In Touch with Shotley - November 2015

In Touch

™ ™ ©© ™©

with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone Volume 5 • Issue No. 12 • NOVEMBER 2015

Image by Svetlana Sewell www.fotobay.co.uk

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In Touch online:

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I was privileged to join the celebrations in Shotley on Friday, October 9 when it seemed as if every local resident was present to celebrate winning Babergh and Suffolk Village of the Year. You’ll find a full report on page 4, but I’d like to express my delight at finding myself in the middle of a really joyous occasion, with everyone wearing hats and having a good old time socialising together. In fact I felt right at home, but then the Irish love a good party. No Guinness though!

I met so many lovely people and have been invited to return for a full tour, an offer I will be taking up very soon. Events such as this, and the award itself, confirm everything I believe about community. Yes we live in a ‘smaller’ world these days but living in a community such as Shotley, or indeed any village or town in Suffolk, provides a sense of wellbeing and security which can only be experienced within geographic confines, amongst neighbours and friends who share our day-to-day experiences and who we know we can rely on in times of need. I left Shotley that evening grateful that my life has brought me to this part of the world and happy in the knowledge that community engagement is alive and well, thriving in fact.

Well done to everyone in Shotley and to the many, many people in Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton and Woolverstone who do their bit to cultivate and nurture community engagement. The Father Christmas deliveries in Holbrook and Shotley are an ideal example. I love this idea.

You truly are an inspiration and I’m proud to showcase your achievements and to support your efforts.

In Touch

with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone

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SUFFOLK LINK BUZABOUT In last month’s edition we incorrectly stated that the Suffolk Link Buzabout service was free to valid concessionary pass holders between 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday and all day Sunday.

The service is actually free to valid concessionary pass holders between 9.30am and 7pm Monday to Friday and all day Saturday.

Requests for bookings can be made up to seven days in advance.

Call 01473 345353 between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Closed public holidays. Suffolk Link Buzabout is operated by Suffolk Acre and is supported by Suffolk County Council.

Use it to go to the local shops and pubs (including Manningtree), to the doctors or to see friends on Shotley Peninsula, or to connect with a train or bus at Ipswich/Manningtree stations. The area served covers Capel St Mary, Copdock, Belstead, Stratford St Mary, East Bergholt, Brantham, Cattawade, Bentley, Tattingstone, Freston, Stutton, Holbrook, Harkstead, Erwarton, Woolverstone, Chelmondiston, Shotley and Shotley Gate.

FATHER CHRISTMAS DELIVERIES IN HOLBROOK

If you would like your children to receive a present from Father Christmas on Christmas morning please leave a small, clearly labelled present with you child’s name and address with Millie Gilson at 11 Gifford Close (01483 327016) by Monday, December 21.

IN SHOTLEY

Once again Father Christmas will deliver presents on Christmas morning. Presents with the child’s name and address need to be delivered to Shotley Rose by December 22. Presents should be no bigger than 25cms (10 inches) x 20cms (8in) x 5cms (2in). We do ask for a donation of £1 minimum a present which is given to Kidzone.

Bramford, Somersham & Offton

Advertising: Julie Mullett Email: julie@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380

NEWS

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Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St Martin Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone Kesgrave & Rushmere Gt. & Lt. Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead Woodbridge & Melton

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NEWS CELEBRATIONS IN SHOTLEY “can do, will do” attitude prevailed and the hard work and dedication by so many people over a long period of time culminated in Shotley winning the award it had never previously entered. Councillor Davis also said the awards were just the beginning of a new era for Shotley, and how important it was to build on this positivity for future generations.

Shotley celebrated winning both Babergh and Suffolk Village of the Year when 200 jubilant villagers partied into the night on October 9.

Geraint Pugh accepted the award on behalf of Shotley after Suffolk Association of Local Councils (SALC) chairman John Williams described how tough the competition was with Shotley pipping Grundisburgh and West Row for the Suffolk title.

Mr Pugh, who co-ordinated the entry which involved more than 40 community groups, the Scouts, Kidzone, and HMS Ganges Museum, hailed the army of volunteers who helped make Shotley such an inviting and welcoming village to live and visit.

Suffolk County Councillor David Wood spoke of the success the peninsula has had in winning the award and congratulated Shotley for the work it had done, particularly in improving the footpaths and Heritage Park.

Adnams supplied a firkin of ale, while the centrepiece of the party was a magnificent cake created by the Outrageous Cake Company bedecked with many symbols and logos representing Shotley. Bristol Arms landlord Shane Rolin was on hand to serve up the magnificent Hog Roast he had donated, while Shotley Rose landlady supplied drinks and the partygoers also pulled together to provide a mountain of food.

Nick Ridley, chairman of Babergh District Council, praised Long Melford and Stoke by Nayland, who were runners up in the Babergh competition and hailed Shotley for its outstanding community spirit and uniqueness.

Shotley also took the award for Suffolk County Council Open Spaces, with Anita Seymour making the presentation of £100 and a certificate.

Shotley was also recently, as part of the IP9 post code, named as the 18th best place in England and Wales to raise a family (see below).

District Councillor Derek Davis told the large gathering how a positive

The awards were sponsored by BBC Radio Suffolk, Adnams, Suffolk Magazine, UK Power Networks and the EADT.

THE ACCOLADES KEEP ON COMING FOR SHOTLEY...

Shotley Gate has been rated as the 18th best place in England and Wales to raise a family.

Research conducted by financial firm OneFamily used a variety of factors, including schools, low crime rate and average salaries to form the judgement.

Wokingham in Berkshire came top of the poll, with the Somerset village of Winscombe second.

Derek Davis, Shotley Gate resident and Babergh District Councillor said: “Yet again Shotley Gate has been recognised as a wonderful place to live. I know many parents in Shotley who just love this area and already know the benefits of bringing up children here.

“This area is the epitome of healthy living with its walks, cycle routes, and wonderful sense of community with everyone looking to get on with each other. It is safe and secure for children and parents can give their children the best of choices.

“From our excellent primary school to the numerous activities, and of course natural attractions like the foreshore, Heritage Wood and picnic area, playing areas and the river for sailing with Shotley Sailing Club putting on lessons, Shotley Rangers football teams and the scouts, cubs and beavers, we really are fortunate.”

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Here are the top 20 places to raise a family: 1.

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Wokingham, Berkshire Winscombe, Somerset Faringdon, Oxfordshire Oakham, Rutland Lower Earley, Berkshire Longridge, Lancashire Shebbear, Devon St Bees, Cumbria Middlewich, Cheshire Cheadle, Staffordshire Carterton, Oxfordshire Cullompton, Devon Clitheroe, Lancashire Crediton, Devon Fleet, Hampshire Colyton, Devon Bury, Lancashire Shotley Gate, Suffolk Driffield, Yorkshire Burscough, Lancashire

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley

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NEWS Gordon Brown and his family would like to thank all of his family, friends and people in the community for their help, support and best wishes during the illness and then the passing of his dear wife (of 56 years) Beryl.

Thank you for all the cards, good wishes, flowers and donations to the chosen charities

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

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

2015 SHOEBOX APPEAL A message from the volunteers at Woodview Nurseries, Bentley IP9 2DG Thank you once again to everyone who helped with the 2014 shoebox appeal. We were able to process and send 13,000 gift boxes from the Ipswich area to needy children in Eastern Europe.

This year’s appeal is now underway.

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

Contents could include: • Pencils, crayons, chalk, notebooks and colouring books • Soft toys with CE label, puppets, dolls, small games, children’s playing cards, balls, skipping ropes, toy cars, jigsaws, whistles, mouth organs • Soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste, flannels or sponges, combs • Hats, gloves, hair slides and beads • Sweets with a long date but not chocolate as it doesn’t travel well We would appreciate a £3 donation towards transport. This can be cash or a cheque inside the box or a payment online through the Samaritans Purse website. Please use an elastic band to secure the box until we check and tape it up.

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

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

So will you join us in supporting The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter again this year when we open our doors to some of the most vulnerable people of Ipswich? Ipswich Winter Night Shelter works alongside The Ipswich Locality Homelessness Partnership to encourage homeless people to regain their self-esteem and gain help and advice to restore their lives.

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

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

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

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

If you can offer financial support to these vital projects please contact 07900 073721 / info@iwns.org.uk or for any other queries visit: www.iwns.org.uk The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter is running from December 2 to March 13. Particular help is needed for the night (10pm-7am) and morning (6.45-9am) shifts.

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NEWS HOLBROOK PARISH COUNCIL Summary of main points from the parish council meeting, September 21 Reade Field

Training days

Quotes are being obtained for the replacement of the pavilion roof. The amounts involved may require that the council has to use reserves to pay for the works. It was discussed whether this should go ahead given that there is an aspiration to replace the pavilion in the relatively near future. This will be further discussed when the third quote has been received.

Our next training afternoons will be on Thursday, November 12 and Wednesday, December 9, 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.

Community Action Suffolk Survey

Thank you to Stutton Support Network that provides transport, for a small fee, to and from the surgery for those who are unable to get to us. They are also able to bring prescription requests and support residents in many other ways. Please contact them on 01473 327753.

The chair led a discussion about the parish council’s response to the CAS survey question about priority concerns. The most serious concerns were: the traffic in The Street, better broadband for all, maintenance and improvement of the Buzabout and commercial bus services and the replacement of the Reade Field pavilion.

Capacity at the surgery, the need for population increase to be gradual, the lack of land available for expansion, stable economic growth and maintaining the low crime rate were also concerns.

Community Emergency Plan Councillor Meekings has reviewed Holbrook’s plan and this will be placed on the website.

Full minutes are available at: www.holbrook.onesuffolk.net Other parish matters Clubs, societies and local businesses are invited to contact the clerk if they would like to publicise any events or information on the village website.

Any enquiries to the clerk, Mrs Ferial Rolfe via holbrookparishclerk@outlook.com or leave a message at 07999 583017.

CHELMONDISTON PARISH COUNCIL Broadband or lack of: www.betterbroadbandsuffolk.com Several members of the parish council met with James Cartlidge MP in September to discuss the roll-out plan. James contacted the programme manager at Suffolk County Council who has responded. To upgrade the village they will need to build a new green cabinet(s) and then reroute the existing telephone lines onto this new cabinet(s). It is possible but complex to undertake, apparently. However, they are trialling some new technology in the county that may be beneficial. Chelmondiston is included within the second contract with BT and new cabinets will be built in the area. The timescale is 2017. Suffolk County Council have committed that by 2020 everyone, across the county, will have superfast broadband. The full response can be found on the Chelmondiston website.

Peninsula Community Recycling Centre A reminder that the site is open on Saturday mornings, 8am-noon, thanks to our volunteers who keep it going. If you can't get to the site on a Saturday and you have metal and other materials you would like to bring in, then give Alan a call on 01473 780654. Please don't put duvets, pillows or soiled materials in the textile bank, and please no cardboard in the paper bank. Thank you for your support.

Any fly-tipping should be reported to Babergh DC: 01473 826622 / environmental.protection@babergh.gov.uk

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NEWS FROM HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY

Stutton Support Network

Flu day feedback: Our first flu day on September 30 saw a nice steady flow of patients receiving their vaccinations. The weather was warm and patients went through quite quickly. We gave 329 flu vaccinations and 26 pneumococcal vaccinations on the day and also gave out a large number of friends and family test feedback forms. I’m pleased to say we had all positive comments about our service. As always, if you haven’t had such a good experience, we would prefer to deal with this immediately so please contact reception and ask to speak to me.

Stockpiling drugs: please only order the drugs that you need as unused medications cost the NHS an estimated £300million a year.

These drugs cannot be re-used and have to be destroyed safely. We have been collecting unused medication at Shotley for the last six months and will be having a Christmas competition to guess how much this has cost our surgery.

Practice Manager Julia Smith

Funding for 2016-17 The parish council is always willing to consider funding to local groups.

If your group is in need of funding you will find information and an application form on the website under Parish Council – Finance.

Applications should be received by the end of November as the budget for 2016-17 is considered at the December and January parish council meetings.

HELP NEEDED We are still looking for someone to take over grass cutting around the bus stops and general gardening around the village hall. For further details, please get in touch with the clerk.

Council meetings First Tuesday of every month, with planning meetings held every three weeks (if applications are received). Everyone is welcome to attend and if you have any issues that you would like raised or help with, please get in touch.

Members of the parish council A list can be found on the website and on the noticeboards.

Fran Sewell, clerk to Chelmondiston Parish Council: 01473 780138 / clerk@chelmondistonpc.info www.chelmondiston.suffolk.gov.uk

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NEWS TRIANON CONCERT AT ST ANDREWS RAISES £563 The concert on October 3 was a great success with more than 70 people attending a lively concert with a mixture of songs and music.

My grateful thanks to all who joined us and to all those who helped out with supplying tea, sandwiches and cakes for the performers and the interval refreshments, and of course for help with the advertising,

setting up and clearing up afterwards, not forgetting the moral support!

We collected £563 during the evening – a wonderful result.

With thanks again Dilly Ridge

REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: OCTOBER 2015 Babergh District Councillor, Alastair McCraw Now that I feel more or less settled in this role, it seems time to go into print. It’s impossible to cover everything taking place within a council and I give a monthly report at parish council meetings, but this might highlight a few areas.

DEVOLUTION FOR SUFFOLK? Suffolk were encouraged to come up with a bid for September and duly did so. However this was promptly marked ‘Return to Sender’ with the suggestion that it was not ambitious enough and perhaps we’d like to talk to Norfolk about a joint bid. Exploratory discussions are taking place, but what it will mean in practical terms for us all is anybody’s guess. I fear, though, that whatever group, or individual, ends up running this (whatever it turns out to be) will not have much room for any alternative viewpoints. Personally I find that a little worrying. Localism or devolution that increasingly looks less local isn’t really localism at all.

Find out more at: http://tinyurl.com/q7hkn93 2016/17 All councils are waiting to see what proposals are made in the autumn

spending review later this month (November 25). This will allow us to make our forward planning for the forthcoming year, and hopefully some medium term planning as well. One thing is certain, money will still be tight and the council will be looking for ways to use what it has more efficiently. Babergh/Mid Suffolk in particular has developed a Treasury Management Strategy which looks to cover any shortfalls with the continuing reductions in central government support. None of this is very exciting to most of you, but it lies at the heart of every service the council provides.

Minutes and reports of council meetings can be found at: http://bdcdocuments.onesuffolk.net/council/ COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS The 2016 Award Nomination process has started, sponsored this year by the East of England Co-op. We all know of unsung heroes, individuals (young and older), groups and businesses who quietly get on with helping others, often year after year. This is their chance for recognition, and yours to nominate them. The closing date is noon on December 21, 2015: http://tinyurl.com/ozluewu alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk / 07812 564188 Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (an open group)

PIN MILL BAY MANAGEMENT COMMUNITY INTEREST COMPANY Pin Mill has undergone some changes during the past five years. The old wrecks of discarded fishing boats and rotting hulks have disappeared and we now have a hard that can be used by our visiting sailors and Thames Barge skippers. Pin Mill is the only public hard on the river and therefore it had been almost impossible to do anything about the people who chose to discard their old derelict boats and other rubbish on the hard.

Babergh District Council, Chelmondiston Parish Council and other local organisations were becoming more and more concerned about the state of the hard and in response to this Babergh District Council set up a task group to look at the growing problem. Membership of the Pin Mill Task Group was extensive and included all organisations that had an interest in Pin Mill, the river and the barge and boating community.

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After some years of discussion and consideration of how to resolve the problems and to encourage more use of the hard by the Thames Barges, it was decided to set up a company to manage the hard. The Pin Mill Bay Management Community Interest Company was established in 2010. The company includes representatives from Babergh District Council, Chelmondiston Parish Council, the Pin Mill Society, Pin Mill Sailing Club, a local independent business representative, both boatyards, a Pin Mill resident, a Pin Mill houseboat representative and two representatives from Thames Sailing Barge associations.

The Pin Mill Bay Management Community Company is only responsible for the area known as the hard. However, the company does carry out a separate role for Babergh District Council. Pin Mill car park is the only pay and display car park on the peninsula and the company has taken on the role of car park

warden, monitoring the parking and issuing penalty notices on behalf of the council. The company receives a fee to carry out this work. It does not receive the parking fines and does not monitor the residents’ car park or receive the income from the resident parking permits. This arrangement ensures an additional income for the company to supplement the income from use of the hard and jetty.

Pin Mill has been returned to what it was, a working hard for local boatyards, local sailors and our visiting yachtsmen. There is improved provision for scrubbing off with new scrubbing posts. Barge blocks were constructed to enable larger vessels to be maintained below the waterline.

For information on the Pin Mill Bay Management Community Interest Company and a fuller story on the history of the company, visit: htpp:/pinmillhard.info

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NEWS SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE

STUTTON SUPPORT NETWORK

The committee welcomes everyone to use the grass area around the hall. Many current users are young children from Kidzone, the primary school and the cubs, beavers and scouts.

Stutton Support Network’s AGM (our village’s ‘good neighbour scheme’) was held at the beginning of September, towards the end of a very successful first year. We have 30 volunteers, all DBS checked, who have between them enabled us to respond to more than 120 requests.

We are happy for people to walk dogs on the grass but ask for all fouling to be cleaned up as the mess can be a health hazard.

Failure to observe this legal requirement can result in a fine. So owners, please clean up everywhere and avoid problems.

Three out of every four requests are for transport – to the hospital, dentist, GP surgery, bank, hairdressers or shopping. Ipswich Hospital provides car park permits for volunteers so that lifts to hospital do not incur car parking costs. Other requests include shopping, collecting prescriptions, help with letters from banks or utility companies, taking rubbish to the tip, dog-walking, visiting and sitting with someone while a relative goes out.

We’ve stepped in when someone’s regular helper is away, and also set up a rota to accompany one person on weekly walks. One family who live in Hampshire contacted us for help when their relative living in Oak House was suddenly admitted to hospital. This shows the importance of the network for family carers, particularly when they don’t live locally.

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.

We have received funding from the parish council, Suffolk County Council Locality Budget, Stutton Community Council and the Comic Relief Fund.

Catt’s Trust have given us a grant of £150 to enable anyone in the village to use the service and we are using this to pay for some people’s travel expenses. We also receive donations from volunteers and users of the service, which we are very grateful for.

We need more volunteers willing to offer lifts. If you live in Stutton and you’re at all interested please contact us at: 01473 327753

So call us today, we are here to help.

A CRIME FREE CHRISTMAS Yes please Santa!

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Out for a drink? Enjoy a drink but don’t make yourself vulnerable by drinking too much, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return, don’t be distracted when using a mobile phone or personal music device, use a reputable taxi company – don’t jump into any car – and if you think your nominated driver has drunk too much, strongly discourage them from driving, and do not get in a vehicle with anyone who you think may have drunk too much to drive.

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Home: When you are out, make your house appear occupied (lights on timers, radio on, alarm set), make sure your house, gates and shed/garage are shut, locked and secure, don’t leave presents under the Christmas tree in full view from the outside, and after Christmas don’t advertise your new goods by displaying the packaging and boxes for rubbish in front of your house – turn the boxes inside out or tear them up and bag them/put them in your wheelie bin.

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Social Media: When using Facebook be wary of announcing to the world that you are away and your house is empty, or showing what you got for Christmas. Make sure your profile does not contain private information that would identify you or your address to a stranger.

As Christmas approaches we are all busy rushing around to get everything done; presents to be purchased, office functions, parties to attend and the house to be decorated.

A thief loves Christmas too. That’s because it gives them the opportunity to have Christmas on you, in lots of different possible ways!

To ensure that doesn’t happen Suffolk Police is offering the following simple advice to make sure you stay safe and crime free this Christmas.

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Parking: Choose a safe place to park (look for a www.parkmark. co.uk accredited car park), physically check your car is locked before you leave it and don’t leave anything attractive to a thief on display within the car which includes presents, keys, satnavs and yes, even a carrier bag.

Purse, wallet or handbag: A handbag on the back of a chair, in a trolley, a purse sitting in an open bag, a wallet in the back pocket, a mobile phone on the table in a restaurant are all calling out to a thief to steal. Don’t make it simple for them by providing the easy opportunity to steal it. If it’s a crowded place or somewhere you are likely to be distracted, you are more at risk. Property mark your items and register them on www.immobilise.com for free along with all your other electrical belongings.

And what should you also do? Do have a wonderful crime free Christmas and Happy New Year!

Suffolk Police Crime Reduction

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OUT & ABOUT SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700

EVENTS AT SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL

LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMS

LAST NIGHT SHOTLEY OF THE PROMS CHURCH

Sunday, November 1, 4pm: Young Musician’s Concert at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt

HERITAGE 700

Concert by The Ipswich Hospital Band Saturday, November 14 at 7.30pm CHRISTMAS

Sunday, November 22, 4pm

BAZAAR Eeden Quartet with renowned violist Graham Oppenheimer at St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt

CONCERT BY THE IPSWICH HOSPITAL BAND Where?

Shotley Village Hall

When?

Saturday 14th November

Time?

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Where?

Programme: Mozart String Quintet in C K515 Haydn String Quartet in F major op 50 no 5 (Dream) SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL Brahms String Quintet no 23 in G major op 111

When?

SUNDAY 22nd NOVEMBER Named after Van den Eeden, one of Beethoven’s first keyboard teachers

Sunday, November 22, 1.30-4pm

7.30pm

Raffle & Bar Tickets:

STOUR VALLEY ARTS AND MUSIC

Available from village Post Office at a cost of £7.50 (children £3) Also from Norman (tel: 01473 787358) or Margaret (tel: 788286)

Time?

HARKSTEAD AUCTION

and a prominent influential figure in his formative years, this outstanding quartet have had a number of competition successes. They were first Harkstead Village Hall is pleased to announce the date for their prize winners at the Rimbotti International String Quartet competition in Various craft stalls including: Fiesole in 2012 and also received the 2011 Artis Quartet Prize in Vienna. forthcoming autumn auction.

1.30pm ‘til 4pm

Cards

Jewellery

Graham Oppenheimer holds a position as one of the UK’s foremost and respected violists.

He studied with Atar Arad at the Lucky Dip - gifts for the children Royal Northern College of Music and Eastman School USA, Thomas All pre-booked items can be brought to Harkstead Village Hall on Raffle + Refreshments including Mince Pies & Mulled Wine Thursday 5 between 2 and 8pm.

Riebl at Slazburg Mozarteum and Peter Schidlof at International Prior booking is essential. Due to high demand Musicians Seminar. Graham is also we regret that we are unable to accept any a respected and dedicated teacher un-booked lots (which will be turned away). and has taught in Finland, the Czech Lots can be booked in by calling 01473 328649 Republic, Switzerland, Italy and the or by emailing harksteadauction@btinternet.

USA, as well as given masterclasses com, and bookings will be accepted up to across the UK. He teaches at Wednesday, November 4.

Chetam’s School of Music, the largest specialist music school in the UK and the only music school based in the North of England. He is Director of the Repton International Strings Summer School which he founded in 2005.

The sale itself will be held on Saturday, November 7. The lots will be Chocolates Wooden products available to view on Friday, November 6 from 11am-1pm and 4-8pm and Handbags etc Festive Candles the auction will begin at 10am on Saturday 7, although doors will open Children’s toys and many more at 9am for viewing.

The season continues with:

CHELMONDISTON SYNERGY CAFÉ We are delighted to welcome so many regular visitors to the café in Chelmondiston Village Hall on alternate Wednesdays and to welcome new people. From the feedback we receive you enjoy the company, the food, the friendship and assistance that you find in the café.

We are now able to extend the role of the café by inviting a wider group of people to join us for our Living Well Sessions. If you are caring for an elderly or frail person, we would like to include you in our invitation to join us for the first café of each month from 1pm. There will also be good tea and excellent cake in addition to the usual good company.

We are planning future sessions which will include Wills and Power of Attorney, nutrition, chair-based exercise, falls prevention, first aid and other subjects that contribute to our ability and wellbeing.

Do come and join us and find out more, if only for the cake.

Our future dates are: November 11 – Synergy Café, 11am-3pm, with Living Well Session from 1pm November 25 – Synergy Café, 11am-3pm Contact details: 01473 295200 / community.services@sueryder.org Visit: www.sueryder.or/synergysuffolk

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Thursday, December 3, 8pm Lecture by Professor John Deathridge – Historic Buildings, Magnificent Performances: Evoking the Lives of Great Classical Composers – at East Bergholt High School, Heath Road Sunday, January 10, 4pm Antara Duo (harp and flute) at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt Sunday, January 31, 4pm David Owen Norris piano, Camilla Scarlett violin and Jonathan Byers cello at St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt 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

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Shotley Rangers Football Team provides youth football for Shotley and the surrounding villages. Situated on the main road between Shotley and Shotley Gate (IP9 1PW) the club is easily accessible.

The club started in 1968 and has had at least one team each season.

However, currently numbers are down so we are seeking new players, both boys and girls, to come and join the team and train with managers Marc and Tim, focusing on fitness, fun and football skills.

Training is held on Thursday evenings at the ground. Matches are generally held on Saturday mornings and played either at home or within the Suffolk area. Full match kits are provided and we are proudly sponsored

by Peninsula Pizzeria this season who generously offer a special ‘win’ bonus pizza as an incentive.

The club is non-profit making and we are actively fundraising to provide better facilities for match days.

If you would like to come along and see what the training is about, or you want to get involved in any fundraising activities, please contact the club manager Marc Rowland (07931 838215) or treasurer Sarah Millan (07976 227333).

Any support would very welcome.

Thank you, Sarah

www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley

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OUT & ABOUT A GOOD READ It’s exciting to read of the birth of a man growing to adulthood and challenging the status quo, standing for the outsider. Most of us know what it feels like at one time or another in our lives to be an outsider, not part of the club.

It was inevitable that in crossing the authorities he would be unpopular and suffer terribly at their hands. The story doesn’t end there for you cannot put a good man down, not with his credentials.

Hear the whole story on Sunday, November 29 at Stutton Community Hall, 10am-3pm. The story, Luke’s account, will be read with pictures, music and drama to whet the senses. There will be breaks for refreshments and a simple lunch. For more information and to book a place call: 780259

CHRISTMAS CRIB FESTIVAL St Andrew’s Church, Chelmondiston

Saturday, November 28 10.30am-5pm

MONTHLY MARKET AT ST MICHAEL’S The Church on the Park, Woolverstone

Saturday, November 14, 9am-12.30pm The perfect opportunity to buy a whole range of products from local people including fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items which make ideal birthday and Christmas presents.

Mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and enjoy the lovely venue.

Sunday, November 29, 11am-4pm, with Songs of Praise at 4pm Display of Nativity figures and Crib scenes from far and near.

All-day refreshments and a raffle.

Enter a Shoe Box Crib Scene (ages four-11).

Free entrance – donations welcome.

To exhibit please contact Shirley (780084) or Christine (780621).

SHOTLEY WHIST DRIVES Our whist drives are on Thursdays, November 5 and 19, and December 3, all from 1.50-4pm.

For information or lifts please contact Norman or Eileen: 787358

SHOTLEY SOCIAL CLUB (OVER 60S) Our forthcoming meetings are on Thursdays, November 12 and 26, and December 10, all from 1.50-4pm.

On December 10 we are having a group of people playing hand bells at 2.30pm. This afternoon is open to everyone. At half time there will be festive refreshments and a draw. This afternoon is free, apart from the draw, and we hope to have as many people as possible to attend.

Also, at half time, anyone who wishes can have a go at ringing the hand bells. Hopefully this will be a fun day for all.

Any information needed or for lifts, please contact Norman and Eileen: 787358

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All Saints Church, Holbrook is holding a Christmas Fayre on November 21, 11am-2pm, in Holbrook Village Hall.

Lunches and refreshments available. Attractions will include rides on a full sized antique rocking horse, crafts, cakes, books, CDs, White Elephant, raffle and a visit from Santa.

LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE CHRISTMAS GIFT? Following on from Suffolk Open Studios in June, where many of those who came asked to visit again nearer Christmas, I have decided to open my studio up again for two Sundays, November 22 and December 6, 10am-4pm each day. I will have originals, limited edition prints, gifts, cards and hand painted decorations available to buy. Come and see where I work and what’s on the drawing board. There will be mulled wine and mince pies too!

So pop the dates in your diary and come to see me. I have a bit of space left for commissions too. So treat a loved one or even yourself to something unique this Christmas.

If you can't make those dates but want to visit do ask. I'm here most days so welcome arranged visits.

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

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OUT & ABOUT CRAFTERS UNLIMITED Monday, November 2

Sequin Christmas Decoration (Jill)

Saturday, November 21 Workshop: Advent Calendar (Debbie) Monday, December 7

Angels plus Christmas Celebration

Other kits will be available. Samples of each month’s project are displayed the month before and other projects are available.

Saturday workshops (10am-4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) are held in Wherstead Village Hall Meeting Rooms.

For information contact Ann (01473 780298) or Jill (01473 713534).

SHOTLEY WALKING CLUB On Sunday, October 11, eleven members enjoyed a 3¾-mile walk.

Starting from the church of St Mary Walton we walked down Church Lane, passing the graveyard and following a track running along some allotments, then down to the wood known as ‘The Grove’.

Despite extensive damage in the 1987 hurricane, some fine specimen trees remain with attractive undergrowth. We came out of the grove, and passing the playing fields there were good views from here across the low-lying fields to the estuary beyond. What a glorious dry, sunny day.

Our next walk with the club will be on November 8, Remembrance Sunday. A walk around Harkstead starts at 2pm from the village hall car park in Harkstead. New faces are welcome to join us.

Give me a ring or just turn up on the day.

Jill Nunn, 01473 787504

SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700 CLUB Our annual grand draw with a bingo evening was quite a success with more than £200 being raised.

The winners of the first three prizes were: 1. £25 / 0342 / Mr N Cresswell 2. Cosmetic hamper / 1242 / Mrs S Newman 3. Bottle of whisky / 2043 / Mr T Duffy Many thanks to everyone who supported this event.

September draw winners: 1. £25 / Donated to funds 2. £20 / 057 / Mr R Bacon 3. £15 / 085 / Mrs J Goodwin 4. £6 / 093 / Mrs D Ratcliffe 5. £5 / 116 / Mrs J Hughes We are always willing and pleased to enter new members into the 700 Club. The cost is £1 a month and half is returned in prizes. To join contact Norman: 787358

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SHOTLEY AND ERWARTON WI On Wednesday, September 16, members attended a very wet, but enjoyable 100th WI Anniversary Picnic at Glemham Hall. Our September meeting held in the evening began with the singing of Jerusalem, followed by our president proposing a toast to the WI with a glass of fizz. Due to the weather and holidays several members were absent, but we were pleased to welcome two guests.

After the usual business, Mr Richard Wrinch was introduced to give his talk on Farming on the Peninsula. He gave us insight into farming from the 1700s to the present day, his family having farmed on the peninsula for several generations, each one introducing different methods of farming. During his grandfather’s time, up to 26 men were employed, but mechanisation gradually reduced this number to one or two. Richard’s talk was very well received, resulting in several questions from members. Richard was thanked by Sheila M. After refreshments, birthday posies were given out and the raffle was drawn. The winner of the competition – an unusual shaped vegetable – was won by Doreen with a very realistic looking seal!

Reminders of dates for the diaries: Saturday, November 7: Christmas shoebox filling, large meeting room, Shotley Village Hall, 9am until finished. Sixty boxes were filled last year. Please note the change of date for this.

November 18: AGM. Competition – wrapped present.

November 28: WI Dinner Dance. Last chance to get your ticket. Tickets available from Jo Lee: 01473 787311 December 7: Shotley and Erwarton citizens over 70s Christmas party.

If you haven’t received your invitation by mid-November and would like to attend please contact Jo Lee: 01473 787311 December 9: Popular Christmas Songs 1770-1970 by The Rev John Robinson. Competition – a decorated Christmas cake.

Don’t forget we meet on the third Wednesday in the month at Shotley Village Hall, 7.15pm. Come and join us, you will be given a friendly welcome. Please come along to any meeting as a visitor and try us out, we are sure you will enjoy the evening and the company.

The Shotley & Erwarton

Annual Dinner Dance 2015

Music from Tyler Kemp Trio 3 Course Meal £25 per Ticket Dress to Impress

Sat 28th Nov 7 for 7.30 - 12.00 pm

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

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

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

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

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OUT & ABOUT 1st SHOTLEY SCOUTS

1st SAMFORD VALLEY SCOUT GROUP At Samford Valley Cubs we've had a great start to the term with five Beavers being invested into the pack, and we've enjoyed lighting fires and backwoods cooking.

The Cubs got very inventive making LED torches, mouse trap drag racers and glow in the dark slime as part of their Scientist Activity Badge.

Fire! Fire!

This term we are working on fire safety and as part of this we had an evening visit to Holbrook Fire Station. The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts were split into three groups and each group went off to a different part of the station. There were three ‘bases’; the first was the fire engine itself, the second was using the fire hose to put out the ‘house’ fires and the third was in the classroom. Each group got to visit every base. While we were there four of the Beavers had the great privilege of being invested in front of the fire engine as did four of the Cubs.

The children were provided squash and biscuits at the end, a great surprise. All of the children were sent home with a workbook/poster about fire safety.

We would like to send our thanks to all the firefighters who were there on the evening for putting on such a great event. The children thoroughly enjoyed the visit and as a bonus it counts towards badge work.

Green Fingers The Scout group has taken over the little patch of ground in the village car park. We as a group are now planning to grow flowers and vegetables in this space. This is a big challenge for us but if anyone would like to donate any gardening tools or equipment that they no longer need these would be greatly appreciated. Please call Jane on 01473 787416 and we can arrange to collect.

New HQ Don’t forget that the grand opening of the new HQ will take place on November 7. Please do come along and have a look around; there will be tea and coffee and cake.

STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB Recent meetings On Wednesday, October 7, Grant Elliott gave a most interesting talk entitled Monopoly – Not just a Game and on October 21 club member Paul Oliver presented Quiz Time in Manningtree.

Future meetings On Wednesday, November 4, Joy Bounds will speak on The Ipswich Suffragettes and Colchester Castle 2015 is the title of Tom Hodgeson’s presentation on Wednesday, November 18.

Meeting venue We now meet at the St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree.

New members Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, be free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs, and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed. We meet on the first and third Wednesday of each month in Manningtree at 10.30am. For further details please contact secretary Brian Rolfe: 01206 393665

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Along with playing our usual favourite Cub games we have been having lots of fun with human Hungry Hippos. We're getting ready for our ghost walk around Ipswich at Halloween and looking forward to celebrating Divali and making lanterns for our own festival of lights.

We will end our term with carol singing at St Mary’s and if we've all been good Father Christmas might just make an early visit.

Our Sixers and Seconders enjoyed their District Camp with 75 other Cubs with abseiling, rifle shooting and circus themed activities. This was our last camp for 2015, but we're already planning our big Cubs 100 summer camp to celebrate 100 years of Cub Scouts in 2016. It will be a big year for us with bigger adventures, bigger celebrations and renewing our Cub Scout Promise with all the other Cub Scouts in the UK.

SHOTLEY GARDENING CLUB We met on October 12 for a very comprehensive talk from Matthew Tanton Brown on preparing for winter. He began by telling us how to protect tender perennials, advising us to take cuttings in case our efforts failed in the face of severe weather. He gave us advice on necessary pruning and had brought with him a range of examples of branches that should be removed because their deformations could prove a weakness in the face of the strong winds we seem to be increasingly prone to. Examples included self-grafting, galls, fasciation and (something I inherited on all of my trees when I came to Shotley) the effects of ties that hadn’t been removed and which the tree had grown over and incorporated, a kind of plant bondage!

Matthew told us that one of the examples had originally been found with an entire set of dungarees attached.

His talk ranged from bulbs, the use of fleece, the importance of raising pots, dealing with pests (he has a particular vendetta against vine weevil and caused his audience to exclaim when he described, with some relish that they make a satisfying popping sound when squished) to preparing planters for winter interest and vegetables to over winter for early produce when it’s over, and more.

It was a very comprehensive talk and, as usual, Matthew made us laugh. He had brought plants, as examples, from The Walled Garden where he now works and members eagerly snapped up some very lovely additions to their gardens.

The next meeting will be on November 9 when Ian Seager will be talking about autumn colour in the garden. The competition will be chutney made by a member.

If you would like to come and see what we are all about £1 is all we ask for a visit. There are often plants to buy from our speakers.

June Edwards

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CornerGarage SHOTLEY

M.O.T. TESTING STATION Servicing and repairs to most cars and vans M.O.T. Testing, petrol and diesels.

Wheel alignment. Welding.

*** Air Conditioning Service and repairs *** Electrical repairs and fault finding.

Engine Management, S.R.S. A.B.S diagnostics.

LOAN CARS AVAILABLE

Used Cars For Sale

Buy with confidence cars H.P.I checked, fully serviced and M.O.T`d 2004 FORD FUSION 2 1388cc SILVER 5 DOOR MANUAL A/CON

£1895

2007 PEUGEOT 207 Alloys. Blue. Leather Seats. Panaramic Roof 81k mls

£2795

2010 PEUGEOT 308cc SE CABRIOLET 1600cc THP 6 SPEED

45k mls

£7495

2004 MINI COOPER S 6 SPEED MANUAL DARK SILVER 111000 mls

£3295

2006 L/ROVER FREELANDER HSE TD4 DIESEL AUTOMATIC 90Kmls

£5595

2005 HYUNDAI MATRIX GSI 5DOOR 1600cc 5SP MAN

£1495

85Kmls

For more cars, pictures and details go to www.cornergarageshotley.co.uk A free M.O.T with a full service for as long as you remain the owner

TEL: 01473 787261

MADE IN SWEDEN. TUNED FOR THE BRITISH ECONOMY. THE VOLVO V40 R-DESIGN. BOOK A TEST DRIVE TODAY AT DONALDS VOLVO IPSWICH

Personal Contract Purchase Representative Example: V40 T2 R-Design Rebel Blue 48 Monthly payments £269 Customer deposit £269 Finance deposit contribution £750 Representative APR 4.9% APR On the road price* £19,862.50 Total amount of credit £18,843.50 Interest charges £2,718.50 Total amount payable £22,581 Optional final payment £8,650 Duration of agreement (months) 49 Fixed rate of interest p.a.

2.52% Mileage per annum 8,000 Excess mileage charge 14.9p per mile Available with 3 years complementary servicing when purchased on Volvo Advantage Personal Contract Purchase

Donalds Volvo Ipswich

West End Road, Ipswich, IP1 2DZ 01473 252484 volvocarsipswich.co.uk

Official fuel consumption for the Volvo V40 T2 R-Design (manual) in MPG (l/100km): Urban 38.7 (7.3), Extra Urban 62.8 (4.5), Combined 51.4 (5.5). CO₂ Emissions 127g/km. MPG figures are obtained from laboratory testing intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results. Finance subject to status. Retail sales only. *Subject to availability at participating dealers only on vehicles registered by 31st December 2015. At the end of the agreement there are 3 options: (i) Renew: Part exchange the vehicle. (ii) Retain: Pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (iii) Return the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantee/Indemnity may be required. Volvo Car Credit RH1 1SR. You will not own the vehicle until all payments are made. Donalds Garage (Ipswich) Ltd trading as Donalds Volvo Ipswich are a credit broker not a lender, can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction. The service offer is only applicable when purchasing on Volvo Advantage Personal Contract Purchase on vehicles ordered between 1st October 2015 and 31st December 2015. Services must be carried out at a Volvo Authorised Repairer. Retail offer only. Excludes fleet operators and business users. See volvocars.co.uk for full terms and conditions.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS

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

CHELMONDISTON PRIMARY SCHOOL We are very fortunate to have a wonderful choice of club and extracurricular opportunities open to the children at Chelmondiston Primary School this year. The wide range of activities is being run by a dedicated team of teachers and instructors (and in some cases, the children themselves); activities which have evolved from a desire not simply to expand children’s learning but also, as a school, to value a breadth of accomplishment.

Children are encouraged to cultivate a love of learning, to discover new things to enjoy, and to find their personal strengths and passions. This term, the following clubs and activities, among others, are available to the children: science club, languages club (children are currently learning German), skiing lessons, gymnastics, football, dance, drama club, Lego club, guitar, violin, drums, choir, book club, art club and music club.

VILLAGE LINK CLUB Our next talk on November 11 will be A Sound Safari, presented by Malcolm Clark.

Future talks: It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas; History of Advertising; Lady Alice de Breyne; NT coast of East Anglia; Secrets of the Royal Jewels; Galapagos Islands and Dive.

Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall 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

STUTTON PRIMARY SCHOOL We hope you will come to our Open Morning on Friday, November 6, 9am-noon. If it’s not convenient for you, we would be very pleased to show you around another time – please don’t hesitate to ring us to make an appointment.

We are delighted this term to have been awarded our Bronze Linguamarque award for our work in school on modern foreign languages.

Congratulations in particular go to Mrs Oldham, our MFL lead teacher.

We hope to be able to work towards our silver and gold in the future.

In addition to working very hard on all the curriculum subjects, the children have enjoyed rehearsing for their Harvest Festival play Harvest Rock, which was performed at St Peter’s Church on October 21.

Other extra curricula activities planned include fundraising initiatives for Children in Need and taking part in the Reindeer Run towards the end of term to raise funds for St Elizabeth Hospice. Years 5 and 6 will participate with other local schools in Sing Up led by Dominic Peckham at the RHS in November. This will be followed by a pantomime visit to The Mercury Theatre at Colchester in December and of, course, the much-anticipated Year 5/6 visit to France, together with pupils from Holbrook Primary School towards the end of term.

Contact: 01473 328531 / ad.stutton.p@talk21.com www.stutton.suffolk.sch.uk

JUMBLE SALE

CLEAR THE CLUTTER – BAG A BARGAIN Saturday, November 28, from 2pm, at Bentley Village Hall Bentley Toddler Group (Registered Charity No: 1026973) is holding a jumble sale to raise funds on November 28 at Bentley Village Hall.

If you have anything you wish to donate, please bring it along to the hall from 9am on the day or contact Pam (01473 310283) or Aimée on (311311), who will arrange to collect from you.

If you want to know more about Chelmondiston Primary School, then why not come along to our next coffee morning on Wednesday, November 25 at 10.30am? All local residents are welcome and you will get to meet staff, pupils and parents.

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If you would like to come to our sale, the hall will be open from 2pm. Tea and coffee will also be available.

We look forward to seeing you and thank you for your support.

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SPORT IPSWICH RAVENS VOLLEYBALL So where are the boats you may well ask? But we weren’t that far away from the water – Southwold, in fact, enjoying the hospitality of Adnams who kindly showed members round their brewery.

The club celebrated its 80th anniversary and laying up supper in great style, with a delicious meal.

Over the next couple of months we will be enjoying • a Trafalgar Night celebration (ships biscuits, I am told) • a pie bake-off • Halloween parties for children and adults • our traditional shanties and ditties with maybe a twist this year!

Still not going to talk about Christmas.

Watch this space… www.pmsc.org.uk / Facebook: PMSCSocial

WOOLVERSTONE U16 FOOTBALL TEAM Pictured here in their new kit, the U16 team has had a good start to the new season, as has the men’s team.

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

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

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

Wins 5 4 4 3 2 2 0 0

Pts For 110 109 109 95 102 88 85 67

Pts Agst 83 76 95 97 97 97 110 110

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

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

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

SHOTLEY ROSE BOWLS CLUB The club would like to thank Shotley Parish Council and Shotley Rose for help in purchasing materials to improve the green for the 2016 season.

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

Our prize celebration evening was an enjoyable occasion mixed with sadness as the trophies were in memory of Roger Page and Michael Chaplin.

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

The club thanks the families for their kindness and the sensitive way they presented the prizes.

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

The players and guests enjoyed a lovely buffet prepared by Sarah.

The evening was MC’d by Len Biddlecombe whose son took photographs.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE

REMARKABLE ARNHEM REUNION, 65 YEARS ON

By Peter Mann

At this time of remembrance I recall a short period of my time near Arnhem in 1944. I remember the young men who did not return.

In September 2009 my wife and I drove to the airborne cemetery in Oosterbeek, Arnhem. It was the 65th anniversary of ‘Market Garden’, the airborne landings. The commemoration was attended by 50,000 people, mainly Dutch, and their children were carrying armfuls of flowers to place on the graves. Some 2,000 soldiers and airmen are buried there.

I had a particular reason for the trip to Oostenbeek as in 1944 I was 18 years old and in the 1st Battalion of the Worcestershire Regiment. We were involved in fierce fighting in Elst while attempting to reach the paratroopers. Many young men from our regiment lost their lives there, including several senior officers.

At the cemetery I saw a young man standing by the grave of his grandfather, Major Gibbins, who died in Elst aged 28.

The service in the cemetery was a moving experience and I was taken back to 1944 after the battle for Elst, when our company was ordered to move towards the Neder Rhine. The paratroopers were in a desperate situation. Our supplies were cut off and we were living on German army biscuits. They contained caraway seeds, which I now hate.

So returning now to our visit in 2009, I wanted to see the bakery near Zetten where we spent the night before marching to the river.

We found the village and sat on some garden furniture outside a hardware shop explaining to a young man why we were there. He was thoughtful and said he knew someone who could help. He excitedly phoned his friend Daniel, a local historian.

Daniel joined us and told us he knew the family who once owned the bakery but the baker had died and the bakery demolished.

Daniel was quite enthusiastic to help and made a number of phone calls. Finally he had an answer to a call and he explained it was Yanny Yansen’s daughter. She remembered her mother speaking of a Peter Mann, and she agreed to try and speak to her mother who was in a home recovering from a hip operation.

After some time the phone rang. It was Yanny’s daughters who had told her mother we were in the village. Apparently Yanny said: “Surely not Peter Thomas Mann,” remembering my full name.

This was astonishing after 65 years.

Daniel said he would take us to meet Yanny and drove us in his car six miles to the home. When we met it was quite an emotional moment. Yanny was now 89, and we both filled in what had happened to us in the years since our last meeting.

Imagine our interest when we stopped overnight at a bakery in a village called Zetten. Just the thought of fresh bread raised our morale. I attempted to chat to the baker’s daughter, Yanny. she was anxious to use her school English and we swapped addresses.

The smell of the bread baking was wonderful, but we had to leave before the process was finished.

We continued to march toward the river, this was the battle area and we were in range of German artillery. There was a commotion at the rear of the column of our platoon (depleted to 14 men).

Surprisingly, Yanny Yansen came on her bicycle clutching a large warm loaf. I gratefully accepted the loaf on behalf of the lads, and I gave her a little thank you kiss and urged her to go home quickly.

Daniel, Yanny and Peter, 2009

We continued to march to the river and spent the night in a field overlooking it. It was here that a single shell hit company headquarters dugout and killed Captain Noel Watkins. He was 31 years old and was an inspirational leader who had led us throughout the battles since landing in Normandy. His grave is also in Oosterbeek. This was another reason for visiting the cemetery.

This year I received a letter from Daniel advising me that Yanny had died in 2013.

We sat drinking tea in her room before leaving. We said goodbye with a huge hug, Yanny standing with her zimmer and I with my rollator. It was a remarkable reunion.

Peter Mann, Holbrook (90 years old in January)

To those who may be interested, I told my story on the BBC WW2 website: www.bbc.co.uk/ww2peopleswar/stories/26/a4066526.shtml 26

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley

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ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS SHORELINE BENEFICE

TWO RIVERS BENEFICE

ST ANDREW’S CHURCH, CHELMONDISTON

ST PETER’S CHURCH, STUTTON

November 1 9.15am November 1 3 for 4pm November 8 9.30am

November 8 10.50am November 15 9.15am November 22 9.30am November 29 9.30am

November 29 4pm

November 1 8am

10.30am November 8 10am November 15 9.30am November 22 9.30am November 29 10am-4pm

Holy Communion with Harkstead Commemoration Service Service of Remembrance with Methodist At the War Memorial Holy Communion Family Service Benefice Holy Communion and Sunday School at Harkstead Songs of Praise

ST MARY’S CHURCH, ERWARTON November 1 November 8 November 15 November 22

11am 5pm 11am 11am

Matins with St Mary’s, Shotley Evensong and Remembrance Holy Communion Family Service

ST MARY’S CHURCH, HARKSTEAD November 1 9.30am November 8 10.55am November 15 9.30am November 22 9.30am November 29 9.30am

Holy Communion with Chelmondiston Service of Remembrance Family Service Holy Communion Benefice Holy Communion and Sunday School

ST MARY’S CHURCH, SHOTLEY November 1 Noon November 1 Noon November 8 10.45am November 15 10.45am November 22 10.45am November 29 9.30am

Holy Communion Worship for All Remembrance Service Holy Communion Informal Service Celebration of the Gospel According to St Luke

ALL SAINTS CHURCH, HOLBROOK November 1 November 8 November 15

November 22 November 29

9.30am Holy Communion 10am Remembrance Service 8am Holy Communion 9.30am Informal Service 9.30am Holy Communion Benefice Service in Stutton

ST MARY’S CHURCH, WHERSTEAD November 1 November 8 November 15 November 22 November 29

11am Holy Communion 10.55am Remembrance Service No Service 11am Holy Communion Benefice Service in Stutton

ST PETER’S CHURCH, FRESTON November 1 November 8 November 15 November 22 November 29

11am Matins 10.55am Remembrance Service 11am Holy Communion No Service Benefice Service in Stutton

ST MICHAEL’S, WOOLVERSTONE

Sub Mariners Service Commemoration Service of Remembrance Worship For All Holy Communion Benefice Holy Communion at Harkstead and Sunday School

November 1 11am Café Church for all Sainds Day

7pm All Souls Taize Reflections November 8 10.55am Remembrance Day Service at Berners

Hall, Main Road November 15 11am Matins November 22 11am Worship the Woolverstone Way November 29 Benefice Service in Stutton

PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT REQUIRED An understanding person/persons is required to work on a one-to-one basis to assist a lady with a chronic arthritic condition in Stutton.

Able to use their own initiative and be well organised.

No heavy lifting.

Flexible hours, which includes alternate weekends and some evening shifts Competitive rates of pay with enhancements.

Call 01473 327558 with your details and for more information.

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CHURCH NEWS CHELMONDISTON AND HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCH What’s on in November (HCT = Holbrook Churches Together)

Sunday 22

10.45am, Worship with Heather Bentley 6.15pm, Communion with The Rev Bev Barclay

Sunday 1

Morning Worship at 10am with Chris Finbow

Sunday 29

10.45am, Worship with David Welbourn 6.15 pm, Worship with The Rev Michael Ayden

Saturday 7

Coffee Morning at the chapel, 10-11.30am

Sunday 8

Remembrance Day Service at 10am at the Parish Church with The Rev Michael Ayden and The Rev Geoffrey Clement (HCT)

Tuesday 10

Fellowship Meeting at 7.30pm at the chapel

Thursday 12

Fellowship Meeting at 2pm at 16 Ipswich Road, Holbrook

Friday 13 & Saturday 14 Fairtrade Market at the chapel (see below) Sunday 15

Communion Service at 10am with The Rev Andrew Sankey on Prisons Sunday

Wednesday 18

Knit in at the chapel, 11am-4pm

Friday 20

Tiddlers, Family Live and Messy Church all at the chapel (HCT)

Sunday 22

Morning Worship at 10am on Youth Sunday with Paul Finch

Something Different Evening Service at 6.30pm with The Rev Andrew Sankey

Tuesday 24

Fellowship Meeting at 7.30pm at the chapel

Thursday 26

Fellowship Meeting at 2pm at 16 Ipswich Road, Holbrook

Sunday 29

Advent Sunday Service at 10am with Alicia Holmes

Please see the noticeboard on the front of the chapel for all events in November. For more information about Messy Church, Tiddlers and Family Live, contact Alicia Holmes: ajnholmes@gmail.com / 01473 658478 Throughout October we have been collecting items to fill the gift boxes for Operation Christmas Child – Shoe Box Appeal. The gift boxes will be dedicated at the beginning of November and prepared to be sent to children in other countries in time for Christmas.

The Fairtrade Market is an annual event at HMC. Over the two days there is an opportunity to buy crafts and produce that support Fairtrade in developing countries. Food and drink is available on both days. Open from 10am-4pm on Friday 13 and from 9.30am-noon on Saturday 14.

FROM BROKENESS TO WHOLENESS Have you ever broken something that you treasured, or worse still someone else has broken it and didn’t realise it was precious to you?

What do you do? Depending on how badly it’s broken you might gather up the pieces and lovingly and carefully glue them back together. We have a few family treasures that have been repaired several times. They have little commercial value, but they are precious to us. If however you dropped a clay flowerpot that broke into shards, you probably wouldn’t give it a second thought, but would sweep up the bits and put them in the bin.

Many people feel bruised and broken by life. It may be the feeling of rejection from being an unwanted pregnancy or you are part of a broken relationship. Perhaps someone you trusted was unfaithful or you suffered a financial crash. Illness or death of a close friend or relative has broken you. Some have been bullied at work or in school or hurtful, abusive words have been spoken. Many things can cause us to feel broken, like shards, just to be swept up and thrown away. Sometimes we despair of ever being able to rebuild our lives.

David was broken by life, he felt shattered by events. He complained to God: “I have been ignored as if I were dead, as if I were a broken pot.” Although he was King of Israel, he saw no hope of his life being put together again. As he continued in relationship with God eventually he was able to say: “You answered my prayer when I shouted for help.”

David discovered that he was precious to God, who was prepared for the patient task of rebuilding someone. Having had that help from God to rebuild his broken life he said to others who were broken: “The Lord is there to rescue all who are discouraged and have given up hope.” He was speaking as someone who had been rescued and because the Lord had done it for him, so he could do it for all who turned to him.

Paul also knew what it was to be hard pressed but never crushed – he talked about being fragile, like clay jars, but having this treasure inside.

Indeed he turns conventional wisdom on its head, as often it is those who have been through difficult times who are the more able to help others. Henri Nouwen describes it as ‘The Wounded Healer’.

Sunday 1

10.45am, Worship with Colin Westren 6.15pm, Worship with The Rev Andrew Sankey

God is in the business of restoring broken lives, he is looking to heal, renew and make us whole. And he often uses those of us who have been through some brokenness to share in that healing process. I would reaffirm David’s words: “He is there to rescue all who are discouraged.”

I would affirm that you are precious to God, he doesn’t wish to discard you. He is waiting for you to respond. It is often helpful to have someone journey with you. If you wish to start a conversation please be in touch, or come to a Healing Service at Capel Methodist Church at 6.30pm on November 8.

Sunday 8

9.30am, Remembrance Sunday Service with The Rev Andrew Sankey

The Rev Andrew Sankey

6.15pm, Worship with The Rev Michael Allen

Sunday 15

10.45am, Worship with Paul Finch 6.15pm, Worship with The Rev Martin Dawes

CHELMONDISTON METHODIST Services in November

www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley

Minister at Chelmondiston, Holbrook and Capel Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG / apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07726 299968

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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 up to date information please visit: www.stmarksparish.org.uk

a member? Then why not take out another number? Application forms may be found at the back of the church or at: www.stmarksparish.org.uk A cheque for £777 for funds raised in the past few months was recently passed to Father Christopher, bringing the total raised since the club’s launch in 2012 to over £4,000. The next monthly draw is planned to take place at Holy Family after mass on Sunday, November 15 when the prize pool will be £133.

The weekly newsletter is displayed in the cabinet alongside the church front door.

Children’s Liturgy Children are very welcome to join the Liturgy of the Word that takes place on the third Sunday of each month.

Services for November 2015 Sunday 1 9am Mass

Supporting our local hospice

All Saints’ Solemnity

Tuesday 3

9.30am 10am

Morning Prayer Mass

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.

Sunday 8

9am

Mass

Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Tuesday 10 9.20am

10am

Eucharistic Adoration Mass

Sunday 15

Mass

9am

Tuesday 17 9.30am

10am

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

All are very welcome at Holy Family, Brantham

Morning Prayer Mass

Sunday 22 9am Mass Children’s Liturgy Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of The Universe, Solemnity Tuesday 24 9.30am

10am

Morning Prayer Mass

Sunday 29

Mass

9am

Fr Adrian Gates is the Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital (01473 726701). Please contact him if you or a Catholic is in or due to go into hospital and requires his services.

All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services. It’s 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.

1st Sunday in Advent

Catholic Commentary It’s a great pity that Halloween has became the celebration of ghouls, ghosts and witches; a more wholesome way to anticipate All Saints’ would be parties where the children dressed up as some of the famous saints whose lives are celebrated by the church.

The recent defeat of the Marris Assisted Dying Bill in the House of Commons was welcomed by Catholic Church leaders. However compassionate we want to be towards those suffering with chronic and painful conditions it would have been a fundamental and dangerous shift for parliament to legislate on when to die.

The Pope’s June Encyclical Laudato Si is being studied in parishes and at other levels; sub-titled On the Care of our Common Home it contains many practical proposals for necessary changes.

Diary dates Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv and Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR, 10.30am-noon. We are raising funds for the Parish Room refurbishment. All are very welcome to join us and the next event is on Thursday, November 26.

Volunteers are needed for the Autumn Garden Tidy-up that takes place on Saturday, November 7, from 9.30am. Please consider giving a few hours of your time to help – just sign up to the list at the back of church.

100 Club We welcome new members to the 100 Club which was set up to raise much need funds to support the life and mission of our parish. Already

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COME AND SING THE SOUND OF MUSIC SATURDAY 21 NOVEMBER, 3PM

READE MUSIC SCHOOL, Royal Hospital School, Holbrook, Ipswich, IP9 2RX

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The Sound of Music

£5

Tickets available from www.ipswichregent.com or just turn up & sing your heart out!

SUITABLE FOR ALL THE FAMILY. FANCY DRESS IS OPTIONAL WITH PRIZE FOR BEST COSTUME. www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley