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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead Volume 6 • Issue No. 2 • DECEMBER 2015
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Merry Christmas
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR My son is remarkably indecisive and it’s not a trait he has inherited from me! He and I have attempted to write to Father Christmas on no less than eight occasions now and each list has been completely different save for a bouncy egg which has topped the list every time. I kid you not! A bouncy egg is the thing he wants more than anything else. Basically it’s a egg shaped bouncy ball which costs about £1.50, but I suspect Jack will have hours of fun playing the same trick on us over and over again! Oh joy! But despite the frustration of trying to force Jack to make a final decision I’m quietly pleased that he is so keen to have a simple, inexpensive gift. I know Lego will make it onto the final list in one form or another and possibly some football ‘stuff’, but while Jack is still relatively immune to the power of advertising I clearly don’t need to overspend in order to have a happy five-year-old. Next year might be more difficult. I dread the day he asks for a mobile phone, but I’m going to copy my brother John and agree to Jack having a phone for his 14th birthday. I can hear you scoffing in disbelief, but John’s four teenagers still speak to him – when they’re not on their phones! This is a wonderful time of the year with lots to do, places to go, things to buy and, if we are lucky, people to buy for. But spare a though for those who may not be so lucky. For some, Christmas amplifies their isolation and if Jack has taught me anything it’s that it doesn’t take much to bring a little joy. A smile, a conversation, maybe a mince pie and a cup of tea… Take a moment to consider whether there is someone in your local community who appears to be alone and how you might be able to give them a bouncy egg moment (not literally of course!). Happy Christmas from all the team here at Mansion House Publishing. It has been a joy to be part of your lives in 2015.
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NEWS SCOUT CHRISTMAS CARD DELIVERY SERVICE Once again this year, 1st Claydon Scouts and Guides have joined forces with nine other groups in and around Ipswich to offer a Christmas card delivery service for the bargain price of only 25p per card. Cards and the postage can be dropped into one of our collection boxes and we will arrange for delivery to any of the under mentioned villages or postcodes of Ipswich before Christmas Eve. However, be warned, in order to do this massive task, the last posting date must be December 9. Deliveries can be made to: Ipswich IP1, IP2, IP3, IP4 and IP5, Pinewood Estate, Martlesham Heath, Grundisburgh, Henley, Westerfield, Witnesham, Tuddenham, Playford, Culpho, Bealings and Kesgrave as well as Claydon, Barham, Bramford and Great Blakenham. As from November 25 the collection boxes will be placed at: St Mary’s and St Peters Church, Barham; Alasdair Place; Fresh Fills Bakery; St Peter’s Court; Claydon Primary School; Choices Shop; Bea’s Boutique; Claydon Community Centre; Melmerby House, Gipping Road, Great Blakenham; Crown Public House; Hillside Café, Claydon. If you need any assistance or wish to check addresses, please call: 01473 833014 Remember: post early and save money.
with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead
In Touch with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead is published by:
Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Send editorial copy to:
blakenham@intouchnews.co.uk
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The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints.
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NEWS
SUPPORT BAYLHAM CHURCH WITH YOUR ASDA GREEN TOKEN We are trying to raise funds to install a kitchen and toilet in our church. Asda, Ipswich have allocated us a collection box in the foyer as part of their Green Token charity giving scheme. When you have completed your shopping we would be grateful if you would place your token in our box. Thank you.
SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility has won Civil Engineering Project of the Year at this year’s British Construction Industry Awards, with judges describing the site as providing ‘an elegant solution’ to waste management.
GRANTS OF £20K AVAILABLE TO HELP COUNCIL TENANTS BUY THEIR OWN HOMES Council tenants who want to buy their own homes are being urged to apply for £20k grants to help them onto the property ladder. Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils were successful in applying for funding from the government’s £84m Right-to-Buy Social Mobility Fund which was launched earlier this year. This two-year funding opportunity, called HomeOwn, is designed to help Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council tenants to move out of their existing rented accommodation and to buy a home that best suits their needs on the open market. The scheme enables Babergh and Mid Suffolk to make one-off payments to council tenants of up to £20,000 as a cash incentive to buy a house for the first time – freeing up a council house for someone else in the process. Initially the scheme was offered to tenants living in one and twobed-homes. It has now been opened up to all eligible tenants regardless of the size of their current property. A maximum of ten tenants from each council area can use the grants, but so far only one grant has been successfully applied for. Former council tenants Andrea Brown and Samuel Bennett are the first tenants to take advantage of the scheme. They moved into their new home in Needham, Norfolk, last month with their children Skye and Lewi. Andrea said: “When we first started looking for a home to buy, we saw this bungalow and with the amount of mortgage we could borrow along with our savings we couldn’t quite afford to buy the property. Then, luckily for us, about a week later we read in the local newspaper about the HomeOwn scheme and the grant enabled us to buy a home we could only dream about before. “The application form was extremely easy to fill in and we received a quick decision from Babergh and Mid Suffolk allowing us to have our own home and to free up a council house for someone in need.” Councillor Nick Gowrley, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “These grants are a great opportunity for our council tenants to be in a really good position to buy their own home. We all know how difficult it is for people to actually get a foot on the housing ladder so any assistance we are able to offer is fantastic.
The awards recognise outstanding achievement in building and civil engineering projects and aim to showcase and celebrate the best the British construction industry can offer. The Suffolk site won the award for schemes costing £10-50million. Construction of the facility, a joint project between Suffolk County Council and SUEZ, started in January 2012, with Lagan Construction Group as the principal civil contractor. Their work was valued at £43million out of a total project cost of £180million. Work was completed on time and on budget, and with an excellent health and safety record – no-one had time off because of an accident at work during the full three years of construction.
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“Housing is a strategic priority for both councils. We need to free up council properties to help more people move off of the housing register so if you think may be able to do just that and eligible for one of these grants, then get in touch.” And Councillor Jennie Jenkins, Babergh’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, added: “Both councils are delighted that our first family to take advantage of these grants have bought their house and are now enjoying family life in their new home. “I am so pleased that we were successful in gaining this government funding. Babergh and Mid Suffolk tenants can now have access to a choice of homes on the open market which they may otherwise have not been able to afford. Anyone who thinks they could take advantage of this offer should contact us immediately.”
Since becoming fully-operational at the beginning of December last year, the site has met or exceeded every target for putting Suffolk’s waste to good use. It had its first major shut-down for maintenance and cleaning at the end of October into early November this year.
To apply for the incentive, tenants will need to show that the purchase of a property on the open market will be a sustainable one, they must have a clear rent account for the past 12 months, be purchasing a property that meets their current housing needs (all of the household must move into the new property) and prove that they can re-pay a mortgage.
Useful contact numbers Site offices: 01473 839149 Site control room: 01473 836828 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SITA Trust: 01454 262910
For further information on this scheme – and to check eligibility – please contact Paulina Malinowska, Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils’ Home Ownership Officer: paulina.malinowska@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 724753
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NEWS COURSES FOR FAMILY CARERS – FIND OUT MORE FOR FREE Suffolk Family Carers is a Suffolk wide organisation which aims to offer support and information to anyone caring for a friend, family member or neighbour with any kind of illness, disability or frailty. If you offer support, help or encouragement to a friend or family member who is unwell then you are a Family Carer and are able to access our free Caring with Confidence courses. These courses provide information and tips on ways to confidently care for your friend or loved one. A variety of topics are covered such as effective communication to get your needs met, ways to manage your emotions and take better care of yourself, balancing caring with other commitments you may have, and looking at day to day challenges. We also have a wealth of resources which may help with a variety of issues and concerns you face within your caring role. If you care for someone with dementia you could also access our Caring for Dementia with Confidence course which is specifically designed for those caring for someone with dementia or memory loss. These sessions are not only a great way to gain useful information, but also give you the opportunity to meet others in a similar situation. These sessions run regularly so to find out more about either Caring with Confidence or Caring for Dementia with Confidence please contact us: 01473 835446 / cwc@suffolkfamilycarers.org
GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL At our October parish council meeting Mr J Waller was co-opted as a parish councillor. We still have vacancies for parish councillors. If you are interested in the community and the village and would like to influence decisions that affect your community, we would like to hear from you. We have a parish council meeting one evening each month and the parish council is an elected tier of local government. If you are interested in becoming a parish councillor or would like some more information please contact the parish clerk, Mrs Scott: 07432 605750 / greatblakenhampc@btinternet.com
DAVID CARD, MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLOR Covering the parishes of Barking, Baylham, Darmsden, Nettlestead, Offton, Somersham and Willisham Community Led Planning A simpler scheme than Neighbourhood Plans is being proposed. It’s called Community Led Planning and guidance is expected to be made public shortly. MSDC Treasury Management Plan Following my question to the September full council meeting reassurance has been given that making long term investments of up to £10million from reserves for a new income stream is allowed under the rules. The council had previously agreed in principle to borrow up to £25million aimed at mitigating reduction in central government grant. Stowmarket Food Enterprise Zones Local food businesses can expect to be invited to a meeting to learn what this could mean for them. I await details of date and venue. Stowmarket Technology Hub A proposal is being developed that may be useful for us in the surrounding villages. Barking and other road closures After a number of complaints, although this is not a district council responsibility, I suggested that SCC ought to call a meeting to discuss the inconvenience long-term 24/7 road closures cause. I am told the next Barking Road closure will be after Christmas in the New Year. District Councillor £5,000 Community/Locality Grant Fund Any organisation with a community project should start their bid by completing a grant application form. So far I have had no formal approaches and we have until early January 2016 to get bids in. Community Achievement Awards Nominations are sought across four categories – Rising Star, Community Hero, Action in the Community and Outstanding Local Business – with a closing date of December 31. Devolution of powers debate The ‘bid’ to run functions currently delivered centrally is being worked up behind the scenes. Suffolk registered its interest in time only to be told to think again, to work with Norfolk and consider an elected mayor. This fast moving debate has already consumed much time and resource. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. David Card: 01449 722267 / david.card@midsuffolk.gov.uk
Our next parish council meeting is being held on Wednesday, December 9 at 7.30pm in the parish rooms.
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE Call 01473 353350
An agenda will be on all noticeboards, and all residents are welcome to attend.
We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Great Blakenham Parish Council would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas. Your parish councillors Chairman Mr P White: polly193@googlemail.com Vice chairman Mr S Plume: steveplume@me.com Councillor Mrs K Peters: karenpeters1@yahoo.co.uk Councillor Mr G Scott: eightninesixcel@yahoo.co.uk Councillor Mr J Waller: j_waller2003@hotmail.com
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The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. The Suffolk Dementia Helpline can support anyone who needs to talk. Perhaps you have memory worries yourself or even a recent diagnosis and want someone to talk to. Maybe you have concerns about a loved one, or need support in your caring role. Perhaps it’s just information you are after, or a confidential chat with someone. The line can help anyone who is looking for practical support and is able to provide you with local information and get you in touch with organisations that can help. So call us today, we are here to help.
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NEWS
END OF AN ERA Doris and the late Derek Lockwood have been running country music dances on the first Saturday in every month for the last 25 years. They also organised concerts three times a year until competition from bigger venues made it time to call it a day. All profits from both went to Great Blakenham Village Hall. Sadly Derek died in May, but Doris said she would carry on until the end of the year. The last dance is on December 5.
All the country music lovers who have enjoyed the dances and concerts would like to wish Doris all the best and to thank her for all her dedication and hard work. Thanks to Brian who has been a great MC and for printing tickets. He also organises country dances every third Saturday of the month so there will still be dances at Great Blakenham Village Hall. See you there.
COUNTY AND DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT John Field’s Report to Gipping Valley, November 2015 Locality Budgets We still need requests to help local groups fund their projects. For Little Blakenham I am hoping to provide the 11% matched funding that Suez Environmental need to unlock funding for a playground upgrade. Claydon Village Hall needs a replacement kitchen. Do you have a project that will help the community? Devolution The councillors directly involved appear satisfied with their ‘challenge’ meeting with Michael Heseltine. They were told to press ahead with negotiations and not worry about the need to complete before the autumn statement from the chancellor. What should we call Norfolk and Suffolk combined council? County Scrutiny On October 29, we looked again at the performance of the highways contract with Kier. We felt that the new assistant director (Highways Operations) was taking necessary steps with Kier management to improve operations. Despite our concerns, we saw signs of progress. I cannot list all our recommendations here but the gist of the most significant was: • To improve performance – the Babergh lean systems pilot must be completed as a priority and the processes rolled out across the county at the earliest opportunity. • That sampling inspection techniques for ensuring the quality of works provided should be developed. They should provide clear evidence of quality achieved and clear corrective measures to be undertaken without incurring high inspection costs. • To welcome moves to speed up and reduce costs of the design process by moving to standard detail and from fit for purpose to special service standards. • That the work to improve highways online information and reporting systems should continue, ensuring problem reporting is easy and feedback effective. • That officers and councillors should make every effort to ensure that people use the online information and reporting system as it is effective and saves tax payers money. Disruption due to works by utilities Julia Truelove and I have been fighting for a reduction in the disruption caused by utilities work. There is a problem in that all utilities must inform the county when they intend to undertake work, but it is their responsibility to plan the work, communicate with the population and undertake the work safely. It is essential that accuracy of information and effectiveness of the communication is improved. We must ensure roads are not closed unnecessarily, that they are re-opened as soon as possible and that signs do not advertise closure long before it occurs or long after it ceases.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
Fire and Rescue A 14-week consultation looking at the future of Suffolk’s Fire and Rescue Service started on November 16. The service wants inputs from the public, staff and interested parties. Please get involved if, like me, you are concerned that we retain the fire and rescue service we need. Suffolk’s service is currently low cost but high performance and we want to keep it that way. We must be sure we have a service that keeps risk to a level we can accept. Driven by the chancellor’s cuts, the Conservative administration proposes to reduce funding for the fire service by £1.3million from £22million. This is much less that the 30% cut in government grant we are told is on the way, but still severe. The £22million is half government grant and half council tax. The change would recognise the 30% reduction in 999 call demand over the last 10 years. However, this reduction is largely in false automatic fire alarm calls. Fire engines are dispatched if there is a real risk, to a care home for instance. In 2014/15 Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to 4,780 emergency calls. These include false alarms, fires in homes or businesses, industrial accidents, rescuing people from road traffic collisions and dealing with chemical incidents. In outline, the changes proposed are to reduce the number of fire engines and associated fire-fighters: • Ipswich from six to three, for 1,992 call outs per year • Lowestoft from four to three, for 972 call outs • Bury St Edmunds from three to two, for 634 call outs • Sudbury two to one, for 273 call outs • Close Wrentham Fire Station Call outs are of course only part of the picture. The number of engines needed at an incident and the probability of two incidents at the same time is critical. In addition, some appliances are crewed by fulltime and some by on-call fire-fighters. This complex subject needs a look at the full data! The full details, including aerial appliances and other equipment not listed above, are on the county website. If you have queries please contact me: 01473 831306 / john.field@suffolk.gov.uk www.john.field@suffolk.libdems.org
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The East of England Co-op has been your local funeral service for 90 years. We are not part of the national Co-operative Funeralcare chain based in Manchester.
THE NEW WOLSEY THEATRE presents
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT MAGNIFICENT START TO SAVING THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH It’s not too late to buy shares, but you’re urged to do so soon
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE We would like to thank everyone who has supported us throughout the past year. We wish you all a Happy Christmas and a prosperous 2016 and look forward to seeing you at the first chamber breakfast of the New Year on Friday, January 15 at Cedars Park Community Centre, Stowmarket at 6.45am. You can book online at: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk
HENLEY PLAYERS PRESENTS OUR FIFTH AND BIGGEST PANTOMIME YET
The CrowdfunderUK campaign to help save the Duke of Marlborough in Somersham has ended on a high with more than £185,000 of shares already bought – and there’s still an opportunity to join in. “This is a fantastic achievement,” says Dr Sarah Caston who started the campaign, “and just goes to show how keen people are on re-opening the doors of the pub and turning it into a vibrant hub of the community – with a welcome for all. The challenge now is to push up the total raised so far so that an offer can be put in for the pub.” The Duke of Marlborough closed because the owners retired, not because it was losing money. Campaigners are determined to make a success of it, ensuring a welcome for drinkers as well as diners. They are urging people to become hero investors – and if they can’t afford the £250 minimum shareholding, to make a donation. All contributions are welcome. “Whatever you can afford to chip in, you will be helping create a fabulous asset, a vibrant hub,” says Sarah. “A great place to eat, drink and socialise, whether for coffee in the morning, lunch in the middle of the day or dinner or drinks in the evening. “By investing in shares, you will become part-owner of a picturesque rural pub with centuries of history, and a future full of promise. You will be helping ensure that 500 years of hospitality doesn’t come to an end under this generation.” Anyone putting capital into shares should, as a UK taxpayer, be entitled to 30% tax relief on their investment. Also, once the pub is making enough, the aim is to pay interest to shareholders at two per cent above bank rate. Additional benefits will come in the form of rewards and special offers. You can find out more at: www.savetheduke.net There are four community-owned pubs in Suffolk: the Sorrel Horse in Shottisham; the Case is Altered in Bentley the Punchbowl in Battisford; and the Brook in Washbrook. David Westley, who led the fundraising campaign for the Case is Altered says: “The whole process of raising the money took longer than anticipated. We had to keep reminding people to buy shares. “Yet here we are now with a thriving village pub at the very heart of our community. It’s a social hub used by people in our area – and further afield. It’s brilliant to have it up and running, busy and successful! “Our message to everyone who cares about the Duke of Marlborough is to keep going, to refuse to give up. You’ve made a magnificent start – and you will get there. We did. Best of luck.” You can pay for shares by cheque or BACS. You’ll need to fill in a sharepurchase form which is available on the website, as a magazine insert or can be sent to you on request. For information, please contact Save the Duke treasurer Gerard Kroon: grdkroon@gmail.com / 01473 657178
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
AT
Wri$en by Tom Hitchcock
HENLEY COMMUNITY CENTRE Fri 8th Jan (7:30pm) and Sat 9th Jan 2016 (2:30pm & 7:30pm) HOW TO BOOK TICKETS Email: henleyplayersboxoffice@gmail.com Box office open every Sunday from 3pm to 4:30pm (From November)
PRICES £7 Adults Concessions £4 £18 Family of 4
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5
Town/village
Location
Time
MIP/5A
Sproughton
Church Lane
0910 – 0925
MIP/5B
Sproughton
Wild Man
0930 – 0945
MIP/5C
Bramford
St Mary’s Close
0950 – 1005
Paper Mill Lane
MIP/5D
Bramford
MIP/5E
Great Blakenham Chequers
MIP/5F
Great Blakenham Blue Leighs
Mobile Home Park
1010 – 1025 1035 – 1055 1100 – 1115
MIP/5G
Baylham
Post Box
1125 – 1145
MIP/5H
Claydon
Crown
1155 – 1300
MIP/5I
Claydon
Edinburgh Gardens
1405 – 1420
MIP/5J
Claydon
Bacon Road
1425 – 1550
MIP/5K
Bramford
Packard Place
1600 – 1630
Calling every four weeks on Tuesdays: December 22 and January 19
Henley Christmas Village Fayre Saturday 12th December 2015 9:00am to 4:30pm
Henley Community Centre Ashbocking Rd Henley
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OUT & ABOUT Bar-Clay
Music Makers
C I N R DE L A L E Present
Claydon Village Hall
FRIDAY 22 Jan at 7.30pm t l SATURDAY 23 Jan at 2.30 & 7.30pm Child Adu7 £3 FRIDAY 29 Jan at 7.30pm £ SATURDAY 30 Jan at 2.30 & 7.30pm To order tickets phone 01473 830538 or email Webbfamily1@googlemail.com
CLAYDON AND BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE Wow, where has 2015 gone? We have had a wide variety of acts gracing the stage this year, from soloists to groups, from swing to blues, from pop to country, and we would like to thank everyone who has supported us through the year. This is on top of the special events for St Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s and Halloween. So what have we got lined up for the last month of 2015? Feedback from last year suggests that parents want their children in bed early on Christmas Eve so we have decided to move our Christmas Disco forward to Saturday, December 19. This will be a family disco and as well as some great music, there will be a visit from Father Christmas and a present from him for all children who have pre-booked. Tickets are on sale behind the bar. Please contact us on 01473 831805 to reserve yours. And to say goodbye to 2015 and hello to 2016 we welcome back local vocal harmony trio The Skittlez. They are guaranteed to have you dancing the night away with their range of hits from across the years. This event is a family event and therefore children are welcome. We only ask that young children are supervised at all times, including on the dance floor to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable evening. We have designated the members lounge as an adult only area. However, there are limited tables so if you do require a table in this area, please make this known when you book your tickets. Tables will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Ticket are available now – member adult £12.50, child £5 and we have a special offer for members with a family ticket (2+2) £30. Guest adult is £15 and child £7. A child is 16 years and under. We wish you a very happy festive season and look forward to seeing you in 2016.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham
BAR-CLAY MUSIC MAKERS Are you ready to pantomime? What better way to keep the Christmas mood going into January than coming along to the annual pantomime in Claydon and Barham Village Hall? If you have been before then you'll know it's always a hoot. And if you haven't been before, shame on you! This year it's Cinderella and has a cast bursting with fizz and talent, including some new faces. As usual it's on the last two weekends of January. So this means you need to choose between the following dates: Friday, January 22 at 7.30pm; Saturday, January 23 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm; Friday, January 29 at 7.30pm; Saturday, January 30 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. If you fancy coming along to either of the two matinee performances, then do book early because they always sell out fast. What else is there to say? Oh yes, it's being put on by Bar-Clay Music Makers and the tickets are £7 for adults and £3 for children. You can book them by calling 01473 830538 or by emailing: webbfamily1@googlemail.com
CRIB SERVICE The Crib Service at St Peter’s, Baylham on Thursday, December 24 at 5pm is a short service aimed at little people telling the Christmas Story with some well-known carols. Please bring your nativity figures so we can create a massive nativity scene during the service. Children are welcome to come along dressed as a nativity figure.
IPSWICH BRANCH, SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, December 17, 7.30pm: The History of Harrods, an illustrated talk by Eve Regelous based on her unique insight as an event organiser at this world famous store. NOTE NEW VENUE The Co-Op Education Centre – Pedestrian Entrance, 11 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JW Car park entrance: Waterworks Street IP4 1JG Admission is £3 for members, £3.50 for non-members who are welcome and can join the society on the night if they wish. Tickets are not required; just turn up and pay on the door. For more information contact H King: 01473 274300
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OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB
GREAT BLAKENHAM WI Although the weather has been quite mild we know that autumn is well and truly here with all the fireworks going off and the beautiful amber, gold and yellow leaved trees we are lucky enough to have in this area. We are now busy planning our second Christmas Party to be held on Tuesday, December 8 in the Parish Rooms. Also we are looking forward to the Christmas Carol Concert in Barham Church at 2pm on December 6. This is being arranged by Claydon and Barham WI with contributions from Bramford, Burstall and Great Blakenham WIs. It’s a concert with a brass band, carols and readings. There is a fee of £3 to include refreshments afterwards.
The club meets every Monday other than bank holidays in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. Members pay £1.50 a meeting and this covers hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Christmas is fast approaching and our workshop for November was a Christmas wreath made using a wire wreath and strips of material. A selection is shown in the photograph above. We just have our Christmas Party on December 7 to complete our year. I am now putting together the programme for 2016 but a date for your diary is that we start back on the first Monday in February. There is currently room for new members so if you would be interested in joining us please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome, but I cannot accommodate children. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB The Great Blakenham Over 50s Club is open to anyone of that age living not only in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. The cost per meeting is £1.50 and includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers public house and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It is fully accessible and has disabled facilities within. At our meeting on October 28 we enjoyed a social afternoon playing games such as Rummycub, Kan-U-Go, Ludo and Snakes and Ladders. It had been a long time since many of us had played these games and proved most enjoyable. We also had a small bring and buy of items that may be useful for Christmas presents. Our last meeting for 2015 is the Christmas party on December 9. This will be a social afternoon with afternoon tea and games, and everyone contributing a ‘plate’. Details to be agreed nearer the time. We will start back again on Wednesday, January 13, and will be pleased to welcome new members. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
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Enquiries to Margaret Day, president Great Blakenham WI: 01473 836442
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB Alan Sarsby presented a workshop entitled Composition Beyond the Thirds on October 12. We learnt to look at things in different and unusual ways in order to increase the impact of our photographs. This together with Alan’s sense of humour made the evening a great success. The photoshoot on October 16 was planned to be in Stowmarket, but was abandoned on the day due to heavy rain. On Monday, October 26 we had our first open competition of the season. There were plenty of entries in all categories – PDI (projected digital image), small prints, colour prints and monochrome prints. The judge was Nigel Rea ARPS, who gave a clear and concise critique of them all. Nigel always brings more to the club than just judging; this time he gave us some advice and tips on how to improve our PDIs. Next meetings Monday, November 30: Lakenheath Battle at Lakenheath Monday, December 14: The Beautiful Light, a talk by Jane Goodall ARPS New members are always very welcome at the club. All you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras. Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Mondays of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30 start. We’d love to see you there. For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net
PLANT HERITAGE SUFFOLK GROUP Saturday, January 23, 2.30pm, at Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ: Bulbs at Kew by Kit Strange Kit looks after the extensive bulb collection at Kew, maintains the collection in the Davies Alpine House and exhibits for events at Kew and UK colleges. She has travelled widely in the course of her career. Plant stalls will include rare and unusual plants. Delicious refreshments available for purchase. Admission: free to members, non-members £5. No need to book. New members and nonmembers are most welcome. Local contact: Margaret Palmer, 01206 299832 www.suffolkplantheritage.com
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS BRAMFORD ART GROUP We have now moved into the Loraine Victory Hall and at present we are able to invite more budding artists and beginners to join our group. We meet on Wednesday mornings between 10am and noon; the cost is currently £8 a month. For further details please contact Ann Woolnough on 01473 743794 or come along and meet us any Wednesday after 10am.
THE ORCHARD BARN RECIPE Take 1½ acres on which stands • A 17th century barn with ‘modern’ tin roof held up with structural ivy • A tumbled-down cottage not lived in since the 1930s • A large silted up pond • A neglected orchard of apple and plum trees • An abundance of stinging nettles, thistles, brambles and ivy
Result: A thriving community resource that brings together a happy group of regular volunteers and provides training opportunities for amateurs and professionals in a wide range of rural skills. If you’d like to get involved then why don’t you pay us a visit? Come along any Wednesday (we are SW of Mill Road, Battisford), visit www.orchardbarn.org.uk or call 01473 658193.
Add to this unpromising mix over a period of eight years • • • •
Much planning and financial head-scratching Guidance of many experts Several thousand man hours of voluntary work Donations, help and support from many local people and businesses
CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL The autumn weather always brings a line of tiny Wellington boots into the nursery corridor, so it is from here that we begin our autumnal reflections.
part of a special day. During the day children participated in many fun activities, including dance and craft in the morning and a character hunt in the afternoon. They even ate Gruffalo Crumble for lunch.
Throughout the year in nursery, we plan activities based around the children's interests, making sure they are making great progress and moving forwards in all areas of the Foundation Stage Curriculum. Every half term we have an open morning in the nursery where parents can come in and spend some time taking part in activities with their child. This term we planned lots of interesting autumn activities for the children to explore with their parent/carers. They made autumn spiced moon sand and pumpkin plates, along with leaf rubbing, our own version of apple bobbing and a number matching game.
Again, October proved a busy month for sports at Claydon Primary School and, therefore, an exhausting time for Mrs Kitchen. Many events took place, kicking off with some of the Year 4 girl footballers taking part in the first ever National FA Girls’ 4v4 Festival run by Suffolk FA. The 4x4 format makes no provision for a goalkeeper, enabling all members of the team to remain actively involved in play. Two teams were entered and they played five games each. During the games there were no referees and the girls were encouraged to take ownership and run the games themselves. They all thoroughly enjoyed their first experience of playing football and scored lots of goals.
In addition, they went on an autumnal walk in the local environment looking at the colours of the leaves on the trees and collecting interesting objects in as many different colours and textures as possible to bring back to nursery. The excited children had a tick sheet of different things to spot on their walk and they listened to the sounds they could hear too. On Friday, October 22, Reception and Key Stage One children dressed up as their favourite characters from Julia Donaldson books as
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The following week saw some of the players from Years 5/6 girls’ and boys’ football clubs take part in the School Games mixed football tournament at Westbourne Academy. They played five games, and at the end of the afternoon were delighted to have won four matches and to have drawn one. This saw them achieve gold position – receiving certificates and a trophy to display in school. The week after that, some of the Year 5/6 girl
footballers took part in the IPSSA tournament. They also played five games as there were three groups. They won, drew and lost some games and, again, thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We were delighted by the excellent attitude all the pupils displayed while representing the school at the aforementioned events, accepting all decisions made by the coaching staff and officials. Heartfelt thanks to Mrs Kitchen and other staff for supporting the children by providing lunchtime training and preparation, as well as accompanying the pupils to events – we couldn’t do it without you. In addition to the many football events, we had a visit from Fynn Valley Golf Club to deliver a golf taster session to Years 3 and 4. This proved very successful and we are now running a weekly early morning golf club. Committed to improving our teaching, we had eight members of staff take part in futsal, quick sticks, netball, dance and gymnastics training courses. They all found them very enjoyable and beneficial, albeit hard work. As the nights draw in and the Christmas shopping begins in earnest, we end this catch-up full of anticipation for the event that never fails to make everyone feel festive: lower school’s Christmas performance. Happy rehearsing everyone.
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL The children are all getting into the festive spirit with lots of activities going on. They are enjoying lots of Christmas themed activities as well as practising their singing for their Christmas concert. They are all getting really excited for December 2015 and looking forward to a well-earned break. Our carol concert will be held on Thursday, December 10 at 4pm and our Christmas party is on Wednesday, December 16, 4-6pm. We are also holding a Christmas Fayre on Saturday, December 12, 11am2pm. Entry is free and everyone is welcome to attend. There will be lots to do with stalls, raffles, refreshments and also a chance to visit Father Christmas! If you would like more information regarding any of the above events or just to find out more about Claydon Pre-school please contact the administrator Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk We are now sorting applications for children to come and join us in January 2016 for the spring term. The pre-school is open Monday to Friday, 9am-3.30pm, during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to Reception. Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a
lunch club (noon-12.30pm) for £1.60. We are happy to accept Childcare Vouchers and we offer two year funded places for any eligible children. We also run a holiday club in the Easter and summer holidays for ages two to eight – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator.
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB October prize winners were: No 32: Kirsty Cattermole, £20.70 No 26: Anthea Welham, £10.35 No 55: Colin Dawson, £3.45 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 HIGH SCHOOL Our annual WOW Week took place at the end of October and was action-packed, exciting and very rewarding for all year groups. Year 7 had a fabulous time at camp (despite some wet weather), taking part in adventurous activities such as the high ropes and assault course as well as art, science and drama activities, all designed to build confidence and encourage creativity, curiosity and collaboration. Years 8-10 certainly wowed us all with their talent, fresh ideas and commitment to their enterprise tournament. Students were split into 25 teams and tasked to choose one of four ordinary household objects and create and present a marketing campaign, including producing a leaflet, poster and billboard as well as a filmed TV commercial and recorded radio advert plus jingle. Guest judges and speakers from the world of media and advertising were invited in to support the event and choose an overall winner of the prestigious WOW Week Cup. I would like to say a big thank you to Town 102 FM, Mansion House Publishing, Archant, Banbury Howard, Suffolk One, I.E.M. and the school’s governing body for their help.
Year 11 demonstrated great maturity and focus, impressing our business guests and the outside agencies they visited during WOW Week, preparing them for the next step of their education/training. They spent a day at a college/sixth form of their choice, a day at the Suffolk Skills Show held at Trinity Park and a day in school listening to talks from guest speakers and completing application forms and CVs in preparation for a Learning About Work Day on Wednesday, December 9. Well done to everyone for their positivity and hard work over the three days. I am pleased that Claydon High School can develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning and I hope to be able to provide more stimulating experiences beyond the classroom that engage, excite and challenge students. Now that the weather has turned and we are moving swiftly into the festive season, I hope you will be able to join us at our Christmas concert, Once Upon a Christmas, on Tuesday, December 8, 7pm at the Church of St Mary and St Peter in Barham (tickets on sale at the school). Our talented students are busy preparing some wonderful instrumental, vocal and poetry pieces, interspersed with traditional congregational carols, all performed in the backdrop of the beautifully decorated church. GCSE drama students are busy rehearsing for their Christmas panto which will be toured round the local residential care homes and watched in school by our feeder primary schools. Selected music students are also rehearsing for a singing event at Snape Maltings Concert Hall which will be broadcast live across the world. Claydon High School will join around 800 students from other schools in Suffolk for the performances. The rest of the school is busy creating fabulous Christmas hampers which will be donated to a local charity for the homeless. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, then please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Thursday, December 17. To book a place, please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen: 01473 836110 Finally, I would like to thank staff, parents/carers, governors and the wider community for their support this term and wish everyone a Happy Christmas. I look forward to keeping you updated with all our news in the New Year.
The winning team, Trigger Can, pictured with the WOW Week trophy
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Sarah Skinner, headteacher
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SCHOOLS 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 24-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.
Why not come along and join in the fun? You can make friends and enjoy some valuable play. Hope to see you there.
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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.
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This month we meet on December 3 and 10, 9.30-11.30am, in Claydon and Barham Village Hall. Our Christmas party is on December 10, so please let Michelle know (833788) if you wish to attend.
For more information contact me on 01473 833788 or check our listing on: netmums.com Michelle
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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Christmas greetings guff lovers. The run up to the festive bun fight that passes for Christmas is usually marked by the media doom mongers splashing headlines about how the NHS will break under the strain of the expected rush to A&E, so it is perhaps fortunate that no reporters were present for our ladies match vs. Woodbridge when from all accounts the courts resembled the opening scenes from Saving Private Ryan. First Ann decided that suffering a rather bad ankle sprain in the first game would not affect her mobility (having partnered her it is difficult to disagree) and decided to play on, which in turn meant extended after-match application of frozen peas, resulting in a rather magnificent bit of bruising. Now that she knows what it looks like I suspect a tattoo will not be her gift of choice this Yuletide. Not to be outdone, Corrine then suffered a face injury (which to add insult was self inflicted) that ended up with the courts and Corrine looking like a scene from a Hammer Horror! Fortunately no lasting damage was done and Corrine is probably back on her bike in customary winter kit of a tee shirt and cut offs (sleeveless fleece if the temp drops into the minus). Unsurprisingly given the sequence of events, the match was lost, even though some of the opposition probably needed counselling afterwards, but more importantly no permanent damage was done and I have already contacted BUPA who are thinking of sponsoring our next match. I have also given the blood transfusion service advance notice of our two fixtures before Christmas.
QUESTIONS ON CASH Clive and Lisa from Blakenham ask: “We have around £120,000 in an offshore investment bond with Canada Life International in the Isle of Man. Will this money form part of our estate for inheritance tax when we die, or is offshore money exempt from all UK taxes?” Unfortunately, although your offshore investment is income tax efficient, it is not inheritance tax efficient. The investment will form part of your estate for inheritance tax purposes when you die. As you are both UK resident and domiciled, your beneficiaries will pay UK inheritance tax on all of your worldwide assets – not just those you own on the UK mainland. However, they will only pay inheritance tax on assets which exceed the value of the current combined nil rate band of £625,000 (being two allowances of £325,000 as you are a married couple and have transferable Nil Rate Bands). If you do not require access to the capital held within your offshore investment, and only require access to the income, you should consider talking to Canada Life International about moving the money into a Discounted Gift Trust, as this could provide significant inheritance tax savings, whilst still providing a regular income for you ongoing. Sam from Needham Market asks: “I have a with-profits investment
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I have had my share of injuries including a rather nasty one when Graham's wallet fell out of his sports bag and landed heavily on my foot. Luckily I was wearing a sturdy pair of tennis shoes that prevented a fracture, though the bruising was extensive (and in the pattern of several £50 notes). Nick is very familiar with a lot of injuries, though in his case they are usually caused to passers-by or their dogs who are the unsuspecting recipients of a blow from a miss-hit serve. They normally calm down when I point out that it was obviously an accident as he very rarely hits anything he aims for. Just time for a festive joke of the month. A man goes into a large toy store at Christmas and buys the biggest train set on display. The assistant starts to wrap it and says: "I am sure your son will love this." The man pauses and then says: "You're right, I had better have another one!" If you would like to find out more about our club please contact the treasurer, Clive Jones: 01473 464589 / bramfordtc@outlook.com I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. More guff next month, Mick Russ
with Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb with Phoenix – formerly Royal Sun Alliance – which currently has large penalties if I try to get my money out. What is the significance of this policy being almost 10 years old next month?” The significance of the 10th anniversary could be that you can get your money out without having to pay a penalty. Many with-profits investment providers offered a penalty-free withdrawal of capital on the tenth anniversary of the policy. In the current climate of encashment penalties and market value adjustments or MVA’s for with-profits policyholders, this could be a valuable lifeline for you. Check your policy documents carefully – if your policy has this option, give written notice to Phoenix that you intend to exercise that option. In my opinion, you would be wise to get your money out of this under-performing with-profits fund without any MVA penalty whilst you have the opportunity to do so. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham, Suffolk IP6 8JP, email nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
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ON THE GRAPEVINE DR DAN POULTER, YOUR LOCAL MP, REPORTS BACK Should we legalise cannabis? Over the last few months a new system has been introduced to allow members of the public to petition parliament by e-petition. Under this new system a petition with more than 100,000 electronic signatures may be put forward for debate in the House of Commons and I was recently pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to one of these parliamentary debates on the controversial subject of the legalisation of cannabis, which was put forward by Paul Flynn MP.
However, an important issue that I raised in the debate is the growing evidence from around the world which supports the use of cannabis and cannabis products in the treatment of people with chronic pain and its medicinal use for palliative care. I believe that there is a case to review the law to better facilitate the research and use of cannabis for medicinal purposes, but this is quite a different matter to supporting the legalisation of the drug.
As an NHS doctor working in mental health, I am unable to support the legalisation of cannabis not only because of my medical experience but also on the evidence evaluated by the Royal College of Psychiatrists which outlines both the mental and physical health problems associated with cannabis use. Although there is currently a de facto decriminalisation of the possession of cannabis in many parts of the country, the legalisation of cannabis is a very different matter to decriminalisation as legalisation would provide a legitimacy to the supply of a substance which we know to be physically and mentally harmful. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has made clear the strong link between cannabis use and poor mental health, especially in young people. For example, a study of 1,600 Australian school-children aged 14 to 15 found that children who use cannabis regularly have a significantly higher risk of depression than non-users. Adolescents who used cannabis daily were five times more likely to develop depression and anxiety in later life. There is also growing evidence of a link between cannabis and physical health problems. New research has found that the cannabis plant contains cancer causing materials that can damage peoples’ lungs. In this country we have long taken measures to discourage cigarette smoking and it would be inconsistent to legalise the supply of cannabis given the increasing evidence of the harm it causes to physical health.
Dr Dan Poulter MP in the House of Commons Chamber I valued the opportunity to bring my medical knowledge and experience to bear in this important Parliamentary debate, and it is important to remember that most countries in the world have not legalised cannabis. I remain unconvinced that legalising the supply of, and access to, a substance that is harmful to both physical and mental health would be a good thing for people in Suffolk or for this country. For more information please visit: www.drdanielpoulter.com
MAKING THINGS POSSIBLE Some of you may have heard of a very worthwhile charity called REMAP. For those who haven’t please allow me to do a quick introduction. REMAP is an established national charity which designs, makes or adapts equipment for adults and children with disabilities. Every year REMAP helps about 4,000 UK individuals in this way, helping them to lead more fulfilling and independent lives. All clients are fully consulted about their needs. A piece of equipment is then designed and made to solve their specific problem. Some devices are made from scratch – others are modifications or attachments to standard products. Sometimes it may only be advice that is required. All of this is achieved by a network of some 1,000 volunteers organised into about 80 local panels across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. REMAP volunteers are professional engineers, craftspeople, technicians, healthcare professionals and skilled helpers as well as DIY enthusiasts. You may think that companies already exist to help people with disabilities
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and you would be correct. However, the difference is that REMAP is not a commercial organisation and is not in competition with them. More importantly, our volunteers will determine a solution for the very specific need of the individual which cannot be satisfied by any current product that may exist. Also by working closely with the client and their family or their support service the needs can be better understood and targeted. We welcome referrals from individuals, carers or health professionals and we always welcome inquiries from individuals who are willing to volunteer some of their time to help us achieve our aims. Finally, we never ask for payment and our services are free to the user. We do however welcome voluntary donations to cover costs of materials. To make an immediate donation, please text REMP33 followed by the amount (for example – £10) to 70700. An SMS to the value of your donation will be billed to your mobile account. To donate online, please go to our JustGiving page. Our registered charity number is 1137666. You can make a single or regular donation. A monthly donation of £10 with Gift Aid would enable us to help two people every year. Bob Barnett
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ON THE GRAPEVINE GO WACKY IN WOOL FOR THE HOSPICE THIS CHRISTMAS
BE BRAVE AND TAKE A DIP THIS CHRISTMAS Are you brave enough to take a dip in the cold North Sea this Christmas morning for a good cause? Join St Elizabeth Hospice and hundreds of other hospice supporters for the annual Christmas Day Dip – what better way to begin the festivities! Every year around 400 people start their holiday celebrations on Felixstowe beach and at 10am when the horn sounds they run into the freezing sea to raise money for the local hospice. Joanne Rodger, St Elizabeth Hospice’s events and challenges fundraiser, said: “The Christmas Day Dip is in its 12th year and it’s still such a popular event. It’s a tradition now for families and friends to come down to the beach on Christmas morning and join together to take a dip or watch from pier as their loved ones run into the cold sea. “There’s always such a great atmosphere at the event, not only with the hundreds of people taking part, but with the thousands who turn out to watch. A lot of people do it in memory of their loved ones who were cared for by the hospice, and all the sponsorship money raised from the event goes towards improving life for local people living with a progressive illness.”
L-R: Isabelle (aged 6), Jessica, Amelie (aged 2) and Oliver (aged 5) Prosser
St Elizabeth Hospice is urging friends, colleagues and classmates to go wacky in wool this December. The charity is holding its first ever Christmas Jumper Week between December 14 and 18 and is asking local businesses, schools and groups to don their craziest knit and do their bit for their local hospice. Organisations choose a day during the week and on their nominated Christmas Jumper Day, everyone has to wear their silliest sweater and donate £2 to St Elizabeth Hospice. Felicity Rook, St Elizabeth Hospice’s head of fundraising, said: “Christmas jumpers have become such a popular phenomenon in recent years, nearly everybody has a festive top, and Christmas Jumper Week is a great excuse to get yours out and wear it to work, school or wherever. “Holding a Christmas Jumper Day is sure to get you in the festive spirit in the run up to
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Christmas and is an easy and fun way to raise vital funds for your local hospice and help ensure nobody has to face their illness alone this Christmas.” Throughout the week the hospice will be offering prizes for the best, craziest and most outrageous jumpers through their Facebook and Twitter pages, so if you want to get involved, make sure you like and follow the hospice’s social media channels for your chance to win some great giveaways. To find out more or to request your Christmas Jumper Week festive fundraising pack, visit www.stelizabethhospice.org. uk/jumperweek or call 01473 723600 or email fundraising@ stelizabethhospice.org.uk
The event was launched in November with the help of Disney’s Frozen characters, Elsa and Olaf. Miss Rodger added: “We get a lot of people dressing up to take part. We see all sorts, from people dressed as turkeys and Christmas trees, to others in their penguin onesies or even a mankini! This year we were joined by Olaf and Elsa to launch the event – and we attracted quite a bit of attention as Olaf lay on the sand, draped in tinsel. We expect to see quite a few Frozen characters on Christmas morning ready to run into the sea.” Anyone from the age of 13 upwards can take part for just £5, or £10 with a T-shirt. You can register in advance at www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/ events or on the day from 8.30am on Felixstowe beach, opposite Manning’s Amusements.
If you would like to donate £2, just text JUMPER to 70300. Every pound you donate will help make a difference to the lives of local people living with a progressive illness such as cancer, motor neurone disease or heart failure.
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AKENHAM CARPENTRY & JOINERY Fitted kitchens, bedrooms, offices, windows, doors, staircases etc in any timber • Kitchen fitting service available on your own units • All interior and exterior carpentry • Competitive rates
NO VAT
Mobile: 07790 370030 Email: dalewatts@btinternet.com
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
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CHURCH NEWS PEACE ON EARTH? “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14 The above is a quote from the Gospel of Luke that we often remember at Christmas. It was the message declared by the angels to the shepherds who were hopeful of a coming saviour. Look at the words though. Are they true? Do we really see peace on earth? Is it even possible? This has been a tumultuous year in many ways. The ongoing economic problems, civil unrest in many cities, terrorism on a scale we’ve never before seen, and wars and hatred are rife, obvious around the world for all to see. So why did the angels sing, proclaiming peace on earth and good will towards men at Jesus’ birth? The message that the angels are declaring is a message from God to mankind, not a prediction of how the world will be. It was a message from God offering peace and hope to all who will put their trust in this saviour given to us. It is goodwill offered from God to man, not a statement that from that day mankind will always have goodwill towards one another. The message may seem irrelevant or unimportant in our day compared to all the wars, terrorism and many other problems that many countries and individuals face on a daily basis, but it is truly a message of eternal hope that everyone in the world needs more than anything else. It will have significance to your life in one way or another long after all the wars on earth are finished. It’s an olive branch from God offering complete peace with him despite all our sins and failings, and it’s the declaration of God’s love and hope for the world and his desire that all turn back to him for salvation. In Jesus Christ we also have the hope that (as it says in the last book of the Bible) he is to return to make all things new. There will one day be no more tears, death or sadness. The following is a quote from a poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. He wrote it on Christmas Day in 1863. He had recently been widowed when his wife had lost her life in a house fire, and his son had that year been severely wounded while fighting in the American Civil War. This last verse declares his hope in God despite all the misery and sorrow around him. And in despair I bowed my head; “There is no peace on earth,” I said; “For hate is strong, And mocks the song Of peace on earth, good-will to men!” Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail, With peace on earth, good-will to men.” SERVICES Sundays: 10.45am at Great Blakenham (including Sunday Club for children); 6.30pm at Mickfield.
ST MARY’S CHURCH, GREAT BLAKENHAM Churchwardens
Jane Corbett, 01473 830201 / Judith Williams, 01473 832423
SERVICES IN DECEMBER Communion Service – December 13, 11.15am Carol Service – December 20, 10am With collection of non-perishable food items for the Homeless Families Unit in Ipswich Carols and Communion Service – December 27, 10am Join us for coffee and cake after the 10am services.
OTHER LOCAL SERVICES December 24 Service of Light at Barham Church, 4pm Midnight Mass at Barham Church, 11.30pm December 25 Christmas Day Communion Service at Henley Church, 10am Carol singing We will be carol singing in the village on Saturday, December 19. If you would like to join us, contact Jane Corbett: 01473 830201
COMMUNITY COFFEE MORNING Saturday, December 12, 10am-noon Great Blakenham Parish Room ALL WELCOME
St Mary’s PCC would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.
Dates for your diary January 9, 10am-noon: Community Coffee Morning January 10, 10am: Morning Prayer January 24, 11.15am: Communion Service
Wednesday: Fortnightly women’s meeting, 2.30pm; fortnightly prayer and Bible study, 2pm. Friday: Action Bible Club, meet by Great Blakenham Village Hall, 6.307.30pm – games, crafts and stories for ages five to 12. Carols by Candlelight • Sunday, December 13 at 4pm at Great Blakenham Baptist Church • Sunday, December 20 at 6.30pm at Mickfield Evangelical Church For more information email info@blakenhambaptist.org.uk / call 01449 720357 / or visit: www.blakenhambaptist.org.uk
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CHURCH NEWS ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD, ST MARY NETTLESTEAD, ST MARY THE VIRGIN LITTLE BLAKENHAM, ST PETER BAYLHAM Priest-in-charge: The Rev Jenny Seggar 01473 748914 / Stmarybramford@aol.com Assistant curate: The Rev Julian Fennel, 01473 833250 Assistant priest: The Rev Pat Wright
was the day it was installed. Unfortunately we have been let down by 110-year-old pipework which has failed somewhere underground. We will keep you informed of progress.
www.stmarybramford.co.uk Morning Prayer at Bramford: 8.30am, Monday to Friday Wednesday morning Communion Services: 9.30am at the vicarage, unless otherwise advised. Please check porch notices for any changes. December 3 3pm
United Service at Cherryfields
December 6 8am 10am
Advent 2 Said Prayer Book Communion Parish Communion with prayer for healing
Bramford
December 13 10am 3pm 6.30pm
Advent 3 Parish Communion Carol Service and mulled wine Carol Service and mulled cider
Bamford Nettlestead Baylham
Little Blakenham
December 15 2pm School Carol Service
Primary School
December 20 10am 10am 5pm 6pm
Bramford Baylham Little Blakenham Bramford
Advent 4 Parish Communion Parish Communion Carol Service Carol Service
December 21 4pm Carol service
Baylham Care Centre
December 22 12 for 12.30pm The Gathering, Christmas meal
Church Room
December 24 11am Christmas Communion by extension 3pm Posada Crib Service 5pm Crib Service 11.30pm Midnight Communion, the first communion of Christmas December 25 Christmas Day 10am United Christmas Service 10am Christmas morning Communion Service
Baylham Care Centre Bramford Baylham Bramford Methodist Church Nettlestead
December 27 First Sunday of Christmas 10am United Parishes communion Service with the Methodist church Bramford Dear Friends I must admit that I genuinely enjoy Christmas and its build up, the planning and the sheer busyness. We have some exciting services coming up, which hopefully, despite the lack of a heating system, we should still be able to host in the church. The exception to that will be the school carol service which will be held in the school. It may be useful to note at this point that our ordinary Sunday services will be in the school room, probably now until the spring (or until the heating is fixed, whichever is sooner). Several people have asked whether this is boiler trouble again, but our new boiler is just as wonderful as it
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Back to Christmas and its run up. Last year we started something called ‘Posada’ in Bramford. Posada is a way to join in the journey Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem. We have a set of knitted crib figures (with a donkey), which last year took a journey around the school and to the homes of several parishioners. This year we would like to have three sets, one out in the other parishes, travelling from Bramford, through Little Blakenham, Nettlestead and Baylham, and back again in time for Christmas, one going round the school, and one journeying round Bramford. Look out for our figures, you never know where you might see them. Also, it may well not be too late to sign up to host our figures for a night or two. That journey was important, and mirrors our own journeys to the Christ child. It’s well worthwhile taking part – last year our little family and the donkey found homes in a number of places and gained a tin to sit in, and a great deal of love along the way. This reaches its culmination at the Crib Service on Christmas Eve, when I hope that all our crib figures will have reached the stable. Even if you cannot host a figure, it would be good to see you at one of our Christmas services to join in the celebration. Blessings to you all, Jenny PARISH REGISTERS Funerals October 28: Vera Brown, Bramford October 29: John Welham, Bramford November 5: Christopher Loverage, Bramford November 9: Tina Garratt, Bramford November 11: Karen Eastleigh, Baylham Care Centre We extend to their families our sympathy and prayers. Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church December 5: In loving memory of Vic Testeer from Julia and Victoria December 9: In loving memory of Ron and Marjorie Earthy If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 a week. Cleaning rota: H and P Hart Flower rota: Advent. December 20 – Christmas Lectionary Bible Readings for our Sunday Worship are taken from the Revised Common Lectionary. It’s good to share the reading of Scripture with Christians – both Catholic and Protestant – across the world. December 6 Mal. 3:1-4 December 13 Zeph. 3:14-end December 20 Micah 5:2-5a December 24 2 Sam.7:1-5, 8-11,16 December 25 Isaiah 9:2-7 December 30 Exod.33.7-11a
Advent 2 Phil. 1:3-11 Advent 3 Phil. 4:4-7 Advent 4 Heb. 10:5-10 Christmas Eve Acts13:16-26 Christmas Day Titus 2:11-14 Christmas 1 1 John 1
Purple Luke 3:1-6 Purple Luke 3:7-18 Purple Luke 1:39-45 Purple Luke 1:67-79 Gold Luke: 1-14 (15-20) White John21.19b-25
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