat for your loved one?

Looking forwards, that jam might be tasty to top your Welsh Cakes on St David’s Day on March 1, if there’s any left.

You can find more about the market on our Facebook page – Ipswich Country Market – or by visiting: www.ipswichcountrymarket.co.uk We are open from 10.15-11.30am on Thursdays at Rushmere Village Hall on Humber Doucy Lane. There is plenty of free parking, a warm welcome, and homebaked refreshments too. We offer a free tea or coffee on your first visit so come and see what we can tempt you with.

7.15pm 7.30pm

9.30-11.30am 11.30am-2pm 5.30 & 7.30pm

Stowe School of Dance CDC Street Dance

1-4pm 4.45-6.45pm

Thursday 11

Monday 29

4.45-6.45pm 7pm

IPSWICH COUNTRY MARKET

4-5.30pm

4.45-6.45pm

SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Our next meeting is at 7.30pm on Monday, February 8 when Susanna Robirosa will present a talk on community gardens, which should be very interesting. We meet in Offton and Willisham Village Hall.

For more information on village hall activities visit the Claydon and Barham website and follow the links. Hall bookings now only online.

If you need any more information please ring 01473 830600. Come along and give us a look, you will be made very welcome, and it only costs £8 a year to join.

Easter Themed Chocolate Bingo!

Saturday, March 5 Fantastic Family Night Out!

C OME & JOIN US FOR PIG RACING!

Needham Market Community Centre, 7pm Full Bar Open — Entry £6 (Under 10s half price) To include hot supper with dessert

Bingo with a real difference!

Six exciting games with a special “kidz only” game Chocolate related prizes and raffle / final game cash prize First game 7.30pm prompt Tickets fromCARD the CCLL Charity in Needham ONE available FREE BINGO WITH EACHShop £7.00 TICKET Mkt Horse Public House) TICKETS ON(adjacent SALE ATto: Rampant NEEDHAM MARKET POST OFFICE PURCHASED Tourist Office Stowmarket (opposite Asda) NEEDHAM MARKET COMMUNITY CENTRE Or call 01449 760343 / 07974 424374 A CHARITY EVENT FOR CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1014274

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

Saturday, February 13

Bloomfields, Needham Market Football Club, Quinton Road, Needham Market Supper of “Pigs in Pyjamas” & dessert included Tote & Pig Racing hosted by Stowmarket Lions Doors open 7pm / first race 7.30pm prompt Tickets (£8) are available from The CCLL Charity Shop in Needham ONE FREE Tourist BINGO Office CARD WITH EACH £7.00 TICKET Market & Stowmarket TICKETS ON SALE AT: NEEDHAM MARKET POST OFFICE PURCHASED NEEDHAM MARKET COMMUNITY CENTRE

Or call 01449 760343/ 07974 424374/ 07770 478933

A CHARITY EVENT FOR CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1014274

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OUT & ABOUT

IPSWICH & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY ANNUAL EXHIBITION OF PRINTS AND PROJECTED IMAGES The Council Chamber, Town Hall Galleries, Cornhill, Ipswich IP1 1DH. Tuesday, March 1 to Saturday 12, 10am-5pm.

Closed Sunday and Monday. Exhibition closes at 4pm on Saturday 14.

Melford Landscape by David Long

Admission free.

Brightlingsea Watch Tower by Barry Freeman

A Massive THANKYOU from Henley Parish Council

Henley Christmas Village Craft Fayre We raised over £1,100 for our two children's chari?es Well done to everybody who helped & supported

Our Next Christmas Fayre is Saturday 3rd December 2016

VACANCIES AT HENLEY COMMUNITY CENTRE Church Meadows, Henley, Ipswich, Suffolk IP6 0QX

VACANCY FOR A CLEANER • Part-time temporary position (maternity cover), 2 days per week, 10 hours • Well presented and flexible • Pro-active and assertive • Positive attitude and team support • Closing date February Interested? Contact: henleycommunitycentre@ googlemail.com / 01473 833226

CASUAL BAR STAFF REQUIRED

EASTER BRIC-A-BRAC SALE 1st Sproughton Brownies are holding their Easter Bric-a-Brac sale on Saturday, March 5 at Sproughton Church Hall, 2-4pm. Admission free.

In aid of Save the Children, HOPS (Holiday Opportunity Play Scheme for children with disabilities) and Brownie funds.

Everyone welcome.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

We are looking for bar staff on a casual basis to support our events such as weddings and large birthday parties in 2016.

• Good rates of pay • Flexible shifts – mainly Friday or Saturday evenings • Full training given • Uniform provided • Fun and friendly environment • Must be over 18 years old If interested please contact: henleybarmail@gmail.com / 01473 833226 13

OUT & ABOUT SHERLOCK HOLMES COMES TO TOWN

The one and only Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr Watson are coming to town on Friday, February 5 to carry out their detective duties on a murder case titled The Suffolk Train Theft.

The Hearing Care Centre have organised the murder mystery evening to raise valuable funds for their chosen charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. The evening will take place at the historic Ipswich and Suffolk Club on Northgate Street, Ipswich and the fun and frivolity will begin at 7.30pm.

Guests will be treated to a delicious 3-course dinner and a full evening of deadly entertainment. Lots of prizes will be up for grabs.

Tickets are £40 and can be booked by phoning Matthew at The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330. Please note there is limited availability.

The Hearing Care Centre’s target is to raise £10,000 this year in order to sponsor their very own hearing dog, which will eventually go on to provide support and companionship to a deaf recipient.

STOWMARKET LIONS’ ANNUAL ART SHOW AT JOHN PEEL CENTRE The Stowmarket Lions are getting ready for their fourth annual Art Show and Sale taking place over the weekend of March 4-6. The show will again be held in the wonderful venue of the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, which is centrally located in the town of Stowmarket. It is anticipated that more than 300 entries by local artists and photographers will be on display offering a wide and varied range of exhibits for sale.

The Stowmarket Lions perform all their fundraising work on a voluntary basis and since its inauguration in 2013 the art show has raised thousands of pounds to help our local community.

The show will be open for general admission on Saturday and Sunday, March 5 and 6 from 10am. Admission is £1, with under 16s free when accompanied by an adult.

A cheese and wine preview evening will be held on Friday, March 4 from 7.30pm. Tickets are priced at £6 each (includes cheese and wine) and numbers are limited. The preview evening is a great opportunity to view and purchase exhibits in an exclusive social setting.

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Preview evening tickets can be requested by email to artshow2016@ stowlions.org.uk along with general enquiries about the show.

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you.

HENLEY WI Our December meeting was our Christmas party. The food was provided by the committee and we were most grateful for all the pleasing comments we received. The hall looked magnificent with the tables decorated by Alice and following the meal members were entertained by an Olde Tyme Music Hall organised by Kay. The outstanding acts were Angela and Sue C who performed There’s A Hole in my Bucket, and Kay who made a wonderful Burlington Bertie complete with top hat, bowtie and fishnet tights. It was compered by our president Sue H with all the necessary long words and we finished with a good old singsong. An excellent time was had by all. We also had a collection of tins with soup going to the soup kitchen in Ipswich and any other tins being donated to FIND. The following week we held our annual carol service in St Peter’s Church, followed by tea, coffee and mince pies. It was very well attended and the collection raised £112, which has been donated to St Elizabeth Hospice’s At Home service As we begin 2016 we look forward to another interesting year and we would offer a very warm welcome to anyone who may be considering something a little different. We meet on the third Thursday of the month at Henley Community Centre at 7.30pm.

So leave the family at home and come and join us for fun and friendship in 2016.

Diabetes Uk Ipswich Support Group DiabetesUk Ipswich Support Group wishes everyone a happy New Year and will be opening up meetings again on Thursday, February 11 at 7pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH. We are in our second year after having a very interesting first year with various speakers such as two of the top executives from DiabetesUK and Health Secretary Dr Poulter speaking on topics associated with DiabetesUK and other organisations.

This year we aim to carry on supporting with care and connection and offer assistance to diabetics in the Ipswich area. Our first speaker of the year is Vanessa Lomax from Age UK. The dates are for the rest of the year are: March 11, April 14, August 11, September 8 and November 10. We look forward to seeing old and new attendees this year.

For further information please contact 07799 607951.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, February 16 at 7.15pm when David Brown will be talking about China – The Land of the Dragon. This illustrated talk will focus on a number of famous and less famous attractions, both ancient and modern, as well as aspects of Chinese history and culture.

The talk on March 22 will be given by Luke Potter, the new East Suffolk general manager for the National Trust. Luke will give us an insight into the current work and future plans of the trust for our area. This will be preceded by a short AGM. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome for an entrance fee of £2 each. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 a year (£12 for a couple at the same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events.

For more information contact our membership secretary: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

FED UP WITH WINTER CHILLS? THEN READ ON BECAUSE... … all are welcome to Henley WI ‘s Winter Warmer Lunch on Thursday, February 25 at Henley Community Centre starting at noon.

A variety of delicious homemade soups and puddings will be served.

Tickets are £5. To book contact Joyce Hornsby: 01473 831105

HENLEY SENIOR CITIZENS It seems some time since the Christmas Fayre took place, but this is the first opportunity to thank everyone who donated items for our Chocolate Tombola Stall and supported us on the day. The monies raised will be wisely spent for the members during the year.

The hamper was won by one of our members, Beryl Mann, this being the first time in 11 years that a member has won it! Another member, Hilary Thorndyke, won the oil painting. The bottle of whisky was won by a lady from Framlingham and the bottle of Prosecco by a lady from Claydon.

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OUT & ABOUT

BRAMFORD ART GROUP We have now moved into the Loraine Victory Hall and at present we are able to invite more budding artists and beginners to join our group.

We meet on Wednesdays morning between 10am and noon; the cost is currently £8 a month.

For further details please contact Ann Woolnough on 01473 743794 or come along and meet us any Wednesday after 10am.

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 on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. The cost per meeting is £1.50 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 and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It’s fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.

Our meetings for February and March are: February 10: Social afternoon February 24: Chocolate!

March 9: Social afternoon March 23: Mr Lewis Tyler of the River Gipping Trust will give a presentation entitled Rebuilding History – Baylham Lock and Sluice

CLAYDON & BARHAM WI Our first meeting of the New Year was on January 12 and we spoke at length about which competitions we will enter at the Suffolk Show in early June. We came down in favour of three classes, and will design and make a fiddle lap mat, a knitted toy and a hanging mobile, the latter to be made with 50% recycled materials.

After refreshments, accompanied with delicious cheese scones provided by Audrey and Viennese slices by June, we played a most enjoyable game of Beetle, which was won by Joan. Our decorated wooden spoon competition was well supported, and there were some well made colourful entries. First Linda F, second Barbara.

Future activities: January 22: March 3:

Brunch at Alder Carr Far Federation meeting at Trinity Park

For a change, our next meeting on Tuesday, February 9 will be an evening meal out and Elizabeth Simpson will speak about Guide Dogs for the Blind on March 8 when the competition will be an Easter Bonnet.

Should anyone wish to get in touch, please contact Barbara: 01473 832330

PLANT HERITAGE SUFFOLK GROUP Plant Heritage Suffolk Group warmly invites you to a talk on The Narcissus (pre-1930 daffodils) Plant Collection by Duncan Donald on Saturday, February 20 at 2.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall, IP14 4BQ. Duncan’s extensive experience includes being curator at Chelsea Physic Garden, head of gardens with Scottish National Trust, and internal plant registrar for the RHS. In addition, he has developed Croft 16 Daffodils, an outlet for surplus pre 1930s daffodils, a national collection of which is shared by Duncan and his wife.

Visitors and new members are always welcome so do come and join us.

There will be a plant stall including rare and unusual plants and delicious refreshments available for purchase.

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

Admission is free to members and £5 for non-members.

No need to book. New members and non-members are most welcome.

Contact: Margaret Palmer, 01206 299832

MEET ‘N’ EAT LUNCH CLUB

www.suffolkplantheritage.com

We meet at noon on the first Friday of each month at the Parish Rooms in Great Blakenham.

4 EVER YOUNG MEN’S CLUB

For only £3.50 we serve a selection of soups with a bread roll, home made puddings with cream or custard and a cup of tea or coffee. In addition, we offer the chance to sit and chat with old friends, make new friends, play a game of bingo and have a bit of fun.

If you’re interested in joining us, telephone Sue Broomfield on 07890 512828 or Mike Biddle on 07805 507497, or just come along on the first Friday of the month – you will be very welcome.

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The 4 Ever Young Men’s Club meets at 10.30am on the third Wednesday of the month at The Crown in Claydon. We often have a guest speaker for an hour or so, along with a chance to sit and chat with old friends, meet new friends and learn of new interests and ideas.

The Crown very kindly accommodates us and provides coffee for our meeting, and some of us often stay for a spot of lunch afterwards.

If you would like to join us, contact Mike Biddle on 07805 507497 or just come along on the third Wednesday of the month – you will be very welcome.

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

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Schools CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL We have had a busy start to term with Year 11 students returning to their internal mock exam results. These practise papers are a key indicator to students in helping them get ready for the first real exam on May 3.

Revision really starts in earnest now, supported by a Friday night and Saturday GCSE Boot Camp trip to the Essex Outdoors Centre on Mersea Island. This overnight stay includes revision in English and mathematics on Friday night, followed the next morning by a hearty cooked breakfast to help the students face some outdoor challenges on Saturday, such as the climbing wall and assault course as well as working in a classroom to learn more about how to revise. Our aim is that students leave tired and muddy, but with 101 revision strategies!

We continue to celebrate our students’ successes both inside and outside of school and some fantastic performances have come from Robert Welham in karting, Minty Bloss in pony racing, Charlie Johnson in cycle speedway and Amie Philpot in swimming, to name but a few. While we cannot offer these types of activities in school, our P.E. Department are always looking at different ways to challenge and enthuse students about sport and have recently introduced a StreetGolf after-school club.

StreetGolf is a fun and engaging golfing activity designed by StreetGames and The Golf Foundation with the help of young people. The StreetGolf format aims to bring golf to young people, regardless of their access to traditional facilities and is ideal for use in an urban or inner city environment. Young people are encouraged to make innovative use

HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL We wish everyone a Happy New Year and extend a warm welcome to all the new children and their families who are starting with us – we are sure that you will all enjoy your time with us.

We are looking forward to the term ahead, but what a busy end of term we had. The children were busy making Christmas cards, bags, decorations and calendars, not forgetting reindeer food for that special visitor on Christmas Eve. On top of all the gluing, painting, sticking and glitter, we had our end of term nativity play. Having been closed for a few days due to severe staff illness the week before the nativity, we were a little down on practise time. That said, the children sang (what words they could remember) beautifully and we had a fun and enjoyable morning singing to the parents. In early December we had a visit to Easton Farm Park to see Father Christmas and to take part in a nativity play with real live animals. It was a great morning, enjoyed by both the children and parents who attended.

Please don’t forget we are registered with www.easyfundraising.org.uk where online stores such as Amazon will donate a percentage back to us

of everyday equipment to make sessions different, challenging and enjoyable. Our small but dedicated team has had the opportunity to represent the Eastern Region in the National StreetGolf Finals in Wolverhampton and also qualified for the Super 6 Games finals back in July. The chief executive of the Golf Foundation, Brendan Pyle, came to visit the school in December to observe and speak to the students taking part in this successful club, which is supported by Sam Foster, golf professional at Bramford Golf Centre. Brendan has produced a very interesting case study which can be viewed at: www.golf-foundation.org We have two very exciting trips abroad for our language and art students this month, one to Paris and one to Salamanca in northwest Spain.

Students will visit key tourist sites to practise their language skills in a real-life context as well as absorbing the different cultures. In other areas of the school, Year 9 students will be choosing what subject options to study at GCSE, Year 11 art students will visit the Tate Gallery in London and, to finish the month, music students will be taking part in a rock band workshop with visiting local band, Underline the Sky.

OPEN MORNING If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The date of the next one is Wednesday, February 24. Please telephone Mrs J Pedersen, the headteacher’s PA, to book a place: 01473 836110 Mrs S Skinner, headteacher at no extra cost to you. When you next order online please consider going through this site to help us raise funds. There is further information on the board outside the pre-school.

We are a small rural pre-school situated in the light and airy Boughton Room within Henley Community Centre which is less than a 10 minute drive from Ipswich town centre (straight out on Henley Road). There is a large car park on site making drop off and collection of your child a safer and easier experience.

We have grant-funded and paid sessions available for two to five year olds. Lunch club is also available (noon to 1pm). You don’t need to live in the Henley School catchment area to come and play with us – we have children from Ipswich, Claydon, Needham Market and other surrounding areas. If you would like to come and join in the fun, please ring 01473 833848 during session time any weekday morning and Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons before 3pm. Out of hours, or if you wish to leave us a message, please ring the pre-school mobile on 07979 468467 or visit: www.henleypreschool.co.uk Carol and the team

ADVERTISE HERE

for

£25

*

a month Please call 01473 400380 * excludes VAT

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Schools CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL We were delighted to welcome everyone back after the Christmas break, but before we become fully immersed in 2016, we wanted to share with you some of the highlights of December as the winter term drew to a close and we celebrated Christmas.

Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 entertained their families with their nativity performance, The Magical Christmas Jigsaw. At the dress rehearsal, we welcomed guests from Baylham Care Home and Year 2 visited Barham Care Home to sing some songs to the residents.

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL Well, the start of the year is passing really quickly and the children have settled back in really well. We have also got some new children who joined us for this term. We are all hoping for some nice sunny weather so that everyone can enjoy the garden.

There are lots of fun activities for the children to enjoy coming up soon, and parents may want to start thinking about the design for their children’s Easter bonnets for the Easter show next month (Tuesday, March 22). Further details will be issued nearer the time.

The pre-school is open Monday to Friday from 9am-3.30pm during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to Reception.

Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a lunchclub (noon-12.30pm) for £1.60.

Year 3 led a carol concert at Barham Church. They sang a mix of traditional and modern Christmas songs, played hand-bells and recorders and read poems. After the concert, everyone enjoyed eating the mince pies that they had made.

We are happy to accept childcare vouchers and we offer two year funded places for any eligible children. We also run a holiday club in the Easter and summer holidays for two to eight year olds – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator.

Musicians from Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 entertained members of our community at a carol service at Great Blakenham Baptist Church.

If you would like more information regarding any of the above events or just to find out more about Claydon Pre-school please contact the administrator, Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB December prize-winners were: No 11: Sophie Last, £20.70 No 51: Laura Payne, £10.35 No 43: John Harrison, £3.45

Nursery children successfully performed their Christmas songs on the stage to their parents and grandparents. Then they enjoyed a play session in the nursery and a special Christmas snack.

We look forward to keeping you up to date with the many planned visits, trips and events that so greatly enhance the pupils’ learning, but most of all we look forward to sharing the children’s achievements and successes throughout 2016.

New members are welcome at any time. Entry is just £1 a month and the draw takes place on the last Friday of each month from September through to July. The more entries we get the greater the prize money and all money raised is used to enhance the lives of our children within the pre-school.

For an entry form please contact Nadine Harrison: 01473 831857 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk

CLAYDON AND BARHAM YOUNG FAMILIES Claydon and Barham Young Families is a Mothers’ Union project that has been run by Mothers’ Union members and supporters for 25 years. We welcome mums, dads, carers and grandparents from Claydon, Barham, Great Blakenham and the surrounding villages with babies or children under five. Entry is just £1.50 a family.

This month we meet on February 11 and 25, 9.30-11.30am, in Claydon and Barham Village Hall.

At our regular sessions we welcome anyone with babies or children under five for imaginative play, storytime, songtime and lots of fun.

Families can enjoy a different craft activity with a theme where children can be creative and try out different materials to produce an individual masterpiece. Playdough and all sorts of toys that encourage children’s imaginative play and physical and social development are available. We also share songtime for a bit of noise! For parents/carers it’s a good opportunity to meet others with pre-school children or babies. There is also a prize draw for the children.

Why not come along and join in the fun? You can make friends and enjoy some valuable play. Hope to see you there.

For more information contact me on 01473 833788 or check our listing on: netmums.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

Michelle

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SPORT BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB TALES FROM THE 19th HOLE The HOGS Christmas meeting on December 28 was, for the second year running, at a new venue, this time Seckford Hall. Not a totally new experience however as this was our end of year venue many years ago. Those in the later groups still remember the cold showers; the earlier groups having used up all the hot water. Thankfully times, and the boiler, have changed. I was again unable to attend so Bandit Bill has kindly provided the details for this issue, for which I am duly grateful.

An 11th hour cancellation by Ian, dropping out with man flu, meant a last minute reshuffling of the 11 players present, ensuring that the teams were balanced in respect of handicaps. It has become tradition for the Christmas event to be a team competition, playing ‘Texas Scramble’ for the Neil Gerrard Memorial Trophy, our founder captain, which comprised:

Team 1: Paul G, Alan, Keith and Darryn Team 2: Tim, Brian, Roland and Simon Team 3: Paul C, Steve and Grahame Despite being very wet underfoot, the course was in good nick and we were blessed with really good weather – Ivan was thanked. However, it was a very busy day, with two other societies playing, inevitably resulting in some slow play ahead of us, the last groups having to play in fading light. Unsurprisingly, a couple of balls were lost and phones were used as torches just to see the group ahead. Ivan was held responsible for this also and ticked off for not organising a display of the Northern Lights to illuminate the course.

Greetings guff lovers. Now that the dust has settled after Christmas (the only time of the year where you lose lots of pounds and still gain half a stone) it’s traditionally a time to show the liver some mercy and try to regain some semblance of your normal body shape. I have decided to embark on a fitness regime, although I realised I had let things slip a bit when I was forced to have a 10 minute recovery cool down after bending to tie my laces up!

Talking of fitness problems brings sad news of Corinne’s latest mishap on the courts. Her impression of Bambi on Ice resulted in a serious hamstring tear, bringing an overnight stay in hospital and a convalescence that will take several weeks. This meant no tennis and the cancellation of her planned Christmas Day swim in the sea at Felixstowe (I offered to call round and switch her boiler off so that she could still get the same effect when bathing – my eye is healing nicely now the swelling is diminishing).

Sadly this, and other injuries and withdrawals, means that the ladies now have only three available players to raise a team of four making it necessary, regrettably, to withdraw from the league for the remainder of this winter season.

We wish Corinne (and our other walking wounded) a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing them back in action in time for the summer season.

Better news and luck for the men’s winter league, with Adam and Matt’s team and Nick and Graham picking up points steadily. A good sign of Nick’s form is the fact that his racquets are unscathed, showing that they haven’t been thrown around too much, and Graham is now off of his anti-depressants.

The AGM is in March and the committee is testing the integrity of their electronic tags in readiness for their removal once they are off the committee (some chance). This year’s event could prove to be more challenging than usual and I will be the on-the-spot reporter (I must get some acne cream). If that doesn’t hold your interest I don’t know what will! Yes I do – it’s time for joke of the month.

A barman is rushed into casualty on New Year’s Eve. The doctor asked the ambulance driver what had happened.

With Christmas having just passed there was a display of several items of new equipment including trolleys and at least one club. A present to himself, Darryn was sporting a new trolley, a bargain purchase on eBay for just £1.50. Once set up however this appeared less of a bargain when it turned out to be a ‘Junior’ trolley, considerably smaller than the bag of clubs it was to transport around.

“It appears he was crushed,” said the driver.

The lack of daylight did not appear to have an impact on the result with Team 1 winning with a score of three over par, two shots clear of the other teams. Astonishingly, and pleasingly appropriate, this meant that Paul G maintains his status of being in the winning team every year that we have played for the trophy in his father’s honour.

Mick Russ

“How did that happen?” asked the doc.

“Well just before midnight one of the wives in the pub stood up and said that as the clock struck she wanted all the husbands to stand next to the person who makes their life worth living.”

I did promise to make them better. There goes another resolution. More guff next month.

Sadly, Margaret was unable to join us this year, but we were joined by a good number of partners including the whole Fisher clan, including Simon’s daughter Charlotte demonstrating what company teenagers will endure to get a free meal!

Thanks to Keith for all of his organisation and Steve for the variety of competitions he has developed and managed throughout 2015. Here’s to more good times in 2016.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

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ON THE GRAPEVINE DR DAN POULTER, YOUR LOCAL MP, REPORTS BACK I should like to wish you a happy New Year and a peaceful and healthy 2016.

At the start of a new year is always helpful to reflect on priorities for the year ahead and I should like to tell you some of mine.

In parliament I am looking forward to continuing in my role as a member of the Energy and Climate Change Committee and playing my part in achieving a balanced energy policy and innovative future energy system for our country. I shall also vigorously support the government’s long-term approach to climate targets and to promote renewable and clean energy.

WALK THE PLANET AND MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE FOR YOUR LOCAL HOSPICE This New Year take on a new challenge for your local hospice and Walk the Planet!

St Elizabeth Hospice is asking local people to join them for a virtual challenge to walk around the world in 180 days.

Together, with others, you will walk the entire planet to raise funds for your local hospice and to help make sure nobody has to face their illness alone.

The challenge can be done as part of your everyday life – just count the steps you take using the free Walk the Planet app on your mobile phone and add your steps to the walk’s total.

Pauline Donkin, St Elizabeth Hospice’s fundraising development manager, said: “You could Walk the Planet with your family, friends, or even colleagues in your lunch break.

“Why not pledge to increase the amount of steps you take in everyday life or add to your total by going for walks in the countryside.

“Whether you take on the challenge with a group or on your own, you can help us make a world of difference someone in your local community by going the extra mile for your local hospice.”

The challenge finishes in summer 2016, so there’s just 180 days for everyone to pull together and make each step count.

It’s free to take part, but you’re asked to raise a minimum of £35 in sponsorship, which is enough to pay for a session in the therapy gym with a physiotherapist to help a patient improve and maintain strength and function, and remain independent.

Register online now for free and we will email you the link to the free app so you can start your walk.

Sign up at: www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/walktheplanet

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I was delighted to be elected recently as co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Global Health and shall be contributing my experience as an NHS doctor to help to build on the achievements of this influential group in working to improve healthcare for the benefit of patients both in the UK and elsewhere. One of my main priorities this year is to highlight the need for better mental health provision and a fairer deal for mental health funding to support the dedicated NHS staff that care for mental health patients.

Another of my priorities is to do my best to promote employment, particularly for young people. We have come a long way in creating employment for young people in Suffolk – there were only 90 claimants aged 18-24 in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich in November 2015 which was 65 people lower than the previous year. But there is still more to do and I should like to see more young people doing vocational courses and apprenticeships.

As co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on carers I am determined to do all I can to support carers not only in Suffolk but also across the country. There are more than seven million unpaid carers in the UK and this will increase enormously during the next decade when the people needing care are expected to increase by 50%. Carers play an enormously important role in many peoples’ lives and are often the unsung heroes of our community. This year I should like to highlight the role of young carers and how important it is to help to identify them and give them the practical and emotional support that they need to ensure that they enjoy their lives and achieve just like their peers.

I am looking forward to meeting the challenges of the year ahead and shall be reporting back regularly in this column.

For more information please visit: www.drdanielpoulter.com

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

The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. The Suffolk Dementia Helpline can support anyone who needs to talk. Perhaps you have memory worries yourself or even a recent diagnosis and want someone to talk to. Maybe you have concerns about a loved one, or need support in your caring role. Perhaps it’s just information you are after, or a confidential chat with someone. The line can help anyone who is looking for practical support and is able to provide you with local information and get you in touch with organisations that can help.

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/claydon

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CHURCH NEWS CLAYDON AND BARHAM PARISH CHURCH The church of St Mary and St Peter in Barham Church Lane is the parish church for Claydon and Barham.

USEFUL NUMBERS: Clergy:

Priest-in-charge – vacant

Self-Supporting Minister – The Rev Jenny Ablett, 830205

Churchwardens: Robin Hooper Greenhill, 832243

Des Groom, 831804

Hall bookings:

Zoe Groom, 831804

For news, history, information and pictures visit: www.achurchnearyou.com/claydonandbarham St Peter’s Church in Claydon is closed for regular public worship and maintained by the Churches Conservation Trust

return in 2017. In this piece we publicised that the gardens will as usual be opened to the public in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice. Unfortunately we gave the wrong date for this event. It’s on Sunday, June 26, not Saturday 25 as we incorrectly stated last month.

LOOKING BACK With the January In Touch deadline well before Christmas, this is our first opportunity to reflect on that very special time in the church’s year.

With no parish priest this year we are very grateful to our unpaid ministry team and The Rev Bernie Rose, who recently retired, for all their efforts in ensuring that our celebrations followed their traditional pattern and were worthy of the event we celebrated.

The church was full for the Carol Service the Sunday before Christmas and for Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and was packed to overflowing with more than 280 people for the Service of Light on Christmas Eve afternoon. On Christmas morning a good number gathered at Henley for a Family Communion.

With our new lighting, three fully decorated Christmas trees, floral decorations, bells on the pew ends and hundreds of candles the church looked truly beautiful and we thank all those who gave many hours of their time to achieve this wonderful setting for our worship (and cleared it all away by Epiphany).

DEPARTED We offer our sympathy, love and prayers to the families and friends of those who have recently died including Madeline Wade formerly of The Crescent.

DIARY DATES FOR FEBRUARY

LENT No sooner is Christmas behind us and we start anticipating Easter through the observance of Lent, which starts with Ash Wednesday on February 10. Please make a special effort to attend our Ash Wednesday Service, which this year is being held at Great Blakenham Church at 7.30pm.

Wednesday, February 10 / Ash Wednesday

Many people observe Lent by giving up something which they usually enjoy, such as alcohol, chocolate or biscuits. Unfortunately this can make Lent feel a bit negative so we would like to suggest a couple of ways to make this a positive time of the year.

Sunday, February 7

Holy Communion (said), 8am

First Sunday Communion, 10am

Communion at Gt Blakenham, 7.30pm

Thursday, February 11

Young Families at the village hall, 9.30am

Friday, February 12

Communion at Alasdair Place, 2.30pm

Sunday, February 14

Holy Communion (said), 8am

Parish Communion, 10am

Firstly, this can be a time when we give some of our time to explore and learn more about our faith and how it can change lives. To this end we are running house groups throughout Lent. These groups will last no longer than an hour-and-a-half and there will be no pressure on anyone to read or participate in the discussion if they are not comfortable doing so. If you need more information or would like to participate please ring The Rev Jenny on 830205. Alternatively, if you are in church, just sign up on the list provided. Everyone is welcome and we look forward to exploring and growing our faith in an enjoyable way.

Wednesday, February 17 Lent Group at 10 Phillipps Road, 7.30pm

Secondly, if you are planning to give something up, why not donate the money you save to something really worthwhile. Your church is supporting Water Aid and Unicef through the Jars of Grace appeals again this year. Just pick up the leaflet in church or ring Roger on 831079.

Tuesday, February 23

PCC meets in the church hall, 7.30pm

FAMILIES AT 4.30 Following the popularity and feedback from Families at 4.30 on Advent Sunday at the end of November, we are now planning the next session to take place on February 21 during Lent.

Lent Group at 10 Phillipps Road, 7.30pm

Compline at Henley, 9pm

Thursday, February 25

Young Families at the village hall, 9.30am

Friday, February 26

Communion at Barham Care Home, 11am

Sunday, February 28

Holy Communion (said), 8am

Parish Communion, 10am

Wednesday, March 2

Lent Group at 10 Phillipps Road, 7.30pm

Compline at Henley, 9pm

Sunday, March 6

Holy Communion (said), 8am

Family Communion for Mothering Sunday, 10am

Families at 4.30 is aimed at whole families. We start at 4.30pm with various craft activities in the hall followed by a very short service in church and return to the hall for a meal. We aim to finish around 6pm. This month’s session will focus on Lent and look forward to Easter. Everyone is welcome but, as we are providing food, it would be good to have an idea of numbers in advance. Please let Ann Colthorpe know if you intend coming and if any of your family has any special dietary requirements: 01473 831079 / rogercolthorpe@aol.com BARHAM HALL GARDENS Last month we reported that the very popular open-air picnic concert at Barham Hall would sadly not take place in 2016 but will hopefully

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Compline at Henley, 9pm

Thursday, 18 February

Sunshine Service at the village hall, 10am

Sunday, February 21

Holy Communion (said), 8am

Community Worship, 10am

Families at 4.30, 4.30pm

Wednesday, February 24 Communion at St Peter’s Court, 2.30pm

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CHURCH NEWS A CONVERSATION FROM WITHIN In a mother’s womb were twin babies.

One asked the other: “Do you believe in life after delivery?” The other replied: “Why, of course. There has to be something after delivery.

Maybe we are here to prepare ourselves for what we will be later.”

“Nonsense,” said the first. “There is no life after delivery. What kind of life would that be?” The second said: “I don’t know, but there will be more light than here. Maybe we will walk with our legs and eat using our mouths. Maybe we will have other senses that we can’t understand now.”

The first replied: “That is absurd! Walking is impossible, and eating with our mouths? Ridiculous! The umbilical cord supplies our nutrition, provides our oxygen and gets rid of our waste. It takes care of everything we need and the umbilical cord is so short that life after delivery is to be logically excluded.”

The second insisted: “Well I think there is something after this life and maybe it’s different than it is here. Maybe we won’t need this physical cord anymore.” The first replied: “Nonsense. And moreover if there is life, why has no one ever come back from there? Delivery is the end of life. It takes us nowhere and we will cease to exist once we pass on from here.”

“Well, I don’t know,” said the second, “but perhaps we will meet mum there.” The first replied: “Mum? You actually believe in mum? That’s laughable. If mum exists then where is she now?”

Said the first: “Well I don’t see her, so it is only logical that she doesn’t exist.” To which the second replied: “Sometimes, when you’re still, and if you focus and really listen, you can perceive her presence, and you can hear her loving voice, calling gently from above.”

The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way towards him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for ‘In him we live and move and have our being’. Acts 17: 24-28 SERVICES Sundays: 10.45am at Great Blakenham (including Sunday Club for children); 6.30pm at Mickfield.

Wednesday: Fortnightly women’s meeting, 2.30pm; fortnightly prayer and Bible study, 10am.

Friday: Action Bible Club, meeting at the church, 6.30-7.30pm – games, crafts and stories for ages five to 12.

For more information email info@blakenhambaptist.org.uk / call 01449 720357 / or visit: www.blakenhambaptist.org.uk

The second said: “She is all around us. We are surrounded by her. We are of her. It is in her that we live. Without her this world would not and could not exist.”

ST PETER’S CHURCH, HENLEY Clergy:

The Rev Cathy Austin, 830100

Churchwardens: Richard Self, 831930

Margaret Gerrard, 831463 Services for February: Monday 1 9.15am – Prayer Group Sunday 7 9am – Said Communion Wednesday 10 7.30pm – Ash Wednesday Service at Great Blakenham

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Sunday 14 10am – Family Service Wednesday 17 9pm – Compline Saturday 20

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Sunday 21 10am – Family Communion

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Wednesday 24 9pm – Compline Sunday, March 6 10am – Mothering Sunday Service – please note change of service

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