In Touch with Needham Market - October 2015

In Touch

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with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market

Volume 2 • Issue No. 12 • OCTOBER 2015

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I was busily, and rather angrily, removing ice-pop wrappers from down the side of the sofa when I heard Jack say “Is that a real boy mum? Is he really dead?” Needless to say I turned rather quickly to discover that Jack was sitting on the floor watching the news. It was the horrific story of Aylan Kurdi, the three-year-old who drowned as his family tried to flee from Kobani to Europe. The image of his tiny body being carried from the beach was still on the screen, but at that moment it was the shock on Jack’s face which made me catch my breath. What was I to say? Jack often sits to watch the news with me and we have had some good discussions about elections, bank robberies and the like, but was this a subject I was prepared to deal with?

I sat beside him on the floor and we listened to the end of the report together. Aylan drowned after the boat ferrying him from the Turkish beach resort of Bodrum to the Greek island of Kos capsized, killing 12 passengers. Aylan’s five-year-old brother, Galip, and his mother, Rehan, were also among the dead. His father, Abdullah, was the only family member to survive. Aylan’s journey was supposed to end in sanctuary in Europe; instead it claimed his life.

I then tried to explain why Aylan and his family were in the boat, but the subject is just too big and too complicated for a five-year-old to digest. The image of Aylan, pictured face down in his red shirt and blue shorts, has shocked the world and highlighted the plight of desperate people caught in the gravest refugee crisis since the Second World War. Suddenly my token donation to ActionAid felt entirely insufficient so I abandoned the sofa and Jack and I went to the post office to make a donation. Jack donated the contents of his money box saying “this is for Aylan’s daddy”.

NEWS REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY AND POPPY APPEAL IN NEEDHAM MARKET Remembrance Sunday and the Poppy Appeal are fast approaching, so the British Legion, in association with the town council and other interested parties, has commenced planning for these events.

This year Remembrance Sunday falls on Sunday, November 8. The civic procession will depart from Station Yard at 10.30am and progress along the High Street to the Parish Church of St John’s for a Service of Commemoration, followed by laying of wreaths at the War Memorial in the Burial Ground at the top of Barratts Lane.

Last year more than 300 people witnessed the procession on the High Street and attended the Service of Commemoration in church. It is anticipated that, once again, we will be honoured by the presence of the Deputy Lord Lieutenant (representing the Queen) and that the procession will comprise a marching squad of soldiers from 3 Regiment, Army Air Corps from Wattisham Flying Station, the town mayor and councillors, members of the emergency services, plus Army Cadets, Scouts, Guides and representatives of youth organisations.

We can learn a lot from children, not least how to be better humans.

In Touch

Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market

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

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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

Last year we had a record Poppy Collection of £6,359 from our area, which comprises Needham Market, Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter and Baylham, a very creditable achievement. It will be a challenge to match that this year.

Supplies of poppies will be available in local shops and to house-to-house collectors by Monday, October 26. Army Cadets from Wattisham, who are affiliated with the NM Branch of the Royal British Legion, will be assisting with a collection on Needham Market High Street on Saturday, November 7.

Several areas are not currently covered by the house-to-house collectors, notably Stowmarket Road, Hurstlea Road, Barratts Lane, Causeway, Crown Street and the Yards, Chainhouse Road, Morris Way, Clover Close, Orchard Way, Phillips Crescent and Pinecroft Way. If you could spare a couple of hours to assist this important national charitable cause in your locality, please contact Peter Down, chairman of NM Royal British Legion: 01449 721235

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

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NEWS

GROWING GUIDING COMBS BROWNIES We currently have spaces available at 1st Combs Brownie Pack for girls aged seven to 10 years. As a Brownie you will make new friends, enjoy learning new skills, take part in adventures and most importantly of all, HAVE FUN!

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE Call 01473 353350

If your daughter is interested in joining or you wish to find out more about Girlguiding, please contact us.

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

RAINBOW VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We are also looking for some special people to help Rainbows (aged five to seven years) at a local 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.

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.

Claire: cldonaldson1980@outlook.com Jo: jo.d@btinternet.com Or visit: www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

So call us today, we are here to help.

SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is preparing for its first annual shutdown since it began full operation last December.

Since then the facility has burnt around 196,500 tonnes of waste and in the process produced over 135,000 megawatt hours of electricity, 6,800 tonnes of metals, which have been recycled, and 52,700 tonnes of bottom ash, which is used as an aggregate for building projects.

Starting on Monday, October 26, the shutdown is expected to take just over three weeks, finishing on Tuesday, November 17. Work on the two lines will be staggered, so there will only be about four days (November 4-7) when both are off-line together.

This means household waste will continue to come to site throughout, although business waste will be diverted elsewhere so we can cope

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with the reduced capacity of the plant.

During the shutdown all equipment will be thoroughly inspected, maintained and cleaned and around 50 extra contractors are expected on site. Parking for them has been arranged at the nearby Claydon Football Club, so there should be no extra congestion around the site and no other impact for local residents.

Useful contact numbers Site offices: 01473 839149 Site control room: 01473 836828 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SITA Trust: 01454 262910

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NEWS CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE For the first time since this link began we are going to bring a second group of children in the same year, this time during the winter months.

The group will be much smaller than usual and we have decided to try to give a chance to some slightly older children who wouldn’t normally be on the selection list. Further details of the children will be given after I have returned from my forthcoming visit to Belarus to discuss this with the education authorities who are responsible for selecting the children.

To help finance the visit we are holding another pig racing evening on Saturday, October 17 at The Cedars Hotel in Stowmarket. This promises to be an exciting event with the tote and pig races being provided as always by Stowmarket Lions. Supper will be pigs in blankets together with a dessert and is included in the ticket price. Tickets can be purchased at our charity shop in Needham Market or at Stowmarket Tourist Information Centre. I do hope you will be able to come along and support the event.

Forthcoming Event PIG RACING!

We are also preparing for the 2016 visit and would like to hear from anyone who might be interested in hosting children. Please do get in touch as soon as possible as we have to have all placements confirmed by the end of December.

Saturday, October 17 Cedars Hotel Stowmarket Supper of “Pigs in Blankets” & dessert included Tote and Pig Races hosted by Stowmarket Lions Doors open 7pm / first race 7.30 prompt

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Tickets £8 each Tickets available on the door or call 01449 760343/07770 478933 A charity event for Chernobyl Childrens Lifeline Mid Suffolk Registered Charity Number: 1014274

We are looking for families to host one or two children for four weeks from the beginning of July. All that is needed is a minimum of a mattress to sleep on and a loving home with people who care.

Financial circumstances are immaterial.

Age is not a barrier and single parents will be considered. Families may or may not still have their own children at home. Hosts are able to follow their own occupation and interests as the children meet daily Monday-Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm and helpers are on hand to collect or look after children at other times if needed.

Recycling The collecting of textiles, clothing, shoes, bags and belts which go for recycling and for which we are paid is a great asset to our fundraising.

We take everything with the exception of pillows and duvets (coverings are fine). Shoes must be in a wearable but not necessarily in perfect condition. Clothing does not have to be in a wearable/saleable condition. We have been told that some schemes offer to take these items as “your local charity shop will not take them”. This is definitely not the case as far as we are concerned. If you have more than you are able to drop into the shop please call me and we will arrange collection.

With grateful thanks as always to all of our supporters.

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / 07771 550868 www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk

REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM

District Councillor for Stowupland and Creeting St Peter Mid Suffolk District Council has agreed a Members Award Scheme. Each ward member has been allocated £5,000 which will be available to assist projects within their wards. I would like to hear from groups and individuals within Stowupland and Creeting St Peter who could benefit from some financial assistance for setting up a new community project or extending the work of an existing community group. The applicants will need to show how the funding will benefit the local community within one or both villages. MSDC will be promoting the scheme and bids for funding may be made direct to the council. However, I recommend that, if you are looking for a share of the award, you contact me first.

There has been little progress on the review of accommodation for Babergh and Mid Suffolk Councils. Suffolk Councils are preparing a bid for devolution of services from central government. This could delay a decision on where the two councils joint office could be.

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There is a real fear that they could decide to co-locate in Ipswich. My personal view is that a shared office should have easy access to public transport and the major road network. With a mainline station and access to A14, the obvious choice seems to be Stowmarket. Such a move would boost our local economy whereas a move to Ipswich would have a detrimental effect.

You may have seen press reports recently about the cash reserves held by MSDC. Babergh and Mid Suffolk have set aside a huge sum of money to bring about ‘transformation’ as services provided by the two councils are integrated; much of that money is still unused. Green and Liberal Democrat Councillors are urging the Conservative administration to allocate some of this money to get the council back on track in areas where they are failing, not least in the allocation of land for housing. It is vital, if we are to avoid unsuitable developments, that the council becomes more pro-active by identifying

suitable sites and encouraging sustainable development, including affordable housing.

I know that most Stowupland residents are already aware of the new planning application for 175 houses on a large area of farmland extending between Church Road and Gipping Road. To find out more, the application (3112/15) can be viewed on the MSDC website or at the Needham office. If you wish to make a representation to MSDC, please try to let them have your views by October 9. The public inquiry to hear the appeal against the grant of permission for the previous application is planned for April/May next year. Unless it is withdrawn, you may wish to write to the Planning Inspector nearer to the inquiry date, but first it is vital that you let the district council have your views on the new application.

Keith Welham 01449 673185 / keithwelham48@aol.com

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NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS: MIKE NORRIS & WENDY MARCHANT 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 MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL LOCALITY GRANTS As a ‘one off’ each district councillor has been allocated £5,000 to grant to community groups, organisations and projects in their area which for Mike and Wendy is Needham Market & Badley.

Awards can range from £250 upwards and each councillor can make no more than 10 awards in total. The application period will run between October 1, 2015 and January 8, 2016. The application deadline is January 8.

WHO CAN APPLY • Not-for-profit community groups, organisations and projects • Applications must demonstrate their direct impact on Mid Suffolk communities • Applications must demonstrate sustainability • Applications can be made by the group, organisation or project or they may be nominated by a third part (including a councillor) • Payments cannot be made to individuals • Applicant organisations must have their own bank account

SYRIAN REFUGEE CRISIS STATEMENT Mid Suffolk’s Housing Manager has put out the following statement: “Following the recent announcement by the Prime Minister that 20,000 Syrian refugees will be resettled in the UK by 2020, Babergh and Mid Suffolk Councils are working with county council colleagues on making preparations to assist with the crisis. This will be a multiagency response, from housing, education, social care, emergency planning and other relevant agencies. The Local Government Association (LGA) has said that it expects an announcement by government shortly on how the scheme for settling Syrian refugees

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 the completed nomination form to: Mid Suffolk Communities Team, 131 High Street, Needham Market IP6 8DL by noon on December 31, 2015. Please mark the envelope CAA Nomination.

• Awards may be given to fund an existing or ongoing project and event or to initiate a new group or project. Applicants selected for an award must meet one or more of the council’s Strategic Priorities – copies can be obtained from Mike or Wendy, or Emma Bendall, as below.

All applicants will need to complete the application form demonstrating they fit to the strategic priorities. The completed application forms will be returned to the communities team for coordination and forward onto to the respective councillor.

Applications forms can be obtained from Mike or Wendy (details below) or from Emma Bendall: emma.bendall@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk Completed application forms should be returned to: Emma Bendall, MSDC Communities Team, 131 High Street, Needham Market IP6 8DL / emma.bendall@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk If you have any questions contact Emma at: 01449 724650

will operate and be funded, and when refugees will begin to arrive in the UK. In the meantime, we will be collating the numerous generous offers of accommodation for the refugees made by the public. For the many other offers such as clothing, books and toiletries, people will be directed to the local and national charities which are offering support to refugees already in the UK.” Separately the vicar of St Francis Church, Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich is asking for clothing for refugees, and in particular trainers and track suits, but any clothing is acceptable. The church is open from 9.30am to 3.30pm, but if the church is closed clothing can be left at the vicarage which is immediately behind the church.

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

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0 1 47 3 6 0 4 3 8 5 In Touch online:

NEWS / OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CONSERVATIVE BRANCH: A CHANGING IMAGE Stowmarket Conservative Branch is expanding to encompass surrounding districts, such as Needham Market, but has also set itself some exciting objectives.

The new Stowmarket and District Conservative Branch, which is chaired

by Councillor Barry Humphreys MBE, wants to attract more young people. Councillor Humphreys MBE said: “This is a very exciting time for us. We are determined to not only expand our membership but to encourage young people to join. We have members as young as 21 within the branch who are passionate and enthusiastic and we are very keen to engage more young people not only into politics but in helping their communities.”

The Conservatives entered two young candidates at the district council election earlier in the year. Jemma Lynch (27) was the candidate for Stowupland and Creeting St Peter and is also a member of the new Stowmarket and District branch. She said: “It’s so important for young people to get involved with politics, but it’s not all about politics. This branch is about having fun and helping your community at the same time through getting involved with different events. I am really excited about the new direction we are heading in, there are exciting times ahead and I would encourage anyone who wants to help their community to come and see what we’re all about.”

The Stowmarket and District branch is already busy planning charity race nights and hopes to enter the Needham Market Raft Race next June to help raise money for local charities. The branch will meet every quarter and meetings will be held in different parishes around Stowmarket. The

next meeting will be held in Needham Market in November, and those interested in getting involved with the new branch are encouraged to attend. The branch also has a very active social media presence and information regarding upcoming events and meetings and be obtained from our Twitter account: @stowbranch

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Join us for a social evening at Prezzo, Stowmarket’s newest place to dine, on Wednesday, October 19 at 7pm. Friends and family are welcome.

Complimentary glass of Prosecco or fruit juice on arrival, threecourse set menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free (pizza) options.

Booking by October 14 please so we can give the restaurant numbers and menu choices.

For full details and to book please visit: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk Stowmarket Chamber – supporting businesses in the heart of Suffolk.

TICKETS ON SALE FOR ROBIN HOOD & THE BABES IN THE WOOD Robin Hood & The Babes In The Wood, this year’s fun filled family pantomime by Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society, will run at The Regal Theatre from Wednesday, December 16 to Sunday 20.

It tells the story of Honey and Henry Honeyduke who have been left to live with their evil Aunt Ursula Sourdough. Ursula plots with the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham and his henchmen to capture Maid Marion and kidnap the babes in order to claim their missing father’s fortune.

Robin and his Merry Band, with a little help from some new friends – Dame Pepper Piper and her son Tom Tom aided by Gobsprite the Panto Fairy – come to the rescue and, despite mayhem and mishaps along the way, save the day in true panto fashion! The show is filled with family fun and frolics and a happy ending is guaranteed for all!

Tickets (£13.50/concessions £11.50) are already on sale from The Regal Theatre box office, 01449 612825, or you can book online at: www.regalstowmarket.co.uk For the last three years S.O.D.S’ pantomimes have enjoyed sell out success for every performance so book your tickets early to avoid disappointment!

There will be 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 each day.

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

NEEDHAM MARKET ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY Our 19th pantomime will be Jack and the Beanstalk and auditions will be held on Sunday, October 11 at Needham Market Community Centre: juniors at 6.30pm and seniors at 7.30pm.

Performances will take place on Friday, February 19 at 7.30pm and on Saturday, February 20 at 1pm and 5.30pm at the community centre.

We rehearse on Sundays at 6.30pm and on Mondays at 6.45pm. Principals begin rehearsing on October 18, senior chorus on November 1 and juniors on Sundays only, 5.30-7pm, from November 29 until nearer the performances when they will be required to attend with the whole company from 6.30pm until approximately 8.30pm.

Our pantomimes are always very well attended and are very much a community show.

We welcome all who want to be involved either on stage or behind the scenes. Our membership ranges from six to 80+ years old, but we do need more boys and men to join us. If you are interested and cannot attend the auditions or would like to know more about our company please contact Vera Cousins (723424) or Jo Lea (721544).

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On Saturday, October 10, 11.30am-2pm, in St Mary’s Church Room, Ship Lane, Bramford, with hundreds of books from as little as 30p.

Refreshments will be available. Proceeds will go towards the upkeep of our historic church, St Mary the Virgin in Bramford.

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OUT & ABOUT

TRANSPORT THEATRE PRESENTS

THE EDGE

New Wolsey Theatre, October 8-10

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Christchurch, Needham Market, will be holding its annual Christmas Tree Festival from December 3-7.

Although it seems early to be thinking about Christmas we hope you will consider our Christmas Tree Festival when planning your autumn activities.

Clubs, shops, businesses, individuals and families are all invited to decorate a tree in aid of our chosen charities and church funds.

The theme for your tree this year is A Great Big Welcome.

For information and booking form contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk

STOWMARKET TRAIN & MODEL COLLECTORS’ FAIR It’s time to make tracks for Stowmarket Railway Club’s Train & Model Collectors’ Fair on Sunday, October 11 at Needham Market Community Centre, 10.30am-3pm.

Collectors, modellers and all members of the family will enjoy opportunities to buy, sell or swap new and old model railways, diecast cars, buses, and lorries, plus toys, railway and transport books and photographs. About 40 tables are expected so there will be lots to look at.

In addition there will be demonstrations of modelling techniques, plus three working model railway layouts, and the club’s Thomas The Tank Engine layout which youngsters can operate under expert supervision.

There is good wheelchair access and free parking. Refreshments will be on sale.

Admission is just £1.50 for adults with accompanied children free.

For further details call 01449 672698 or visit: www.stowrailclub.org.uk

From October 8 to 10, Transport, the critically acclaimed Folkstonebased theatre company behind Invisible, 1001 Nights and Elegy will present a brand new devised production, The Edge, at the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich.

Inspired by real life narratives taken from the south coast of England and the Sundabans in India and developed in collaboration with leading lecturer in coastal oceanography Dr Ivan Haigh, The Edge is an extensive exploration of climate change and migration.

Based on an encounter between two people from different cultures that encompasses myths from the sea, the history of human migration, the formation of rivers and seas, the piece has been devised and directed by Douglas Rintoul and the creative team behind Elegy.

A woman steps into the English Channel. A man is swept up by a great storm in West Bengal. Two decades later their children meet on a beach by an English town that’s been abandoned to the sea. She’s training to swim the Channel. He’s a climate change refugee.

Powerful and poetic, The Edge is a love story between two people from different continents and cultures, connected by weather patterns and the shared experience of a radically changing world. Douglas Rintoul, Artistic Director of Transport Theatre, was awarded the British Council Connections through Culture Award to visit the Sundarbans in West Bengal India where he worked with the Kolkata based theatre company Ranan, drawing real life narratives from an area directly on the frontline of climate change.

The company also worked with young adults in Folkestone, developing an audio and visual work exploring narratives from the Kent Coast. Combining this quantative research from two different continents, Rintoul’s production questions what it really means to live on the geographical edge and explores the universal issue of climate change.

Developed in collaboration with leading lecturer in coastal oceanography Dr Ivan Haigh, with music by award-winning composer Raymond Yiu, The Edge fuses text, movement, music and projection to transport its audience between continents, exploring the place where the sea meets the land.

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

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OUT & ABOUT AUCTION OF PROMISES On Saturday, November 21 in aid of the roof repair fund for the Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Needham Market.

Entrance by ticket only, sold in advance, at £18 per head. Tickets are available from Ann Levett (01449 721502) or from Paul’s Hardware Store, High Street, Needham Market. If you wish to place a preauction bid please contact Ann Levett (01449 721502 / ann.levett@ btinternet.com) for a list of the auction items and details of how to bid.

For those who are unaware of the problems the church faces, the roof is leaking, which 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.

The Limes Hotel is offering a special B&B rate of £75 per room for the night should anyone attending the auction wish to stay over. If you are unable to attend but would like to make a donation to our roof fund this can be done online at: www.bt.com/mydonate

The evening starts at 7pm at The Limes Hotel, High Street, Needham Market, with a three-course meal and coffee being served from 7.30pm, followed by the Auction of Promises at 9pm. There will also be a raffle during the evening.

Click on ‘Donate to charity – BTMyDonate’ then type Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Needham Market in the ‘search’ bar. If you are a UK tax payer please tick the Gift Aid box and the government will add an extra 25%.

THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE Autumn Bird Walk, Sunday, October 11 Join us on Sunday, October 11 for an ornithological adventure as we take a guided bird walk around the museum site.

From the woodlands to the lake on the rear of Abbot’s Hall, through to the centre of the site where the house martins nest along the Boby building, down to the Mill Pond and finally along the marvellous river nature trail walk of the river Rattlesden, our 75 acre site is host to a number of different habitats for over 50 bird species.

The walk will be guided by staff, volunteers from the Suffolk Wildlife Trust and the volunteers who perform the bird surveys.

Please make sure that you are wearing adequate outdoor footwear and bring appropriate clothing, and don’t forget your binoculars.

Tickets are available from Stowmarket Tourist Information Centre or from our website: £5 per adult, £10 a family of two adults/two children, £1 per child.

October Half-Term This October half-term we’ve got some fantastic activities to keep little ones amused.

On Tuesday, October 27 we have Sunny Snapshots drop in sessions. Grown-ups will enjoy a look at our current temporary exhibition, Edgelands, a photography exhibition by Tom Owens, before the kids have a go at sun-printing their own images using photosensitive paper. The exhibition also has a special photobooth – grab a silly hat and pull a pose!

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On Thursday, October 29 the museum is holding a Shaun the Sheep Day. We’ll be watching Shaun the Sheep shorts on the big screen and doing some sheepy activities. Why not have a look at the Wool Unravelled exhibition while you visit and have a go at our sheep trail around the museum site?

For more information about these activities visit www.eastanglianlife.org.uk or call 01449 612229 Bonfire Night Celebrations, Saturday, November 7 Make sure your Bonfire Night goes off with a bang as you join the crowds at the Museum of East Anglian Life for their annual Bonfire Night Celebrations on November 7. With a spectacular fireworks display, roaring bonfire, as well as amusements and engines in steam, the museum is the perfect location for an evening of family fun!

Gates are open from 5.30pm giving you the chance to enjoy the selection of Old Tyme Amusements and traction engines in steam before the main event. Food and refreshments provided by the Osier Cafe will be available to buy throughout the evening.

Keep toasty by the bonfire, which is lit on the top field at 7pm before the fireworks begin at 7.30pm, a brilliant display that’s guaranteed to wow all the family.

Take advantage of our advance tickets available from Mid Suffolk Tourist Information Centre and online at www.eastanglianlife.org.uk: adults £4.50 / children £3.50 / and the special £12 family ticket which is only available in advance (two adults and up to three children). Alternatively, buy your tickets on the night: adults £5 / children £4

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OUT & ABOUT THE NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY Wednesday, October 14, 7.30pm, at Needham Community Centre: AGM followed by a talk from Pip Wright entitled Capital Punishment in 18th and 19th Century Suffolk

STOWMARKET U3A Meeting at The United Reform Church, Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, 2.15 for 2.30pm, on the third Wednesday of the month.

Wednesday, October 21: The Makings of… with sculptor Sean Hedges-Quinn Wednesday, November 18: Suffolk Suffragettes and The Bath Hotel Fire by local historian Phil Hadwen To find out more visit: www.u3astowmarket.wordpress.com

WORLD CHAMPION COMES TO STOWMARKET Mid Suffolk Brass and Simply Brass Stowmarket have pulled off a major event for Stowmarket and Mid Suffolk by performing with Andrew Bannister, current soprano cornet from the former World, European, and nine times UK champion brass band, Brighouse and Rastrick.

Andrew will hold a workshop with both Stowmarket based brass bands during the day followed by him performing three solos on different instruments at an evening concert at St Peters & St Mary Church, Stowmarket at 7pm on Saturday, October 17.

“It’s incredible that Andrew is coming to play with our organisations,” said Melvyn Stammers, Mid Suffolk Brass Musical Director. “He will provide an unequalled experience for the young players in Simply Brass, our own players and the audience. How would you feel if you were a footballer and were given a chance to play with someone from Chelsea or Man UTD for the day? This is the equivalent in musical terms. I can’t recall this ever happening before in Stowmarket.”

Tickets (adults £4 in advance/£5 on the door / under 16s £2 in advance/£3 on the door) for this not-to-be-missed concert are available from the Tourist Information Centre or can be pre-ordered at: 01449 774651 / melvynstammers@sky.com

Come along and have a go – it’s free!

We practise on Sunday evenings throughout the winter, 7.30-9.30pm, from October 4 at Haughley Village Hall.

We always need more dancers (female) and musicians (both sexes). All you need is a basically good level of fitness. If you play a portable musical instrument come along.

To find out more call Gill (01449 673518) or Sharon (01449 676083). www.haughleyhoofers.org.uk

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OPEN MORNING IN NEEDHAM MARKET TO HELP THOSE WITH HEARING LOSS One in six people in the UK has a hearing problem, and if you think this sounds familiar there hasn’t been a better time to have your hearing checked. Hearing tests and professional advice are being made available free of charge to encourage people to take that first step.

Local hearing care specialists, The Hearing Care Centre, have a hearing centre at The Country Practice on Barking Road, Needham Market. They will be holding a free Hearing Care Open Morning from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, October 24. All services are available by appointment only.

Managing director Karen Finch, a qualified hearing aid audiologist, said: “We are delighted to be offering our services free of charge to the people of Needham Market and surrounding areas. My fully qualified and professional team will be on hand to test your hearing, answer all of your questions and to demonstrate the latest digital hearing aids, and to clean and check your existing hearing aids.

We offer a professional hearing care service with fully informed choices, in a friendly relaxed atmosphere.”

“We hope that organising the open morning on a Saturday, more people who wish to get their hearing loss checked will be able to attend.”

To book your appointment call The Hearing Care Centre on 0800 096 2637 or visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk

THE RABBLE CHORUS SING ZIMBE Ipswich Corn Exchange, Sunday, November 8

There are four Rabble Choruses based at Needham Market, Easton, Saxmundham and Woodbridge. The four choirs often join together to produce a choir of more then 200 singers and we will do this for Zimbe, our next big sing.

Zimbe is a joyous fusion of traditional African song which we will perform along with a children's choir and special guest musicians. This choral piece was composed by Alexander L'Estrange who has chosen songs from all over Africa which are a mixture of jazz, gospel and African melodies. Zimbe is at times touching and moving and at other times funky and groovy, and all the time incredibly uplifting for performers and audiences alike.

We perform on Sunday, November 8 at the Corn Exchange, Ipswich at 3.30pm and 5.30pm. Tickets are available from the Corn Exchange Box Office: 01473 433100 / www.ipswichregent.com This is a big venture for the choir so do come along and enjoy your local choir's latest performance at this well known venue.

Needham Market Rabble meet at 10.30pm on Wednesday mornings at Needham Market Community Centre. You can follow The Rabble Chorus on Twitter and Facebook.

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OUT & ABOUT NEEDHAM IN BLOOM STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB Stowmarket & District Camera Club is a small, active and long established club for those interested in photography. We currently have around 25 members with a wide range of abilities, ages, backgrounds and photographic interests, and we are keen to welcome new members.

You don’t have to be an expert photographer! All you need is an interest in photography and a camera. Our members use DSLRs, compacts and bridge cameras. Our aim is to encourage you to develop your interest and skills, as well as to provide a place to meet a range of friendly people who share your interest.

Our next meeting on Monday, October 12 will be a workshop entitled Composition Beyond the Thirds led by Alan Sarsby 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 7.30pm start. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us?

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

SOROPTIMIST CLUB OF IPSWICH AND DISTRICT We started our autumn programme with a supper followed by a talk on personal safety for women. We don’t always have supper but usually divide our monthly meeting into two halves. – in the first half a speaker or a discussion, in the second what we call ‘business’.

‘Business’ might sound a bit off-putting until you look at what it covers. Our September agenda included planning a letter to local MPs about the proposed closure of the magistrates’ courts in Lowestoft and Bury; discussing widening the scope of the bursary which we offer to disadvantaged women who want to undertake some education or training; deciding on our club vote for the chair of a national committee.

That last item is quite a significant pointer to how Soroptimism works. What matters is the voice of the individual members in their local club so we are frequently asked to send in our views and votes on things like policies, projects, campaigns and appointments to leadership roles. A system like ours is ambitious and could run the risk of becoming a bit bureaucratic, but there has been a lot of streamlining lately and modern communication technologies help.

We recognise that individual members will give very different levels of commitment to our own projects and to the wider organisation.

In particular we assure younger members, who are already juggling careers and family, that it is fine to come and enjoy the interest and friendship of the club and to do just as much or as little as they feel they can for the moment. Later on things will change.

If you would like to know more about Soroptimism or visit one of our meetings please do contact Jackie: 01473 659314

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By the beginning of October the containers around the town will have been emptied of their summer flowers and the winter display will be planted. They have looked good this summer thanks to those who took the time to water them.

We are grateful to the town council for watering once a week and would also like to thank all others who took care of them in between.

Our thanks go to: Mike Miller, Andrew Sergeant, Smith’s Butchers, Hamilton Smith, Glenda Reynolds, Zoe Carlin, Ellie at Pipps, Teresa Kykos, Arms Outsourcing Services, Linda Naveiras, Margaret Hedges and Amanda Freeborn-Morgan.

We would not be able to continue with our efforts to enhance the town without donations from local businesses, and our thanks go to the following for their support this year: Kerridges (Needham Market) Ltd, Elmswell Contractors Ltd, Faith Hair and Beauty, Hamilton Smith, J Breheny Contractors Ltd, The Rampant Horse and Gipping Press Ltd. We will soon be planning for 2016, so if you feel that you would like to help, fresh bodies and minds will always be welcomed. Come along to our next meeting on October 24 at 10am in the Green Room at the Community Centre, or contact Vera on: 01449 723424

BY-WASH AT PIPPS FORD LOCK TO BE REINSTATED The River Gipping Trust now has all the necessary permissions for work to commence on reinstating the original by-wash around the lock at Pipps Ford. This has involved many in-depth meetings, discussions and considerable assistance from the Environment Agency. Work is already The mini-digger is seen here underway and once completed will helping to re-install a coping enable the lock to be drained and stone at the head of the lock inspected for further restoration to at Pipps Ford take place as needed.

To assist in this work the River Gipping Trust has received a substantial donation from the Inland Waterways Association Ipswich Branch. This has enabled the purchase of a Kubota mini excavator which is already at work at Pipps Ford.

We also acknowledge the help of the landowners, the Greatrix family, both in facilitating the work which will eventually lead to the full restoration of the lock, and in providing a substantial donation towards the cost of the digger.

The site can be seen from the Gipping Towpath in the Baylam area, and visitors are always welcome on working party days, which take place each Wednesday and the second Saturday of each month.

New volunteers are also always welcome. For further details of the ongoing restoration of the river, please visit: www.rivergippingtrust.org.uk

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS CAPEL FLORAL CLUB It was lovely to catch up with friends and start our flower arranging year again in earnest at our first meeting after the summer. We made decorative floral handbags led very ably by our tutor Janet after a very short AGM. Our next meeting is on October 14 at 7.30pm when we shall be flower arranging with a wedding theme and we will be having a go at making buttonholes, pew ends, and a wedding crate to be used as a table decoration. If any future brides are reading this article, please come and join us – it will be invaluable to you.

We have an extremely varied programme set for the year and feel sure that any ladies who would like to join us will find it very interesting.

Capel Floral Club meets on the second Wednesday of the month (excluding January, February and August) and subs for the year are £35. We are a group of ladies of all ages and abilities, even beginners, with a love of flowers and flower arranging. We meet in the library at Capel St Mary (plenty of parking), 7.30-9.30pm.

If you would like any further information, please contact Janet (01473 313191) or Sylvia (719893).

PLANT HERITAGE SUFFOLK GROUP Michael Perry, Thompson and Morgan’s new product development manager, presents a talk entitled New, Different and Unusual Plants on Saturday, October 24, at 2.30pm, at Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ. Plant stalls will include rare and unusual plants. Delicious refreshments available for purchase.

Admission: free to members / non-members £5. New members and non-members are most welcome www.suffolkplantheritage.com Local contact: Margaret Palmer, 01206 299832

PMR-GCA EAST ANGLIA SUPPORT GROUP The next meeting of the PMR/ GCA East Anglia Support Group is at Needham Market Community Centre on Thursday, October 22.

The hall will be open at 10.30am to register and refreshments will be available. Admission £1. We will have a speaker from Vasculitis UK who will help us to better understand PMR and GCA. Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is a condition that affects mainly women and often those over 50 years of age. It affects the muscles of the upper arm and shoulders and sometimes the hips

and thighs. It can be extremely painful and causes great tiredness and may last for several years.

Giant Cell Arthritis can affect those suffering from PMR causing extreme headaches and if left untreated can cause blindness.

If you suffer from either condition or both and feel alone and need support, come and join us and learn more about your illness with those who understand and can offer encouragement.

For further information contact: 01787 379400

CREETING ST MARY CEVAP SCHOOL Term has started well at Creeting with more than 80 pupils on roll. Our new children have settled in well, mainly due to having been regular visitors to our COME AND PLAY sessions which include an activity, story, singing and a drink and biscuit in our new Early Years classroom.

We were proud of our Year 6 pupils who all achieved high marks for their SATs this summer.

They have moved confidently to Debenham High School where they are enjoying new challenges.

ENTERPRISE Last term Birch Class held a French market after working on an independent Mantle of the Expert project. They made a grand total of £150 and decided to use half the money for a class party at the end of term and to donate the other half to the charity SANDS, the Stillbirth And Neonatal Death charity. We are so proud of them for this generous act.

READING FUN We are having a big focus on reading this term and are very pleased that so many children took part in the Summer Reading Challenge during the holidays. Last week Jackie from the School Library Service came into school to

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read stories and led a family reading café after school. This was well received.

ART AND AUTOGRAPH AUCTION Art is playing a big part this term too. On October 1 and 2, Liz Anderson from Art Solutions will be working with the whole school to make some 3-D murals for the walls. The following day, Saturday, October 3, will be our Autograph and Art Auction to raise money for the school and for the charity EACH. We have some amazing things to bid for. Thank you to Ruby Icke for organising this.

GOLDEN MILE We are challenging ourselves to keep fit at Creeting and have embarked on a journey to France – well, we are aiming to walk as far as France between us, with more walking to school and laps of the playground before school. Last week one of our pupils, Peter, walked an impressive 13 miles in one week!

Birch Class will be rehearsing this term for their production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat which promises to be a fantastic display of talent.

This will be another term filled with fun and activity, all aimed at giving our children a wellrounded and exciting education as we strive for high attainment alongside Christian values.

Lyn Spall TERM DATES 2015-16 Autumn Term 2015: September 4-December 18 Half-term: October 26-30 Spring Term 2016: January 5-March 24 Half-term: February 15-19 Summer Term 2016: April 11-July 21 Half-term: May 30-June 3 STAFF TRAINING DATES (PD DAYS): Friday, October 23; Monday, January 4; Friday, May 27 Contact: 01449 720312 / office@creetingstmary.suffolk.sch.uk www.creetingstmary.suffolk.sch.uk

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A number of special antiques and collectables valuation events take place soon in Lavenham, Stowmarket and Hadleigh. The experts of Lockdales Auctioneers will be providing free valuations on: • Tuesday, November 10 from 1-5pm at Lavenham Village Hall • Wednesday, November 11 from 10am-2pm at The John Peel Centre, Stowmarket • Thursday, November 12 from 10am-2pm at Hadleigh Town Hall Valuations will be available for the following types of collectables: coins (including British & World, sovereigns, Krugerrands, Royal Mint commemoratives and proof sets), stamps, banknotes, medals and militaria, antiques, clocks, watches, jewellery, gold, silver, pre-1900 documents/books and maps, cigarette-cards, postcards, pre-1960 sporting programmes & tickets, scientific instruments, swords, bayonets and de-activated weapons. No appointment necessary.

Members of the public will have the option, if they wish, to consign their goods to auction (subject to terms and conditions). Cash purchase offers are also available. Valuations will be provided free of charge, with no obligation. High quality illustrated catalogues from previous auctions will be given away on a complimentary basis in order for the public to get a better idea of the services available.

If you have any questions feel free to contact Lockdales’ Martlesham offices: 01473 627110 / sales@lockdales.com For further information visit: www.lockdales.com

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SPORT SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY A large turnout of junior and seniors were invited to take part in the Stowmarket Striders Golden Mile charity race. The event started at Pykes Meadow in Combs Ford and finished at the Recreational Ground.

Everyone completed the course and helped to raise much needed funds. A big thank you to instructor Mel Walmsley and senior master Andy Lewis for organising all of the Scorpion runners.

raise thousands of pounds for various charities and will carry on doing so.

Founder of the Scorpion Academy Mark JR Trent, 8th dan blackbelt, recently returned from a holiday in Las Angeles. While there he had the chance to teach and train under grandmaster Larry Tatum, 10th dan blackbelt. Within the martial arts world Larry Tatum is a legend. He has clubs/associations in 28 countries with many thousands of members. Mark had the chance to demonstrate some of the universal karate style techniques that the Scorpion Academy teaches as well as to train with grandmaster Larry and his senior instructors. A great honour.

On the same day, eight members of the academy’s muay thai section entered the Spartan Endurance Race. This was a three-mile and fifteen obstacle event that included river swimming, rope climbing, crawling through ditches and carrying heavy objects, to name just a few. Money was raised for Cancer UK and the Alzheimer’s Society. Well done to Lisa Gilson, Will Ribbons, Mike Oglesby, Peter Izzard, Dave Fell, Josh Trent, Key Bulbeck and Mark JR Trent. A big thank you to team captain Mike for training us and to Lisa for organising the donations page.

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

Over the last 25 years that the Scorpion Academy has been teaching in Stowmarket and its surrounding villages they have helped to

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WANT TO DO SOME EXERCISE OVER THE WINTER MONTHS? Why not try Badminton?

Claydon & District Badminton Club is a social badminton club which meets on Mondays from 7 to 9pm during school term time in Claydon High School Sports Hall.

Although we are a popular club we have some space and you would be very welcome. If you fancy a game and you want to find out about us why not drop by any Monday night? Our season started in September.

For more information please contact Don Golding: 01473 747596 / don.golding@btinternet.com

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

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

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

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ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET CATS PROTECTION can be brought to the hall after noon on the day. Alternatively please call 01449 720003 or 01449 722946 to see if collection is possible.

Our Christmas Fayre this year is on November 7 in Needham Market Community Centre, 2-4pm, and once again Jim Hawkins will be singing some Christmas cheer! Admission is free so do come along and find out more about the work we do. You will be made very welcome.

This month we are looking for a home for Pepsi and Saff. Pepsi is a tabby and white girl aged approximately two years and Saff is a black and white boy aged approximately three-and-a-half years. They are both very loving and affectionate cats who will make delightful companions.

We are hoping to home them together and they could possibly live with another cat or a cat friendly dog. Pepsi and Saff are both neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

If you would like to know more about Pepsi and Saff or any of the cats in our care please contact Marina on 01449 674584. Other useful information can be found at www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds and on our Facebook page.

If your cat has not 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.

The final number of Felix tokens we received was an amazing 174,800 and our group will receive £1,748, a lot more than we expected when we asked for your help. Thank you so much for saving and donating them to us. Our next big fundraising event is our jumble sale on Saturday, October 10 in Stowmarket Community Centre, 2-3.30pm. Items for sale

HOME WORSHIP Father David Finegan from Stowmarket came to lead our September Home Worship and re-told the lovely story of Ruth from the Bible.

Naomi’s husband and two sons very sadly died when she was living in a strange land, which left her with her two daughters-in-law. One decided to go back to her own parents, but Ruth, the other daughterin-law, pleaded to go with Naomi back to Naomi’s home country: “Entreat me not to leave you, nor to return from following after you...”

So Naomi and Ruth travelled back together. Ruth went out gleaning in the fields, and Boaz, a kinsman of Naomi’s saw her, and there followed a romance leading to a marriage. Boaz and Ruth had a son Obed, and as it says in the King James version of St Matthew’s Gospel – Boaz begat Obed, and Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David – who became King David the forefather of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

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However, Naomi became a grandmother, when she might not have anticipated that. Father Finegan said there is now a Grandparents Association to encourage grandparents to help their grandchildren in whatever way they can, which is now associated with the shrine at Walsingham.

October: Dr Anne Spalding, Diocesan Spiritual Adviser November: The Rev Colin Everett, retired parish priest December: The Rev Diane Williams, Vicar of Needham Market Parish Church Home Worship always meets at 10am on the first Monday morning of the month at 137 High Street, Needham Market. After the worship, we have tea/coffee, biscuits and a friendly chat.

All welcome – this is an outreach group.

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CHURCH NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH FORTHCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS Tuesday, October 6: Visit of Clive Langston from the Slavic Gospel Association. This will be Clive’s first visit to us and we look forward to meeting him. The meeting starts at 7.30pm.

by the European Missionary Fellowship and will give a report about his work at the meeting which starts at 7.30pm.

Tuesday, November 3: Visit of Stephen Walker from the Faith Mission, 7.30pm.

Wednesday, October 21: CARE AND SHARE

REGULAR MEETINGS

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.

Sunday Services: 10.30am and 6.30pm

Friday, October 30: Spotlight on Belarus Mihail (Misha) Nikitov is a pastor from Ruba in Belarus. He is supported

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

CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist / United Reformed Church Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC), 01449 711798 The Rev John Boardman (Methodist), 01787 372738 Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am, including crèche and Sunday Club Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday 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: Wednesdays: 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 CELEBRATION WEEKEND, OCTOBER 3 AND 4

Saturday 3 10am: Church open for coffee Noon: A light music concert followed by a light lunch at 1pm.

Admission free – donations welcome.

2pm: Teas 3pm: Songs of Celebration Sunday 4 10.30am: Harvest Celebration Service (see over) Noon-4pm: Church open for tea and coffee

Christmas Tree Festival, December 3-7 At the time of writing there are still some of the lovely six-foot real spruce trees available for you/your group or organisation to decorate.

For more details contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk Pop the dates in your diary so that you can come and enjoy some Christmas refreshments among the trees.

I’m confused... My diary tells me that British Summer Time ends on Sunday, October 25, the autumn equinox is on September 22 and the Met Office says autumn runs from September 1...

I’m sure it never used to be this complicated. But one thing is certain, the hours of daylight are decreasing, the nights are drawing in and the central heating is going to have to go on pretty soon.

However, there’s life left in 2015 with the trees putting on a fantastic show as their leaves turn colour, the sunsets seem to be even more spectacular than during the summer, and the hedgerows are full of berries and nuts. Autumn is a time for us to celebrate nature’s bounty and many churches will be hosting harvest festival services.

At Christchurch Needham Market we will be celebrating not only the harvest over the weekend of October 3-4, but also the completion of the building work at the front of the church.

We will be giving thanks not just for traditional fruit and vegetables, but also for the skills and gifts of those who were involved in the building work: the architect, the builders, the electricians, plumbers, carpenters and painters – and many others. And while it is right and proper to celebrate and give thanks we will also be collecting food and donations for Stowmarket Foodbank, for we recognise that there are a number in our communities for whom autumn isn’t a time of plenty, that the prospect of cold nights and bleak days are concerning. As a church community we want to respond to the generosity of God by also being generous to others.

As one of the harvest hymns says: ‘In our world-wide task of caring for the hungry and despairing, in the harvests we are sharing, God’s will is done.’

The Rev Mary Playford www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk

Please come and join us and explore our new welcome area.

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At Stringers’ World we aim to be the one-stop shop for all your racket sport needs. Online and at our Brantham showroom, we offer a wide variety of racket sports goods from top name brands, including strings, rackets, balls, shuttles, shoes, bags and apparel. We also provide a first class restringing service, and demonstration rackets are available.

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