In Touch News with Needham – July 2016

In Touch with...

The best place to advertise your business services Delivered FREE to your door!

In Touch

™ ©© ™ ™©

with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market Volume 3 • Issue No. 9 • JULY 2016

Skiphire www.collins-skiphire.co.uk

For a fast, efficient & price friendly local service

01473 327596

orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk

Royal Garden Party at Creeting School (see page 14)

2

In Touch online:

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Sport is fiercely important in small town, rural Ireland. Every town and village has a team and every boy and girl plays hurling and/or Gaelic football at school, but it’s senior hurling which generates the real passion and rivalry, particularly at county level competing for the national title at Croke Park, the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). I still remember Galway winning the All-Ireland in 1980 and captain Joe Connolly’s acceptance speech is regarded as one of the best GAA moments ever.

In an unscripted speech, Connolly claimed that day was like a spiritual re-awakening for a population that had been severely impacted by a famine in the 1800s and followed by mass emigration in the 1900s.

He then passed the microphone to Galway player Joe McDonagh who solidified that day as being one of Galway’s best with a rendition of the song The West’s Awake. We celebrated for weeks, car horns blazing, flag waving… the sense of pride was palpable. It changed everything.

On Monday, May 30 my little family and I went to see AFC Wimbledon play Plymouth Argyle in the League Two play-off final at Wembley.

Daniel has supported Wimbledon FC since way back when and was one of many who objected to the Football Association’s decision to allow the team to be relocated to Milton Keynes in 2002, where they are now called Milton Keynes Dons. The fans formed AFC Wimbledon in 2003 and in its short history the club has been hugely successful. Having beaten Plymouth 2-0 they will play in League One with MK Dons next season.

Close on 60,000 attended the Wembley game but the sense of togetherness and passion at the Wimbledon end took me back to 1980.

Perhaps it’s the same at all games, but 30,000 fans singing “I can’t help falling in love with you” is right up there with McDonagh’s The West’s Awake and will stay with me for a long time.

Belonging to something, being part of a community whether it’s local, regional or national, whether it’s sport or fundraising for the church roof, is profoundly satisfying – and good for the soul. Join in. You won’t regret it.

In Touch

Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market

In Touch with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market is published by:

NEWS

OFFICIAL OPENING OF BLACKSMITHS FIELD PLAY AREA, CREETING ST MARY Sunday, July 17 from 1pm Just over two years ago a very committed group got together to raise funds to replace our old, out-dated and beyond repair play equipment.

Now, thanks to some very generous sponsors and several successful fundraising events, the replacement equipment has been purchased, installed and safety inspected so that the children can go ahead and enjoy themselves on the new climbing tower, the trim trail and the spider net.

We should like to thank all those who helped us get this far with donations from The Big Lottery Fund, Suffolk County Council (Councillor M Hicks), Mid Suffolk County Council (Councillor S Morley), Poundfield Products Ltd and Material Change Ltd, as well as some private donations from local residents. We should especially like to thank Breheny Contractors Ltd who very kindly installed the equipment and reinstated the existing slide, leaving a beautiful new playground for our use.

To celebrate our success we shall be holding an official opening family day on Sunday, July 17, cutting the ribbon at 1pm followed by a boys football tournament and other attractions. Refreshments will also be available – BBQ and bar, tea and cakes and Alder Tree Ice Creams.

Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP

So why not come along and join us?

Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

Ann Squirrell, Creeting St Mary Parish Clerk

01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: needham@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 Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 DISTRIBUTION Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 PRINTING Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk

01473 400379 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. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © 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 Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

We also publish

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

• Hadleigh • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Sproughton & Burstall • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Bramford, Offton & Somersham • Woodbridge & Melton • Gt. & Lt. Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton

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

The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help.

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

AUGUST DEADLINE 20 JULY 2016 is the final date for both advertising & editorial copy

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

3

NEWS SCC CONNECTING COMMUNITIES DEMAND RESPONSIVE TRANSPORT

MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS MIKE NORRIS & WENDY MARCHANT

Suffolk County Council is revising its Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) provision for residents making journeys where scheduled bus and local train services do not exist.

EAST ANGLIA DEVOLUTION: Norfolk, Suffolk, Peterborough & Cambridgeshire

Beginning on Monday, June 13 the present 17 rural Suffolk Links DRT areas will be replaced by a scheme based on the seven district council areas of Suffolk.

The organisation providing the service in Mid Suffolk is BSEVG and generally they will use nine seat vehicles. Where possible their aim will be to supplement fixed bus routes and local trains and thus some requests for non-disabled people transport will be based on a scheduled bus connection (e.g. a journey from Claydon to Creeting St Mary may be based on a pick up in Needham Market connecting out of and back into a service 88/89 bus journey). It’s not known how a request from, say, Barham to Coddenham would be treated where both places are on scheduled bus services although very indirect by a connection in Ipswich or Debenham. The decision will be made by the service co-ordinator.

Concessionary passes will not be valid for use on these services, but pass holders will be able to surrender their pass in exchange for an annual issue of vouchers worth £100.

Adult fares for single journeys (no return fares) start at £2 for journeys up to five miles, scaling up to £4 for a journey between 15 and 20 miles.

The service will be provided from 7am until 7pm Mondays to Saturdays.

Bookings can be made up to one week in advance by phoning 01449 614271 for Mid Suffolk residents.

At the presentation at Needham Market MSDC offices on June 8, County Councillor James Finch, SCC Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, assured the meeting that the new service would be closely monitored and adjustments would be made in the light of experience. He also emphasised that the service is available to all people regardless of age.

Barry Moore, Transport Representative, Claydon Parish Council

Mid Suffolk Chief Executive Charlie Adan gave a devolution briefing to all councillors in which she urged support for the proposals which included the items below. There will be a special full council on Wednesday, June 29.

• £30m a year for 30 years (£900m) to support economic growth and £175m over five years to support house building.

• £316m annually for the next five years for transport, and greater transport control by these local councils rather than the government.

• £50m a year for skills training to meet the needs of local business.

• Planning process to be improved for the benefit of businesses and residents.

• More control over local road investment and superfast broadband and mobile phone reception.

• Health and social services to be brought together to improve services.

• A wider approach to be taken to flood and coastal risk management.

There will be formal consultation during July and August before the Secretary of State makes a final decision in November, 2016. If agreed a mayor will be elected in May 2017.

Listening to a lively debate on BBC Radio Suffolk the following day it’s clear not everyone agrees with these proposals.

RUBBISH Mid Suffolk’s workers collect 1.5 tonnes of litter a week from the verges of the A12 and A14 costing taxpayers £150,000 a year.

DEPUTY CHIEF EXECUTIVE Lindsay Barker has been appointed as the new deputy chief executive. At the moment she is a Mid Suffolk Corporate Director.

Mike Norris: mike.norris@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720871 Wendy Marchant: wendy.marchant@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720965

SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY one of the club’s coaches approached us for sponsorship, we were very happy to help. The team played in their new kit for the first time in May. Earlier this year the club also received £60,000 from the SITA Trust to refurbish the club house and changing rooms. The trust distributes money donated by SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK, but is completely separate and has its own board which decides which projects to support.

Funding is available for projects within a three-mile radius of the Suffolk energy-from-waste site and applications can be made online. There are two further funding rounds this year and the deadlines are July 25 and October 3.

SUEZ and Suffolk County Council were jointly nominated as ‘client of the year’ in this year’s AJ100 awards organised by the Architects’ Journal.

The Under 11 team at Claydon Football Club is sporting a new kit this season thanks to sponsorship from SUEZ, the company which runs the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility.

Grimshaw, who designed our building, put us forward in recognition of our commitment to good architectural design – something which often missing in industrial buildings.

The club, which is based close to the site, has been extremely helpful in the past, providing extra parking when we have needed it, both for our official opening last July and for our routine shut-downs when we have lots of extra contractors on site, but nowhere for them to park. So when

USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060

4

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

5

NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM District Councillor for Stowupland and Creeting St Peter I was shocked that the inspector had approved the Gladman application and I know many other residents were too. Mid Suffolk members and officers were appalled at the decision and disappointed that so many new homes are to be built on such a prominent site in the village. I and others feel that SCC Highways let us down badly by seeking such a small financial contribution towards improvement works at the A1120/B1115 junction.

The flows and delays at the junction were seriously under-estimated, but SCC didn’t appear to make any challenge to their accuracy. l-r David Rossiter (PPG), mayor of Stowmarket Barry Humphreys, Diana Porter (Fresh Start New Beginnings), Stephen Boyce (PPG), Sue Rudland (PPG), Martin and Jayne Jones (AJ’s Legacy) and Pedro Perez (PPG)

PPG CHARITY NIGHT RAISES £1,206

PPG Stowmarket would like to thank everyone who helped raise a staggering £1,205.06 at a recent Elvis Night held at the Limes Hotel in Needham Market.

Special thanks to Stephen Boyce and Sue Rudland (who work in the PPG Colour Matching Laboratory) who helped to organise the evening as part of a team-building event and also to The Limes Hotel, who were wonderful hosts. We would also like to thank all of the individuals and local businesses who kindly donated many of the draw prizes. Last, but by no means least, our gratitude must go to the star of the night himself, Elvis – what a brilliant performance!

PPG Stowmarket is committed to supporting the community in which it operates and this was a great example of how staff, businesses and charities can work together to raise both a wareness and funds for local causes. This event supported AJ’s Legacy and Fresh Start New Beginnings.

AJ’s Legacy is a charity formed to help young people in Suffolk in memory of Aiden Jones. Their aim is to help young people in need in Stowmarket and the surrounding area. Since AJ’s Legacy was set up in 2011 they have been able to help a number of families as well as many local organisations.

For more information please visit: www.ajslegacy.co.uk Fresh Start New Beginnings works through Suffolk and Norfolk and was set up to provide a therapeutic service for children and young people up to 18 years who have reported being sexually abused and to offer support for their families.

The aim is to help children and young people make sense of the confusion they feel and to teach them coping strategies to deal with the difficulties they face. They highlight their strengths and potential so that they are able to move from victim to survivor. For more information please visit: www.fs-newbeginnings.org.uk

So we have to move on and hope that, once the land is sold, any potential house builder will have discussions with the parish council and district council to match the homes to be built more closely to housing need and to provide community benefits.

There is still no date for the MSDC planning committee most likely to be in mid to late July. You can check on the council website for the date of the meeting or give me a ring.

Lack of a five year supply of land for housing is still a problem, but possibly less so as a result of the Gladman decision and recent permissions at Cedars Park, Elmswell and elsewhere in the district. It will continue to be a problem for some time while land with permissions is held with no plans to actively pursue developing it.

District officers have commenced a consultation on Building a Sustainable Future. Events are being held around the district to seek residents’ views.

I have asked for one of these to be in Stowupland, especially in the light of one planning permission granted and two other applications pending.

This consultation is part of the community engagement which should help shape the new Joint Local Plan.

Senior management reorganisation is continuing. A deputy chief executive has been appointed (Lindsay Barker), but this is a new post that doesn’t appear in the current structure so changes will be needed.

The Green Party have another district councillor, Anne Killett, having won the Barking ward by election from the Conservatives following the resignation of David Card. Membership of committees and working groups will have to be re-allocated and it is hoped that, with six members now, there will be a Green Party councillor on every committee and working group.

Keith Welham 01449 673185 / keith.welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Regular networking opportunities for July

For those who can’t face people and a full English at the crack of dawn, join us for Coffee ‘n’ Cake Networking at Needham Market Community Centre on Friday, July 1, 10am-noon.

After a few weeks of cold north winds, summer has arrived, hopefully to stay. The containers have been planted up in red, white and blue in recognition of Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday. These will give a colourful display in the High Street.

In May, some Bloomers attended a small party for our treasurer Eric Cross who has now moved to Australia with his wife Anne. We wished them well and warned them to watch out for sharks and crocodiles.

Volunteers are always welcome to help keep the town looking good. If you are interested please contact Vera: 723424

6

Or come along to our July Networking Breakfast at Cedars Park Community Centre on Friday, July 15, 6.45am.

Of course, you’re welcome to come to both and you can book online at: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk Additional events Tuesday, September 20: joint Suffolk and Stowmarket Chamber event Friday, October 28: Quiz night at Hillside Community Centre Keep checking the website for further details on these events, or sign up for our enewsletter via: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

7

OUT & ABOUT UPDATE FROM THE BAND ROOM This year has already been a busy year for Stowmarket Chorale with two formal concerts already under our belt.

The first in April was a St George’s Day celebration concert with the Jubilee Ladies Choir.

Both the main and training bands played to a full audience with individual pieces as well as joint renditions and finished with a flag waving finale of Fantasia on British Sea Songs.

This was a great opportunity to showcase the two local groups to new audience members and also to experiment with some different pieces of music. Together we performed Hector the Hero, a lament featuring tin whistle, bagpipes and electric guitar as well as brass and voices.

Our next full concert was at The Regal to celebrate their 80th birthday.

The programme was a real celebration of some amazing film themes throughout the years, from the iconic Singin’ In The Rain to Let It Go from Frozen.

Also performing at this concert, and previously at their own engagement with the East Anglian Regional Handbell Ringers, was our trombone group Bones 4 You. With up to eight trombonists this group is sometimes more suitable for smaller spaces (although not too small – it can be a bit loud!).

We head into the more relaxed events of the year now with a programme of lighter, bandstand music as we perform throughout the summer in the local area – hopefully with good weather to bring out the audiences.

Our training band is working hard behind the scenes. Recently we have welcomed Jack on cornet and Sue on tenor horn, and Finlay earlier in the year on cornet. Congratulations to Oliver Hampton, Sam Forge and Sam Brett on their progress into the main band. The training band is open to both adults and children. If you are interested in joining, please contact us and we can advise on when are next taking beginners. For details visit: www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk

10% DISCOUNT ON ALL WEDDING STATIONERY ORDERS

PACK MORE INTO YOUR HOLIDAYS THIS SUMMER WITH SUFFOLK MUSEUMS Looking for last minute holiday ideas? Suffolk museums have got you and your family covered!

With the hint of summer in the air and the wedding season upon us, Polstead Press would like to offer all brides-to-be a 10% discount on all wedding stationery orders placed between now and September 2016. Terms and conditions apply.

At Polstead Press, we offer the full wedding stationery package, with the option to create your own bespoke design.

To take part in this offer, please quote ‘WEDDING’ when placing your order, or cut out our advert and bring it with you!

Throughout the school summer holidays (July 22 to August 31), museums across the county will offer a jam-packed line-up of exciting events, activities, workshops and trails for the whole family to enjoy together. From arts and crafts to archeological digs, science workshops to giant craft fairs, amazing collections and discovery trails galore there’s something for everyone to enjoy in museums this summer.

Highlights include the range of family fun days, from live music and train rides at Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum to amazing living history events at West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village or swing dancing and spitfires at the Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum.

Budding scientists can take part in hands-on experiments at The Long Shop Museum’s Workshop Wednesdays or release their inner archaeologist and unearth real finds at Dunwich Museum’s Dig Dunwich event.

Creative activities can be found at Ipswich Museum’s regular Art Skills workshops or the Museum of East Anglian Life’s popular Mud, Bugs and Baking sessions.

Or why not check out the all new Summer Discovery Club at West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village, the National Horseracing Museum and Gainsborough’s House? This three-day creative arts and crafts club for children aged seven-11 will explore each museum’s unique collections with a chance to complete an Arts Award Discover Level.

Most museums and activities are either low-cost or absolutely free.

Many sites offer free parking, locally sourced refreshments or a chance to unwind with a family picnic in the sun.

You can download your free Summer in Suffolk Museums event program at: www.suffolkmuseums.org Or, to keep up to date with all the latest information and family-friendly event news, like our Facebook page at: summerinsuffolkmuseums.com

8

In Touch online:

ol w. p w w

steadpre

ss.

co

.u

k

on all orders placed between May and August (*T&C’s apply)

YOUR

LOCAL esign &

D Graphic

Digital

Print

5a The Maltings Business Centre, Stowupland Road, Stowmarket IP14 5AG

01449 677500 Nutritious and delicious.

The clue is in the name.

Those clever chefs at Wiltshire Farm Foods know how to make really healthy food, really tasty. Take the Nutritious & Delicious range – each flavoursome meal is under 400 calories, contributes to your 5 a day, and is low in salt and fat.

All delivered free.

Exclusively Escorted by Travel Stop Celebrity Cruise 1st July 2017 Celebrity Equinox – 7 Night Western Mediterranean Barcelona - Cannes/Monte Carlo - Florence/Pisa - Rome - Amalfi Coast - Sicily - Athens

Call us now to book!

You will be whisked off to your European port of departure, direct from Stansted Airport’s Private Jet Terminal, aboard a VIP private charter flight.

Diced Beef Chilli £3. 65 from our Nutritious & Delicious range

* Complimentary parking at Stansted Airport’s Private Jet Terminal * Access to the modern luxury departure lounge * A choice of light refreshments * Premium economy flight

always remember. create a holiday you'll everything we can to smallest detail, we'll do the Call us today for your FREE brochure

01371 876 970 wiltshirefarmfoods.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

* Two-course breakfast and beverage service on your outbound flight, or a two-course lunch and drinks on your return journey * Return transfers to and from the port * Priority embarkation at departure port

Outside Cabin: Price from £1528.00 per person including a Classic Drinks Package and $25 on board spend

Balcony Cabin: Price from £1718.00 per person including a Classic Drinks Package and $100 on board spend

Concierge Cabin: Price from £1828.00 per person including a Classic Drinks Package and $100 on board spend

9

OUT & ABOUT THE REGAL IN JULY July is a very exciting month for films. We’ve been looking forward to The BFG for well over a year. Based on the much loved Roald Dahl classic, directed by Steven Spielberg and with an all-star British cast, it’s going to be massive!

ME BEFORE YOU Romantic drama starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin. A girl in a small town forms an unlikely bond with a recently-paralyzed man she’s taking care of.

We have three great live streamed events on screen this month with Romeo & Juliet starring Lily Collins and Derek Jacobi, Richard III starring Ralph Fiennes and Vanessa Redgrave and Andre Rieu’s Maastricht Concert. Your chance to experience world-class theatre, right here in Stowmarket.

INDEPENDENCE DAY: RESURGENCE Action thriller starring Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman and Liam Hemsworth.

Two decades after the first Independence Day invasion, Earth is faced with a new extra-Solar threat. But will mankind’s new space defences be enough?

WARCRAFT Fantasy adventure starring Ben Foster, Dominic Cooper and Paula Patton. The peaceful realm of Azeroth stands on the brink of war as its civilization faces a fearsome race of invaders: orc warriors fleeing their dying home to colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces destruction and the other faces extinction.

From opposing sides, two heroes are set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their family, their people and their home.

ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS: THE MOVIE Starring Joanna Lumley, Jennifer Saunders, Joan Collins and Rebel Wilson. The girls are back and Edina and Patsy are still oozing glitz and glamour, living the high life they are accustomed to, shopping, drinking and clubbing their way around London’s trendiest hot-spots.

Blamed for a major incident at an uber fashionable launch party, they become entangled in a media storm and are relentlessly pursued by the paparazzi. Fleeing penniless to the glamorous playground of the super-rich, the French Riviera, they hatch a plan to make their escape permanent and live the high life forever more.

THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS This family animation is voiced by Kevin Hart, Lake Bell, Albert Brooks and Steve Coogan. Max’s life as a favourite pet is turned upside down, when his owner brings home a sloppy mongrel named Duke. They have to put their quarrels behind when they find out that an adorable white bunny named Snowball is building an army of abandoned pets determined to take revenge on all happy-owned pets and their owners.

THE NICE GUYS Comedy starring Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling. A mismatched pair of private eyes investigate the apparent suicide of a fading porn star in 1970s Los Angeles.

As we walked through the bluebell woods, I thought he’d like this

ELVIS & NIXON Drama starring Kevin Spacey, Michael Shannon and Colin Hanks. The untold true story behind the meeting between Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n Roll, and President Richard Nixon, resulting in this revealing, yet humorous moment immortalized in the most requested photograph in the National Archives.

THE BFG

Family adventure starring Mark Rylance, Bill Hader and Rebecca Hall.

A girl named Sophie encounters the Big Friendly Giant who, despite his intimidating appearance, turns out to be a kind hearted soul who is considered an outcast by the other giants because, unlike them, he refuses to eat children.

When arranging a funeral, we know it’s the details that make the difference.

Here for you every hour of every day call our 24 hour careline on

0800 0744362 It’s the little things that count 10

visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals for your nearest funeral director

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT NEEDHAM MARKET LIBRARY

MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE

Come and join in with the Big Friendly Read featuring some of Roald Dahl’s best loved characters.

Much Ado About Nothing by Bury Theatre Workshop Friday, July 1 at 7pm / Saturday, July 2 at 2pm and 7pm

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate and medal for every child who reads all six and it’s absolutely free.

The soldiers return to enjoy the comforts of home. Witty and determined bachelor Benedick encounters his old flame, the feisty Beatrice, who is equally determined never to marry. Will the love that everyone but themselves can see they have for each other ever be requited?

This year’s challenge runs from July 16 until September 3.

BTW’s fifth annual Shakespeare in the Park production breathes new life into the traditional style with a Globe Theatre set, Elizabethan costume, lively and engaging acting, music and dance.

For more information please visit www.suffolklibraries.co.uk or call us on: 01449 720780

PRODUCE STALL AND COFFEE MORNING The Parish Church of St John The Baptist Saturday, July 2, outside the church from 9am onwards.

Selling homemade cakes, pies and preserves along with plants and books. All proceeds to church funds.

We will be serving refreshments in the church from 9.30-11.30am with proceeds going to the Roof Restoration Fund.

So whether you are coming to buy your produce or just visiting the High Street, why not pop along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a piece – or two – of cake.

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS SODS MUST-SEE MUSICAL COMEDY

Tickets (adults £10, children 12-18 £5, Under 12s free) are available from www.eastanglianlife.org.uk or from Mid Suffolk Tourist Information 20th Festival of Beer & Brewing / Thursday, July 14 to Sunday 17 Join us as we celebrate this special anniversary with more than 80 local ales and ciders. Set within the museum’s stunning 13th century barn, the fun and friendly atmosphere attracts visitors from all over East Anglia every year, celebrating the areas rich heritage of brewing. The CAMRA supported bar features a selection of the best locally brewed beers, ranging in styles to suit the tastes of everyone who visits. If you’re not a fan of beer, there’s cider and wine as well as soft drinks provided by on site café, The Osier.

The Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings are accompanied by live music. WE celebrate our birthday on Sunday with an afternoon of family fun, activities and games, and maybe even a slice of cake!

Admission to the festival is £2.50 or included in standard museum admission during the day. Museum and CAMRA members free with a valid membership card.

Tickets for Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society’s must-see musical comedy, Little Shop Of Horrors, are now on sale.

One of the longest running off-Broadway shows of all time, this affectionate spoof of 1950s sci-fi movies has become a household name.

If you’ve seen it before, you’ll already love it.

If not, come and experience this feel-good mix of fun, flamboyance and foliage!

There will be six performances at Stowmarket’s John Peel Centre from Tuesday, September 6 to Saturday 10 at 7.30pm with a matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm.

Seymour Krelborn works in a Skid Row flower shop where he spends his time dreaming of fellow shop assistant Audrey. One day he discovers a strange and exotic plant, which he names Audrey II. While caring for the plant he discovers that it possesses a craving for fresh blood! The plant grows and grows until things begin to get out of hand! Will Audrey II take over the world or will Seymour finally defeat it?

Charming, tuneful and hilarious, with book and lyrics by Howard Ashman and music by Alan Menken, Little Shop Of Horrors never fails to entertain.

Tickets (£13) are available from the John Peel Centre, 01449 774678 and: www.johnpeelcentre.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

East Anglian Living History Fayre / Saturday, August 13 & Sunday 14 Suffolk’s Museum of the Year in 2015 has teamed up with local historical event specialists Black Knight Historical to deliver what promises to be the best all round historical event of the summer with the East Anglian Living History Fayre.

Ian Pycroft, owner of Black Knight, said: “This amazing event really will bring history alive! Visitors will be able to step back in time to meet ancestors all over the museum. The Women’s Land Army will be working the farm, as they did during the Second World War. Ladies from the Women’s Institute will be knitting for the war effort, and the Home Guard will protect us all from German invasion!

“All across the site, historical characters will delight and amaze you with their skills and knowledge. From Roman Legionaries to an audience with Queen Elizabeth I, William Shakespeare through to Viking warriors, falconry, music and dance, gunpowder weapons demonstrations, lectures from top local authors and speakers, and much more!”

This special new event promises to be an unforgettable experience.

For information and enquiries contact: enquiries@eastanglianlife.org.uk / 01449 612229

11

WOOLSAFE APPROVED TECHNICIANS CARE FOR YOUR CARPETS SAFELY We are delighted to announce that three of our experienced technicians have qualified to Woolsafe standards for the safest, no risk cleaning and care for your carpets. In fact we now have more qualified Woolsafe fibre care technicians than any other company in the country.

Have you ever questioned whether your carpets, rugs or soft furnishings should be cleaned? Many do and are normally persuaded it’s not worth it. But the answer is yes! They should be cleaned, but having the correct type of cleaning is the key factor to ensure the right results are achieved.

A carpet cleaner is a carpet cleaner, right? No, wrong. We all believe that if something looks cleaner then it is cleaner, but when we look into it a bit deeper, we find some interesting answers.

The most popular fibre used in carpets in the UK is wool. Wool is extremely good at hiding soil and responds extreme well to cleaning.

However it is also extremely delicate.

Ninety-five per cent of carpet cleaners in the UK are trained using American systems, but the carpets are mainly man-made synthetics.

When they clean a wool fibre in the UK, it looks good until a few weeks later it starts to attract dirt quickly, feels course and gritty, spills become stains and the appearance is poor. Our Woolsafe approved technicians are trained and qualified to clean wool to the highest British standards, ensuring that the delicate fibres are not damaged in any way.

With the correct tailored cleaning processes, we can ensure that the fibres are maintained and cleaned to extend the life and keep the luxurious appearance that wool deserves.

If you have any questions regarding care for your home or business contact us for free advice and a no-obligation quote.

East anglian

living history fayre

Saturday 13th - 14th August 2016

Historic Crafts - Demonstrations - Arena Events Falconry - Weapon Demonstrations For discounted advance tickets visit 12

www.eastanglianlife.org.uk In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT THE BROADSIDE BOYS AT HELMINGHAM HALL GARDENS

STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB

Sunday, July 17

Stowmarket Bridge Club was founded some 46 years ago and is affiliated to the English Bridge Union.

Enjoy an afternoon exploring the gardens followed by live music in beautiful surroundings.

The Broadside Boys are fast establishing a name on the national folk scene, with performances at folk clubs and festivals across the country, and appearances on television and radio. With a catalogue of songs inspired by their experience of country life in the East of England, and the characters and events that have shaped them, The Broadside Boys are a dynamic and entertaining celebration of our rural heritage. They have said: “Our stories are very much derived from our small corner of England yet they resonate with people the country over.”

Bring a chair, blanket, enjoy a picnic or take advantage of our house BBQ and bar. Delight in a relaxing evening in the enchanting gardens. Gardens open from noon, BBQ and bar from 3pm, music starts at 5.30pm. Adults £7, children £3.50.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.helmingham.com or at the gate on the day. www.helmingham.com

Duplicate contract bridge is played on Wednesday evenings from 7pm and Friday afternoons from 2pm at Saint Mary’s Church Hall at the junction of Windermere Road and Dale Avenue in Stowmarket.

Several years ago the club received support from Mid Suffolk District Council to help it to move to this site and more recently an automatic scoring system has been purchased which enables results to be viewed immediately at the end of play. The club enters a number of simultaneous duplicate pairs competitions in the UK and abroad and members have achieved some notable successes in recent years. The club also runs its own scratch and handicap competitions over the year.

New members and visitors are welcome, but a reasonable level of competence is needed and regrettably the club cannot at the moment cater for those wishing to learn the game from scratch.

Bridge offers the chance for people to improve their mental ability and to maintain an active mind well into senior years (one Stowmarket member is in his nineties), as well as an opportunity to meet new people in a sociable atmosphere.

If you would like further information or a partner arranging please contact Arthur Winchester: 01449 612105 www.bridgewebs.stowmarket.co.uk

PMR – GCA SUPPORT GROUP EAST ANGLIA The next meeting of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica – Giant Cell Arteritis Support Group will be held on Thursday, July 7 at Needham Market Community Centre.

The meeting begins at 10.30am with refreshments and time for sufferers to speak together. This will be followed by a speaker from the Yellow Card Scheme which is vital in helping the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) monitor the safety of all healthcare products in the UK to ensure they are acceptably safe for patients and users.

It is hoped that café meet-ups which will be held on a regular basis and spread around East Anglia will be announced very soon, making it easier with less travelling for people to meet on an informal basis. The support group is very valuable to those who suffer from this disease who often feel isolated and forgotten. www.pmrgca.co.uk/group-pages/east-anglia

HULLABALOO ANTICS! Saturday, July 9, 1-5pm Earl Stonham Recreation Ground IP14 5HJ (on the A1120) Free entry to our family fun day with classic cars, steam and traction models, children’s activities, wellie-throwing, live band and drama spectacular, dog agility demo and have-a-go.

There will also be plant stalls, lots to eat and drink, fab draw prizes and loads of fun. See you there!

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

13

SCHOOLS NEWS FROM CREETING SCHOOL

Our Year 5 pupils organised a wonderful afternoon Royal Garden Party to celebrate the 90th birthday of Her Majesty the Queen. There were sandwiches, scones and cup-cakes to eat and lots of games to play such as Pin the Jewel on the Crown and Simon Says. We all dressed in red, white and blue for the occasion and everyone, including parents, had a great time.

We now have a Quiet Garden in our school grounds. Our Mucky Monday group have been working hard to create this space near our new willow tunnel. There are some logs and a bench to sit on and scented and climbing plants to screen off the garden so we can sit and reflect or listen to a quiet story.

Soon an adventure playground will be installed thanks to fundraising by our PSA and a grant from Suffolk County Council. Our lovely new playing field has tracks painted ready for Sports Day, so we are thrilled with the way our outdoor space is developing.

The art exhibition at St Edmundsbury Cathedral is impressive. Our hanging creation depicting the Creation of the World looks wonderful.

Our prints inspired by patterned fabrics worn by royalty in the past are on display in the Edmund Gallery. It’s great to join with other schools in the county to show what amazing art work is being created by our young people.

The rest of term promises to be very busy with more sports competitions, our school Eucharist Service and, of course, Sports Day. I am making the most of every day as I will be retiring at the end of term after 12 very happy years as headteacher of Creeting St Mary Church of England Primary School. It is a very special place and I know it will continue to be so as I hand on the baton to my successor, Mrs Christine Friar.

Happy holidays everyone!

Lyn Spall

14

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

15

SPORT SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY Following on from the blackbelt exams grandmaster Roy Kilner, president of the British Taekwondo Association, ran a seminar for the junior and senior members of the academy.

Seven members of the academy recently achieved their blackbelts in universal karate.

All seven were put through a gruelling four hour physical grading that covered the entire karate syllabus. They also had to complete an 180 question exam paper as well as attend multiple assessments prior to the actual blackbelt test.

The grading panel consisted of Grandmaster Roy Kilner – 8th dan, Grandmaster Mark JR Trent – 8th dan, Senior Master Andy Lewis – 5th dan, Coach Dave Fell – 3rd dan and instructors Mel Walmsley – 1st dan, Max Walmsley – 1st dan and Luke Ellis – 1st dan.

The new junior 1st dan blackbelts are Maisie Allen, Kiera Holder, TJ Phair, Alex Utteridge and Sam Johnson. Senior Peter Izzard upgraded to 3rd dan blackbelt in wado ryu karate and Senior Hannah Povah graded to her 4th dan master level blackbelt and also became the first female in the Scorpion Academy to become a recognised master.

16

Martin Shaddick’s first cage fight Scorpion MMA fighter Martin Shaddick recently competed in the contenders 15 cage fight show at Norfolk Showground. The academy has had several fighters compete over the years and this was a great opportunity for Martin to take part and gain valuable experience.

He was up against a very experienced Norwegian fighter who proved too much for Martin’s first ever cage fight.

However, his performance was excellent and he demonstrated true warrior spirit throughout and is keen to fight again. A big thank you to head coach Steve Gill and to instructor and head cornerman Mike Oglesby.

Laser hunt training The junior section had another one of their laser hunt training sessions.

More than 30 juniors took part, learning different skills as well as plenty of games. A big thank you to Paul Hunt for the use of his laser guns and his expertise.

The academy has many more events coming up including the Stowmarket Striders Golden Mile charity run, a demonstration at Combs Fete, a half triathlon, interclub sparring tournaments, seminars and fundraising events.

All new members get one month free. www.scorpionacademy.co.uk / www.ufkka.org.uk

In Touch online:

SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE STOWMARKERS NETBALL CLUB

CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE

I can’t believe that we are already in July and it will soon be the end of the school year. Many of our club players will then enjoy the long summer holidays, but Stowmarkers as a club continues to play netball throughout the summer. This gives the players the opportunity to work on their skills in preparation for the new league season.

As the 2016 group arrival is imminent we would like to say a very big thank you to all of our supporters who have helped make this year’s visit possible.

The club is hoping to enter a team into the South Suffolk league which begins in September. This is an excellent way for the players to gain more match experience and have lots of fun.

The club will require an umpire for the season so if you are a beginner umpire and would like to be paid then please do get in contact with us via: www.stowmarkers-netball-club.co.uk Our netball sessions are as follows: Juniors aged 12-14: Wednesday evenings at Needham Market Community Centre (outside courts), 7-8pm Juniors aged 6-12: Saturday mornings at Stowupland High Sports Hall (indoors), 9-10am If you would like further information contact us via our website as above.

Many people have dropped donations into our charity shop but haven’t left their contact details so I haven’t been able to thank them personally.

If you prefer to remain anonymous then of course we respect this, but I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge how grateful we are for your contributions.

Without all the clothing, shoes, toys and medicines donated by the local community we would find ourselves in the position of so many other Links that have had to cut the number of children in the group due to insufficient funding.

We do try to give as much support as possible to the children, their families at home and also the host families who take the children into their homes for the whole month. Yes, the main purpose of the children’s visit is for health recuperation, but how brilliant is it that we can also give them memories to take home that will last a lifetime!

It is very, very unlikely that any of the children who come in the group will ever leave Belarus again, let alone come back to England. Occasionally a child is fortunate enough to receive an invitation for a private visit, but with the increasing cost of air fares and visas the number of these invitations falls each year.

The day after the children arrive we hold a clothing party for them, a very important event as having arrived with only the clothes they are wearing the children will be able to choose clothing for themselves and any siblings at home. The children don’t mind that the clothing is secondhand. It’s amazing to see the look on their faces when they see all the clothes on display and know that they can choose whatever they want.

BURY ST EDMUNDS & STOWMARKET CATS PROTECTION This month we are looking for a home for Princess who has been with us for a long time due to dental problems which are now resolved.

She is a pretty black and white ‘tuxedo’ cat who has a lovely glossy coat and is approximately two-and-a-half years old.

She is a friendly and lively cat who loves to play. We think Princess would be best suited as an only pet and either with an adult family or a family with children over 10 years old. She is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped If you would like to know more about Princess or any of the cats in our care please contact Marina on 01449674584. More information can found at www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds and on our Facebook page.

If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need financial help towards the cost please contact Margaret on 01284 851055. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Our recent sale in Wattisfield raised more than £600 and our next big event is our Autumn Fayre in Woolpit Village Hall on September 10, 2-4pm. Refreshments will be available so please do come along and support us. You will be made very welcome.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

As this is an ongoing program we are always happy to continue to receive donations of clothing for the children throughout the year. Any age is appreciated as we not only provide clzothing to the children when they visit, but also to their brothers and sisters at home, plus other children who, for various reasons, are unable to be included in the program.

We currently support families in Belarus with children age from birth to 17 years of age.

We are always grateful for your support and hope it may continue long into the future.

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker, 01449 760343 / 07771 550868

ADVERTISE HERE FOR

£35

*

A MONTH PLEASE CALL 01473 400380 *Terms & Conditions apply

17

CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP I often go away on holiday in July, and had tentatively planned to do so again this year. However, I have a new little companion in the form of Martha, a Cairn terrier puppy. She is (mostly) delightful, but not old enough to undertake a fortnight’s walking and sightseeing, yet still too young to go to kennels – so I’ll be having a ‘staycation’.

Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am, including crèche and Sunday Club

It must be nearly 20 years since I last had a puppy and I had forgotten just how much hard work they are! It’s not dissimilar to having a toddler, what with ‘potty training’, trying to ensure the house is ‘safe’ and trying to establish behaviour boundaries! But she’s lovely and means I have every excuse to go out for walks – we like Needham Lake!

Tiddlers: Monday 9.30-11am (term time) For mums and toddlers, 12 months to four years.

Contact Hannah: 07969 482360

Having responsibility for a dog, and indeed for a child, is simultaneously wonderful and daunting. Building up a relationship of trust and love takes time, with ups and downs.

When Martha disobeys me it’s frustrating, but I know that I must still love and care for her, encouraging her to make the right ‘decision’ next time – even though this is likely to be based on bribery with food! But when she gets it right we are both happy – I smile and she wags her tail.

At Christchurch recently we have been looking at a book called Meditations in the Garden which has focussed on the first book of the Bible and in particular the story of Creation. In the part of the story about Adam and Eve there’s an episode when they disobey instructions from God and things go wrong. It causes a rift in the relationship they have with God. So, as Martha and I build our relationship on trust, affection and dog biscuits, I’m reminded that God wants us to rebuild our relationships with him – relationships established on faith, trust and love, but no dog biscuits!

Do say hello to us if you see us around the lake.

The Rev Mary Playford Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev John Boardman (Methodist): 01787 372738

HOME WORSHIP We had a very pleasant morning on June 6 with the worship lead by Linda Hills, an elder from Christchurch who likened the Christian life to a journey. Linda told us of a walk around an Italian lake, where some people pointed them in the right direction, but others didn’t. In some places the signs were clear, but other parts there were no signs at all. And can’t life be like that sometimes?

She brought some taped music to accompany our singing, which was a luxury, as we usually sing unaccompanied.

After the worship we had our annual shared lunch, which was very pleasant, and then a raffle, with the proceeds shared between the churches represented.

Next month Linda Naveiras will be telling us about the Open Air Mission.

Home Worship always meets at 10am on the first Monday morning of the month at 137 High Street, Needham Market. All welcome. This is an outreach group.

Wendy Marchant

Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS

Scrabble Club: Monday 2-4pm New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Women’s Fellowship: Second Wednesday 2.30-3.30pm Contact Linda Hills: 01449 721258 Christians Together Ecumenical Group: Thursday, 10am Contact Ann Devereux: 01449 721575 Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon Always with a selection of cakes for sale.

OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Monday, 7-9pm Children’s Musical Theatre: Tuesday, 4-6pm.

Contact Faye: 01449 722354 Karate: Wednesday; juniors 6.30-7.30pm / adults 7.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday, 6.30-7.30pm (term time) Self Defence: Thursday, 8-10pm Hall lettings: 07851 742847 Church contact: Ann Devereux, 01449 721575 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk

NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH SPECIAL DATES IN JULY Tuesday, July 12: Missionary Meeting Visit of David Quinn representing AsiaLink, 7.30pm Tuesday, July 26: Missionary Meeting Visit of Simon Percy representing Pastor Training International, 7.30pm / postponed from last month REGULAR MEETINGS Sunday Services: 10.30am & 6.30pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting: Tuesdays at 7.30pm All very welcome For further information, if you require transport, or you would like a home visit, please contact Peter: 01394 271645 / 07570 558072 / peterkinley60@gmail.com www.needhamchurch.org.uk

18

In Touch online:

March Accounting & Taxation Services Ian Coombes FCCA MBA

• FREE initial consultation to discuss any tax, accounting and general business issues • Payroll, Auto Enrolment,VAT, Self Assessment, and full accounting service • Personable and professional tailored support • Fees agreed in advance • Out of office hours service available Individuals, self employed and limited companies

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

Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning

MID-SUFFOLK FENCING

SPECIALISTS IN QUALITY TIMBER FENCING

SUPPLY • ERECT • REPAIR

Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation

call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441

TIMBER & STEEL GATES DECKING PATIOS WOODEN BRIDGES FREE ESTIMATES 31 Alexander Drive, Needham Market IP6 8XG

www.midsuffolkfencing.co.uk

YOU GROW IT I’LL MOW IT

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 17 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

19