In Touch with Ipswich East - November 2015

In Touch

™ ™©©

with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath Volume 6 • Issue No. 1 • NOVEMBER 2015

Picture by Svetlana Sewell www.fotobay.co.uk

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Recently an old college friend posted a link on Facebook entitled 20 Quotes From Children’s Books Every Adult Should Know and I’d like to share my favourites with you.

“Promise me you’ll remember, you are BRAVER than you believe, STRONGER than you seem, SMARTER than you think.” A. A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Aesop, The Lion and the Mouse “If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.” Roald Dahl, The Twits “The moment where you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever being able to do it.” J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan And my absolute favourite: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” Dr Seuss, The Lorax And just one more:

In Touch

“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” A. A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh A quote which makes me smile (often through gritted teeth) wasn’t listed, but it comes to me often at bedtime when I’m trying not to lose my patience with the little boy calling (again) from the top of the stairs:

01473 400380 Send editorial copy to:

ipswicheast@intouchnews.co.uk

Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The Publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

Advertising and Distribution: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JP Advertising: Sandra Osborne Email: sandra@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 Disclaimer:

The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the Publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions.

Whilst 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.

Printing: Colourplan Print 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JP 01473 400379

Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . town” series of magazines.

A message from the volunteers at Woodview Nurseries, Bentley IP9 2DG Thank you once again to everyone who helped with the 2014 shoebox appeal. We were able to process and send 13,000 gift boxes from the Ipswich area to needy children in Eastern Europe.

This year’s appeal is now underway.

If you would like to make up a gift for a child you should cover a shoebox and lid separately with wrapping paper and label it for a boy or girl with one of these age ranges: 2-4, 5-9 or 10-14.

Perhaps these great life lessons were lost on us as children. Perhaps they inspired us. If so I hope they inspire you anew. A Roald Dahl or a Dr Seuss is always worth picking up, at any age.

• Pencils, crayons, chalk, notebooks and colouring books • Soft toys with CE label, puppets, dolls, small games, children’s playing cards, balls, skipping ropes, toy cars, jigsaws, whistles, mouth organs • Soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste, flannels or sponges, combs • Hats, gloves, hair slides and beads • Sweets with a long date but not chocolate as it doesn’t travel well

Finally, a message to our distribution team. We thank you for doing a great job in all sorts of weather. As you trudge from door to door on frosty winter evenings please do so in the knowledge that your efforts are appreciated.

In Touch with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath

Sharon Jenkins

2015 SHOEBOX APPEAL

“There is nothing sweeter in this sad world than the sound of someone you love calling your name.” The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath

Editor: Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

NEWS

We also publish In Touch with... magazines in the following areas:Hadleigh NEW East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford

Contents could include:

We would appreciate a £3 donation towards transport. This can be cash or a cheque inside the box or a payment online through the Samaritans Purse website. Please use an elastic band to secure the box until we check and tape it up.

If you are unable to make up a shoebox but have items from the above list to donate we can use them to make up extra boxes at the warehouse.

Please drop off boxes and donations as soon as possible in November, either at Woodview Nurseries during the day or at one of the drop off points listed on the website. For further information call: 01473 310254/716437

Needham Market, Creeting St Mary & Creeting St Peter Capel St Mary Sproughton & Burstall Claydon, Barham & Henley Bramford, Somersham & Offton Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham Stowmarket & Stowupland Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St Martin Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE Call 01473 353350

Kesgrave & Rushmere Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill & Woolverstone

We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Woodbridge & Melton

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

DECEMBER DEADLINE 10 NOVEMBER 2015 is the final date for both advertising & editorial copy

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

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 HELP OLDER PEOPLE IN SUFFOLK STAY WARM AND HEALTHY THIS WINTER Suffolk Community Foundation is now asking you to pledge your Winter Fuel Payment to help those desperately in need of extra support during the winter.

The money raised by the Surviving Winter campaign will be used in two ways: Unbelievable as it may sound, 450 vulnerable people in Suffolk die in the winter months from causes directly attributable to the cold and poor living conditions. The vast majority of individuals affected are over 65 years old.

• Support payments to those who need additional financial help to heat their homes properly, eat appropriately, stay active and keep in touch with their family and community. The payments will be distributed in partnership with Age UK Suffolk.

In fact, this is just the tip of the iceberg – almost 30,000 households in Suffolk currently live in fuel poverty. Many will suffer in silence during the coldest months, hidden from view, withdrawn from their community and surrounds.

• Grants to local charities and groups with a track record of looking after older, vulnerable people and ensuring their continued support throughout the winter months.

Now in its fifth year and spearheaded by the Suffolk Community Foundation in partnership with Age UK Suffolk and the East Anglian Daily Times, the Surviving Winter campaign rallies around these vulnerable older individuals, offering them respite from the anxiety of managing fuel costs and the opportunity to stay warm and healthy during the winter. Incredibly and with thanks to the generosity of Suffolk pensioners, over £85,000 was raised in the winter of 20142015, helping over 300 vulnerable older households in the county.

This truly is an extraordinarily worthwhile campaign, so please…

IF YOU DON’T NEED IT, PLEASE DONATE IT!!

To donate online visit: www.justgiving.com/suffolksurvivingwinter To donate by card please call: 01473 602602 Please send cheques made payable to Suffolk Community Foundation to Surviving Winter Appeal, Suffolk Community Foundation, The Old Barns, Peninsula Business Centre, Wherstead, Ipswich IP9 2BB To claim please contact Age UK Suffolk: 01473 359911

IPSWICH WINTER NIGHT SHELTER Imagine it’s five o’clock on a winter’s evening; the shops are shutting, people are rushing home, the town centre is emptying and a chill has set in.

Most of us return to our warm inviting homes, a nourishing meal and a comfortable bed, but for the homeless people of Ipswich the picture is very different. They have nothing – no family, no home, no dry shoes, no clothes. The future is bleak.

Locality Homelessness Partnership to encourage homeless people to regain their self-esteem and gain help and advice to restore their lives.

Every night during the winter months The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter will offer 12 homeless people a safe place to stay, washing facilities, a sit down supper and breakfast the following morning.

This year we are also expanding our services to provide a Sunday afternoon shelter and a Christmas project, times when the homeless feel even more vulnerable and lonely. Every person coming into the shelter arrives with a different story, but we are there simply to provide a warm and safe place to stay.

In order for the shelters to run, we are entirely dependent on volunteers from the Ipswich area to offer their help and as we expand the need is even greater.

The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter is a project operating under Selig (Suffolk) Trust, headed up by The Rev Canon Paul Daltry. Selig Trust is also working with Hope into Action providing permanent accommodation to the homeless, a befriending service working with IWNS to link homeless people to trained befrienders, a possible domestic abuse project providing education and support through the church network and a vision for connecting ex-offenders to local businesses.

If you can offer financial support to these vital projects please contact 07900 073721 / info@iwns.org.uk or for any other queries visit: www.iwns.org.uk

So will you join us in supporting The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter again this year when we open our doors to some of the most vulnerable people of Ipswich? Ipswich Winter Night Shelter works alongside The Ipswich

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The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter is running from December 2 to March 13. Particular help is needed for the night (10pm-7am) and morning (6.45-9am) shifts.

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www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT 2015 SCARECROW COMPETITION Ravenswood Residents Association was pleased that so many people entered the scarecrow event on September 26. The vast majority of scarecrows were 'at home' and lots of people managed to visit them around Ravenswood to take a look at the many designs and characters, all of which were great fun. The Mayor of Ipswich Councillor Glen Chisholme attended Ravenswood Community Centre during the afternoon to help give out prizes.

We hope that lots more people will make scarecrows for the 2016 event.

To keep up to date with news and other issues that may be relevant for Ravenswood visit: www.ravenswood-residents.org.uk

LOCAL MUSIC GROUP LAUNCHES EXCITING 2016 PROGRAMME

The New Year holds new challenges for Trianon Music Group as they perform at Ipswich Corn Exchange in January and April then return to Snape Maltings Concert Hall for their third concert in September.

There are currently opportunities for musicians and singers to take part in the January concert. On the Bright Side includes popular music from shows and films and features Eric Idle’s Always Look on the Bright Side of Life!

You can pick up a copy of the 2016 brochure at Ipswich Tourist Information Centre or download a copy from www.tmg.org.uk where you will also find details of community concerts in local venues and details of how to book your tickets.

IPSWICH AND DISTRICT ANIMAL WELFARE CHRISTMAS SALE Saturday, November 21, 10am-1pm, at 181 Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich IP4 5DA. Toys, games, books, gifts, clothes, shoes, cards, DVDs, CDs, household items and much more. Free admission.

Contact: 01473 727496

For further details visit www.tmg.org.uk or follow @MusicTrianon on Twitter.

MARTLESHAM BRASS

Making music fun in East Anglia

THE MASQUE PLAYERS The Masque Players present Season’s Greetings by Alan Ayckbourn at Kesgrave Community Centre from November 25-28 at 7.45pm.

The plot of Season’s Greetings involves nine adults and some unseen children meeting up for Christmas at Belinda and Neville’s house. As the children lurk just out of sight, it’s the adults who are letting the side down!

The adults consist of various family members and friends whose complex relationships and histories are laid bare over the Christmas festivities. Petty and not so petty squabbles break out and Christmas presents are rifled.

This is a vintage piece of Ayckbourn theatre, mixing comedy and tragedy with a hilarious puppet show as the icing on the cake. Come and share in the familiar family frivolity and fiasco of Christmas!

Tickets (£9 / £7 concessions) are available at www.masqueplayers.com, from Julie Waters on 01473 624692 and on the door.

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Rehearsals begin in November, so if you are interested in taking part please contact Nigel Walker (01394 460500 / 07734 846939) or John Barratt (01394 283170 / 07876 787029) and you could be performing with Trianon in the New Year!

We hope everyone enjoyed our birthday concert on October 10 and congratulate all our members who received awards that evening.

Our bands will be paying their respects on November 8 at the Remembrance Day Parade in Woodbridge, and also at St Mary’s Church in Martlesham.

Some advance dates for your diaries: Coffee and Carols at St Michael’s Church Centre on Saturday, December 5; Carols in the Square, Martlesham Heath on Monday, December 14; Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 19, also at St Michael’s Church Centre. Further details next month.

Our band welcomes new players young and old, with or without experience. Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to come and have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and feel that you would like to come along and meet us, please contact us via the website or use the contact details below. Please be aware that we currently have a waiting list for beginner players.

Publicity Officer Liz Howard e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617 www.martleshambrass.co.uk

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30th November 2015 - 4th December 2015 4th January 2016 - 8th January 2016 Drop in to one of our centres or call

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www.rflearn.co.uk Remembering together this Christmas For over a decade, the East of England Co-op Funeral Services has brought people together at Christmas to celebrate and remember the lives of those close to them, who are no longer with us.

This December, they will again be hosting a number of Carol Concerts and Services across the region, as well as collecting special messages and memories on their Trees to Remember at their funeral branches.

Andrew Dawes of the East of England Co-op Funeral Service, said: “Having been supporting generations of local families for 90 years, we understand that Christmas can be particularly difficult for those who have lost someone dear to them.

“Tree to Remember and the Carol Concerts are an important part of the ongoing support services we offer bereaved families in the local community. It gives people chance to come together, share their treasured memories and know that they are not alone.”

As well as providing support and comfort to hundreds of families across the region, Tree to Remember has also helped to raise over £18,000 for six local hospices, through donations at carol concerts and in branches, including the East Anglian Children’s Hospice, St Elizabeth Hospice, St Helena Hospice, St Nicholas Hospice, Farleigh Hospice and the Norfolk Tapping House.

CarolerConcert ing together Rememb this Chr istmas

Thursday 10th December 2015 7pm, Sir Bobby Robson Suite Ipswich Town Football Club, Portman Road, Ipswich Free admission

Led by

Civil Celebrant, Tina Hayward and the Ipswich & Norwich Co-op Band & Special Guests Call to book your place

01473 257242

Andrew continued: “Our trees have collected thousands of memories of those who left a special mark on our lives. This Christmas we invite you to share your own message or memory, and look forward to welcoming you to one of our carol concerts or services.”

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OUT & ABOUT THE RABBLE CHORUS TO PERFORM ALEXANDER L’ESTRANGE’S ZIMBÉ With some 250 singers, The Rabble Chorus is the largest community choir in Suffolk, perhaps even the largest in the UK. It has four units at Woodbridge, Easton, Needham Market and Saxmundham that rehearse separately and come together for performances. We are a tumultuous crowd of singers, open to anyone who just fancies a bit of music on the side.

The range is very eclectic and recent times have seen the choir performing at international music festivals, Folk East and Maverick festivals, the Landmark Trust 50th anniversary event at the Aldeburgh Martello Tower, various flash mobs, The Royal Albert Hall alongside thousands of singers to perform Mozart’s Requiem in Latin, concerts at Snape Concert Hall and churches and gigs indoors and outdoors all over Suffolk.

On Sunday, November 8 the chorus takes on it’s most ambitious project to date at Ipswich Corn Exchange. It will be performing Alexander L’Estrange’s Zimbé, a joyous fusion of traditional song and jazz with a children’s choir drawn from the local area and special guest musicians.

It will include gospel themes, playground songs, a lullaby, drinking, wedding and funeral songs.

With performances at 3.30pm and 5.30pm, tickets (adults £8 / children £4) are available from the Corn Exchange Box Office: 01473 433100 / www.ipswichregent.com Come and join us!

David Griffiths, 01394 549517

ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY At our next meeting and lecture on November 7, in the month of Remembrance, Dr Susan Owens will give a talk entitled In Spite of Bombs and Broken Windows: Queen Elizabeth and the Arts in Warfare. Dr Owens is a writer and freelance curator and was assistant curator of the print room at Windsor Castle from 2002-07.

October’s meeting featured Stephen Taylor, an artist in his own right, talking about his hero, Victorian painter Walter Richard Sickert. Stephen recounted Sickert’s colourful life and gave the audience some insight into his style of painting. A most enlightening talk.

This season will feature a broad range of illustrated talks to support all tastes, including lectures on the Duc du Berry, medieval Easter celebrations, the Queen Mother and her art interests, the world of Grayson Perry... and much more.

We welcome new members. Why not come along and enjoy some good company and an interesting talk? The wonderfully illustrated lectures last about an hour and are presented by national and international lecturers. We are a friendly group who meet on the first Wednesday of the month for nine lectures each year, and we also organise interesting day visits. Guests and non-members are welcome, provided we have available space. A £5 donation is asked.

For more information contact Jean Bradberry: 01473 710921 / odfasmemsec@btinternet.com For the latest events and news visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

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LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE CHRISTMAS GIFT? Following on from Suffolk Open Studios in June, where many of those who came asked to visit again nearer Christmas, I have decided to open my studio up again for two Sundays, November 22 and December 6, 10am-4pm each day. I will have originals, limited edition prints, gifts, cards and hand painted decorations available to buy.

Come and see where I work and what’s on the drawing board. There will be mulled wine and mince pies too!

So pop the dates in your diary and come to see me. I have a bit of space left for commissions too. So treat a loved one or even yourself to something unique this Christmas. If you can't make those dates but want to visit do ask. I'm here most days so welcome arranged visits.

My studio is at 48 Great Harlings, Shotley Gate IP9 1NY. Emma Graham www.egrahamillustrations.co.uk / @bluebutterfly48

WHEN DID YOU LAST GET A ROUND OF APPLAUSE? Once upon a time I had a computer that gave me an enthusiastic round of applause every time I turned it on. I often meant to change it but it was always uplifting and made my day start with a smile.

At Speak Easy meetings we clap when the meeting begins, when each new speaker is introduced and takes the floor, when the speaker finishes and when the meeting ends. If this sounds a bit over formal, it’s something you quickly get used to and even enjoy.

It’s satisfying for audience members to give something to someone who is playing their part in the meeting, who has prepared a speech, who makes an encouraging evaluation or who keeps the meeting to schedule. Or brings the doughnuts! Even if you don’t have a role to play, clapping those who do conveys your warmth and appreciation.

Speaking in public is not just about what you say and how you say it. It’s about knowing your audience, sticking to the time allocated, making sure people can hear and see you clearly and listening, really listening. Basic ground rules and techniques help you overcome fears about speaking, grow your confidence and improve your skills.

A round of applause for your efforts is sweet reward.

Why not come along to Speak Easy at Martlesham and get your own round of appreciation? We are a small friendly group of all ages and backgrounds. We meet from 7-9.30pm on alternate Thursday evenings at the Richards Room, Martlesham Community Hall, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham IP12 4PB. Our next meetings are on November 5 and 19 and December 3. Come free as our guest.

Find out more at www.speak-easy.org.uk, find us on Facebook or Twitter, or call Sonya Burrows: 07968 372563

In Touch online:

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THE PAPER DOLLS “Skilled, stylish and perceptive work for ages three to seven” The Stage When a little girl cuts out a string of paper dolls she takes them by the hand and together they go on a fantastical adventure whirling through their home and garden. Ticky, Tacky, Jackie the Backie, Jim with two noses and Jo with the bow fly through time and tear across worlds of fun and excitement. They face the Jurassic clutches of a toy dinosaur and the snapping jaws of the oven-glove crocodile, and then a very real boy with very real scissors threatens to snip their adventure short…

Adapted from the acclaimed book by Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson, this magical tale is brought to life through puppetry and music. This is a new co-production between Little Angel Theatre and Polka Theatre; reigniting an inspiring creative partnership between Peter Glanville and Lyndie Wright who last worked together to produce Macbeth and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.

Suitable for ages three to seven. Studio theatre seating is unreserved. All five rows offer excellent views in the heart of the action so you choose your seats on arrival.

To book call 01473 295900 or visit: www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

1 DEC 2015 - 2 JAN 2016 LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE PRESENTS...

THE PAPER DOLLS

For children aged 3-7 and their grown ups

New Wolsey Studio

01473 295900 wolseytheatre.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING DAY IN AID OF ST ELIZABETH HOSPICE AND SUFFOLK FAMILY CARERS Saturday, November 21, 10am-4pm, at Tithe Barn, Lower Street, Sproughton IP8 3AA Fabulous gift ideas from stalls including White Cottage Candles, Tamwood Turnery, Coppaskye Wildlife Photography, Phoenix Cards, Tanglefoot Glass Jewellery, Usborne Books, Croome Crafts (handmade seasonal decorations including wreaths), Suffolk Hampers and many more. Also preloved books, raffle and tombola, bacon/egg rolls and homemade cakes. Entry fee: 50p.

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO LEARN Have you heard about U3A (University of the Third Age)?

No it’s not about going back to school and having to do exams or win qualifications. It’s a chance for retired and semi retired people to try subjects and hobbies they may have had to miss due to other commitments. Now can be your chance.

WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

U3A has groups on many subjects including art, music, book-reading, geology, architecture, indoor and outdoor games like carpet bowls and petanque, as well as garden and church visits. With more than 130 interest groups there is bound to be a subject that will intrigue you. All this for only £12.50 per year.

Saturday, November 7, 10am-noon, at The Richards Room, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham IP12 4PB (behind Tesco).

Find out more by visiting one of our monthly meetings with speakers in Ipswich, Felixstowe, Saxmundham and Woodbridge. The campus coordinators at each venue will be happy to tell you more about the East Suffolk branch of U3A.

GRANT APPLICATIONS

The next Ipswich meeting is at 2pm on November 30 at Kesgrave Community Centre, Bell Lane, Kesgrave IP5 1JF. In a talk entitled The Railway to Ipswich and Beyond, Mervyn Russen will discuss the building of the Ipswich tunnel and the line from Ipswich to Bury St Edmunds.

Includes bric-a-brac, books, jigsaws, plants and lots more. Entrance free. Profits will go to The Roger David Burrows Music Fund.

Applications for a grant are welcome from individuals and groups.

Application forms should be submitted to the address below by January 1, 2016.

Grants will generally be of up to £150 towards the cost of instruments, music, equipment and musical activities.

For information on all dates, subjects and venues please visit www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk or contact the secretary on 01473 273395.

Further information about grants and application forms can be found at: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk

EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION

Alternatively call 01473 625196 or write to: The Roger David Burrows Music Fund, c/o The Burrows Family, 17 Squires Lane, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich IP5 3UG

If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust we invite you to get more out of your membership and join our association where a warm welcome awaits you.

We meet at Ropes Hall, Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave IP5 1JF and our next meeting is on Tuesday, November 17, starting at 7.15pm. The speaker will be John Field who will give a talk on the life and work of local cartoonist Giles. John will be showing us several of Giles’ cartoons, many set in and around Ipswich. Please note that this is a change to the talk mentioned in the previous edition.

There is no meeting in December, but a date for your diary is January 19 2016 when the ever-popular Mark Mitchels will be talking on the Duke of Wellington. More details to follow in the next two editions.

Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome. The entrance fee is £2 for each talk. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 per year (£12 per couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events.

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

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IPSWICH BRANCH, SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, November 19, at 7.30pm: You May Wish You Had Never Started This! with the well-known and popular speaker Ian Waller Keeping effective records on paper or on a computer is a sticking point for many researching their family trees. Even seasoned researchers don’t always have a good system. This talk examines how to keep good records and looks at ways of overcoming the challenges of research, how to turn the negatives into positives.

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 / SCHOOLS CHARITY CONCERT IN AID OF THE CHILD MIGRANT CRISIS APPEAL

ORWELL FLOWER CLUB On October 22 we welcomed Crystal Dyball from Norwich with a demonstration entitled Floral Passion which was enjoyed by all our members.

We are now looking forward to our meeting on Thursday, November 26 when we will have our Christmas demonstration by Adele Kent. The title of Adele’s demonstration is Christmas is Coming. I’m sure we will get new ideas for our own Christmas arrangements.

The Orwell Club meets on the fourth Thursday of the month (except August and December) at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU. Why not join us and enjoy the festive season? Our demonstration starts at 7.15pm. The doors are open by 6.45pm to allow you to browse at our sales table and buy raffle tickets for the arrangements created in the demonstration which are raffled at the close of the meeting.

For further details please contact Delcie Corbett: 01473 623371 / gil.corbett@btinternet.com

The Orwell Singers and the brass quartet Something Different present a charity concert in aid of the Child Migrant Crisis Appeal on Friday, November 6, at 7.30pm, at Museum Street Methodist Church, Ipswich IP1 2EF. Tickets are just £5 including refreshments. For further information contact: 01473 635955 / d.sharman@btinternet.com

CRAFTERS UNLIMITED We meet on the fourth Thursday of each month (except December) in Rushmere Village Hall, 7.30-10pm. For those who don’t know us, we are a craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a lighthearted atmosphere with refreshments.

Thursday, November 26: Snowman plus Christmas Celebration Thursday, January 28: Zentangle (Emma) Other projects are available.

New members are always welcome. For more details contact Jill (01473 713534) or Emma (01787 373850).

BROKE HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL OPEN EVENING – WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 We would like to invite all prospective parents and children who are due to start Nursery or Reception over the next two years to an Open Evening on Wednesday, November 4, 4-6.30pm.

The whole school will be open for you to view. Our prefects are eager to give you tours of the school and show you some of the exciting learning activities that take place. Other children will be entertaining you with music and the kitchen staff will be preparing some samples of school lunch fare. Staff from Heathlands Out-of-School Club will also be available to answer your questions about care provision before and after school.

Mrs Barr, the staff and governors look forward to meeting you.

If you require information regarding the application process, please contact the school on 01473 729544 or call in to the school on Chatsworth Drive, Ipswich IP4 5XD and the office staff will be pleased to help.

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BROKE HALL WI Friday, November 13

AGM followed by a Bring and Buy

Friday, December 11

The Statues of Ipswich by David and Karolyn Howlett

We meet at 7.30pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH. New and former members are welcome. For more information contact Sue (414746) or Chris (713546).

HEATHLANDS COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL & AFTER SCHOOL CLUB As we enter November we are exploring fireworks through beautiful glittery and sparkly pictures and other craft ideas.

The children (and adults) thoroughly enjoyed the visitor who came to dance with us and explore rhythm and movement.

Thank you to all the lovely grandparents who came to visit us during Grandparent’s Week, sharing skills and getting involved in arts/crafts and general play.

We will be supporting Children in Need, coming dressed in our PJs and making and selling cakes for this worthwhile cause.

Heathlands is a well-established, committee-run pre-school situated in the grounds of Broke Hall Community Primary School. We can offer funded places for eligible two-year-olds and for all other children the term after their third birthday. We can offer any mix of morning sessions, lunch-club or afternoon sessions dependent upon availability and run term time. Breakfast and afterschool clubs are also available.

For further details please visit: www.heathlandspreschool.co.uk We are always happy for prospective families to visit the setting and we have some places available in the autumn term (September 2015) and beyond. Please contact acting manager Hannah Randall or administrator Julie Bedford on 01473 417517 to discuss your needs or to arrange a visit.

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SHARMAN CARAVANS LTD Established in 1974, Sharman Caravans on Colchester Road in Ipswich has positioned itself as one of East Anglia’s premier caravan suppliers and are Suffolk’s only approved Lunar Caravans dealer.

Paul Sharman and Paul Aldred

Family owned for over 40 years, Sharman Caravans continues to grow from strength to strength. And the secret to that success? Paul Sharman, the owner, explains: “My father Barry founded the business back in 1974 with a vision of becoming the most well respected caravan supplier in Suffolk and we continue with that vision and passion today. We continually focus on our customer needs and yes, I know it sounds a little clichéd, but we pride ourselves on trying to exceed our customers’ expectations, to go that extra mile.”

This formula definitely seems to be working as in this tough economic climate business continues to grow. Paul continues: “The wonderful support we receive from our customers has helped us to offer growing local employment opportunities and we are very pleased to welcome our latest team member, Paul Aldred. Paul is a fully qualified caravan engineer who has recently joined us from Stowmarket Caravans and adds another dimension to our already highly experienced AWS Approved workshop team.”

Visit Sharman Caravans and you’ll always find a wide selection of new and used caravans as well as one of the largest caravanning and motorhome accessory stores in Suffolk. Whether you’re planning to buy a new caravan or looking for first class servicing and repairs, Sharman Caravans should be at the top of your list.

Skilled Workshop Team

SHARMAN CARAVANS Ltd www.sharmancaravans.co.uk

‘Proudly serving our customers for over 40 years’

Fully Stocked Accessory Store

Great Customer Service

New & Used Caravan Sales

‘Suffolk’s Premier Caravan Sales & Service Provider’

Visit us today for friendly advice and service...

01473 713284

Colchester Road - Ipswich - Suffolk IP4 4RU www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

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ADVERTISING FEATURE Helping you to create the perfect tribute The knowledgeable and friendly team at the East of England Co-op Funeral Services are here to help support you make the, what can be daunting, decision of choosing a lasting memorial for your loved one.

Trusted by local families since 1925 to provide excellent levels of service, care and reassurance, they can advise you on the best choice of stone, design and lettering to reflect your loved ones personality, whilst ensuring the memorial meets all relevant regulations for your loved ones final resting place.

Whether you want to create a simple lettered headstone or an individual bespoke design memorial to reflect your loved ones life and interests, their award winning stonemasons combine both time-honoured traditional stone masonry techniques and modern technology to craft a memorial that will commemorate the life of your loved one for centuries to come.

A choice of stone From traditional Yorkstone, Welsh Slate and Portland Stone, through to fine Italian Marble and highly polished granite, they can create your memorial from the very best quality stone of your choice.

A lasting tribute in stone for your loved one

Cremation Memorials Although smaller than traditional gravestones, their stonemasons take equal pride in creating cremation memorials with the same high standards of design, craftsmanship and care. If you would like to incorporate a longlasting photo of your loved one within their memorial, they are able to create porcelain plaques from any photograph you supply.

When you commission a memorial from the East of England Co-op, they will not only advise you on how to keep it looking its best for many years to come, but also offer a range of aftercare services including memorial renovation services.

Regardless of whether your memorial was created by the East of England Co-op’s stonemasons or not, they will use skilled and sensitive techniques to remove weathering, stains, lichen and any other organic matter, returning your memorial to its former glory.

Visit your local East of England Co-op Funeral Services branch, where you can look through a brochure with one of our knowledgeable and friendly team.

Trusted by local families since 1925 47 St Helens Street Ipswich 01473 257242 364 Foxhall Road Ipswich 01473 728445

If you would like a monument that offers more than the traditional headstone, then a kerb or ledger memorial is an elegant and popular choice. These memorials have a border of durable stone, which can be filled with a variety of materials such as marble chips, coloured glass or granite.

Ledger memorials are both beautiful and very low maintenance. A ledger stone covers the plot, making it impossible for weeds or long grass to grow.

ITNOV15 Terms and Conditions: Valid for the purchase of East of England Co-op memorial headstone cleaning and alteration services ordered before 31/12/15. Only one voucher can be redeemed per transaction and cannot be used retrospectively or in conjunction with any other discount or voucher. No cash alternative is available. This voucher is non-transferable. Qualifying spend is eligible for East of England Co-op dividend points on production of a valid membership card. The East of England Co-op reserves the right to reject any voucher it deems, in its sole discretion, to have been forged, defaced or otherwise tampered with. This offer for memorial headstones is also valid at H.L. Perfitt, Vinces Road, Diss.

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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.

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139 Main Road Kesgrave 01473 860030 283 Norwich Road Ipswich 01473 232837 183 Hamilton Road Felixstowe 01394 583010

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with this voucher In Touch online:

SCHOOLS / SPORT NOVEMBER AT BRIGHT STARS If you are a baby, toddler or preschooler who would like to brighten up your week why not come along to Bright Stars? We meet 10.30am on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term time at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL and welcome all pre-school age children to come along with their parents and/or carers.

and games. The half hour sessions are free and are followed by refreshments and a chance to chat and play until approximately noon. Why not come and visit us this autumn? You are welcome to just turn up on the day or feel free to give us a ring if you have any questions. We will look forward to welcoming you!

Each session is full of fun children’s activities and worship. We do crafts of all kinds and so far this term we have coloured our own multi-coloured coats for Joseph and created our own paper plate of favourite foods. At sessions we have also enjoyed singing, storytelling

For further information please contact one of the Bright Stars team: Jennie Fidler, 07584 420729 Sonya and Maureen Burrows, 01473 625196 Sue Lambert, 01473 624130

The remaining session dates for the autumn term are November 9 and 23 and December 14.

IPSWICH RAVENS VOLLEYBALL The indoor volleyball season has started and the first tournament in the Suffolk six-a-side series at Maidenhall Sports Centre was an absolute humdinger with eight top sides from across the county joined for the first time by a team from Norwich. The competition was very evenly matched and produced exciting games from start to end. Ipswich Ravens, having bid farewell to a number of regular members over the summer, fielded a side with a new look to it with two players making their debut for the club. We performed exceptionally well to hold our own in such a strong level of competition, with two wins out of five very close and hard fought matches.

RESULTS Stowmarket II 8-20 Ipswich Ravens Ipswich Ravens 19-20 Norwich Towers Ipswich Ravens 16-20 Stowmarket III Diss 25-22 Ipswich Ravens Ipswich I 24-25 Ipswich Ravens FINAL TABLE

Norwich Towers Diss Ipswich I Stowmarket III Ipswich Ravens Ipswich II Stowmarket II Bury Bobcats

Wins 5 4 4 3 2 2 0 0

Pts For 110 109 109 95 102 88 85 67

IPSWICH WANDERERS FC The first Ipswich Wanderers Partnership Day will be held on Saturday, November 7.

This will be an opportunity to discover the ways in which individuals or businesses can become a partner of their local non-league football club. Participants will be given lunch, information about sponsorship options and will also be able to enjoy pre-match hospitality before watching the home game against Norfolk rivals Norwich United. Norwich are currently champions of the Thurlow Nunn Eastern Counties League. If you are interested in joining us on our free Partnership Day please contact 07734 321259.

Forthcoming games at The Doucy Stadium include:

Pts Agst 83 76 95 97 97 97 110 110

Captain Chris Giles said: “With new faces mixing with the old in the team, this was always the start of the journey. We gave a very good account with our two victories against experienced teams. The three close defeats dampened our spirits somewhat, but at the same time created the hunger to train harder, create a bigger squad and have fun by winning volleyball matches!”

Ipswich Ravens hold club practise sessions every Saturday from 2-4pm at St Alban’s School, Rushmere. We are actively seeking new members and will welcome anyone, male or female, experienced or complete beginner, and any age from nine upwards. Qualified coaches run the sessions with a mixture of training drills and friendly games, making them very enjoyable while helping participants to improve their skills and fitness.

If you are interested in joining this growing sport, call/text 07508 351875 or visit: www.ipswichravens.org.uk

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• Saturday, October 31: Home v Hoddesdon Town or Takeley (KO 3pm) FA Vase • Saturday, November 7: Home v Norwich Utd (KO 3pm) / Sponsored by Lloyd Education • Saturday, November 28: Home v Fakenham Town (KO 3pm) For details of matches and all club news visit: www.pitchero.com/clubs/ipswichwanderers If Wanderers win their FA Vase tie, the next round will take place on Saturday, November 21. The draw for this will be made by the FA on Monday, November 2. The last round saw Wanderers defeat Clapton 2-0 in front of a larger than average crowd that included the London club’s vocal fans with their banners, flags and coloured smoke. Something a bit different for The Doucy!

But man-of-the-match Billy Holland scored our first goal and set up Ben Deacon for the second goal that sealed the win.

As I write this, Kevin Baker’s Under 18s have won all their league games. They play home games on Tuesday evenings on the main pitch with the usual club facilities open.

Admission prices for 1st Team games: adults £6 / concessions £3. Bar, hot food, programme, golden goal, club shop, free car parking… entrance in Humber Doucy Lane, Rushmere.

Keith Lloyd

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WE WON’T LEAVE FAMILIES OUT IN THE COLD

Call us for Free Advice if you need help with: • An emergency fuel payment* • Making your home warmer as well as more energy efficient (free home based energy surveys available in some cases)* • Help with getting your home properly insulated and draught proofed • Emergency boiler and heating repairs* • Loan of temporary heaters in an emergency* • Cheaper oil prices • Access to interest free loans* Call local rate telephone

08456 037 686

www.suffolk.gov.uk/warmhomes *Eligibility criteria applies. To find out if you are eligible telephone the above number.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE IMPROVING YOUR HEARING IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

By Karen Finch RHAD FSHAA FRSA, Audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre

Help to keep warm this winter Winter weather can create serious financial and physical challenges, especially for the elderly, disabled people and families with young children struggling to keep warm in their homes. Last year there were 400 excess winter deaths in Suffolk, believed to be connected with the cold weather.

But help is at hand.

Suffolk’s Warm Homes Healthy People scheme offers support to those most in need of additional help to either keep their homes warm or to be able afford their next home energy bills.

The scheme can help home owners or tenants who privately rent their home and are on a low income and or in receipt of a means tested benefit. The scheme also takes into account age, disability and cold related health conditions. If you’re struggling to keep warm or are worried about the cost of heating your home, you could get help with: • • •

• •

Emergency boiler and heating repair costs Winter fuel payments Free home energy survey with advice on insulation, fuel switching and cheaper oil prices Basic draught proofing Temporary loan of heaters

People with vulnerable relatives or neighbours are also urged to help them find out more about the support available.

Eligibility criteria apply. For more information, call the local rate Warm Homes Healthy People helpline on 03456 037 686.

Let’s all stay warmer and healthier this winter.

NEED LEAFLETS DISTRIBUTED IN YOUR LOCAL AREA?

There is nothing like the festive season with one social engagement after another. From the Christmas office party, drinks with friends and the buzz of the family gathering on the big day, December is a time for fun and social interaction.

But is it? For those experiencing hearing loss, this can be something of an annual nightmare, causing a variety of communication issues!

Imagine if you can, being unable to hear speech clearly because Christmas music is being played in the background, or not being able to hear the excitement of children opening presents because they are all talking at once and you cannot separate the sounds clearly. Imagine dreading Christmas dinner on a large table with 15 other people because you won’t be able to hear what is being said around you. These are issues a normal hearing person doesn’t normally even consider.

Over 119,000 people in Suffolk have a hearing loss but the number is far smaller for those who have sought professional help from their local audiologist.

Hearing aids can make such a difference to someone's quality of life at this time of year. Hearing aids are so much smaller and discreet than they ever used to be and packed full of amazing features that will help during the festive period.

You may have thought that with so much noise at a party or family dinner, hearing aids would just make things louder, but modern digital hearing aids aren’t simple sound amplifiers. They are designed to filter out all the unwanted noise – like the clanging of dishes in the kitchen or the background music – and help you focus on speech.

Features such as directional microphones work to reduce the amount of noise allowed to enter your hearing aids. In noisy environments, like at a Christmas party, the system will work to pick up the least amount of noise. If the noise is located behind you, your directional microphones will adapt to pick up sound from in front of you and dampen noise from behind you.

We can provide leaflet distribution with this magazine for only £50 per 1000 leaflets

If you or someone you know is struggling with hearing problems, don’t struggle through another festive season not being able to join in and have fun. I urge you to book a hearing test now and find out what could be done to help you in time for Christmas.

Call 01473 400380 for more details

Karen Finch is the managing director and lead audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre. The multi-award winning, family-run company has 20 centres across Suffolk and Norfolk. For more information visit www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk or call 01473 230330.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE Join the neon party and celebrate 10 years of the Midnight Walk Next year marks the 10th birthday of St Elizabeth Hospice’s biggest event of the year, the Midnight Walk. Men and women are urged to unite for one night to show their support for all those in Suffolk affected by hospice care.

2016’s Midnight Walk will have a neon theme to celebrate its 10th birthday and there will be a host of entertainment, including music and fun packed activities to get the party started on the night.

There will be two circular routes to choose from, a five mile or a new, special 10 mile, both starting and finishing at Ipswich Town Football Club – and if you sign up now you can save £5 with the early bird offer!

Catherine Sheppard, event organiser, said: “We are very excited to have launched our 10th Midnight Walk and we hope this year will be the biggest and best yet, with previous and new participants joining us for this fantastic fundraiser. We would love everyone who has ever taken part in the Midnight Walk to come along again and walk with us for this special year and to bring along all their friends, family, colleagues and neighbours.

“It really will be a party atmosphere and we’ve got lots of entertainment lined up to get the crowd warmed up before they set off on their five or 10 mile walks.”

The local charity launched its 10th Midnight Walk at Ipswich Town Football Club, where the event starts and finishes, with help from local people who have taken part over the years.

Danny Jones, Dawn Easter, Tracy New, Hannah Graves and Steve Banks (pictured above) have all walked the Midnight Walk previously for St Elizabeth Hospice and were all eager to get involved in the launch and support the hospice again in any way they could.

Dawn Easter is one of the hospice’s longest serving volunteers and has supported the charity for more than 26 years.

She said: “I’ve walked the Midnight Walk six or seven times. It’s always

good fun! I’ve often walked on my own in the past but I always spot someone I know and have a chat. I’m thinking of getting a team together for this year as it’s a special birthday year – the 10th Midnight Walk! The best thing about it is the sense of camaraderie. It’s a really good night out and everyone has a good time.”

Both routes will both poignantly pass the hospice in Foxhall Road, Ipswich, where all participants will have the opportunity to hang a personalised tag on the Tree of Remembrance.

All participants will receive an exclusive, neon Midnight Walk 2016 T-shirt, a special edition 10th birthday medal and a hot chocolate at the finish line.

Everyone is asked to raise as much sponsorship as they can. By raising £100 you can help provide five hours of nursing care and ensure a patient doesn’t have to face their illness alone.

You can save £5 and register for just £10 with the early bird offer before January 31, 2016.

Be part of Suffolk’s biggest celebration of life and sign up now at www. midnightwalkipswich.co.uk or call 01473 707043 or email midnightwalk@ stelizabethhospice.org.uk to request a paper form.

STARS LINED UP TO FEATURE AT THE SOON-TO-BE-OPEN SPA The newly-opened Spa Pavilion Theatre in Felixstowe is celebrating its reopening with a gala weekend of stars.

You can also follow the Spa Pavilion on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest news and show updates.

The gala launch weekend is on Saturday, November 14 and Sunday 15.

Saturday will see a performance by The Stars From The Commitments which is already fully booked. However, on Sunday 15 ever-popular Richard Digance returns to the theatre to perform on this special weekend. Ray Anderson, director for the Spa Pavilion, explained: "It's a great way to kick off our brand new season. We have a terrific line up already planned including The Rat Pack, Neil Sands Christmas Memories and a family pantomime plus a stunning Elvis show early in the New Year."

Tickets for this gala performance with Richard Digance on Sunday, November 15 are selling fast. To get yours pop along to the box office which is open Thursday-Saturday from 11am-4pm, call 01394 284962 or buy your tickets online at: www.felixstowespa.co.uk

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ON THE GRAPEVINE KEY BUSINESSES JOIN FORCES WITH TOWN COUNCIL TO HELP BUSINESSES OUT OF THE DIGITAL MARKETING MIRE Ipswich Borough Council is joining forces with Suffolk’s Green Shoots Learning and Business Mapper to offer people in business subsidised places to attend a new six part digital training and networking breakfast programme at IP-City.

The Connecting Online Marketing or .COM initiative is both a business networking breakfast as well as a six month programme of monthly bitesized digital marketing training sessions. Anyone running or marketing a business can attend if the business is not related to the digital marketing industry and they personally are not professional digital marketers.

Each month .COM events can host to up to 40 delegates in IP-City from 8-9.30am. The programme will include a light breakfast and refreshments, an opportunity to network and ‘how to’ training on a specific digital topic. There’s also a further opportunity for up to six people to join in a small group session to get 1-2-1 attention for their business.

Local sponsors Kingsfleet Wealth, Larking Gowen, Blocks Solicitors and WMA Video have stepped in to help subsidise the cost as well as Ipswich Borough Council’s Economic Development Team. They all see the need to support local businesses right now as superfast broadband is rolled out and businesses are under pressure to have a clear web presence which makes money. Their subsidies mean the breakfast training is being offered at only £20 + VAT a session (or six sessions for the price of five at £100 + VAT) and the 1-2-1 sessions are only £45 + VAT.

The topics being covered in the first six sessions are: October 29: 7 Steps to sell through your website Surgery: Website Surgery (one to one session) November 20: 7 Steps to effective LinkedIn networking Surgery: Business Networking Online January 28: 7 Steps to securing profitable customers online Surgery: Target Customers February 25: 7 Steps to selling through Facebook Surgery: Facebook March 31: 7 Steps to understanding SEO and Keywords Surgery: SEO & Keyword April 28: 7 Steps to build your brand through Twitter Surgery: Building your brand online All tickets must be purchased in advance by visiting either Eventbrite. co.uk and searching ‘Connecting Online Marketing’ or calling 0333 344 4031.

For more information visit: www.connectingonlinemarketing.com / @suffolkcom / Facebook

IN THE NIGHT SKY

By Neil Norman

Uranus

13, 1781 but he reported it as a comet! It soon became obvious that the object moved in a near circular orbit, and so it was realised this was a new planet.

planet revolves around the sun on its back. For 42 years the north pole is bathed in permanent light, then for the second 42 years its southern pole is bathed in total sunlight.

The composition of the planet consists of three layers: a rocky (silicate / iron-nickel) core at its centre, an icy mantle in the middle and an outer envelope of hydrogen and helium.

Hydrogen comprises 83% of the atmosphere and helium 15%.

November 22 sees a golden opportunity for us to see the seventh Planet from the sun, Uranus.

On this night the moon will act as the perfect signpost because (as can be seen in the graphic above) the planet Uranus is slightly above and to the right of an 87% illuminated moon high up in the southern sky at 8pm.

Though technically a naked eye object, a pair of binoculars will be needed to see the planet past the glare of the moon. To know you're seen the planet, remember that the planet won't twinkle like a star, it will appear as a small blueish point source of light.

Uranus was the first planet to be discovered by telescopic aid by Sir William Herschel on March

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The third most abundant element is methane ice which accounts for 2.3% of its composition and also accounts for the plane’ts aquamarine colour.

As can be seen here, Uranus is four times the size of Earth and has 63x our volume. Its distance also varies greatly from the sun with a range from 18.28 AU (2,735,118,100 KM) to 20.09 AU (3,006,224,700 KM) at aphelion (farthest point from the sun). The planet takes 84 years to orbit the sun once and the day length is 17 hours 14 minutes.

The unusual part of Uranus is that it is tilted on its axis at 98 degrees. This means that the poles are pointing towards the sun and the

Uranus has a total of 27 moons and even has very faint rings circulating around it, though these cannot be seen unless one has access to the Hubble Space Telescope!

So that's Uranus, a planet not seen by many apart from the dedicated astronomer but one you can now tick off your solar system checklist.

Until next month, clear skies.

Please feel free to ask me any questions by emailing: neilnorman03@gmail.com

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ON THE GRAPEVINE

QUESTIONS ON CASH

with Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb

MARRIAGE, MORTGAGES & MONEY: Pre-nuptial financial considerations If you are about to get married, there are a number of financial issues that you should consider. When the honeymoon is over, what are your financial planning priorities and where can you get the best advice?

Colin and Sharon are busy planning their forthcoming wedding. They will be buying a new home together soon, and they plan to start a family. Colin is an electrician and Sharon is a part time office assistant.

Colin had a flat before he met Sharon, and they plan to keep this and rent it out. They contacted me to discuss how their financial planning needs will change after they marry and move into their new house.

First on Colin and Sharon’s checklist was to get the best possible deal on a mortgage for their new home. Choosing the right mortgage can be a minefield. Don’t be tempted by attractive headline rates or discounts now that dramatically increase in later years. Look for a rate that you can afford to pay over the longer-term. For new home owners, a rate that is fixed or capped is a good idea, as this will give you some long term stability and the security of knowing what your mortgage will cost each month.

Also, don’t assume that you will get the best deal on a mortgage from your own bank or building society. Most banks and building societies only offer a limited range of their own mortgage products, so although you may have banked there for years, they may not necessarily offer you the best deal. Colin and Sharon have taken their mortgage advice from my colleague, Graham Spearman. Graham is an independent mortgage adviser, and he looked at every lender in the mortgage marketplace to make sure he found the best deal for Colin and Sharon.

It’s also important to protect the outstanding mortgage in case either Colin or Sharon were to die. Again, the insurance policy you are offered by your mortgage lender may seem convenient when it is all arranged ‘under the same roof’, but an independent adviser can almost certainly find you a better deal with lower premiums and better benefits.

It would also be a good idea for Colin and Sharon to consider adding Critical Illness cover to their mortgage protection policy. Critical Illness cover would pay out the policy sum assured in the event of Colin or Sharon suffering one of around 30 serious illnesses, such as cancer, stroke or heart attack. A lump sum payment that enabled them to pay off their mortgage would be very welcome at such a time, and would enable them to maintain their lifestyle.

As Colin works for a small local electrical business, he receives no longterm sick pay benefits. Statutory Sick Pay is not going to replace Colin’s wages if he suffers long term ill health or if he is injured as a result of an accident and is unable to work. As he is likely to be the main source of income into the household when he and Sharon start a family, he should consider taking out some form of income protection cover. This type of policy will replace a large proportion of his income if he cannot work due to long-term ill health or disability. Benefits would usually be paid monthly until Colin was well enough to return to work or until he retired if this was earlier.

I would also suggest that Colin and Sharon should re-consider their decision to rent out Colin’s flat. The rental market is not great at the moment, and there is no guarantee that they will find a long-term tenant. That could leave them paying two mortgages on one income. In the longer term, if they buy a new place, the flat would no longer be Colin’s main residence, so it would not qualify for ‘main residence relief’ from Capital Gains Tax. That could leave him facing a hefty tax bill on any future gain in value. If he sells now while it is still his main residence he will still make a profit of just over £20,000, which could either be used to reduce the mortgage they need for their new home, or could be invested now while the markets are low in order to build up capital for their longer-term future together or for children’s school fees.

If they keep the flat, I would suggest that they put it into Sharon’s name as she is a lower rate taxpayer and will actually become a non-taxpayer when she stops work to raise children. That means they will pay less income tax on the rental income ongoing. They should also keep their cash savings at the building society in Sharon’s name when she stops working because, as a non-taxpayer, she will be able to reclaim the tax deducted on those savings.

Finally, I have advised Colin and Sharon to make Wills. This is particularly important for them as home-owners and potential parents, as it will ensure that their assets will go to who they would wish on death.

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 call Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s opinions and views 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 and requirements. Plumb Financial Services is regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

CITIZENS ADVICE HIGHLIGHTS PROBLEMS WITH HMRC PHONE LINES Citizens Advice has said long phone queues to speak to HMRC means some people could face fines for late tax returns or receive over or underpayments for tax credits.

The warning comes as data from national Citizens Advice highlights how frustrated callers tweeted HMRC over 11,500 times in the last 12 months to complain about long phone line queues, the average being 47 minutes.

While official figures suggest an average wait of 10 minutes, the study from Citizens Advice shows many people are waiting longer.

Reasons for calling HMRC include explaining a change in circumstances that will impact on tax credits, for example losing their job or having a

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child, or to clarify income tax payments.

Carol Eagles of Mid Suffolk Citizens Advice said: “Time and time again we are seeing people who know they need to update HMRC on their tax or circumstances but are really struggling to get through on the phone. If a person can’t update HMRC about their tax credit circumstances they may not get all of the support available or instead are overpaid which can cause debts further down the line.

“Similarly a worker may not be able to file their self assessment return on time if they cannot get through on the phone to ask a question, and could face a fine for missing the deadline.

“With Citizens Advice staff and volunteers also facing similar queues it is important HMRC

urgently addresses the problems many people are experiencing with phone lines.”

HMRC phones lines are 0300 numbers meaning calls are charged at the same rate as a standard landline call and could be included in some phone package’s free minutes. However, if a person is waiting 47 minutes it could cost them £4.66.

The charity is also warning that the roll-out of Universal Credit and changes to tax credits could mean waiting times will further soar as more and more people try to speak to someone.

The local CAB is at 19 Tower Street, Ipswich IP1 3BE, 01473 219777. The bureau can also be contacted at: www.ipswichcab.org.uk

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ON THE GRAPEVINE

CHURCH NEWS

SUFFOLK’S FIVE-YEAR-OLDS OVERTAKE NATIONAL AVERAGE More five-year-olds in Suffolk are ‘school ready’ according to new figures published by the Department for Education. With an 8% increase in the percentage of Suffolk children achieving a ‘good level of development’ at the end of Reception, this puts the county above the national average at age five. Nationally 66.3% of pupils achieved this level, with Suffolk pupils 1.3% above this at 67.6%.

Suffolk County Councillor Lisa Chambers, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “This is a fantastic increase in the percentage of children achieving a good level of development at age five, and I am delighted that this puts Suffolk above the national average.

“Enabling every child to have the best start in life is one of the key aims of our Raising the Bar programme. This increase in the number of pupils being ‘school ready’ is a real boost, especially for the children who have achieved these great results as they continue their education.

“I would also like to celebrate the hard work and professionalism of the staff across the Early Years and childcare sector, including early years practitioners, teachers, support staff, head teachers, governors and parents who are dedicated to giving Suffolk children the best start in education and in life.”

The ‘good level of development’ measure is the assessment of children at the end of Reception class, or Early Years Foundation Stage Profile. Teachers assess whether children are achieving the expected levels in literacy and maths, as well as in physical development, communication and language, and personal, social and emotional development.

Early Years Foundation Stage Profile (EYFSP) results in Suffolk and England 2013-2015: 2013 Suffolk 49% England 52%

2014 59% 60%

2015 67.6% 66.3%

GIRLGUIDING SUFFOLK Want to join in the fun... Join us!

To challenge yourself as a young member or volunteer (14+), please contact us.

Suffolk: www.girlguidingsuffolk.org.uk HQ: www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested / 0800 169 5901

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I recently met with a friend that I hadn’t seen for a while. As we chatted and caught up with each other’s news, she related the following story.

It was early evening and close to bedtime for her seven-year-old and she had done something naughty for which she received a reprimand. The child got ‘huffy’ and was sent upstairs to bed. She was told to get ready for bed and say her prayers. Half-an-hour later Mummy was called, and the child said she was sorry and related the following: “I was saying my prayers and Jesus told me that I should tell you I was sorry. He said I didn’t have to do this, that I had a choice, it was up to me to choose.”

Happily she made the right choice. Many of us arrive at adulthood and have never learned that we too have a choice. To forgive or not to forgive. If we choose forgiveness we are no longer bound or trapped by the incident and will not become bitter and sour, which leads on to mental, emotional and eventually physical ill health.

If you find you can’t forgive ask God to help you and He will.

New Life Community Church meets at 10.30am every Sunday at Heath Primary School, Heath Lane, Kesgrave.

the

ARK

church

It’s November and winter is with us. Here at the Ark we are planning for Christmas (sorry if it’s too early to mention) and will be doing our bit for the Shoebox Appeal which helps needy children get at least one present. Last year we also sung carols in Tower Ramparts and collected food stuff for the charity FIND which helps local people and we will be doing the same this year.

Please help us if you would by donating in-date tins and packets.

You can drop them to the Ark at the times below. Don’t forget everything you give goes to help those who find themselves in times of need, and that could be any one of us at some point in our lives.

Join us on Sunday mornings at 11.30am (Café & Children’s Church at 10.30am), for Wednesday Bible Study at 7.30pm or Young People’s Night on alternate Fridays.

The Ark Church, Wolsey House, The Drift, Nacton Road IP3 9QR We can also be found online at www.arkipswich.co.uk, Facebook/@arkofthelord, Twitter/@arkipswich or email: arkipswichuk@gmail.com (our newsletter is available via free subscription)

In Touch online:

YOUR LOCAL SERVICES

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call John Burch: 07870 347486

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

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GROUNDS & GARDEN MAINTENANCE We offer the following services all year round: Grass cutting • Garden clearance Fences & Gates • Patios & Paths Hedge Cutting • Tree Cutting Sheds • Summer Houses Digger & Dumper work

For a free quotation please call Nigel Coton 01449 721025 or 07801 515505 To advertise in this section, which appears in 16 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

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