In Touch with Shotley - January 2016 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

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with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone Volume 6 • Issue No. 2 • JANUARY 2016

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I have always loved New Year’s Day, even as a child when I’d watch The New Year's Concert by Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra on TV. Granted I was probably doing other things at the same time, but it would be on in the background and I loved the drama of it all. It felt like a fitting way to welcome in a new year and was also quite a private moment. My brothers were probably still in bed so it was usually me, my diary – and the vacuum cleaner! In those days in rural Ireland the male and female roles were clearly defined – the boys helped on the farm, I did the cleaning and the baking, but that’s a subject for another day! Cleaning is still part of my new year ritual and I can’t wait to get stuck in. Yes, I admit it, I like cleaning! I love that sense of satisfaction I get when I sit down to admire my handiwork, that oh so precious five minutes before it all falls apart again. I do become a bit of a tyrant when I go into cleaning mode so it’s best to stay out of my way (Daniel consider this your advance warning and if you don’t believe me, just ask mum!), but when it’s done I’m sweetness and light, as per usual!

NEWS DONATE OLD COINS AND NOTES TO SHORELINE BENEFICE Throughout 2015 I collected old coins and notes (English and foreign) which have now been sold and have raised £321.88. This will go into the Fill the Gap Fund for The Shoreline Benefice. We have decided to carry on collecting this year so please get in touch with me if you find any that you don’t want. Thank you so much for your help. Shirley: 01473 780084 / shirleybruce912@gmail.com

This year I have an extra incentive as I will be looking for something rather special. Last summer Jack found an old key when we were planting seeds with grandma. It is his most precious possession and he presents it to visitors and friends as such. We have mislaid it! I know it’s in the house somewhere but in none of the obvious places and I have (stupidly!) promised to find it. If I do turn out every toy box and every cupboard, as I plan to, surely it will reappear. If not I’m going to have a very sad little boy – and I’ll be a very guilty mummy. Wish me luck. I hope your new year begins with hope for the year ahead and that you too find joy in the small things.

In Touch

with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone In Touch with Shotley, Pin Mill & Woolverstone is published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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A big thank you to all those who helped and supported Holbrook Church Christmas Fayre. We made a grand total of £520.

SHOTLEY YOUTH NEWS CREW PUBLIC MEETING The SYNC charity was set up to deliver youth activities from the portable cabin buildings next door to Shotley Village Hall. The building closed its doors over two years ago and was sitting empty for a long period of time, but as many of you have seen recently the scout group is now making use of it. The time has come to make a very hard decision to formally close SYNC down. The trustees of SYNC have discussed a proposal that the building and assets be transferred to the 1st Shotley Scout Group that is currently using it.

As SYNC was formed as a charity and community group we would like people to have their opinions heard on any proposals around change of use and winding down the charity. Therefore we are holding an open meeting on February 24 at 7pm at the portable cabins next to the village hall. The agenda for the meeting is: • Review and update on the scouts use of the hut • Proposal for change of use • Formal closing of SYNC • Transfer of assets • AOB

NEWS NEWS FROM HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY Training days Our next training afternoons will be on Thursday, January 14 and Wednesday, February 10 when we will be shut from 1pm. Please ring 111 for advice if your query cannot wait until the following day. In an emergency, dial 999. Thank you A big thank you to all those patients who kindly gave our doctors and staff gifts of chocolates and biscuits over the Christmas period. These are much appreciated by all in recognition of the service we provide. Future articles We hope that our previous monthly articles have given an insight into what goes on behind the scenes at the surgery and the value of our hardworking team. We have been asked by the Patient Participation Group to include some articles on the national changes to the NHS and how these are affecting the practice. Our main challenge, as with any business, is balancing the income we receive against our costs. Our contractual requirements are increased every year with minimal, if any, reimbursement to cover the additional

work. One example of this is the requirement to advise all patients over 75 of their named GP. We have 938 patients over the age of 75, i.e. 12% of our total population, and were required to send a letter to each one. Once the cost of the stationery, postage, and staff time are taken into account, this has easily cost the practice £500, which is the annual equivalent of a member of non-clinical staff for an hour a week or six months’ worth of printing costs across the entire practice. New Year’s resolutions Some patients may wish to give up smoking, lose weight or reduce their alcohol intake to improve their health over the next year. Our nurses can help you with this so please book an appointment. Or you could join our Patient Participation Group and be an active participant in shaping the future of the practice. We are particularly keen to recruit those who work or are students as we run our group mainly by email. If you feel this would be of interest, please feel free to contact me for more information. Practice Manager Julia Smith

REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: DECEMBER 2015 Babergh District Councillor Alastair Mccraw Local government continues to undergo the greatest changes it has faced since the 1970s. From the Localism Act to the Devolution Agenda, we find ourselves examining every aspect of our operation and services. This applies to all levels, from towns and parishes, to district and county. For the moment, the devolution discussions between Suffolk and Norfolk et al can continue at a less frantic, and hopefully more considered, pace now that the rush to get proposals on the table has passed. The best way to follow this might be through the front page on Babergh’s website: www.babergh.gov.uk That’s also a starting point for nearly everything the council do, or can do. The website is much improved and easier to navigate. END OF YEAR REPORT As a newly elected member, I’ve spent a lot of time getting up to speed with the practicalities of this job. I’m a member of the Independent group on the council, the second largest group. A Conservative majority has been elected, the first time that Babergh has ever had a majority party. Much of what we do is, of course, non-political, but it must inform decisions to be made. I serve as a member on the Regulatory and Licensing Committee, the Joint Staff Consultative Committee, and will represent Babergh on the Suffolk Rail Policy Group. I shadow the Economy Programme Steering Board and grab hold of every bit of training I can. That’s been extensive enough to allow me to substitute for absent members on the Strategy, Planning and Joint Scrutiny Committees. Next month, I will complete the set with Joint Audit. There are the three parish council meetings each month, casework for individuals and businesses on the wide variety of matters that concern them and just trying to throw some light on how things work. There is a lot of reading and research. Am I allowed to say that I’m enjoying it? It’s hard work at times, but anything worthwhile should be hard. It’s also incredibly interesting, challenging and more open ended than you might think. I’m not alone in this view as half the council are in the same position and I’ve heard the same sentiments over and over again. We all bring different life experiences to the table, but the level of engagement would be

surprising to many in this cynical age. I would add that we conduct ourselves in a civil manner without the ‘argy bargy’ people sometimes associate with politics. This is a link to the Council and Democracy page which covers much of the above: http://tinyurl.com/h8s9ono BRANTHAM REGENERATION AREA The planning application for this site and the associated greenfield land is likely to come before the planning committee in the first two months of 2016. There are some additional supporting documents from the applicant (SFG) to be presented and there will be a consultation period for anybody concerned to comment, just on these. As this application will have an impact on the surrounding rural road network, people and groups in neighbouring parishes on both sides of the River Stour may wish to make a response. The Planning Application page will contain these new documents: http://tinyurl.com/jy9rtqm Responses can be made in writing, by email or online through that page (after registration). The consultation period is, as yet, unknown. SUFFOLK FIRE SERVICE As you may have heard Suffolk Fire Service is facing proposals that will considerably reduce the potential cover available, or cuts as we usually call them. I think that’s a very worrying prospect given the rubbish nature of our road network and the distances involved. So I would encourage people to strongly consider responding to the consultation on these proposals. This can easily be done online at http://tinyurl. com/juulwwy until February 22. It’s a questionnaire response, so you may want to read up on the subject first, just in case the questions are leading. I hope for a Happy New Year for us all. If any issue about the council and what it does concerns you please contact me via the methods below – or just say hello sometime. I have no problem in talking with people at the drop of a hat. I want to stay informed and to stay In Touch. alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk / 07812 564188 Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (an open group)

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SPRING 2016 AT THE NEW WOLSEY THEATRE

The Last Five Years, an award winning musical from Jason Robert Brown and recently a major motion picture starring Anna Kendrick and Jordan Jamie, headlines the New Wolsey Theatre’s 15th birthday season. Running from February 25 to March 11, The Last Five Years starts and ends with the beginning of a passionate love affair. Cathy’s story starts with the end of their relationship and follows their tale backwards to when she first fell in love with her young talented lover. Jamie’s story begins with their first passionate encounter and heads forward towards heartache. The unique style of storytelling and the infectious score makes this one of America’s best modern musicals. Songs include Moving Too Fast, If I Didn’t Believe in You and Goodbye Until Tomorrow.

Katie Birtill, who took the title role in Sweet Charity last autumn, stars with a talented live band to create Cathy and Jamie’s world as it crumbles and reforms around them. It will be directed by the New Wolsey Theatre’s artistic director Peter Rowe. Birmingham Repertory Theatre will present The Government Inspector, the first production in the Ramps on the Moon touring project, at the New Wolsey from April 6 to 15. Ramps on the Moon is a ground-breaking touring project that sets out to put more deaf and disabled people on our stages, in our audiences and our workforce. Bringing together seven major theatre companies, it will change the way theatre made by and for D/deaf and disabled people is seen. These companies, which include the New Wolsey Theatre, are committed to putting D/ deaf and disabled artists and audiences at the centre of their work and stimulating awareness of disability issues within arts and culture. Gogol’s satirical masterpiece is a hilarious riot of corruption, lies and greed that has lost none of its original bite. The mayor is in a cold sweat. News has reached him of an imminent visit from a government inspector. His fear is well-founded as he has been somewhat lacking in his official duties. The hospital is a health hazard, the school is a war zone, the soldiers don’t have trousers to march in and he never quite got around to building that church! Directed by Birmingham Rep’s Artistic Director Roxana Silbert, the production includes a creative use of audio description, captioning and British Sign Language.

For full details of the New Wolsey’s jam-packed spring season visit www.wolseytheatre.co.uk where you can also book or call the sales team on: 01473 295900 6

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NEWS CRIME REDUCTION ADVICE FROM SUFFOLK CONSTABULARY Start the new year by keeping yourself and your family safe. With the new year under way, we are constantly reminded of new and good intentions! So this month we ask you to think about making sure your financial and personal information is safe and healthy. Crime is not always committed by someone you can see in the street. It can come via a telephone call, an email, a text or through your letter box! Are you aware of scams and fraud? Pass on the information to your elderly relatives or neighbours. Follow these quick steps to help protect you and your family from becoming a victim of crime. 1.

Do not give any personal information (name, address, bank details, email or phone number) to organisations or people before verifying their credentials. Remember organisations such as the police or financial institutions WILL NEVER ask for account details over the phone.

Don’t respond to unsolicited post, phone calls or emails offering business deals or asking for information. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Always ask for and check identification of anyone you do business with and never let anyone you don’t know into your home. Do not use door step sellers or tradespeople.

Always take time and seek independent advice when paying for goods or services. If you are put under pressure to make a decision just say no.

Never pay money before you receive goods or services unless you are certain that the supplier is legitimate.

When paying online only use a secure site and avoid using your debit card. Unlike credit cards, debit cards don’t always offer payment protection, and if compromised put your main account at risk.

Protect computers, tablets and smart phones; always update your firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Only buy them from a reputable supplier.

Make your pass words strong; use three random words and change it regularly.

Is your Wi-Fi secure? Only complete financial transactions on a secure Wi-Fi connection.

10. Read the small print before signing up to free or low cost trial goods. 11. Shred all documents containing personal data (including name

and address details). Keep personal and financial information secure. 12. Be suspicious of emails that look like they come from the online auction or payment site you’re registered with. Check the web address in the browser. A tactic often used by fraudsters is to change the address very slightly (if they’re spoofing an eBay site, for instance, they may have an address such as ‘@ebayz.com’ whereas the real site is ‘@ebay.com’) 13. Beware of bogus scam calls. Fraudsters can telephone victims, informing them that their accounts have been fraudulently accessed or that the bank has increased security. They instruct you to contact a false helpline or to redial another number, but your current line is still open. We advise you to wait five minutes before calling any numbers back, never give out personal bank details or withdraw requested cash to give to a courier. 14. For further information visit: www.getsafeonline.org 15. Remember to lock down all of your personal information on social media sites: don’t give out home addresses, telephone numbers or email addresses to people you don’t know. 16. Finally, don’t forget to security mark your property (phones/ laptops/tablets) with an ultra violet pen, recording your post code and house number, keep details of your phone IEMI and serial numbers. Register your property with www.immobilse.com, a free national property register monitored by the police. To report fraud please contact Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre where you can directly report fraud if you have been scammed or defrauded. It provides a central point of contact for information about fraud and financially motivated internet crime. Telephone 0300 123 2040, textphone 0300 123 2050, or visit: www.actionfraud.police.uk/about-us/who-we-are

To report suspicious vehicles or people please contact Suffolk Police on 101. If a crime is in progress dial 999. Be the eyes and ears for your community. Start up or join your local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Call 101 and ask to speak to your local Community Watch Liaison Officer about NHW schemes. For security and safety advice speak to your local Crime Reduction Officer. Jackie Norton, Crime Reduction Officer/Architectural Liaison Officer

BEEN TO ANY CHELMONDISTON VILLAGE EVENTS RECENTLY? Did you go to the summer arts event on Pin Mill Common in September and enjoy a free burger? Or to the fireworks party on the village playing field?

things just sort of happen, don’t they? Unfortunately they only happen when there are enough people to organise them and there is the problem.

Did you know that these events were both organised by Chelpin Projects (AKA Chelmondiston and Pin Mill Community Council), which also provides grants to village organisations (this year alone supporting the school, the playgroup and the bowls club) and organises and part finances the over 70’s Christmas gift and the village directory?

Due to health, jobs and family issues, we have been hit with the loss of several members all at the same time and are now in desperate need of more people if all these things in the village are to continue.

If you didn’t you can be forgiven for these

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If you are now thinking that it would be sad to see these things fold, then please help. Most urgently we are looking for a new

treasurer and others to join the organising committee, but we would really appreciate you contacting us and leaving your name if you are happy for us to give you a call when the next project approaches. Please don’t assume that someone else will do it and we don’t need you. We do. For an informal chat please ring Graham on 780935 or email your details to Linda: l.fram@btopenworld.com Thank you.

NEWS CHELMONDISTON PARISH COUNCIL www.chelmondiston.suffolk.gov.uk

We hope you all enjoyed your Christmas and New Year celebrations; how quickly the years pass by. The council has been looking at the budget for 2016 and beyond. We always take very seriously the implications that this will have on the council tax and will be posting information on the website as soon as it has been decided. Remember to recycle your Christmas tree Babergh DC will be collecting real trees from their Collimer Close car park from 6.30am on Monday, January 11. Please don’t include your decorations. Alternatively, for those residents who have a garden waste collection, real trees can be placed beside the brown bins for pick up during the whole of January. Peninsula Community Recycling Centre The site is open on Saturday mornings between 8am and noon. Many of you will have heard that we have secured a grant from Suffolk County Council for a period of two years to help with the running costs of the site. The parish council has been pushing for this for some time. Thank you to all involved and to our MP James Cartlidge for his input. This grant will enable us to keep your contributions to dispose of your rubbish to a minimum and we don’t have to raise prices in the near future. Great news. If you can’t get to the site on a Saturday and you have metal and other materials you would like to bring in, give Alan a call on 01473 780654. Please remember we cannot take televisions. Thank you for your support. Fly-tipping should be reported to Babergh DC: 01473 826622 / environmental.protection@babergh.gov.uk Suffolk Coast and Heaths The parish council applied to be involved with their Scattered Orchard Project and has been accepted. David and John Cordle have very kindly agreed to the council using a piece of land down Pin Mill Road for the orchard and our tree wardens, Lee Foster and Keith Cooper, are going to oversee the scheme. We will be planting apple and pear trees and possibly a nut tree. This will be a community orchard so if anyone is interested in getting involved please get in contact. Dogs on the playing field Although there are signs up saying ‘No Dogs on the Field’ some residents are unfortunately taking no notice and are still walking their dogs there. It is not a park. It is a playing field. We are in the country with plenty of lovely walks. Please use them. Please pick up after your pet; it is an offence not to do so. January parish council meeting: Tuesday, January 19 at 7.30pm in the Methodist Hall Members of the parish council A list can be found on the website and on the noticeboards. Agendas and minutes of meetings can be viewed at: www.chelmondiston.suffolk.gov.uk Fran Sewell, parish council clerk: 01473 780138 / clerk@chelmondistonpc.info

HOLBROOK PARISH COUNCIL Key points from November’s parish council meeting County Councillor David Wood explained the details of the proposed cuts to Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and implored the council to respond to the consultation which may lead to changes to the response to Holbrook and the peninsula. Details can be found at: www.suffolk.gov.uk/emergency-and-rescue/fire-service-redesign/ Councillor Wood noted the Ofsted judgement of ‘Good’ which the academy has recently achieved. He praised the hard work of the headteacher, staff and students in achieving both this improvement and the exam results during the summer. The chairman echoed these sentiments on behalf of the council. Community caretaker An advert has been placed around the village and on the website for a community caretaker to help keep the village free of litter. It is hoped that this trial project will begin in the New Year. Reade Field Councillors reported that there had been no improvement in the amount of dog mess on Reade Field and that many dogs were off their leads. Parents are still not letting their children use the playground because of the dog mess. This was also the case in Reade Road, on the village hall green and on other footpaths around the village. Don’t forget that the parish council has installed and pays to maintain a large number of dog waste bins around the village – please use them. Location of dog bins: • Ipswich Road, just down The Cut • Ipswich Road, footpath entrance next to Garland Cottage • Church Hill, on Church Green opposite Hill Cottage • Fishponds Lane, near the footpath entrance • Five Acres, at the Hyams Lane end just opposite the footpath to Alton Water • Heathfield Road, opposite the surgery • The Street, at the entrance to the community car park near the bowls club • Clifton Wood, opposite number 23 • Petticoat Lane, on the corner of the footpath to Denmark Gardens near the Cabin Club • Woodlands Road, in the layby next to St Mary’s • Harkstead Road, at the Lower Holbrook car park Full minutes can be found at: www.holbrook.onesuffolk.net Questions or comments about parish council matters should be addressed in the first instance to the clerk, Mrs Ferial Rolfe: holbrookparishclerk@outlook.com / 07999 583017

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.

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OUT & ABOUT SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE

SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700

THE BIG QUIZ

The annual general meeting is on Tuesday, January 26 at 7.30pm in the large committee room at the village hall. All are welcome to attend. Annual reports and balance sheets will be available at the meeting. Auction Our first auction of 2016 will take place on Saturday, March 5. Book lots with Jim Catling (788499) or Norman Bugg (787358). Lots can be delivered to the hall on Thursday, March 3: 10am-noon and 2-7pm. Viewing can be carried out on Friday, March 4: 10amnoon and 2-7pm. The doors open at 8.30am on Saturday, March 5, when refreshments will be available.

Where?

SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL

When?

SATURDAY 30th JANUARY

Time?

6.45pm for 7pm

Entry:

£4.00 per person

Lots cost £1 to exhibit. Entry to the auction is free.

ART CLASSES WITH ED COOPER AT HARKSTEAD VILLAGE HALL

If your group would like to be included as one of the teams please ring Pat on 788521 or Allana on 07907841430

NEW YEAR: NEW CRAFT St Michael’s Monthly Morning Market in Woolverstone will be hosting a New YearNew Craft January market the aim of which is to encourage children and families to try a new craft. The stallholders will be offering families the chance to try their creative skills while learning about specific crafts. This offer is open to accompanied children aged five to 14, although interested older folk will not be turned away. So why not start 2016 by trying a new craft? There will be a small charge to cover the cost of materials used while making the works of art. The January market is also a sale market with ‘sale’ items to be found on all the stalls along with the usual local produce, cosmetics, jewellery, cheese, meat, bread, fruit and veg, antiques and plants to name just a few. St Michael’s Monthly Morning Market – Saturday, January 9, 9am12.30pm in St Michael’s Church, Woolverstone IP9 1 AY.

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Cooper Fields Moon over Orwell Tuesday mornings, 9.30am-12.30pm £15 a week or £120 a term / term starts on January 19 Free oil painting demonstration, January 12, 10am-12.30pm Come along to meet Ed and find out about his classes and watch him paint a still life using oils. Ed has been teaching art in and around Ipswich for the last six years. His classes are designed to introduce newcomers to the pleasure and challenges that come from learning to paint and draw. The course will include tuition on learning to draw, understanding tone, still life painting, developing paintings from photographs, colour, composition and capturing light and atmosphere. The class is suitable for those who want an introduction or guidance to painting with either oils or acrylics. Ed recently moved and is now living on the Shotley peninsula where he enjoys painting the skies, open fields and inspiring views of the Orwell and Stour. If you would like to see his work or to talk to him about joining the class please email edcooper76@gmail.com or visit: www.edcooper.org

OUT & ABOUT STOUR VALLEY U3A Recent meetings In place of the usual speaker event in December, we held our Christmas lunch at the Constable Hall and it was much enjoyed by all. Future meetings On Wednesday, January 13 Bryan Thurlow, actor in film and on TV, will speak on Music Hall Memories – a pocket history of music hall featuring songs and monologues. Hear about the artistes, their songs and the many other acts that contributed to the success of British music halls. Meeting venue We meet at the Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 and this entitles members to attend the meetings that take place on the second Wednesday of each month, except August and December. Membership Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. We have a wide range of groups including language study, country walking, computer studies and gardens, churches and historic buildings visits. In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon, and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust, and have more than 200 members and 18 groups. For further information please visit www. stourvalleyu3a.org.uk where membership secretary Val Pretty may be contacted. Remember It’s never too late to learn. Join the 361,477 members in 969 U3As throughout the UK today.

STOUR VALLEY ARTS AND MUSIC Sunday, January 10, 4pm Antara Duo – Rachel Wick (harp) and Tom Hanco (flute) – at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt. Generously supported by the Countess of Munster Musical Trust. Antara is a flute and harp duo based in London and serving the south east of England. Formed in 2007, both Thomas and Rachel were instrumental and academic scholars at the University of Oxford, before graduating with double-firsts. Beyond their recital work, they work for Live Music Now, a charity that brings live music to those who would otherwise rarely, if ever, experience it, and also give educational performances for CAVATINA Chamber Music Trust and the Wigmore Hall. The programme will include Histoire de Tango by Ástor Piazzolla, Debussy’s Syrinx and Fantaisie brillante sûr Carmen by François Borne. Sunday, January 31, 4pm David Owen Norris playing Concert in Piano Trio at St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt Distinguished pianist, broadcaster and musicologist, David Owen Norris will be playing his 1828 Broadwood piano with Camilla Scarlett on the violin and Jonathan Byers on the cello. David has his own inimitable way of presenting information to the audience. They will perform Beethoven’s Archduke Piano Trio in B flat op 97 and Schubert’s Trio no 1 in B flat major, both pieces completed in the last year of the composers’ lives. The season continues with: Saturday, February 20, 7.30pm: Extra event Jazz concert: Beauty of the Bossa Nova with singer Georgia Mancio performing Brazilian jazz at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt Sunday, March 13, 4pm Family Concert with Red Priest, Pirates of the Baroque, at St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt Tickets: weatheralld@btinternet.com / 01206 298426 / www.svam.org.uk

SHOTLEY SOCIAL CLUB (OVER 60s) We hope you all have a peaceful 2016. Due to illness we have two spare tickets for our panto at the New Wolsey Theatre (The Sword in the Stone) on Saturday, January 23, leaving Shotley at 1.30pm. For information, please contact Norman: 787358. Our forthcoming meetings are on Thursdays, January 7 and 21, and February 4, all 1.50-4pm. We have some different outings for 2016 and as soon as we have sorted out the final details we will let you know. New members are always welcome. If you wish to attend a meeting to see what we do, you will be made very welcome. Lifts are always available. For more information please contact Norman and Eileen: 787358

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OUT & ABOUT HI DE HI ACTOR CELEBRATES CONSTABLE COUNTRY WITH NEW DVD A former Hi De Hi actor turned film maker is set to release a DVD celebrating the charm of Constable Country and the local area. David Webb, who with his brother Tony played the twin Yellowcoats in the popular BBC comedy series, has spent the last three years making A Journey through Constable Country… and Around. From the Dedham Vale to the Stour Estuary and from Roman Colchester to medieval Lavenham the video explores towns and villages John Constable would have known and loved and which inspired him to create some of England’s best loved paintings. David, who grew up in Mistley, hopes that his video will appeal not just to the many tourists who visit, but to local people keen to know more about the area in which they live. A Journey through Constable Country… and Around is presented by his daughter and TV journalist, Victoria Lampard. The DVD, priced at £14.99, is available from Co-op stores as well as local tourist centres and independent shops. It can also be obtained directly from David who can be contacted at: webb.springbank@btinternet.com

CHELMONDISTON OVER 60s Happy New Year to all our members, their families and friends. Last year was a very enjoyable one, ending with our Christmas party when Chris Cook and Yvonne Catchpole stepped down as organisers. They were presented with flowers and vouchers and were warmly thanked for all their hard work over many years and their contribution to village life, making Thursday afternoons a place of companionship, comfort and well being for the Over 60s. It’s not goodbye – they will still be coming for their tea and cake. We are taking over this month – hopefully following in their footsteps and maintaining the smooth running of this friendly group. We welcome new members; come along on a Thursday afternoon from 2-4pm in Chelmo Village Hall. Also a big thank you to Wal Kittle for setting out the hall every week and for transport arrangements. Diary date: January 14 – seated exercises by Suffolk Age UK Michele and Michael Rutherford, 01473 780718

SHOTLEY AND EWERTON WI The November meeting started with the AGM. The president, secretary and treasurer gave their reports on what has been a very successful year. Thanks were extended to Barbara Kemp who is standing down after three years during which time she has been an energetic and popular president. Thanks were also extended to Peggy Smith who has decided to retire. Peggy has been on the committee for more than 20 years and for most of this time she has ensured that we always have our tea and biscuits. Barbara then introduced Lyn Higgs as the incoming president.

SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700 CLUB

The AGM closed. There then followed a boisterous beetle drive, tasty nibbles provided by the committee and a raffle.

November draw winners:

Most members entered the competition with a wrapped gift to be given out at the Over 70s party on December 7, and this was won by Danuta.

1. £25 2. £20 3. £15 4. £6 5. £5

130 136 022 049 054

Mrs C Colman Mrs R Amner Mrs L O’Leary Mr N Bugg Ms S Patterson

Our sincere thanks to everyone who supports the 700 Club. New members are always welcome at a cost of £1 a month. To join, contact Norman on 787358. A Happy New Year to everyone.

SHOTLEY WHIST DRIVE Our forthcoming whist drives are on Thursdays, January 14 and 28, both 1.50-4pm. New players are all made welcome and if anyone wishes to come to one of our whist drives please do so. Our whist drives are not professional, just a lovely day with homemade cakes at half time. We do have a lovely and friendly afternoon. Lifts are always available if needed. For further information contact Norman and Eileen: 787358

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The January meeting will be on January 20 at 7.15pm, when Serina Peartree will talk about Aloe Vera. The competition is a succulent plant. You are very welcome to come along or to contact Jo Lee (787311) or Lyn Higgs (788203).

VILLAGE LINK CLUB For our November meeting, Malcolm Clark gave a talk entitled Sound Safari which was based around his hobby of recording bird song in which he played a variety of bird calls demonstrating greetings and warnings. Our next meeting is on January 13 when Stuart Bowells will present a talk on the History of Advertising. Future talks will include: Lady Alice de Breyne, NT Coast of East Anglia, Secrets of the Royal Jewels, Diving in The Galapagos. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall starting at 10am. Following the speaker we have refreshments (when there is time for a chat with other members) and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us. After the August and February meetings, we normally hold a members’ lunch – funds permitting. Roger Felgate, 01473 311684

OUT & ABOUT THE ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL ONE OF THE WORLD’S BEST BANDS COME TO HOLBROOK

A STYLISH ADAPTATION OF HITCHCOCK’S THE LADY VANISHES Pupils at the Royal Hospital School recently put on a stylish rework of the British comic thriller The Lady Vanishes as their end of term play.

The BBC Big Band, widely regarded as one of the world’s leading and most versatile orchestras, will soon be making its way to The Royal Hospital School in Holbrook to perform a workshop and concert with the pupils. Described as “a wonderful band” by the legendary Tony Bennett, the BBC Big Band is hailed as one of the leading performers of the music of the great swing bands, and on Saturday, February 6 they themselves will be in full swing as they put on an evening of music inspired by some of the giants of the 20th century big band scene such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Artie Shaw.

This superb ensemble piece showcased some highly entertaining character roles. Simone Rossouw captured the clipped aristocratic tones of Iris Henderson, while Serena Brown also stood out as the glamorous Mrs Todhunter. For the men, Sam Dixon’s sinister ‘brain surgeon’ and Sam Christmas’s buffoonish young man doing the ‘tour’ of Europe stood out, while Matt Adams as the heroic musicologist, Gilbert, moved deftly through the action, unravelling a conspiracy and getting the girl. The staging cleverly managed the wide variety of locations through the use of a selection of vintage trunks and a range of well-placed ‘silent movie’ style placards.

During the afternoon pupils will have the unique opportunity to take part in a workshop with the band’s musicians, followed by a concert at 7pm in the assembly hall. The band’s lead trombonist, Gordon Campbell, said: “We love the opportunity to work with and hopefully influence the next generation of young musicians, and we as a band see it as an important part of what we do.” Under the direction of their conductor, Barry Forgie, the band has recently performed with stars such as George Benson, Van Morrison and Georgie Fame, and in the past has backed the likes of the late, great Ray Charles. You can be there for this unforgettable evening of swing which is sponsored by Colourplan. To book tickets (£15 / concession £10 / under 18 free) call 01473 433100 or visit: www.ipswichregent.com

1st SAMFORD VALLEY SCOUT GROUP (HOLBROOK) How are your New Year’s resolutions going? Perhaps the pounds are being lost and cigarettes forsaken. Or maybe you haven’t quite settled on what it is you’ll be doing this year to improve yourself or to make life a little better for those around you. Fortunately, help is at hand in the form of Samford Valley Scout Group. We’re based in Holbrook and we have loads of opportunities for adults to put into practise all those aspirations to do better this year. Maybe you were a cub once yourself and want to get stuck into fire lighting, shelter building and hiking again. Or perhaps you’d like to be a little more adventurous: if you have experience of kayaking, sailing, climbing, or anything else that scouts like to do, then we’ve got a job for you too. Maybe admin, logistics or fundraising are more your thing – we do those as well. It doesn’t matter how young or old you are, whether you’re a Bear Grylls clone or a couch potato, Samford Valley has a place for you. January and February, as well as being the Russian Tsars’ favourite

generals, are the months when scouts tend to retreat inside for a spot of badge work in the warm. Beavers will be doing their Skills Challenge badge, covering everything from lighting a candle to inventing a machine; and doing what beavers do best – playing games. Cubs will be working on their World Challenge badge and looking at the stars and the weather. The Scouts plan to celebrate Burns Night in style – they’ll be cooking haggis, neeps and tatties to the strains of a local bagpiper, and later will be practising for their Emergency Aid badge courtesy of Adrian Garnham, Stutton’s First Responder. Lastly, we’d like to say a fond farewell to Akela (Claire Crosbie) and Baloo (Nick Bourne) who both left Samford Valley at the end of last term. They have worked very hard over the years to give the children experiences and adventures that they’ll remember for a lifetime. If you have a son or daughter who would like to join our group, or if you yourself would like to volunteer, please ring Alison on 327691 or contact us via the form at: www.samfordvalley.suffolkscouts.org.uk

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F O C I S U M E H T

GREAT

S D N A B G N I SW ARY, 7PM

“

U R B E F 6 Y A D R U SAT

A WONDERFUL BAND

Tony Bennett

BY FAR THE BEST BAND TO COME OUT OF ENGLAND

“

George Shearing

BBC Big Band Barry Forgie, Conductor The internationally renowned BBC Big Band present an evening of world-class big band music

www.ipswichregent.com | 01473 433100 Sponsored by Colourplan www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley

FULL £15 CONC £10 U18 FREE 17

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OUT & ABOUT ORWELL ACCOUNTANTS Alistair Porter qualified with the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) in June 2012. He started by working evenings and weekends as a sole trader while holding down a full time job as finance manager of a local company. His client base grew steadily and he realised there was potential in running his own practice full time. In December 2014 Orwell Accountants Ltd was incorporated and he started trading full time from his home. The business has gone from strength to strength and on October 1, 2015, Orwell Accountants moved into Basepoint Business Centre in Ipswich. Alistair has found he is more than just an accountant preparing and submitting the annual accounts and tax returns, he acts as a business advisor as well. He specialises in the preparation of business plans, cash-flow forecasts and profit analysis, helping his clients grow their businesses. The services offered by Orwell Accountants cover: • Accounts Preparation • Bookkeeping and VAT returns • Business Start-ups • Business plans and consultancy • Payroll, CIS and auto-enrolment • Personal and Company Tax Returns • Secretarial Services Orwell Accountants are a local, friendly and reliable firm offering flexible working hours as well as providing a professional and personalised service tailored to you and your business. To secure a one-hour free initial consultation to discuss any accountancy issues regarding you and your business contact Alistair today at: alistair@orwellaccountants.co.uk / 01473 413637 / 07885 456180

CHELMONDISTON AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

If you want to know about maritime woodland, winter baskets and containers, creepers, crawlers and

If you are a member of, or a volunteer for, the National Trust, then we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Ropes Hall, Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF. Our next meeting on January 19 sees the return of the popular Mark Mitchels. His talk will be on the Duke of Wellington, ‘the man who saved the world’. On February 16 David Brown will be talking about China – The Land of the Dragon. This illustrated talk will focus on a number of famous and less famous attractions, both ancient and modern, as well as aspects of Chinese history and culture. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome; entrance fee £2 each. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 a year (£12 a couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. Become a member in January and gain the full year’s benefit of membership. You will receive the January newsletter giving full details of the year’s excursions and future talks. For more information contact our membership secretary: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761. www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

CHELMONDISTON WI The committee met on December 1 with our new president, Pat Lakey, and a new secretary, Caroline Giles, to discuss the 2016 programme. 0ur Merry Christmas meeting will have passed by the time this goes to print so we will be looking forward to a busy new year: January 12: Making personal greetings cards with Caroline February 9: Singing Sailors – Sea Shanties and Sea Stories with David Bell

www.orwellaccountants.co.uk.

If you were a member in 2015 you will now know what is New, Different and Unusual, what bulbs you should be planting now, whether plants wear coats, how the flora of Suffolk is changing and how to grow plants in everything from an old kettle to a plastic bottle.

EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION

climbers, companion planting and have all those gardening problems sorted out for you by a panel of show judges, then you need to come to our meeting on January 26 and join for 2016. Good news! Membership will still only cost £5 for the year and even better news, after the formalities of the AGM, which usually lasts all of 15 minutes, there will be a free cheese and wine party. It will be lovely to see existing members back after the Christmas break and we are also looking forward to welcoming new people. Hope to see you all at 7.30pm on January 26 in the village hall. Put it in the diary now.

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March 8: Chelmo WI Birthday Party – we are 90 so there will be some wonderful party food April 12: All About the Sizewell Project with Nicola Corbett – thought provoking stuff! May 10: Toastmaster Brian Russell – memories of riotous weddings and more sober occasions June 14: Timbuktu or Bust on a Scooter – pretty self-explanatory! July 12: Confessions of a Costume Designer with Pauline Baker – some interesting personal secrets of the stars possibly? August 9: Summer food and fun September 13: Gwyneth Harris teaching us to make super key fobs 0ctober 11: A Glimpse of China with Carole Wheatley, an absorbing and funny lady November 8: Annual General Meeting – more food! December 13: Jane Gould and Vivo for a Christmas sing-along We meet in Chelmo Village Hall on the second Tuesday of every month at 7.30pm. New members are always made welcome by our cheery members, so ladies do come along for a taster session in 2016.

HOME SELLERS BEWARE Most of us are aware of the saying ‘let the buyer beware’, but house sellers also need to be vigilant when selecting an agent to market their house. It’s good practice for a seller to invite two or three agents to provide a marketing plan, together with a sales price that the seller should expect to achieve. When the quotes come in it’s tempting to choose the agent with either the highest sales value or the lowest fee. But these are not always the best criteria. Some agents offer to achieve a sale at a price that is above the market expectation. This may seem attractive, but may lead to the seller being tied into a contract of 16 or more weeks. During this time as the house does not sell the agent will gradually seek to bring the price down until it matches the market value and a buyer is found. For the seller this means the sale is delayed and may lead to them losing the house they were hoping to buy. Also if an agent is offering to sell for a low, fixed fee paid in advance the seller can expect to get a service that reflects the price. This may mean there will be a less than detailed advertising with no floor plan and the seller being asked to conduct viewings. The moral of this is that people who want to sell their own houses should use web sites like Rightmove and On the Market so they already have a good idea of what their house is worth and then find a reputable selling agent who is a member of the National Association of Estate Agents.

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OUT & ABOUT / SPORT JOIN US AND FIND OUT WHY 100s ALREADY HAVE Could you spare some time to help with Rainbows, Brownies or Guides? Our volunteers give girls, and themselves, the opportunity to build their confidence, raise their aspirations and have fun. They run activities that give the girls the opportunity to realise their potential, learn new skills and make new friends. There are a lot of ways that you can volunteer with Girlguiding, it’s flexible and can be tailored to fit around your busy lifestyle. No matter how much or how little time you have, every hour counts. Rainbows are girls aged five to seven, Brownies are girls aged seven to 10, Guides are girls aged 10 to 14. If you are interested in volunteering with Girlguiding or if you have a daughter who would like to join, please email our district commissioners on for further help and information: baberghandsamford@gmail.com You may also register your interest online and fill in the details on the Join Us section: www.girlguiding.org.uk

IPSWICH RAVENS VOLLEYBALL December’s six-a-side indoor series tournament gave Ipswich Ravens another chance to pit themselves against the top volleyball clubs around Suffolk and beyond, and put the lessons we have been learning at our training sessions into practise. With a total of eight teams in Division 1 and six in Division 2 this was the biggest tournament yet, a clear sign that the sport is growing in popularity. Our First team were without regular captain Chris Giles and this gave two of our recent recruits the opportunity to make their debuts in Division 1. We began with an excellent win against eventual winners Diss and finished overall third with three wins from five games. DIVISION 1 RESULTS Ipswich Ravens 20-15 Diss; Ipswich II 20-17 Ipswich Ravens; Stowmarket II 16-20 Ipswich Ravens; Ipswich Ravens 18-20 Norwich Towers; Ipswich Ravens 20-11 Bury Bobcats. DIV 1 Diss Ipswich II Ipswich Ravens Ipswich I Norwich Towers Bury Bobcats Stowmarket III

Wins 4 4 3 3 2 1 0

Pts For 95 86 95 95 73 65 73

Pts Agst 65 77 82 82 93 93 100

Later in Division 2 we were able to give a first tournament experience to two of our new juniors as part of an eight-player squad. They fitted into the team well and contributed creditable performances, helping us towards two victories out of three games, also finishing third overall. Members’ boats have been safely brought ashore and covered for the winter so… what to do now? Well, the winter entertainment starts and having limbered up with fish and chips from our local chippie, washed down with beer (and for posher folk, Prosecco), the one and only, home-grown High Water Mark, with a little help from friends, entertained the club in their inimitable style. Where else but Pin Mill to hear shanties, sea songs and folk songs from some very talented people?

DIVISION 2 RESULTS SCC Seagulls 3-20 Ravens II; Bury Bobcats II 20-6 Ravens II; Alexanders Dragons 16-20 Ravens II. Why not start the new year by giving volleyball a try yourself? It’s a lively team sport, it will help with your fitness and coordination, and it’s a lot more fun than going to the gym. Ipswich Ravens hold club practise sessions every Saturday from 2-4pm at St Alban’s School, Rushmere. We are actively seeking new members and will welcome anyone male or female, experienced or complete beginner, and any age from 11 upwards. We have qualified coaches who run the sessions with a mixture of training drills and friendly games. If you are interested in joining this growing sport, call/text 07508 351875 or visit: www.ipswichravens.org.uk

Is January going to be an anti-climax? Most likely not. The new year is being brought in with the help of some Thai cuisine, brains will be taxed on a mid-January quiz night, and Robbie Burns will be toasted on January 23. Any excuse for a bash! Watch this space for more action and entertainment! www.pmsc.org.uk / Facebook: PMSCSocial

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ON THE GRAPEVINE TREATING HEARING LOSS CAN HELP KEEP YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS By Karen Finch, audiologist and managing director of The Hearing Care Centre

Every New Year brings with it a sense of renewal. For many, this renewal may include New Year’s resolutions pledging that the next year will prove better than the last. The challenge is not making these resolutions, but making sure they don’t melt away with the snow as winter turns to spring.

need to make new friends and experience new adventures in the coming year. Have you always wanted to volunteer with an organisation or join a club but have been too self-conscious about your hearing loss? Don’t let apprehension and worry keep you from meeting new people and enjoying all the sights and sounds that the world has to offer.

Some common resolutions might include reducing stress levels, staying in touch more regularly with family and friends, and being more socially involved. For those who struggle with hearing loss, keeping these and other perennial resolutions may prove challenging. Here are a few examples of how treating your hearing loss in the New Year can help you achieve your resolutions and improve your life.

Starting a new hobby Starting a new hobby, whether by yourself or in a group setting, can be both challenging and entertaining. If you would like to learn how to play a new instrument and want to better hear the notes, or if you are taking a class at your local college and want to be able to contribute to the discussion without feeling nervous, having the confidence to address your hearing issues can lead to new talents and friends.

Reducing stress Staying stress free in the New Year may seem like an insurmountable task, but we can all do a few things to make sure stress doesn’t dominate our lives. Hearing-related stress can present itself in everyday situations with the potential to significantly increase your overall stress level. If you have become nervous to speak up when clarifying what was said in a conversation, or avoid loud places for fear of being cut from the conversation, it may be time to address your hearing issues. Finding a solution could help you reduce some of your daily stress. Staying in touch with family and friends Staying connected with family and friends is difficult whether loved ones are spread across the country or live just around the corner. If keeping in touch with the important people in your life tops your list of resolutions, addressing your hearing concerns may be a step in the right direction. Being able to communicate with family and friends without worrying about what was said by a loved one over the phone, on Skype, or faceto-face is of the utmost importance. Not only does it put your mind at ease, it makes conversations with loved ones that much easier. Branching out Hearing loss may hinder you from branching out and meeting new people. If you are nervous to extend your social circle because of your hearing loss, addressing the issue in the New Year could be the push you

Taking action If any of the above scenarios resonate with you, your hearing loss could be a barrier to accomplishing your resolutions. It may be time to add another resolution to the list: book a hearing assessment. Seeking help, advice and ultimately treating your hearing loss will benefit not only your physical health but your mental and social health as well. Placing priority on your hearing health will not only help you to achieve your New Year’s resolutions, but will give you a renewed confidence in your hearing and social life. Invest in your hearing. Invest in yourself. Karen Finch is the Managing Director and lead audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre in Ipswich. The multi-award winning, family-run company has 20 centres across Suffolk and Norfolk. To encourage those affected by this article to take the first step, Karen and her team have organised a series of special open day events at their practice in Ipswich between Wednesday, January 27 and Friday 29. They are offering free hearing assessments and professional advice in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. To book an appointment please call 01473 230330.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE MAKE A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION TO WRITE YOUR WILL IN 2016 Age UK Suffolk is organising a Will Month during February 2016 and have invited solicitors in Suffolk to offer a free will writing service for a donation to the charity. The scheme in association with the East Anglian Daily Times aims to raise awareness of the importance of making a will. Over two thirds of people in the UK do not have a will! As a new year approaches there has never been a better time to make sure you are prepared for the future. Older people are living longer and care needs, lasting power of attorney, second marriages, extended families, civil partnerships, funeral costs, inheritance tax all need to be addressed. Planning for later life is essential and making a will is so important to avoid many complications and extra costs and to ensure your beneficiaries are protected and you will have peace of mind knowing your wishes will be fulfilled. A basic single or mirror will is being offered for a suggested donation to Age UK Suffolk and the following solicitors are taking part: Goodwin Cowley Solicitors, Fosters Solicitors, Atkins Thomson Solicitors, Gross & Co Solicitors, Jackamans Solicitors, Norton Peskett Solicitors, Petersfields LLP Solicitors, Ellisons Solicitors, Watkins Stewart & Ross Solicitors, Christchurch Solicitors LLP, Michael Smith & Co Solicitors, Bates Wells & Braithwaite Solicitors, Blocks Solicitors, Haywards Solicitors and Fairweather Stephenson & Co Solicitors. Age UK Suffolk rely on legacies and donations, particularly as they are suffering major cuts in funding from statutory sources and will need to fundraise for almost 75% of the cos ts of its services in the future. For more information contact Maggie James – 01473 359911 / maggie. james@ageuksuffolk.org – or visit: www.ageuksuffolk.org

Will month

February 2016

NOW RECRUITING SALES & MARKETING MANAGER Responsible for advertising sales, account management, business development and sales team and portfolio management for Mansion House Publishing, Colourplan Print, Boswell Office Supplies and Musical Marketing. The key tasks include: •

Responsible for managing and developing an experienced sales team, with a requirement to establish targets and objectives and to motivate staff, develop new business opportunities and revenue streams and to deliver projects successfully.

•

Working closely with the MD to devise and implement marketing strategies (including digital), increasing sales through marketing and reporting on marketing success.

Applicants must have several years of senior media sales experience, ideally within a publishing environment, a proven track record of hitting and exceeding sales targets and excellent experience of managing and motivating sales people. We are looking for a candidate who can deal professionally with high level clients. The ideal candidate will have experience of successfully developing large accounts and also experience of new business development. Furthermore, we would expect the candidate to have a desire to be a real leader in driving team success.

MAGAZINE DESIGNER / LAYOUT

Over two thirds of people in the UK do not have a will. Are you one of them? If you would like to take up the offer to make a Will for a donation to Age UK Suffolk please contact 01473 359911 to request the details of all participating solicitors, or email: maggie.james@ageuksuffolk.org

Alternatively, do visit our website: www.ageuksuffolk.org • Choose your solicitor • Make your donation to Age UK Suffolk • Write your Will with your chosen solicitor

An experienced print and magazine designer / layout to join our small and very busy team. You will need to be skilled in page layout, InDesign, Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator with proven ability to make design judgements in relation to page layout and at least three years experience working in print or publishing design. You will need to work effectively and efficiently under pressure, have a keen eye for detail, natural creative flair and possess strong communication and teamwork skills.

For full details including how to apply please visit: www.grapevinelive.co.uk/category/jobs

MAGAZINE DELIVERERS NEEDED FOR CHELMONDISTON, HOLBROOK & STUTTON Join our delivery crew and earn some extra money every month.

In association with

Various routes available. Deliveries start from the 25th of the month (or earlier) and must be completed within five days, day or evening. For details including routes and rates please contact Tree Martin: tree@intouchnews.co.uk / 01473 400380

Supported by Registered charity no. 1085900

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11/15

CHURCH NEWS QUESTIONS ON CASH with Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb Sue from Woodbridge asks: “My husband and I have a whole of life insurance policy with Scottish Provident with a sum assured of £80,000 payable if either of us dies. For the last 10 years we have paid a premium of just over £29 a month, but they have just written to us to say that following a 10 year review, this will increase to £66 a month. My husband says there is no point in looking around for a better deal, as we are 10 years older than we were when we took the policy out, so all insurance companies will charge about the same premium for that level of cover. Is that true?” Not necessarily Sue. If you do some shopping around before you accept the increase, you could save yourselves a lot of money. A whole of life policy runs until you die or until you cancel the policy. At outset the insurance company calculates how much they need to charge you in order to provide a set level of cover if you die. This calculation is based upon your age, health, lifestyle, and your job, as all these factors will influence the risk. Unless you have a policy with guaranteed or fixed premiums, most whole of life policies are reviewed after 10 years, and again every five years after that. Your husband is right to say that the premium will cost you more now because you are 10 years older, but it’s definitely worth shopping around for a better deal. Not all companies apply the same rates for a new policy as they do for an existing policy after it has been in force for a few years. A few months ago I saw a couple who had a whole of life plan with Aviva with a sum assured of £70,000. At the 10-year review point, Aviva wrote to them to tell them that the premium would increase from £24.31 a month to £114.51 if they wished to maintain the same level of cover. That was an increase of 375%! I did some shopping around and found them a similar whole of life policy with Canada Life International with the same sum assured. The premium for this plan was £32.60 a month, which was again guaranteed for another initial period of 10 years. Obviously, these clients will face another potential premium increase after 10 years have elapsed, but switching the policy means they will have saved over £9,800 in premiums over that 10-year period for the same level of cover.

TWO RIVERS BENEFICE ST PETER’S CHURCH, STUTTON 8am Holy Communion 10.30am Worship for All at Stutton Primary School January 10 9.30am Holy Communion January 17 9.30am Holy Communion January 24 9.30am Informal Service January 31 See Freston for Benefice Service January 3

ALL SAINTS CHURCH, HOLBROOK January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 January 31

9.30am Holy Communion 9.30am Matins 8.30am Holy Communion 9.30am Informal Service 9.30am Holy Communion See Freston for Benefice Service

ST MARY’S CHURCH, WHERSTEAD January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 January 31

No Service 11am Holy Communion No Service 11am Holy Communion See Freston for Benefice Service

ST PETER’S CHURCH, FRESTON January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 January 31

11am No Service 11am No Service 11am

Matins Holy Communion Benefice Service. All Welcome.

ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH, WOOLVERSTONE January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 January 31

11am Café Church 11am Holy Communion 11am Matins 11am Worship the Woolverstone Way See Freston for Benefice Service

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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CHURCH NEWS

CHELMONDISTON AND HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES WHAT LIES BENEATH THE SURFACE? The sinking of the Titanic over 100 years ago reminds us that what you see of an iceberg is only the tip. About 90% of the iceberg is hidden beneath the water. I think the same is true for people. A large percentage of our lives is very private and only a few know us intimately. Often people will label us with a particular characteristic, a sad person, or a happy person. Sometimes it could be an activity we are involved in, an outdoor type or a TV couch potato. Sometimes the label we put on someone reflects our own insecurities or prejudices. As a child, my brother and I would play in the front garden. An old lady regularly walked down the pavement and stopped to look over the low wall into our garden where we had disappeared into the hydrangea bushes to hide. She called out: “where are the shy boys?”. I think for the most part we remained hidden, but we named her “the shy lady”. We reflected back to her the label she had given us, but she was far from shy. I hate it when people put a label on me because it may reflect a part of me, the 10% bit that is above water that people see, but there is more to me than this 10% as in the iceberg. I’m a complex being. Probably my wife and family know me best and they continue to love me. Then there are those small groups and individuals that I am part of where together we share what’s happening in our lives and pray and support each other in good and difficult times. It’s a place where people listen to me and I listen to them. It’s a place where we can belong. In the first church we went to after our marriage, in my mind I labelled the people who attended as ‘holy people’ and I now realise that we had pretended to be holy too! After a year we started small home groups for those who wanted and I began to discover real people like myself, people who sometimes made mistakes, found it difficult to pray and got angry for selfish reasons. In this environment we felt wanted and loved despite our imperfections. In four of my churches we run what is called Messy Church, an informal gathering of families, with craft activities, games, celebrations and food. Recently after one such Messy Church when we had baptised three children, the mother wrote: “it was such a joy to be welcomed in and I really feel we have a place now.” I was thrilled at this response and sense of belonging. When we belong, we are comfortable in each other’s company

and can be our real selves, not having to live up to other people’s expectations or putting on a mask. Then we can flourish as a person in acceptance and love. More to follow on this next month. The Rev Andrew Sankey Minister at Chelmondiston, Holbrook & Capel Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07726 299968

CHELMONDISTON METHODIST Sunday 3 Sunday 10 Sunday 17 Sunday 24 Sunday 31

10.45am Worship with Mr Mike Castle 6.15pm Worship and Communion with The Rev Andrew Sankey 10.45am Worship with The Rev Jo Jacobs 6.15pm Worship with Mike Ayden 10.45am Worship with The Rev Andrew Sankey 6.15pm Worship with The Rev Michael Allen 10.45am Worship with Mr Bob Molten 6.15pm Worship with The Rev Andrew Sankey 10.45am Worship with Mrs Margaret Brock 6.15pm Worship with The Rev Derek Grimshaw

HOLBROOK METHODIST Saturday 2 10-11.30am Sunday 3 10am Sunday 10 10am Sunday 17 10am Sunday 24 10am Sunday 31 10am 5pm

Coffee morning Worship with Paul Walker Covenant service with The Rev Andrew Sankey Worship with Brian Clow United Service at CoE – Worship with Colin Westren Worship with The Rev Glyn Jones Something Different café style with The Rev Andrew Sankey

Please see the noticeboard on the front of the chapel for all events in January. For more information about Messy Church, Tiddlers and Family Live, contact Alicia Holmes: ajnholmes@gmail.com / 01473 658478

SHORELINE BENEFICE ST ANDREW’S CHURCH, CHELMONDISTON

ST MARY’S CHURCH, HARKSTEAD

ST MARY’S CHURCH, ERWARTON

ST MARY’S CHURCH, SHOTLEY

January 3 9.15am January 10 9.15am January 17 9.15am January 24 9.30am January 31 11am January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 January 31

11am 11am 11am 11am 11am

Holy Communion Holy Communion Holy Communion Family Service Benefice Holy Communion at Erwarton Matins Holy Communion Holy Communion Family Service Benefice Holy Communion

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January 3 9.30am January 10 9.30am January 17 9.30am January 24 9.30am January 31 11am

January 3 10.45am January 10 10.45am January 17 10.45am January 24 10.45am January 31 11am

Holy Communion Morning Prayer Holy Communion Holy Communion Benefice Holy Communion at Erwarton Worship for All Holy Communion Worship for All Holy Communion Benefice Holy Communion at Erwarton

CHURCH NEWS HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH, BRANTHAM Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB

Parish priest: Fr Christopher Smith, 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ / 01473 684963 We are part of St Mark’s RC Parish, Ipswich. For all up-to-date information please visit: www.stmarksparish.org.uk The weekly newsletter is displayed in the cabinet alongside the church front door. Services for January Sunday 3 9am Mass – The Epiphany of the Lord Tuesday 5

9.30am 10am

Morning Prayer Mass

Sunday 10

9am

Mass – The Baptism of the Lord

Tuesday 12

9.20am 10am

Eucharistic Adoration Mass

Sunday 17 9am Tuesday 19

9.30am 10am

Mass – Second Sunday in Ordinary Time / Children’s Liturgy Morning Prayer Mass

Sunday 24 9am Mass – Third Sunday of Ordinary Time Tuesday 26

9.30am 10am

Sunday 31 9am

Morning Prayer Mass Mass – Fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time

Catholic Commentary – Pope Francis’ Top 10 Secrets To Happiness

Live and let live

Be giving of yourself to others

Proceed calmly in life

A healthy sense of leisure

Sundays should be holidays

Create dignified jobs for young people

Respect and take care of nature

Stop being negative

Don’t proselytise; respect others’ beliefs

10. Work for peace Diary Dates Every last Thursday of the month a bring and buy coffee morning takes place at Viv and Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am-noon. We are raising funds for the parish room refurbishment. All are very welcome to join us. The next event is on Thursday, January 28. 100 Club, now renamed the 200 Club As we continue to grow and now have 134 numbers taken the club has been renamed. We welcome new members to the club, set up to raise much need funds to support the life and mission of our parish. Already a member, then why not take out another number? Application forms may be found at the back of the church or on the parish website (www.stmarksparish.org.uk). The next monthly draw is planned to take place at Holy Family after Sunday mass when the prize pool will be £133. Children’s Liturgy Children are very welcome to join the Liturgy of the Word that takes place on the third Sunday of each month. Supporting our local hospice All parishioners are being asked to collect used postage stamps, all year, not just at Christmas and place them in the box at the rear of the church to help support the outstanding work of our local hospice. Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital Father Adrian Gates is the Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital (01473 726701). Please phone him if you or a Catholic is in or due to go into hospital and requires his services. All are very welcome at Holy Family, Brantham All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services, it is not necessary to be a Catholic and enquiries about the Catholic faith are always welcome. Please contact the presbytery, as above, or a local person whom you know is a Catholic.

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