In Touch with Needham Market - November 2015

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Volume 3 • Issue No. 1 • NOVEMBER 2015

Harvest

190mm x 63mm Magazine Banner Ad_Layout 1 12/10/2015 10:11 Page 1

OPEN DAYS 2015

By David Stoddart www.arthakker.photography

Monday 30th November from 1.30pm - 3.00pm • Thursday 3rd December from 9.30am - 11.30am Tour our School or Pre-school; see our classrooms in action; meet our staff and management team; talk to the most important people – our children!

Please call us to book your visit on 01449 711346

Church of England Primary School and Pre-School for children aged 2-11

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In Touch online:

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: “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 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.

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.

Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market

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

Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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 and Distribution: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JP Advertising: Cameron Kerr Email: cameron@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 Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . town” series of magazines.

We also publish

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

• Stowmarket • Capel St. Mary • Sproughton & Burstall • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Bramford, Somersham & Offton • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Kesgrave & Rushmere St. Andrew • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • 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

NEWS YOUR LOCAL RAINBOWS NEED YOU We are currently looking for some special people to help Rainbows (aged five to seven years) at a local Rainbow Unit to learn more about their world.

Adults (18+) and young people (14+) alike can help our young members continue to experience their guiding journey. Being a guiding volunteer can help enhance your CV and count towards the service element of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

No previous experience of guiding is necessary, training is provided, and references and a DBS check are required for all those over 18.

If you can commit to one to two hours a week, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact: Needham Market District Commissioner Claire Donaldson: cldonaldson1980@outlook.com Suffolk Outreach Worker Jo Dixon: jo.d@btinternet.com www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE Call 01473 353350

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

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

So call us today, we are here to help.

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

DECEMBER DEADLINE 20 NOVEMBER 2015 is the final date for both advertising & editorial copy

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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NEWS HELP OLDER PEOPLE IN SUFFOLK STAY WARM AND HEALTHY THIS WINTER

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.

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.

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 2014-2015, helping over 300 vulnerable older households in the county.

This truly is an extraordinarily worthwhile campaign, so please…

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.

• To donate by card please call: 01473 602602

The money raised by the Surviving Winter campaign will be used in two ways: • 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.

• To donate online visit: www.justgiving. com/suffolksurvivingwinter

• 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

• 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.

2015 SHOEBOX APPEAL A message from the volunteers at Woodview Nurseries, Bentley IP9 2DG

SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY SUEZ, the new name for SITA UK, the company which runs the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility, has been listed in the Archant Green 100.

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.

The list, which is compiled by the publishers of the East Anglian Daily Times and the Eastern Daily Press, celebrates the efforts being made by 100 Suffolk and Norfolk businesses that are actively leading the way in sustainable and environmental business practice.

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.

All the companies on the list will feature in a green supplement in both papers, and have been invited to a green conference at the Orbis Energy Centre in Lowestoft.

Contents could include: • 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 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

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

The site is also in line for another national award. It has been shortlisted in the British Construction Industry Awards in the major civil engineering project of the year category.

In the meantime, the site’s first major shut-down to allow all of the equipment to be thoroughly inspected, maintained and cleaned, takes place from October 25 until November 17. Around 50 extra contractors are expected on site during the shut down, but there is not expected to be any impact on local residents. Work on the two lines will be staggered, so there will only be a few days when the site is shut-down completely, and waste will continue to arrive throughout.

The site’s community liaison group, which includes parish council representatives and local residents, is looking for new members. The group meets quarterly and provides an opportunity for local people to hear about developments on the site and to ask any questions. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, December 15. If you are interested in joining the group please contact Manda Henry: 01473 8368321 / manda.henry@sita.co.uk Useful contact numbers Site offices: 01473 839149 Site control room: 01473 836828 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SITA Trust: 01454 262910

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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NEWS CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE

IPSWICH WINTER NIGHT SHELTER

Having been to Belarus last month I have returned with details of the six children who will be travelling to the UK on December 4. This is the first time this Link has brought a winter group and everyone is really looking forward to it, especially as the visit will continue through the Christmas period with the children returning on December 30.

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.

This visit will be more low key than our usual summer group visit as there will be less time for organised activities with the Christmas period taking up almost two weeks of the children’s stay. Not only will this visit be especially beneficial to the children as they will be able to leave the bitter cold of Belarus for the month, but also, for the first time, we are inviting older children. One child is almost 11 and the others range from 12 to 15.

As the children selected are usually between the ages eight to 10 these children usually miss out on the chance to join a group trip. Also, as they have been learning English since the age of nine communication with their host families should prove easier, although of course we will have an interpreter on hand as always. All of the children have been selected by the local education authorities based on their circumstances and all come from families who cannot afford to send them abroad for health recuperation. As we have never had a group here during the winter it will be interesting to see what they make of our cold weather when they are used to temperatures plunging to as low as minus 30!

As usual, we will be providing clothing and other essential items for the children so if you, or anyone you know, has any clothing you could donate for this age range we would be extremely grateful. Shoe sizes for the children range from three to seven. All the children are tall and very slim so leggings and trousers with elasticated waists are especially welcome.

It doesn’t all have to be winter clothing as it would be nice for them to be able to take home some things for the following spring/summer months.

Donations can be dropped into our charity shop in Needham Market or alternatively I am always happy to arrange collection if you give me a call.

The charity shop continues to welcome your donations. We have a great selection of fancy dress items and we find we are holding an excellent range of evening and special occasion wear so with the festive season looming do come and browse our stock. We look forward to meeting you and thank you all for your continued support.

Best wishes to all, Link Chair Elizabeth Parker, 01449 760343 www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NOVEMBER MONTHLY NETWORKING MEETINGS • Coffee & Cake Where? Needham Market Community Centre, 23 School Street, Needham Market IP6 8BB When? Friday, November 6, 10am-noon • Breakfast Networking Where? Cedars Park Community Centre When? Friday, November 20, 6.45am start DECEMBER CHRISTMAS LUNCH Where? Stowmarket Golf Club When? Friday, December 11, starting at noon To book visit: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk

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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.

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 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 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.

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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“Skilled, stylish and perceptive work for ages three to seven”

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

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 Photo: Ellie Kurttz 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…

THE PAPER DOLLS

For children aged 3-7 and their grown ups

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.

New Wolsey Studio

01473 295900 wolseytheatre.co.uk

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

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In Touch online: Paper Dolls Creative_150930.indd 1

01/10/2015 01:55

NEWS PAT’S POP UP ART GALLERY Pat’s Pop-up Art Gallery started for one week at 119 High Street in July 2014 as part of Needham Market Summer Fayre when the new owner, philanthropist Steve Greenwood of Seeko Roofing, agreed we could use the building rent free while he formulated his future plans. As his plans have yet to be finalised we are still there and will be through to at least this coming Christmas. Miraculously we have been assessed as business rate free for two years, thus can survive, as commercially we most definitely would not.

I and 25 other locals are featured, and we have a good range of work on show to suit most tastes, most pockets, from 6”x 4” to 6’x 4’, original works covering all subjects in oil, acrylic, watercolour, pastel, mixed media and linocuts. We have ceramics, prints, photographs and cards.

Framed and unframed work. Framing and mounting can be organised via Dan Newton of Old Newton.

We are currently open 10am-4.30pm on Wednesdays plus alternate Fridays and Saturdays and ad hoc. Watch out for ‘Open’ signs, or by appointment with Pat on 07974 424374. We will be open all day for the Needham Market Christmas Fayre on December 6 and then every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday to the week before Christmas when we will be open every day including Sunday.

Footfall and business was pretty good July 2014 through to last Christmas but has been abysmal since then, not helped by the closure of Barclays Bank. We can only accept cash payments or cheques, but we do have two free cash machines in town – one outside the Co-op opposite the gallery and one in the Post Office. Hopefully the run up to Christmas this year will be good and we look forward to welcoming back those who have already found us and welcoming those that are about to find us.

Featured artists Geoffrey Barker, artist Matt Baldwin, furniture and product designer Matthew Bellay, artist Pat Bellay, artist Anthony Burn, photographer and graphic designer Richard Bower, artist Rachel Chesman, photographer Brian Cooke, artist Lucy Dawson, artist Chloe Fairfull, photographer R James Findlay, portrait painter Oonagh Gleeson, artist Stephanie Gosling, artist Katie Hansworth, artist Rachel Honeywell, artist Mike Howlett, photographer Lancasters by Chris Jones Sue Howlett, artist Chris Jones, photographic artist Helen Maxfield, artist printmaker Sue Newing, artist Emma Jayne Robertson, ceramic and applied artist Daisy Robinson, mixed media artist Kathy Scott, 2D and 3D mixed media artist Christine Tanner, textile artefact maker John Wiggins, artist Pat Bellay: pat@patbellay.co.uk / 07974 424374

REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM

District Councillor for Stowupland and Creeting St Peter Last month I explained that Mid Suffolk District Council has agreed a Members Award Scheme.

I have since received my first request for funding and I hope that there will be others.

If you know of any club or group which might appreciate a small amount of money please let them know about the scheme. They can contact me direct.

StowHealth for new patients; I plan to follow this up. I have contacted SCC with regard to the traffic predictions and the applicant has further work to do because some of the assumptions made by their transport consultant appear to be unreasonable, not least their failure to take account of extra school trips resulting from school reorganisation.

It’s no surprise that much of my time in the last fortnight has involved the second Gladman application, this time for 175 homes in open countryside to the north east of the Stowupland settlement boundary. To date, I have read around 100 letters and emails of comments, all but one is clearly an objection to the scheme but, because of the wording, some have been classified as neutral. It is worth checking on the website to make sure that, if you have written, your comments have been listed correctly.

There is still time to write; perhaps you have thought of a new comment you wish to add to what you have already sent in. I am surprised that the NHS have said that there is capacity at

MSDC have approved applications for one and two bedroom flats in Stowmarket – 25 on the former Jokers nightclub site (all for affordable rent) and 14 flats (all private) near the station in place of the building used partly by Central Tyre Services. This is good news for the area but there are other brownfield sites which need to be redeveloped to provide residential properties.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

There is a danger that devolution of powers from central government is fast becoming a farce. Suffolk published some information about a devolution bid to allow powers to be devolved to the county council and district and borough councils. Before this could be debated

by district councils, the East Anglian informed us of a joint bid for devolution of powers to a combined authority formed of Suffolk and Norfolk County Councils and the boroughs and districts in both counties. Further information is awaited, but it all seems a rush and a muddle.

For instance Colin Noble, the leader of SCC leader, is saying that there will be 70,000 new houses in Suffolk by 2031 with no information on where they will be built.

Provision of solar panels on MSDC owned homes is progressing quickly – a real push to get as many installed before the end of the year. The government financial incentive will be reduced from January 1 and it may no longer be cost effective to have solar panels installed.

We are still waiting for the outcome of the examination hearing in respect of the Community Infrastructure Levy charging schedule.

Keith Welham 01449 673185 / keithwelham48@aol.com

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NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS: MIKE NORRIS & WENDY MARCHANT Planning Mike reports that the planning application for one and two bedroom affordable flats on the site of Jokers in Stowmarket was approved against officers recommendation for refusal because of design not being in keeping and noise nuisance. Stowmarket Town Council very much supported these greatly needed affordable flats.

Community Steering Board Wendy attended this meeting on October 10. They are dealing with five projects: Leisure; Financial Inclusion – continuing to look at how Mid Suffolk can cope with Universal Credit when Housing Benefit goes to the tenant rather than the landlord. In areas where Universal Credit has been piloted, rent arrears have gone up fourfold; Community Safety; Health & Wellbeing (which links with Leisure); and Grants.

Needham Market & Barking Charities AGM Mike and Wendy went along to support this meeting at Barking Village Hall on October 8 and to listen to the reports of the organisation in Needham Market and Barking which it supports, and all the good work which it does. The guest speaker was from Wattisham Camp.

Needham Market Society AGM The AGM on Wednesday, October 14 was well supported. The society put in useful comments on planning applications in Needham Market which are submitted to Mid Suffolk District Council. There were only three on the committee, but a fourth person put their name forward at the meeting. The talk on Capital Punishment in the 18th and 19th Centuries which followed the AGM was well received.

Mid Suffolk Community Achievement Awards This year there are four categories for the Mid Suffolk Community Achievement Awards.

Category 1: RISING STAR This nomination would recognise a young person or group of young people (under 18 years) who have made an outstanding contribution to their local school or community – for example: • Undertaking voluntary work/involvement with local voluntary organisations • Supporting/mentoring others • Care and dedication shown to another individual • Fundraising for local projects

Category 2: COMMUNITY HERO This nomination would recognise a person who has provided selfless service to a voluntary body or made a significant contribution to their community, making a real difference to the people and place they have supported – for example: • Dedication to helping/supporting members of the local community • Working for the benefit of the local community by contributing to the improvement of its local facilities • Fundraising for local projects • Voluntary work/involvement with local voluntary organisation • Work in relation to improving the environment Category 3: ACTION IN THE COMMUNITY This nomination would recognise the work of groups of people (two or more) in the district whose actions affect the wider community either by improving the environment or by providing help to those in need – for example: • Working together on a project(s) to support and benefit the local community • Fundraising activities • Work in relation to improving the environment Category 4: OUTSTANDING LOCAL BUSINESS This nomination would recognise a business located within Babergh or Mid Suffolk (with the exception of our sponsors) which has made a significant contribution to either the social or environmental wellbeing of the district and its residents – for example: • Any business that benefits the community/district by contributing to the improvement of facilities and services, and works towards reducing the barriers between the business sector, the voluntary sector and the local community.

Nomination forms can be obtained from Mike and Wendy (contact details below). Please send completed nomination forms to: Mid Suffolk Communities Team, 131 High Street, Needham Market IP6 8DL by noon on December 31, 2015. Please market the envelope CAA Nomination.

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

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OUT & ABOUT NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY Needham Market Society’s meeting on Wednesday, November 11 will feature a talk presented by Mike Medhurst on The Quaker Movement in Suffolk.

The meeting will take place in Needham Market Community Centre, starting at 7.30pm, and admission is £2, but free for members.

NEEDHAM MARKET LIBRARY The library will be taking part in Needham Market Christmas Fayre on Sunday, December 6, 10am-4pm.

We will be holding craft activities for adults and children, including making and decorating your own Christmas tree by book folding.

For more details please contact 01449 720780. It will be lots of fun and we hope to see you there.

ROBIN HOOD & THE BABES IN THE WOOD Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society’s fun filled pantomime, Robin Hood & The Babes In The Wood, is on target to be a hit with all the family at The Regal Theatre from Wednesday, December 16 to Sunday 20.

CHRISTCHURCH CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Come and enjoy festive refreshments among the trees at Christchurch Christmas Tree Festival, December 3-7.

More details on posters or contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk

AUCTION OF PROMISES Want something to look forward to on a chilly November evening? Then why not book up for a fun evening on Saturday, November 21 when there will be an Auction of Promises at The Limes Hotel (now under new ownership), High Street, Needham Market, starting at 7pm? A three course meal and coffee will be served from 7.30pm, a raffle will take place at 8.45pm, and a retired auctioneer will commence the Auction of Promises at 9pm.

Local businesses and individuals have donated some fantastic prizes for us to auction or raffle, all in aid of the Roof Repair Fund for the Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Needham Market – lovingly known as Needham Market’s Medieval Masterpiece. Lots include a pair of tickets to a match at Ipswich Town Football Club in December, a family day pass to the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary at Stonham Aspall and a voucher for afternoon tea for two at Hintlesham Hall in Suffolk. A full list is available by contacting me: ann.levett@btinternet.com / 01449 721502 Entrance to this event is by ticket only, sold in advance, and tickets are now on sale by contacting me on the above details, or from Paul’s Hardware Store, High Street, Needham Market. The cost is £18 per person.

For those who are unaware of the problems the church faces, the leaking roof has resulted in wet rot and an infestation of death watch beetle.

The PCC wish to ensure the repairs are carried out as soon as possible to ensure the community are able to continue access to this wonderful 15th century building. However the estimated cost of the roof repairs is £250,000 – hence this, amongst other, fundraising events (also see page 13).

So, if you want to shake off the winter blues why not come along and do something different, and have fun with friends and family while raising funds for a wonderful cause?

Robin and his Merry Band, Maid Marion (Lauren Bunce), Robin Hood (Rachel with help from Dame Warner) and The Babes (Alice Place and Stanley Pepper Piper, her son Warner), by Sorrell Rose Tom Tom and Gobsprite, the Panto Fairy, set out to rescue the Babes who have been kidnapped by their evil Aunt Ursula and the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham. There’s plenty of music, mayhem, fun and frolics along the way and a happy ending is guaranteed!

There are evening performances, from Wednesday, December 16 to Friday 18 at 7.30pm and matinees on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 with performances at noon and 5pm on both days. Tickets (£13.50 / concessions £11.50) are selling fast, especially for the matinee performances. You can book at The Regal Theatre box office, 01449 612825, or online at: www.regalstowmarket.co.uk For parties of more than 10 people, talk to the box office about the group booking discount. For the last three years S.O.D.S’ pantomimes have sold out for every performance, so book your tickets early to avoid disappointment!

If you are interested in joining S.O.D.S. and taking part in future productions, either on stage or behind the scenes, please email stowmarketods@gmail.com or visit: www.stowmarketoperatic.org.uk

A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS Join the Jubilee Ladies Choir with conductor Simon Welham and accompanist Rebecca Welham for an evening of seasonal music on Friday, November 25 at 7.30pm at Hitcham Village Hall.

Proceeds will go to EACH and choir funds. There will be refreshments, a bar and raffle.

Ann Levett, PCC Member

Tickets are £7.50 and available from 01449 740720/740439 or at the door.

The Limes Hotel is offering a special B&B rate of £75 per room for the night of November 21 should anyone attending the auction wish to stay over.

Follow the choir on Facebook and listen to excerpts from our last event.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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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

NOVEMBER AT THE REGAL Exciting times at the Regal as we join the exciting world of ‘live streaming’, allowing us to show some of the best plays, music and arts from around the world.

We started last month with the hugely popular War of the Worlds live from The O2 Arena, and in November we have an encore performance of André Rieu’s 2015 Maastricht concert and The Winter’s Tale, starring Judi Dench and Kenneth Branagh, live from the Garrick Theatre.

Spectre, the new James Bond film, will ensure we’ll have a very busy couple of weeks. A cryptic message from 007’s past sends him on a trail to uncover a sinister organisation. While M battles political forces to keep the secret service alive, Bond peels back the layers of deceit to reveal the terrible truth behind SPECTRE. Just in time for the school holidays and Halloween is Hotel Transylvania 2. Dracula and his friends try to bring out the monster in his half human, half vampire grandson in order to keep Mavis from leaving the hotel.

New from Director Ridley Scott and starring Matt Damon is The Martian. During a manned mission to Mars, astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meagre supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive.

Based on the best selling book by Bill Bryson, A Walk in the Woods is the story of an author who returns to America after spending two decades in England where he decides the best way to connect with his homeland is to hike the Appalachian Trail with one of his oldest friends.

Perfect for kids of all ages is family adventure Pan. Twelve-year-old orphan Peter is spirited away to the magical world of Neverland where he finds both fun and dangers, and ultimately discovers his destiny – to become the hero who will be forever known as Peter Pan. The Walk is based on a spectacular true story. In 1974, high-wire artist Philippe Petit recruits a team of people to help him realise his dream: to walk the immense void between the World Trade Centre towers.

Retelling of the Shakespeare classic, starring Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard, Macbeth, a Thane of Scotland, receives a prophecy from a trio of witches that one day he will become King of Scotland. Consumed by ambition and spurred to action by his wife, Macbeth murders his king and takes the throne for himself.

Some amazing films in November, but still to come in December we have The Lady in the Van, The Hunger Games: Mocking Jay Part 2, The Good Dinosaur and a little film called Star Wars!

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OUT & ABOUT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING DAY IN AID OF ST ELIZABETH HOSPICE AND SUFFOLK FAMILY CARERS

LOCAL ARTISTS TO EXHIBIT AT THE MAXWELL CHARNLEY ROOM Local artists Greta Hansen and Mary Brewster are exhibiting work at the Maxwell Charnley Room at Haughley Post Office from November 1-30.

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 pre-loved books, raffle and tombola, bacon/egg rolls and homemade cakes. Entry fee: 50p.

Greta be exhibiting woodcuts using the ‘waste’ method whereby a colour is cut away after printing, as pictured in this woodcut of Clamp Farm, Stowmarket. Greta works on MDF off cuts which she recycles from her framer and which would otherwise be thrown away. The local environment is her inspiration and the images are based on sketches made on location.

COFFEE MORNING AT ST JOHN THE BAPTIST, NEEDHAM MARKET As our coffee mornings have proved to be popular during the summer months we have decided to run them on the first Saturday of the month during the winter season Tea, coffee and cake will be available in church on Saturday, November 7 from 9am.

All proceeds to the roof restoration fund.

So if you are out doing your shopping why not pop along and enjoy a chat plus a cup of tea or coffee and a piece (or two) of cake?

See Auction of Promises on page 11

Summer Grazing Mary has lived and worked in the area for many years. In this exhibition she is showing a small varied example of her recent work in pen and wash, charcoal and oil. Mary welcomes visitors to her studio. If you are interested in visiting contact her on: 01449 673769

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Saturday, November 28 from 2pm at Needham Market Community Centre.

Cakes, cosmetics, raffle, gifts, games of chance and hopefully a visit from Father Christmas.

Refreshments will include hot mince pies.

Come along and join in the fun – all welcome.

All proceeds to church funds.

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A jumble sale will be held at Stowupland Village Hall on Saturday, November 14 at 2pm. In addition to jumble there will also be the following stalls: cakes, draw, bric-a-brac and tombola.

Admission is 20p and teas will be served. Proceeds to Stowupland Chapel Building Fund. Please come and support us.

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB The new season got off to a good start on September 14 with a lot of old members and quite a few new potential members turning up. After greeting the new potential members and explaining roughly what the club is about, several members – new and old – showed prints that they had taken over the summer for critique by the members. A huge pat on the back for the new people who showed their prints, not knowing what us ‘oldies’ were like! An enjoyable night was had by one and all.

On September 26 we went on our first photo shoot of the season to Woodbridge. The weather was very good all day and I’m sure some of the

photographs taken on the day will be seen in some of our competitions.

The ‘cracked lens’ competition was a great success and took place on September 28. Sixty-seven images were entered with the results as follows: First: Moraine Lake, Canadian Rockies by Glenda Taylor Second: Vienna Reflections by Roy Fidler Third: Grasshopper by Geoff Chapman New members are always very welcome at the club. All you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras.

Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Mondays of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30 start. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us?

For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

ORCHARD BARN ACHIEVEMENTS Autumn is traditionally a time for looking back over the year just gone and remembering our achievements. The past few months at Orchard Barn have been particularly busy, both on and off site.

Over winter we completed a seat/display board at West Stow Anglo Saxon Village as part of the Heritage Lottery funded Brecks Building Skills day schools. We had a stall at the Grand Designs Live Exhibition in London. We exhibited both at the Latitude Festival and Folk East and introduced youngsters to mud sculpting. A stall was manned at Combs Fete where one of our benches was raffled. The Heritage Open Afternoon was attended by more than 40 visitors on a gloriously sunny day.

CHELSWORTH CHRISTMAS FAIR Kick-start your Christmas shopping at the Chelsworth Christmas Fair on December 4, 3-8pm, held in the beautiful 13th century All Saints’ Church. More than 30 stalls will be selling gifts and produce, and there will be a raffle and tombola. All proceeds go to the church.

Entry is £3, children free. Free parking. One free mulled wine with every entrance ticket.

All Saints’ Church, The Street, Chelsworth IP7 7HU www.chelsworth.co.uk Sponsors: Jonathan Lambert Fine Jewellers, Sudbury

MID SUFFOLK VIDEO CAMERA CLUB

Come and help us celebrate our eight birthday at Offton Village Hall on Saturday, November 7.

Members returned in September after an enjoyable day spent filming the latest club film in August. The film was situated at the attractive church at Winston, which provided the back drop to a ghost film. We thank the villagers of Winston who put up with our filming. Alan Ames played the driver and Iona Stratton kindly played the heroine. The sun shone and we all had a pleasant meal at The Doberman, Framsden.

There’s always something going on at Orchard Barn so why don’t you pay us a visit? Come along any Wednesday, we are SW of Mill Road, Battisford, visit www.orchardbarn.org.uk or call: 01473 658193

At our September meeting we watched the film and discussed the editing. It was decided that

The repairs to the rest area at the back of the barn have progressed with the basic timber frame in place, the roof up with wattle and daub insulation and a mixture of glass and conventional pantiles.

Site maintenance has been a priority over the summer months with pond clearance, ditch digging plus stingers, brambles and grass to control. This has provided lots of greenery for our compost bins, so much so that we’ve had to build more.

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members of the club would have a go at editing and we would come up with six different versions.

Then we would decide which we thought was the most suitable.

We are looking for new members and would welcome anyone interested in joining this friendly, progressive club. We meet at 7.30pm on the first Tuesday of the month (excluding January, July and August) at Hill Side, Stowmarket IP14 2BD. For more information. contact the membership secretary, Ann Evans: 01728 861566

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CHELSWORTH CHRISTMAS FAIR Friday 4 December 3pm to 8pm Gifts, Produce and Confectionery Raffle for wonderful Christmas Hampers Tombola and Lucky Dip Christmas Cards, Wreaths and Decorations Jewellery, Knitwear, Candles Bulbs for Christmas and Spring Choirs and Carols Mulled Wine, Hot Toddy and Spiced Apple Juice,

one FREE with every entrance ticket

All Saints’ Church, Chelsworth £3 Entry (Children Free) Parking Free SPONSORS Jonathan Lambert Fine Jewellers 2 Borehamgate, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2EG Tel: 01787 881181 www.jonathanlambert.co.uk

STOWMARKET’S LOCAL PRINTER

Polstead Press

Design & Print 01449 677500 sales@polsteadpress.co.uk www.polsteadpress.co.uk

STOWMARKET’S LOCAL PRINTER

5A THE MALTINGS, STOWUPLAND ROAD, STOWMARKET, IP14 5AG

Polstead Design & Print Press 01449 & 6 7Print 7500 Design

01449 677500 sales@polsteadpress.co.uk www.polsteadpress.co.uk

Discounts available to those with Stowmartian bags!

The Maltings, Stowupland Road, IP14 5AG 5A THE5A MALTINGS, STOWUPLAND ROAD, STOWMARKET, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 5AG

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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SCHOOLS CREETING COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL

STAY AND PLAY AT WOODLAND PRE-PREP

We welcomed five new children for the new autumn term and we are now settling into our second term of being open.

We have enjoyed eating tasty tomatoes grown in our garden.

We would like to say a big thank you to Material Change and Roots & Shoots for donating compost for our outside area and to also thank Oakhill Nursery for donating some beautiful bedding plants to brighten up our garden. The children have certainly enjoyed being busy gardening!

Thanks to some grant funding we were able to order two new large children’s tables which means all the children can sit at one table for snack and lunch, and to do their craft activities. The church very kindly donated some money to the pre-school which we will be using for some much needed equipment. A big thank you to them too.

The theme for this half term is feelings and colours. We will be making biscuits, celebrating Harvest Festival by tasting different foods at snack time and decorating pumpkins.

We are very sad to say goodbye to our chair, Clare Seaman, who stood down at the AGM on October 19. The committee wish to thank Clare for all her hard work and dedication getting the preschool off the ground. She will be greatly missed.

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Stay and Play sessions for 0-3 year olds take place at The Woodland Pre-Prep at Ipswich High School on Mondays, November 2, 9, 16 and 23.

The sessions are a great opportunity to enjoy some planned activities and develop friendships in an inspirational and fun environment. ÂŁ2.50 per child. Refreshments included.

To book your place call: 01473 201011

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY Eight members of the academy recently travelled to Skipsea Sands Holiday Resort in Yorkshire to participate and teach at the annual British Tae Kwon Do Association autumn training camp.

Over the course of the weekend sessions were available in a variety of martial arts and fitness training. Senior master Andy Lewis, 5th dan blackbelt, taught sai, a traditional Japanese weapon used in the Okinawan martial arts. Coach Josh Trent, 3rd dan blackbelt, taught kickboxing and K-1 and grandmaster Mark JR Trent, 8th dan blackbelt, taught boken (wooden sword). On the Sunday all 11 of the masters and grandmasters in attendance had to perform a short demonstration of their skills which was very well received by the large audience. This was followed by board breaking for those who wished to have a go. Next year there will be spring and autumn training camps with more instructors and events taking place.

The Scorpion Academy runs classes in karate, yoga, kickboxing, muay thai, mma and fighters fitness training throughout the week. Please call Mark JR Trent on 07708 644162, Andy Lewis on 07940 700406 and Tim Knights (yoga) on 07816 166871 for further details or visit our websites or Facebook pages. www.scorpionacademy.co.uk • www.ufkka.org.uk

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED To deliver In Touch with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market every month.

Ideal opportunity for an individual(s) to earn extra money or, as happens in other areas, a local group or association to raise funds.

Do you represent a local group with an on-going fundraising campaign?

Perhaps you raise money for a local charity or to support a local service?

A regular income from Mansion House might be just what you need to boost the coffers.

If you would like to discuss this role please contact Steve Stone: 01473 400380 / steve@intouchnews.co.uk

MID SUFFOLK CITIZENS ADVICE HIGHLIGHTS PROBLEMS WITH HMRC PHONE LINES Mid Suffolk 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 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

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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 in Stowmarket is in Milton Road South, 01449 676060 or 676280. Opening times: Mondays and Tuesdays 9.30am-3.30pm, Wednesday 9.30am-3.30pm for telephone advice only, Thursday 9.30am-6.30pm, and Friday 9.30am-12.30pm only. The bureau can also be contacted at: www.midsuffolkcab.org.uk

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ON THE GRAPEVINE

QUESTIONS ON CASH

with Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb

MARRIAGE, MORTGAGES AND 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 www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

no long-term 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 telephone 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.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET CATS PROTECTION This month we are looking for a home for Smokey, a very pretty 10-yearold tortoiseshell female. She loves fuss and attention and will enjoy sitting on your lap, but she will tell you when she has had enough. Smokey does have catitude! We think Smokey would be best as an only pet and would be suitable to live with older children. She is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

If you would like to know more about Smokey or any of the cats in our care please contact Marina on 01449 674584. More information can found at www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds and 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 and leave a message. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Our recent autumn fayre in Woolpit raised more then £1,550. Thank you so much for supporting us. Our next big event is our Christmas Fayre in Needham Market Community Centre on November 7, 2-4pm. Admission free. Once again Jim Hawkins will be singing some Christmas cheer.

Donations of cakes and biscuits to serve with refreshments are always greatly appreciated and these can be brought to the hall after noon on the day. Please do come along and support us because you will be made very welcome.

We are also having a table in the community centre on Sunday, December 6, 10am-4pm, the day of Needham Market Street Fayre. This will be your last chance to buy draw tickets for our annual draw which is taking place at noon the following day in Morrisons, Stowmarket.

Thank you for your continuing support.

Needham Market Evangelical Church Ipswich Road, IP6 8EH

Come to our FREE

SATURDAY SPECIAL! For all children five years old and over.

VILLAGE LIFE IN THE PHILIPPINES Find out what it's like to live, eat, play, learn and grow up in a village in the Philippines from people who have lived there. You can bring your grown-ups to this meeting too!

Saturday 14th November at 2.30 p.m.

For more information, please phone 01394 271645 or email peterkinley@f2s.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH FORTHCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS Tuesday, November 3: Visit of Stephen Walker representing the Faith Mission. There will be an opportunity to buy Christmas cards, calendars and diaries. The meeting starts at 7.30pm.

Saturday, November 14: Saturday Special for children aged five and over (they can bring their grown-ups too). In a talk entitled Village Life in the Philippines, Bruce and Mary Francis from Charsfield Baptist Church will be telling us what it’s like to live, eat, play, learn and grow up in a Filipino village. They should know as they have lived there. The meeting will start at 2.30pm.

Wednesday, November 25: Care and Share – an informal meeting open to everyone, offering a friendly atmosphere together with tea/coffee and cakes, a talking point from the Bible, and a choice of activities, or you can just sit and chat if you prefer. We begin at 10.30am, but you can arrive later to suit you. Everyone, including accompanied children, very welcome. There’s no charge. Please note November 25 is a provisional date. Please phone or email for confirmation.

Tuesday, December 1: Visit of Paul Davies from the Albanian Evangelical Mission, 7.30pm.

REGULAR MEETINGS Sunday Services: 10.30am and 6.30pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting: Tuesdays at 7.30pm For further information, if you require transport, or you would like a home visit, please phone Peter on 01394 271645, phone or text 07570 558072, or email: peterkinley@f2s.com www.needhamchurch.org.uk

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CHURCH NEWS HOME WORSHIP Worship was lead by diocesan spiritual adviser Dr Anne Spalding on Monday, October 5. She started by asking us to share something we had done over the past few days. Then she read the story of the Good Samaritan, which was the reading for the day from the lectionary, and asked us to consider the salient point for us, which lead to some discussion. We started with the hymn Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty and finished with the familiar hymn Amazing Grace.

Everett, a retired parish priest who lives in Needham Market, and December’s special Christmas Home Worship will be lead by The Rev Diane Williams, vicar of Needham Market Parish Church.

Next month, November Home Worship will be lead by The Rev Colin

Wendy Marchant

All are welcome to Home Worship. We finish with coffee/tea and biscuits and a friendly chat. We always meet on the first Monday morning of the month at 10am at 137 High Street, Needham Market.

CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist / United Reformed Church Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC), 01449 711798 The Rev John Boardman (Methodist), 01787 372738

home for the people who are The Church. Having spent some time decision-making during alterations, at last we can put all our efforts into the living, working, serving church.

Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am, including crêche and Sunday Club Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday

At the end of September a visiting team brought us a memorable production of the Gospel of St Mark. One man portrayed John Mark and took us on his journey. Listening again to the stories of miracles, explanations, teaching and preaching, brought everything alive, making it so fresh and relevant to the present day. An offshoot was that the small audience (some 40 people) sat captivated during the two-hour performance and gave some £200 to charity.

WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS Tiddlers: Monday, 9.30-11am (term time) For mums and toddlers 12 months to four years Contact Hannah: 07969 482360 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 Room 4, Christchurch. 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 Karate: Wednesday: juniors 6.30-7.30pm / adults 7.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm Brownies: Thursday, 6.30-7.30pm (term time) Self Defence: Thursday, 8-10pm Samurai Training: Fridays, 7-9pm Hall lettings: 07851 742847 Church contact: Ann Devereux, 01449 721575 Often when I pen an article it seems to focus on buildings and while these are important they are not ‘The Church’ but rather the family

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On Saturday, October 3 we had ‘open house’ to celebrate the alterations and all those involved. We shared refreshments and conversation and enjoyed a lunch-time musical interlude with soup and dessert lunch followed by a short service of celebration songs.

On Sunday 4 we marked the annual harvest festival with another celebratory service of thanks for all the wonderful gifts we receive day by day, year in, year out and we remained open in the afternoon to receive and welcome passing visitors. The donated goods were then taken to the local food bank for distribution to those who need. Folks were kind enough to insist on making donations that will be shared between our charities – locally Prison Fellowship and worldwide Mission Aviation Fellowship.

Now we turn our energies to planning for our November Coffee Morning with additional stalls, the Christmas Tree Festival (December 3-7) and Christmas arrangements with details displayed on posters throughout the town in due course. By the time you read we may have already celebrated the annual civic service; the annual Service of Remembrance will be on Sunday, November 8 at St John the Baptist Church, starting at 10.45am.

Friends, the season turns and the year marches on yet there is so much we can do to support one another in the name of love. If you feel that we at Christchurch can help please get in touch (contact details above).

Ann Devereux Also see Christmas Tree Festival on page 11. www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk

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