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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead Volume 6 • Issue No. 8 • JUNE 2016
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orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk Blackthorn Blossom by Martin Chambers
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The Limeburners Local real ales
Offton
Buskers every Sunday eve
Family Pub with Fish & Chip dining Quiz every first Thursday
Live bands—June 25th The PANG Play area July 23rd WAXES DARGLE www.thelimeburners.co.uk In the countryside Big Garden & Patio
01473 658318
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’ve gotten to know the lollipop lady outside Jack’s school quite well over the years. We have talked about her daughter, who is in high school, her son, who is in college, the fact that she’s been on a diet and her yellow coat is now far too big… Now you may wonder when we have time to chat and rather surprisingly it’s as we stand waiting for cars to stop each morning. She holds her lollipop aloft, arm outstretched to prevent eager children from running across the road, and we wait, and wait, and wait as driver after driver pretends not to see us, gaze focused directly ahead, determined to get to somewhere awfully special (I assume). Occasionally they will wave as if to say “I acknowledge your existence but you must realise how incredibly busy and important I am so I’m going to ignore your request”. And we carry on waiting. Just the other morning a driver stopped, forcing the driver coming from the other direction to reluctantly (there are some words it’s rather easy to lip read!) to do the same thing. Just as the lollipop lady set off another car overtook one of the stopped cars, forcing her to jump back onto the footpath. What was he thinking? If the prospect of being 30 seconds late is so appalling then get up earlier or take a different route. If you are driving past a school please be sensible and respectful and let’s show those impressionable boys and girls waiting to cross how it should be done. On the subject of responsibility, we just got two rabbits, yet unnamed but very cute. I’ve been telling Jack it’s his responsibility to look after them, stressing time and time again how important it is to make sure the hutch is properly closed. As we came downstairs this morning he shouted “the rabbits are running around the garden” – and so they were! And who was the last person to visit the hutch? Me!! By the time we got to school Jack had told eight people what I’d done, including the lollipop lady. My authority has been completely undermined, but I’ve come up with a way to make this work to my benefit. Clearly I’m not up to the task so Jack really has to take over in order to keep those rabbits safe!
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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead
In Touch with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead 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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NEWS GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL At our last parish council meeting PCSO Brill reported that there had been a increase in crime since this time last year, but overall the crime rate is on the downward trend. Please report anything suspicious by calling 999 or 101 if it’s not urgent. PCSO Brill has been relocated to a new post within the Stowmarket Safer Neighbourhood Team. We would like to thank Phil for all his work over the recent years in the village and wish him well in his new post. Our new PCSO is Mark Page and he will be operating out of Landmark House (Ipswich West). We look forward to meeting him in the village. At a meeting held in March Councillor Plume was elected as chairman and at our parish council meeting in April, Councillor Peters was elected as vice-chairman. Mrs K Coe and Mr P Anderson were co-opted as parish councillors. We still have a vacancy for a parish councillor. 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 a 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 Our next parish council meeting is on Wednesday, June 8 at 7.30pm in the Parish Rooms. There is time set aside at the beginning of the meeting for members of the public to speak briefly on any items or concerns they may have. An agenda will be on all noticeboards and the website. All residents are welcome to attend. All future parish council meetings dates for 2016 are on all noticeboards and the website for your information. Your parish councillors are: Chairman Mr S Plume: steveplume@me.com Vice-Chairman Mrs K Peters: karenpetersgbpc@gmail.com Councillor Mr G Scott: guymarkints@yahoo.co.uk Councillor Mr J Waller: j_waller2003@hotmail.com Councillor Mrs K Coe: kim.coe@btinternet.com Councillor Mr P Anderson: suffolkmyhome@gmail.com Parish clerk: Mrs J Scott, greatblakenhampc@btinternet.com / 07432 605750
IN TOUCH WITH . . .
• Hadleigh • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Needham Market, Creeting St Mary & Creeting St Peter • Sproughton & Burstall • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Woodbridge & Melton • Bramford, Somersham & Offton • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton
IN TOUCH WITH...
JULY DEADLINE 10 JUNE 2016 is the final date for both advertising & editorial copy
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LITTLE BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL Little Blakenham Parish Council has two vacancies for councillors. What exactly does a parish councillor do? As a councillor you can become a voice for your community and be involved in making decisions that have a real impact on the parish. Parish councils have a large range of powers and activities. Little Blakenham Parish Council is involved in planning consultations, environmental and highways issues. Among other things, it manages the village hall and the play area. Councillors decide which activities to support, where money should be spent, what services should be delivered and what policies should be implemented. How much time does it take up? The parish council meets every two months for a full council meeting and occasionally there are other meetings to consider specific issues. Councillors require some time to read agendas and other paperwork and may also attend training courses. Being a parish councillor is a positive way of contributing to your community and helping to make it a better place to live. Am I qualified? There are a few rules. You must have lived or worked for more than 12 months in the parish of Little Blakenham, be 18 or more years old, be a British citizen or a citizen of the Commonwealth or the European Union. If you would like to find out more, please contact the parish clerk, Janet Gobey: littleblakenhampc@outlook.com / 01473 833520
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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Staffing Five staff have recently left, or handed in their notice, and this has led to new job opportunities on site. John Tatton, who was one of the original staff recruited in 2012, has been promoted from technical engineer to maintenance manager. Other positions to be filled, either through internal promotion or new candidates, include: two shift managers; technical engineer, assistant maintenance manager, mechanical technician, operations technician and day operative. Interviews for some of these have already been held, but others are yet to be advertised. All job opportunities are included on our website: www.sita.co.uk Shut-down The spring shut-down, to allow for routine maintenance and cleaning, was completed slightly ahead of schedule. There were no major issues and everything ran smoothly. Extra staff needed on site during the shutdown parked at the nearby football club, and shuttle-buses brought them to site. The next shut-down will be in November. Landscaping The meadow, at the front of the site, and the banks of the pond will shortly be re-seeded to create a haven for wildlife. Unfortunately, the original seeding had not established before sections had to be dug up because of a leak in a water pipe, which has now been mended. USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060
FOUR COMMUNITIES ACTION GROUP The Four Communities Action Group (4CAG) was created in 2010 by members of the churches of Barham, Claydon, Great Blakenham and Henley, Age UK (Suffolk) and interested members of the wider community. Its aim is to work together as four parishes to develop new activities and support networks, especially those in need, and to provide spiritual support and encouragement with a view to enhancing the lives of all members of the community.
Visit to Challain-la-Potherie Our May Bank Holiday visit to our link village in the Loire Valley region of France started bright and early on the Friday morning with 39 visitors from our local area in great form for our journey to meet up with our friends in Challain.
On arrival we were warmly greeted by our hosts and given a welcome drink and biscuits in their village hall. Then off to the hosts homes for an evening meal, catch-up chat, and then off to bed, tired but happy, to be ready for Saturday morning when we were to visit the botanic gardens in Angers. Two coaches left Challain filled with a mixture of French and English chattering away to each other. It was a cold and damp start weather-wise, but the afternoon was sunny, warm, and spring-like. The botanic gardens had something for everyone – a Japanese garden, a bamboo forest, rose garden, and all manner of delights to be discovered. There were even boats rides along the river and an amazing 4D film adventure, and so much more. We had our usual sports event with the tug-of-war competition. Delighted to say that our team won the trophy again this year – could have been that the ladies who joined in helped enormously. The trophy can be viewed at David’s garage where it is on display for all to see. A delicious evening meal in the village hall for all was followed by great entertainment. A small but perfect choir from Somersham, led by Kay and Peter, started off the evening. We had an amusing quiz in guessing who the historical figures were as they took to the stage. A local band then played brilliantly and had everyone dancing until the small hours. Fireworks at the chateau lit up the sky as our evening ended and everyone went outside to watch the spectacle. The fireworks were not for us really but the end of a wedding party at the chateau, but we all enjoyed the display as if it were our own. Sunday was free with hosts and everyone did their own thing – discovering the village sights if they hadn’t been before – the chateau, the historical lavoir where the village ladies did their washing in times gone by, the lake and walking the local footpaths. Some went walking by the River Loire and enjoyed the local scenery and vineyards. Others went horseracing – even winning some Euros in the process.
• 4 Ever Young Men’s Group (see page 9) meeting at the Crown, Claydon on the third Wednesday of each month
On the way home on Monday our coach was full of happy chatter as each exchanged their experiences with others. All agreed they had had the most wonderful of weekends. Lots of new friends were made from our own villages locally as well, with people agreeing to meet up for other social events when they got home. We were also busy thinking of a programme for when our hosts become our visitors next year when they visit us in Somersham. So if you think you would like to be involved and haven’t been before do get in touch with those listed below – or even better chat to someone who has been with us and get an idea of our link experiences.
• M eet ‘n’ Eat Lunch Club (see page 9) meeting at the Parish Rooms, Great Blakenham on the first Friday of each month
Gill Fordham: 831529; David Haughton: 831511; Janet Hodge: 832296; Pat Woolhouse: 831080
The group currently supports five organisations:
• G ipping Valley Art Society meets at the Parish Rooms, Great Blakenham every Tuesday afternoon • T he Book Club is an informal group which meets at the Crown, Claydon on the last Thursday of the month • T he Knitting Group is a relaxed and friendly group meeting at Alasdair Place, Claydon on the first Thursday of the month. Our aim is to increase awareness of these groups, plan future projects and also to attract like-minded people in the community to join us. The Crown at Claydon has always offered us a venue for some of our meetings, coffee and the chance to stay for a bite to eat afterwards, and we would like to thank the team there for their support. If you would like to know any more about our work, pop along to one of our activities or email: 4CAG@bigvax.co.uk We would love to hear from you.
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Henley Community Centre Friday 3rd June 7:30pm Saturday 4th June 2:30pm & 7:30pm
01473833226
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NEWS LONG AWAITED NEWS WILL HELP SAVE THE DUKE Hooray! At long last HMRC has approved our proposed loan scheme for Social Investment Tax Relief (SITR). We’re one of only a handful of community pub projects to have approval for SITR borrowing – and we’re determined to make the most of this new opportunity. We strongly believe it will help us raise enough money (over and above the £200,000 already raised through shareholding) to put in an offer for the Duke of Marlborough. What makes us so sure? Well, a number of people have already registered their intent to lend lump sums from £5,000 to £50,000. Given the impressive return on investment (equivalent to approximately 7% per annum) others are sure to come forward. If you, or friends or family are in a position to invest such sums and are interested in benefiting from this opportunity, please read the detail further down, and contact us straight away. Remember shares are still on sale, and 30% tax relief is also available on those through HMRC’s Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS). The more shares we sell, the less we need to pay back in loans, so please keep encouraging your contacts to invest in this way too. Shareholders will be invited to join our members’ club and receive discounts and offers – and invitations to special events. Hopefully, now things will at last get moving and we will be in a position to buy our pub in the not too distant future. We will be organising an update meeting in the village in the next few weeks and will let you know the details soon. Let’s keep in touch. Any questions, please contact us, it’s always good to hear from you! James: marlboroughsomersham@gmail.com / 01473 831352 SITR The scheme was set up by the government to stimulate investment in community-owned businesses such as ours. The investment has to be for a set number of years (four) to allow time for the businesses to develop. Anyone can lend a lump sum and can offset 30% of their investment against their tax bill. Clearly this is dependent on personal tax liabilities of at least the same amount as the investment. SITR – DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH AND YOUR LOAN Interested in lending a lump sum? Great: you will get a fantastic return on investment! Main conditions • To be entitled to 30% tax relief you need to be a UK taxpayer and have tax liabilities at least equivalent to your investment. • Loans are for four years and need to be from £5,000 to £50,000 • Your loan will be paid back in full at the end of the four-year term For full details, please visit: http://tinyurl.com/hqskzrr Main benefits • You’ll receive 100% of your loan back, plus the extra 30% offset against your tax bill. This works out as the equivalent of around 7.5% APR, a very favourable rate compared to most savings accounts or cash ISAs. • You’ll be enabling us to put in an offer for the Duke and get it up and running. Next step If you, or friends or family are in a position to benefit from this scheme, you need to register your interest straight away – or in any case by Monday, June 13. Please email James on marlboroughsomersham@gmail. com for a loan pack or call him on 01473 831352. Loans need to be from £5,000 to £50,000. Your support will enable us to make an offer to Roger and Hazel and finally get this community pub project off the ground.
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SOMERSHAM COMMUNITY SHOP
A community shop for the local community and run by the local community The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416
Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm, Saturday, 8am-1pm Celebrate with us Help to celebrate the fourth anniversary of our community shop at our coffee morning on Saturday, July 11, 10am-12.30pm. You are invited to come and have a piece of cake and a drink to help us celebrate and to say ‘thank you’ to all our volunteers and customers without whom our local shop would not be possible. It’s amazing to think that our shop has been open for four years. It’s a real success for our locality to have such a friendly and useful village shop and it’s all thanks to the people in the community – so have a piece of cake and drink with us as a thank you to all. We look forward to a successful fifth year of operating and helping to make our village and locality a great place in which to live. Our ice-cream cabinet is newly stocked for summer, and all our locallysourced products are in store as well – our fresh farm eggs, vegetables, bread, cakes, pies, and meats. We like to support our local suppliers and are pleased to have their fresh produce available. Our delicious cakes are made locally in Elmsett We have our new line of wine, cider and beer, with cider and beer mostly being produced locally (especially local beer brewed just down the road from the shop). Also our regular meat supplier has now retired and we have sourced our new lines from even nearer to us, from Ringshall, so come and support not only our community shop but also our local producers as well. Have you heard of Petrolheads? It’s a new community project in the shop especially for those interested in all things motor-driven. If you fancy chatting with like-minded people over a cuppa come along on the first Wednesday of the month, 2-4pm. As mentioned before, we have been asked many times if we are open on a Sunday but for this we need volunteers to cover that time. We would like to open for at least a couple of hours on a Sunday morning, so if you are interested in helping out and getting to know people locally, but have commitments during the week, this may be an opportunity to get involved. We would need to have a team of at least eight people so that would mean just two hours a month for each volunteer. If this is of interest to you, please get in touch with a committee member and we will see if this is something we can get off the ground. We are always looking for volunteers to ease our rota. Volunteering in the shop not only helps the community but also helps the individual, especially anybody new to the village, to get to know people and what’s happening locally and to be involved in village life. We also like to have young students volunteering, especially during the summer holidays. They gain lots of work and life experience which is good for putting on CVs and gives valuable insight into the world of work. If you are thinking of volunteering, either for personal interest or to gain experience, then come along and we will be very happy to see you. Management team: Lucy Barrett, 831890; Terry Fordham, 831529; Jenny Hitchcock, 832060; Peter Jousiffe, 833577; Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080.
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NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: MAY 2016 DEVOLUTION Norfolk’s involvement is now not so certain and there appears to be considerable disquiet among our MPs. The benefits of greater local control of transport and planning still remain for those likely to exercise that control but are less obvious for the rest of us. Councils will debate the issue in June and final ratification of the agreement that the Chancellor announced will then take place, or not depending on the make-up of the councils and the power of the whips. ROADS A long meeting with Highways management yielded some useful information. On the positive side, additional government money is allowing some work to proceed. Re-surfacing of Bramford Road in Great Blakenham in June and removal of the normally mud obscured central bollards will eliminate a perpetual problem. Two will return later as part of the Blakenham Fields work at the entrance junction. Patching then surface dressing on Fitzgerald Road and part of Loraine Way in Bramford, Bulls Road, Lower Road and part of the B1078 in Hemingstone and Back Lane (Circular Road) in Baylham will be welcome improvements. On the down side, the county team that translates our requirements into a scheme, agrees price and gets the work under way, will shrink. Maintenance work will be under a government incentive scheme that relies on machine inspection of surfaces not local judgment. That makes firm dates for the work you want even more difficult to get. We did discuss a range of works you want but the dates and funding are just too uncertain to present as plans. DISTRICT COUNCIL The Conservative group has changed leadership and the portfolio holders responsible for political control of the major elements of council work. Meanwhile the chief executive is moving to Kingston-Upon-Thames. Charlie Adan has masterminded the amalgamation of Babergh and Mid Suffolk employee teams and several rounds of management re-organisation and reduction. A strategic plan refresh after the election has produced some change in emphasis but leaves much ambiguity. We all want to deliver good services for Suffolk at a reasonable cost, but some just want the lowest possible cost. What does the plan deliver? DEVELOPMENT CONTROL The replacement for the 1987 Local Plan is progressing but there have been more changes of senior staff. The completion date is now 2019. This plan must be finished and more land for housing allocated, a five-year supply, or we will have to tolerate developments wherever developers own land. We need more housing if price rises are to be moderate so that young people have a chance to own their own home. However, none of us
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wants an approach that destroys the aspects of Suffolk we value. The impact of recent budget changes on the plan to build council housing and to invest the £25 million the council has given itself the authority to borrow is still not clear. POLICE AND PARKING The new safer neighbourhood team, partly based in Landmark House but controlled via a sergeant in Hadleigh, is learning the territory. They have responded to requests from residents and me to look at parking by schools but appear to find what is clearly obstruction difficult to deal with. POLICE AND CRIME PANEL After the Police and Crime Commissioner elections, which returned Tim Passmore for a second term, the panel has looked for improvements in its approach to supporting and challenging him. The panel decided to examine his performance on domestic violence, fatalities on Suffolk roads, and the techniques he uses to monitor police performance. FULL COUNCIL The meeting opened with a petition presented by a firefighter and signed by some 3,675 people asking that full council and not just the cabinet should vote on the Fire Service reductions. The administration rejected that view. We then debated at length a motion supported by all opposition members to reverse the proposed reductions in the Fire and Rescue Service that in the Ipswich area amounted to 50%. The vote was very close and losses from the Conservative ranks are making this more likely. In Ipswich, which was to have three appliances, there are high-rise buildings that require four appliances in attendance before rescue work can begin. In a fire, they are particularly hazardous structures. We were also concerned that across the county resources will reduce to such an extent that risk to property and life will increase significantly. The argument is that a reduction in call outs produced by the preventative work undertaken by the service, allows a reduction in staff and appliances. Improvements in building construction standards, materials and safety rules have also helped. Improvements in vehicle safety features, seat belts, airbags, reduction in risk from materials and improvements to the basic strength of the passenger compartment have had similar effects. The response to the consultation, which was overwhelmingly against the staff and appliance reductions, has been to reverse a number of the reductions. In Ipswich four fire engines will remain, meeting the attendance standard for high-rise buildings, providing all are available. However, the number of full time firefighters who are able to respond 24/7, not just when they are not at work, will still drop by sixteen. If you have queries please contact me: 01473 831306 / john.field@suffolk.gov.uk www.john.field@suffolk.libdems.org
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT Guide Dog Awareness Hello, my name is Carolyn and I have a black Labrador guide dog called Ally. Most of you have probably seen us wondering around the village. We have been together now for three years and my life has completely changed. Not only is she my independence, but my lovely companion. After working with me for about a year Ally was attacked outside the One Stop Shop. Her face was bitten and her confidence was diminished. A few weeks later, whilst enjoying a free run at the local park, she was attacked again by a larger dog which resulted in her having veterinary treatment. Needless to say this has left my dog with confidence issues, sometimes resulting in her showing bad behaviour. Occasionally when I am out working with her she will growl at other dogs, which can obviously trigger a reaction which can be traumatic for me, Ally and the other dog and owner. I have had help and advice from trainers at guide dogs, they have assured me that this is fear and not aggression. This behaviour only occurs when Ally is in harness and working, which is when she feels vulnerable. She is actually a very sociable girl and lots of your dogs often play with her at the park. So I am asking you to consider the following if you see me out with her. I am completely blind, therefore unaware that you are approaching me with your dog. So please let me know verbally in plenty of time so that I can prepare for you to pass me with your dog without incident. If I can sit her down, drop a harness and reassure her, she is absolutely fine. I have had two recent incidents outside the One Stop. On one occasion the other person refused to speak to me at all. This left me oblivious to what actually happened, which dog started it and how to rectify the problem. I am very approachable and hopeful that with time and patience Ally will settle down again. I would be very grateful for your cooperation to help me and Ally achieve our harmonious partnership again.
4 EVER YOUNG MEN’S CLUB Our April meeting took the form of a general get-together and the chance to chat with each other about our hobbies and interests. It turned out that several members are keen musicians, budding musicians and listeners, and we decided that the meeting in May would involve some of us bringing instruments along, mainly to talk about them as we don’t want to upset any of the other customers in the Crown. The Crown at Claydon very kindly accomodates us and provides coffee for our meeting, and some of us often stay for a spot of lunch afterwards. We meet on the third Wednesday of the month at 10.30am and 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. We’re always looking for members and speakers, so please come along to listen or talk (or both). Our meeting in June is our AGM – a time to reflect on the last 12 months and make plans for the next year, and I would encourage you to come and meet us and help to shape our future. For more information, contact Mike Biddle on 07805 507497, or just come along on the third Wednesday of the month – you will be very welcome.
Many thanks, Carolyn Allum
CLAYDON & BARHAM CHURCH FABRIC FUND CELEBRATION IN FLOWERS A weekend to celebrate our Queen’s 90th year at Barham Church IP6 0PT Saturday, June 4 to Monday 6 There will be flower arrangements depicting life in each decade from the 1920s, when the Queen was born. Come along and enjoy the beauty of the flowers and allow yourself to wallow in nostalgia. Open from 10am on Saturday, 11.30am on Sunday and 10am on Monday, with tea, coffee, cake and books ANNUAL TRADITIONAL VILLAGE FETE Saturday, June 4 from 2pm in the church grounds All the usual popular stalls, sideshows and refreshments (no commercial stalls) Free admission, free shuttle service from York Crescent and Edinburgh Gardens Ample parking at the church For further information contact Roger (831079) or Des (831804) Proceeds from both events will go to the maintenance of the church building for the use and enjoyment of current and future generations.
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MEET ‘N’ EAT LUNCH CLUB The lunch club enjoyed a lovely sunny day in May for our meeting. To celebrate the good weather, we replacyed our usual soups and offered a ploughman’s lunch instead, which was very well received. This month we will be celebrating the Queen’s 90th birthday – the menu isn’t finalised yet, but union flags and scones, jam and cream are bound to feature somewhere. We meet at noon on the first Friday of each month in the Parish Rooms in Great Blakenham. For only £3.50 we serve a light lunch with homemade 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, contact Sue Broomfield on 07890 512828, Mike Biddle on 07805 507497, or just come along on the first Friday of the month – you will be very welcome.
GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH ROOM Hire rates for Great Blakenham Parish Room are very reasonable. The main hall is approximately 42ft long and 19.5ft wide (13 x 8 mtrs) and is able to hold 100 people, or 60 if seated. It is ideal for meetings, small parties and gatherings and can be hired between 9am and 11pm. The kitchen is fully equipped with a fridge, oven, microwave oven, electric kettles, crockery and cutlery, perfect for making hot drinks and snacks. There is a car park and small, grassed area with patio, to the rear of the hall. For details of our fees, conditions of hire and to book please contact Paul or Jane Corbett: 01473 830201
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OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB
FRIENDS OF BAYLHAM CHURCH
The Great Blakenham Over 50s 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 is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.
There will be a Table Top Sale in the church car park on Saturday, June 11, starting at 2pm. If you would like to bring a table the charge will be £5. Please book a space by June 4.
Over the past few meetings we have been very pleased to welcome new members Jenny Burgess, Paul Warne, Bert Leech and Jane Neal to our club. We had a very enjoyable meeting in April when Mr Peter Banham visited us and led an interactive discussion about old sayings and their meanings. These are all sayings and phrases we use all the time and we had to guess their derivation with quite a bit of prompting! Members thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and as he has researched many more sayings we will no doubt have a repeat visit next year. Forthcoming meetings June 8: Woodworking and inlay work – my job and my hobby, by one of our new members, Paul Warne. June 22: Social afternoon including the next part of our occasional series A Walk Down memory Lane. July 13: Mrs Pauline Walker on The History of the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company. July 27: Our last meeting before our summer break. Social afternoon including quiz time with Brenda Cooper. We would be pleased to welcome anyone who would like to come to one of the talks. There is no obligation to become a member. So do come and join us. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
DOGGY DAY AT GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH ROOM Saturday, July 16, 10am-3pm A new event for the village will take place on Saturday, July 16 – a day devoted to dogs and the goodies they like, toys they might like to play with, and practical things like winter coats and nutrition advice. Quintons pet supplies will be there as well as dog treats specialists and groomers, a mobile dog wash and a local artist doing doggy portraits. This event is supported by Guide Dogs for the Blind. There will be competitions for the waggiest tail (11-11.30am), cutest puppy (1-1.30pm), and best behaved dog (2-2.30pm). There will also be a doggie tombola and raffle with prizes for your pet. Special dog cards will be available to buy. A safe outside area will be available for well-behaved dogs to be left while owners look around. Refreshments will be available all day, including morning tea, coffee and cakes, light lunches and afternoon tea and scones. If you are interested in having a stall or attending this fun event, please contact Wendy Hooper: 07710 508792 / wendydhooper@gmail.com Any monies raised will go towards the upkeep of St Mary’s Church.
If you’re not selling please come along and see what’s for sale. The Friends will be selling cakes, books, and plants. Contact Wendy: 01473 832885
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF SHACKLETON Ken Snow will present a talk on Shackleton’s failed attempt to reach the South Pole in Baylham Church on Tuesday, June 21, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 if booked in advance or £6 on the night. Refreshments are included. Contact Wendy: 01473 832885
CLAYDON AND BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE Church Lane, Claydon IP6 0EG The club has a full range of events in June, some organised by the community centre and other private events and bookings. The hall, lounge and Compton Room have seen a steady increase in bookings. FUTURE EVENTS Saturday, June 11: An evening of karaoke, starting at 7.30pm. Come along and be a star for the night and dazzle your friends. Saturday, June 19: Peter and the CBCC invite you to a joint musical evening with live music from the very popular Suffolk group Harley Street Band: www.harleystreetband.co.uk Doors open at 7pm and the band starts at 8pm. This is a free event to all in the community. If you are going to attend, could you please contact the centre and register your interest, as we will have to restrict numbers to the first 100. Wednesday, July 6: Ryan Gooding Psychic Night, Claydon Pre-School fundraising event. This event is not organised by CBCC. Saturday, July 9: The CBCC has organised a gala day with live music in the evening with The Preservatives: www.thepreservatives.wix.com/band We have a wide and varied range of ales, ciders and lagers both draft and bottled. Also available is Guinness and mild and our premium lager, San Miguel, is now on tap. We have pints of bitter starting from just £2.50 a pint, and lager from just £2.90. www.claydonandbarhamcommunitycentre.co.uk 01473 831805 Facebook: Claydon Community Centre
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OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM 200 CLUB
BAYLHAM VILLAGE HALL
These are the winning tickets for May
We shall be holding a Strawberry Tea in the village hall on Sunday, June 26 at 3pm to raise funds for hall improvements. Tickets are £6 and available from Wendy (01473 830615) or Kay (01473 831306 / kay.field@ btopenworld.com)
£25 £15 £10 £10 £5 £5
Mrs Monger Clive Crane Ron Battley Wendy Smith Bob Little Jane Corbett
All money raised by your membership of the 200 Club goes towards the repair and preservation of St Mary’s Parish Church. Tickets are £1 a month, collected at the beginning of the year. You can join at any time. Please phone Marion on 01473 830915 if you would like the chance to win one of the monthly prizes and help maintain the beauty of our ancient church building.
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 every Wednesday from 10am to 12.30pm; the cost is currently £10 a month, so just £2.50 per session. For further details please contact Ann Woolnough on 01473 743794 or come along and meet us any Wednesday after 10am.
Hope to see you there.
GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB The club meets every Monday other than Bank Holidays in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. Members pay £2 a meeting and this covers hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Our workshop meeting for May was entitled Fly Away Peter, Fly Away Paul, but was not revealed to members at the time of writing due to the bank holiday so more about this next month. This is our programme for the remainder of 2016, but I give no clues as to the project! June 6: Cats and Dogs July 4: Butterflies and Flowers August 15: Always Need Storage September 5: Lovely in Lace October 3: New Baubles, Mind the Furniture November 7: Getting Ready for Christmas December 5: Christmas Party There is currently room for new members so if you are 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 unfortunately I cannot accommodate children. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL
CLAYDON MUMS ‘N’ TOTS GROUP
Well the recent sunshine has been well received and the children all liked the chance to play out in the garden. They have been doing lots of fun things and finding new ways to play with all the equipment. Fingers crossed it stays with us. Summer Fete Come along and join us on Saturday, June 25 from noon-3pm at the pre-school. There will be lots to do and everyone is welcome. Entry is free. Come and have a look and enjoy our barbecue. Ryan Gooding Psychic Night We are hosting a Ryan Gooding Psychic Night on Wednesday, July 6 from 7.30pm at Claydon and Barham Community Centre. Tickets are £10 and can be purchased from the pre-school or the community centre. Please feel free to contact the administrator if you would like any further information. Summer Holiday Club We will once again be running our summer holiday club from 9am3.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from July 26 until September 1 for children aged two to eight years old. It’s £20 for a full day (bring a packed lunch) and £12 for either a morning (9am-noon) or afternoon (12.30-3.30pm) session. Please contact the administrator for more details or to book spaces. Open event If you are interested in sending your child to Claydon Pre-school, and would like to come and have a look around, we are holding an open day event from 4-6pm on Thursday, July 7. Just come along, everyone is welcome. We look forward to meeting you all. Don’t forget to get your applications in now for places in September. 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 (noon12.30pm) 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 two to eight year olds. For more information please contact our administrator, Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk
Calling all mums, dads, grandparents and carers with children up to four years old. Are you looking for somewhere to entertain your children and make new friends at the same time?
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB March prize winners were: No. 11 Jemma Newson £20.70 No. 29 Lyndsey Firman £10.35 No. 9 Marianne Allan £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
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Claydon Mums ‘n’ Tots meet every Tuesday in term time from 1.15-3pm in Claydon & Barham Village Hall. We charge just £1.50 a family (one adult and children) which includes a drink and a biscuit for both the adults and children. There is a great selection of toys and activities to stimulate the children and help them let off some steam. Each week we have a different theme at our arts and crafts table where the children can make and create something amazing to take home and show the family. We always end our session with a sing-a-long. We will meet on Tuesdays, June 7, 14, 21 and 28 and new faces are always welcome. So why not come along, have a cuppa and meet some people in your area? We look forward to seeing you and your little ones soon.
HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL Summer is now well and truly upon us and the children are making the most of the weather. We are donning our sun hats and glasses, slapping on the sun-cream and enjoying free play and tending to our little garden patch. We have also started practising for our sports day, ranging from the classic running races to egg and spoon and bean-bag on the head races. This year we celebrate 30 years of Henley Pre-school and our anniversary is being embraced by the village. We have been invited to create a display at Henley Flower Festival which is on Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26 at St Peter’s Church. Our display will be made up of smaller displays created by the children so June will be a busy month preparing, making, sticking and arranging. 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 sessions available for both grant-funded and paid sessions for two to five year olds. Lunch club is also available (noon-1 pm). You don’t need to live in the Henley School catchment area to come and play with us – we have children from Ipswich, Claydon, Great Blakenham and 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. www.henleypreschool.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL As I write, the sun is shining and summer feels just around the corner. We had a very busy spring term with lots of trips, activities and good news to share and the summer term is proving to be just as eventful. In April, we were delighted to hear that Claydon High School has been nationally recognised for its exceptional 2015 performance by the Schools, Students and Teachers network (SSAT). The school is in the top 20% nationally for progress made by students between their Key Stage 2 results at primary school and their Key Stage 4 results. We were presented with an Educational Outcomes Award at a regional celebration event held in London on May 3. We are now in the midst of exam season for our Year 11 students who will leave us at the end of this month. Students have made the most of revision days and catch-up clubs and have demonstrated maturity and resilience as they approach their final exams, qualities that will stand them in good stead for their chosen career paths. I wish them the very best of luck for the future and hope that all their hard work will be rewarded with success on results day. I would like to take this opportunity to thank parents/carers of Year 11 for their support during the last five years. During the month of May a large number of Year 10 students applied and were interviewed for the role of prefect. Claydon High School appoints prefects each year to undertake various roles and responsibilities around the school, both during the school day and at extra-curricular events. This is a perfect role for students in Year 10 and 11 who want to take on extra responsibility, extend their experience, develop leadership skills and provide themselves with opportunities which will support their applications to sixth form, college or an apprenticeship. The interview process is quite formal and applicants were questioned about the qualities they possess to be an effective leader, as well as their solutions to making an impact on the future development of Claydon High School. As usual, I was very impressed, not only by the original and creative ideas that students presented to us on the day, but also the effort and commitment that each applicant had put into the process. Prefects are expected to establish and maintain the highest standards of behaviour and attitude at all times, providing a positive role model for other students across the school and I have no doubt that the successful candidates will do a fantastic job when they are trained and take up their posts in September.
CLAYDON AND BARHAM YOUNG FAMILIES Claydon and Barham Young Families is a Mothers’ Union project which 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 Thursday, June 9 from 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. For more information contact Michelle on 01473 833788 or check our listing on Netmums.com.
JIGSAW PRE-SCHOOL Jigsaw Pre-school at Needham Market is now open from 9am-3pm, Monday-Friday in term time, and we currently have spaces for children aged two years up to school age. We are very lucky to occupy a purpose-built building with a spacious, open plan classroom area with lots of wonderful resources. We are also extremely lucky to have a large outdoor/garden area. Government funding of 15 hours a week is available for two (subject to criteria), three and four year olds. Come along and meet Rosemary, Sharon, Emily, Laura and Heidi, and see what we can offer you and your child. We look forward to hearing from you, and welcoming you and your child to Jigsaw Pre-school (Sproughton) at Needham Market. 01449 722717 (Needham) / 01473 745716 (Sproughton) info@jigsawsproughton.org.uk The Drift, School Street, Needham Market IP6 8BB
On Monday and Tuesday, July 4 and 5, the school hall will be rocking to the sounds of 50s. America as students stage the popular allsinging, all-dancing musical Grease. The cast has been extremely busy rehearsing and are looking forward to showcasing its art, music, drama and performance skills. Tickets are now on sale and can be obtained from reception from 8am-4pm. We hope you will be able to join us for a fantastic evening. Both performances start at 7.30pm with refreshments available. If you would like to be involved in sponsoring the show, please contact Nikki McGuinness; nmcguinness@claydonhigh.com Finally, we have lots still to look forward to in the last half-term of this academic year including: Sports Day, Year 5 Primary Arts Festival, Community Tea Party (please see our separate advert for more details of this event), Transition Days, GCSE Art Exhibition, Headteacher’s Praise Tea Party and Sports Award Evening. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Wednesday, June 29. To book a place please telephone Mrs J Pedersen, the headteacher’s PA: 01473 836110 Mrs S Skinner, headteacher
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SCHOOLS / SPORT CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL A belated welcome to the summer term from everyone at Claydon Primary School. Our last catch-up was written in March while Year 6 were enjoying their residential trip to Hilltop. The Hilltop motto is Challenge by Choice and the pupils and staff enjoyed rising to the many challenges while there, despite the never-ending mud. The assault course looked like a swamp, but it didn’t deter the children from crawling through it. The mountain bike course provided some rivers to cross, all approached with great enthusiasm. The high ropes and tree top trail provided lots of different challenges for the children, but with support and encouragement from each other, the children attempted, and mainly achieved, the goals they had set themselves. The new ‘Air Jump’ proved to be a great success; it can only be described as stepping off a platform into nothingness, to land on a large inflated mattress. If you were able to land correctly (on your back) you were able to progress from 5m to 7m, then 8m, with the ultimate challenge being 10m, which a few children achieved. Well done to all the children for setting and achieving goals as well as working co-operatively and thank you to all the staff members who accompanied them. During March, we marked National Science Week by planting trees and wildflowers on our school field. Pupils also enjoyed observing signs of spring in our grounds. More planting took place in April by Year 1 and 2 as part of their farming theme. They are learning about growing and were helped by our expert volunteer gardener, Mrs Bound, to plant potatoes which they are looking forward to harvesting, cooking and eating in the summer. A huge thank you to Mrs Bound for her help from everyone involved. Years 3 and 4 enjoyed a special day learning about food, farming and the countryside at the Farm Fair at Trinity Park. They spent an action-packed day learning through a range of interactive activities. Closer to home, Year 2 visited Barham Care Home. They were invited to sing to the residents and finished by singing Happy Birthday to Dorothy Ablett who was celebrating her special day; they also gave her a gift of flowers. March and April were busy for sporting events too. March saw Year 5 take part in the School Games Quicksticks competition at St Joseph’s
College. They lost the majority of their games, but did show improvement throughout the afternoon and managed to draw a game. The play-off game was very close and exciting, being 1-0 down with only minutes left to play. Undeterred, they continued playing well and were rewarded when Harrison scored a spectacular goal to equalise just before the final whistle sounded. Well done to all the children who took part and enjoyed the afternoon. Cross country at The Royal Hospital School for Years 5 and 6 was very pleasant with some sunshine for a change. The overall entry was nearly 1,000 children. Our children rose to the challenge well, despite thinking it looked rather a long way when they arrived. They all supported each other to cross the finish line and were a credit to the school. Josh Cook produced a very exciting finish for the Year 6 boys in fifth place, having maintained a strong run throughout. He was extremely proud to wear his medal. April saw the basketball team compete in the IPSSA competition at Copleston. Unfortunately the late change of rules to 4v4 did not suit our style of play. However, despite only drawing one game, we only lost by one basket in all the other games. The play-off game had to go to extra time and, in a very close fought game, we lost in the last minute by one basket. However, two of our players were selected to join Ipswich Basketball Club. We also took part in the School Games netball tournament at Westbourne Academy with teams from Years 5 and 6. There were two leagues, games being seven minutes one way, with rotation between games. Our Year 5 girls have not played many competitive games, but approached the games with enthusiasm and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The Year 6 girls went with a steely determination to do well. They were rewarded for their commitment and teamwork by winning four, drawing one and only losing one. This saw them compete in the semi-final where they won with a goal in the final minute. Despite this being a tight game, they lost 2-0 in the final but were delighted to achieve silver place. Well done, girls. One final sporting achievement to share is that we received the final results for the boys’ football medium league where we finished third, which is our highest placed result. Well done to the boys for all their effort and commitment, and the parents for their support. Hopefully, when we report on our next fun-filled month, the sun will still be shining on us all.
NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB
Hello again from NNBC. As I write the outdoor season is two weeks old and there couldn’t have been a bigger contrast in the weather. The first week commencing April 25 was bitterly cold with a hailstorm causing the abandonment of our Tuesday afternoon B team game at Mendlesham, while the second week saw blue skies and much higher temperatures.
Greetings guff lovers. With all the furore over performance enhancing drugs and their increasing use by sportsmen, I am pleased to report that I have been given a clean bill of health from the tennis authorities following their recent investigation into my performances. After video analysis of my game they have concluded that no amount of artificial stimulants could improve my performance to the point where I may possibly beat an opponent unfairly, so that was a weight off of my mind. I was just relieved that they didn’t test for the presence of Adnams Ghost Ship in the blood samples. Not much to report this month (as if you didn’t know already) with the summer league yet to start and most of the players recovering from winter league injuries. We have taken the lull in activity to indulge in some court maintenance, steam cleaning the surfaces to make them safer after the wet winter algae growth. We usually repair the fences too as they get damaged from having to climb over to find Nick’s serves in the long grass, and we had the added bonus of having one of the balls we thought he had lost after a particularly high lob returned to us from Tim Peake in the Space Station. By the time this report has appeared in In Touch we will have begun the summer league season, although a good indicator of how we are faring may be gauged by the amount of tennis rackets thrown over the fences in frustration. Dog walkers may benefit if they have an Ebay account as there is usually a good secondhand value on tennis rackets before Wimbledon starts. Joke of the Month Two bird watchers were out in the woods when a giant grizzly bear appeared at the top of a hill and with a ferocious roar immediately ran down towards them. One of the men took a pair of trainers out of his backpack and started to put them on. “Are you mad?” asked the other man, “You can’t outrun a bear.” “I don’t have to outrun the bear,” said the man tying up his trainer laces, “I just have to outrun you.” More guff next month, Mick Russ
We have had mixed fortunes for our league teams. Monday A Team one win, one loss. Monday B have yet to start their season. Tuesday A have had two wins, Tuesday B one win, one loss. Wednesday two wins and Thursday one loss. Sunday, May 8 saw a very enjoyable friendly against Dovercourt at Needham, resulting in a win for Dovercourt. Our ‘meet and greet’ mornings were a great success resulting in seven new members. If you didn’t attend but are interesting in talking up bowls see the contact details below. We hope to have more ‘meet the greet’ days later in the season. Club secretary Pat Hadden: 01473 831308 Alistair Bailie: 01449 720759
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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 www.stmarybramford.co.uk Morning Prayer at Bramford: 8.30am Monday to Friday Wednesday morning quiet reflective communion services: 9.30am at the vicarage, unless otherwise advised.
Lent style course in the autumn, please let us know. On a lighter more social note, all our churches are dashing headlong into fete season and we have some exciting things going on. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to come and meet us. If you can offer to help on the day, please get in touch with the churchwarden who will happily rope you in. We look forward to seeing you at one of our summer events.
Please check porch notices for any changes.
Blessings to you all.
June 2 3pm United Service at Cherryfields
Jenny
June 5 8am 10am 6pm
Trinity 2 Holy Communion Little Blakenham Holy Communion with Prayer for Healing Bramford Evening Prayer for Rogation Baylham
June 12 8am 10am 5pm
Trinity 3 Holy Communion Parish Communion Five o’clock Service
Bramford Nettlestead Bramford
June 14 11am Communion from Reserved Sacrament, Baylham Care Centre June 15 7.30pm Healing Service
Methodist Church
June 19 Trinity 4 10am Holy Communion 10am Holy Communion
Bramford Baylham
June 21 2.30pm The Gathering 5pm Time4You *New*
Church Room Bramford
June 26 8am 10am 10am
Bramford Bramford Nettlestead
Trinity 5 Holy Communion Family Service Morning Prayer
Church Fete Don’t forget! The fete is on July 2. If you can spare time to helps it would be greatly appreciated. We need help setting up in the morning, help to man the various stalls (or even just to give one of our helpers a short break) and help clearing away after the event. We would also welcome cakes and prizes for the tombola, both the main and the children’s. This event is a great fundraiser for the church so if you can help please contact Caroline Walton: 07919 993543 Dear Friends
PARISH REGISTERS Baptisms May 8: Charles Flatman, Anthony Gideon, Stanley Gardam, Hattie Valentina Rayna, Rose Gardam, Tiffani-Amber, Melissa Dixon May they grow in grace and the knowledge of God. Weddings April 23: Pete Tew and Kimberly Murrell May 7: Sean Mclellan (prev. Fox) and Stephanie Pennock May they grow in their love for each other. Funerals May 5: Brian Francis We extend to his family our sympathy and prayers. Cleaning Rota: J Sillett Flower Rota: June 4 J Patterson, 11 & 18 TBA, 25 S Heath Floodlighting of the spire of St Mary’s Church May 11: In memory of James Rowe on the anniversary of his death June 23: In memory of Jim Thacker on the anniversary of his death If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 a week. Lectionary Bible Readings for our Sunday Worship are taken from the Revised Common Lectionary. It’s good to share the reading of scripture with Christians – both Catholic and Protestant – across the world. June 5 Kings 17:8-16 (18-end) June 12 1Kings 21:1-10 (11-14), 15-21a June 19 1Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a June 26 2Kings 2:1-2, 6-14
Trinity 2 Gal 1:11-end Trinity 3 Gal 2:15-21 Trinity 4 Gal 3:23-29 Trinity 5 Gal 5:13-25
Green Luke 7:11-17 Green Luke 7:36-8:3 Green Luke 8:26-39 Green Luke 9:51-end
As I write this the weather has taken a definite turn for the better I like to think that we here at St Mary’s, Bramford have helped a great deal by ensuring that the heating is fixed. Stewart has put a note in thanking all involved (see page 4). It really is magnificent, and should ensure that we are not nearly as cold next year. We are spending a little time exploring at the moment and have just launched a new midweek drop-in, Time4You, which is geared towards those who are coming home from work and need a bit of peace and quiet. This will happen on Tuesday, June 21 – the church doors open at 5pm, and we aim to finish about 7pm. Come for as long as you wish to, there will be coffee and chat, space to reflect and a short service of night prayer will be on offer if you are interested. Otherwise, we are exploring resources to help those who wish to find out more about their faith. We are going to be using a new Church of England resource called PILGRIM, a great new resource we are hoping to use for study courses and our Lent courses. If you are interested in attending a
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CHURCH NEWS ST MARY’S CHURCH GREAT BLAKENHAM Priest-in-Charge: Position currently vacant
Priest Vacancy Interviews for a new priest in charge for our benefice took place on April 14 and 15, but unfortunately we continue in our search as an appointment was not made.
Churchwardens: Wendy Hooper, 01473 846642 / Jane Corbett, 01473 830201
June 12: Family Service, 10am
Community Coffee Morning The next community coffee morning will be in the Parish Room on Saturday, June 11 from 10am-noon. Everyone is welcome to join us for a drink, homemade cake and a chat. We hold a community coffee morning in the Parish Room on the second Saturday of each month. Traditional Village Fete We will be holding a traditional village fete at Great Blakenham Parish Room from 2-4pm on Saturday, June 18. There will be refreshments, a book stall, bric-a-brac, a raffle, games for all ages, face painting and more. All welcome. Doggy Day This is a new event for the village and will take place at Great Blakenham Parish Room and garden on Saturday, July 16, 10am-3pm. Please see page 11 for full details.
THE SERVANT QUEEN AND THE KING SHE SERVES At 2.40am on April 21, 1926 a little girl was born. She was named Elizabeth after her mother, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. At that time, it was never thought that that little girl would become Queen. However, 10 years later, after the abdication of Edward the VIII, her life was to be changed forever. Following the death of her father, King George VI, she was crowned Queen on June 2, 1953 at the age of 25. This year we celebrate her 90th birthday and look back over her 64 years of service as our Queen. Whatever your view on the monarchy, I think it’s safe to say of the Queen, that her life and her attitude to the role have been truly remarkable. She is the longest reigning monarch in British history. She never went to university, but has been the adviser and confidante to 12 British prime ministers. She is now 90 years old but still works over 40 hours a week. She takes her role very seriously and never seems to do anything half-heartedly. She once learned how to strip and rebuild the six-cylinder, 3462cc engine of an Austin K2 ambulance. She has a gruelling work schedule, last year fulfilling more than 340 Royal engagements at the age of 89 years old. She is possibly the most famous person in the world, yet despite her very public life and busy schedule, as Andrew Marr once pointed out, “there are no reliable recorded incidents of the Queen losing her temper, using bad language, or refusing to carry out a duty expected of her.” It’s clear from the Queen’s many Christmas speeches, that her relationship with Jesus Christ is central to her life. Her attitude of service and her personal conduct are shaped by the example of Jesus Christ. Over the years, she has used the Christian gospel to share messages of hope, joy, mercy, forgiveness, kindness, acceptance, perseverance and grace. So what is it about this message called the Christian gospel that keeps her humble in her conduct and gives her daily strength? At the heart of the message is the fact that we are all sinners in need of a saviour. We have all fallen short not only of God’s standards but perhaps more surprisingly of our own, for who can truly say they have never done anything wrong against their own conscience?
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JUNE SERVICES June 26: Holy Communion, 10am There will be coffee and homemade cake available after the 10am services. OTHER DATES FOR YOUR DIARY June 11: Community Coffee Morning (see above) June 12: Family Service, 10am June 18: Traditional Village Fete (see page 9) June 26: Holy Communion Service, 10am July 9: Community Coffee Morning July 10: Holy Communion Service, 11.15am July 16: Doggy Day (see page 11) July 24: Family Service, 10am August 13: Community Coffee Morning August 14: Morning Prayer Service, 10am August 28: Holy Communion Service, 11.15am
This fact alone places us all on an equal footing before a Holy God. Whether you are a struggling drug addict, a successful businessman, a homeless person down on his luck or the Queen of England, we are all equal before God: sinners in need of a saviour. At the cross, Jesus took all of our sins and failings upon himself, and in exchange he offers us His record of perfect righteousness. For those who will receive it, this is a gift of forgiveness and grace from the God of the universe. The remarkable thing about this message is that all must receive it in the same way: by faith. It doesn’t matter if you are a refuse collector, a CEO of a major company, a farmer, an electrician, a doctor, a milkman or the Queen of England. All must come in faith, humility and repentance to accept the love and forgiveness of a Holy God. I’ll close with some words from the Queen’s 2011 speech. They seem very appropriate for the days in which we find ourselves living: “Although we are capable of great acts of kindness, history teaches us that we sometimes need saving from ourselves, from our recklessness or our greed. God sent into the world a unique person – neither a philosopher nor a general (important though they are) – but a Saviour, with the power to forgive. “Forgiveness lies at the heart of the Christian faith. It can heal broken families, it can restore friendships, and it can reconcile divided communities. It is in forgiveness that we feel the power of God’s love.” Queen Elizabeth II 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 contact: info@blakenhambaptist.org.uk / 01449 720357 www.blakenhambaptist.org.uk
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