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Volume 6 • Issue No. 10 • AUGUST 2016
Amelia and Isabel raise £120 for the WWF, page 4
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NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR My parents celebrated their golden anniversary in June and, as you do at times such as this, we have talked at length about the trials and tribulations they faced over the years, some good, some not so. I’m proud their marriage was rock solid throughout, even when faced with tough financial times on the farm, a variety of health challenges, a rather rebellious teenage daughter and, in recent years, the collapse of the Irish economy which has impacted on everyone in one way or another. Married in 1966 and parents for the first time in 1967, my mum and dad showed remarkable resilience when it may have been easier to walk away. Back then when farm machinery was either unavailable or unaffordable, farming was not for the fainthearted, but they were a formidable team. Mum was the ultimate survivor. She baked, she sewed, she kept a garden, she helped on the farm, she managed the books… she did what had to be done to make ends meet and she and dad were totally committed to giving my brothers and I every opportunity they had been denied. They also knew how to have fun. My mum could turn a Sunday picnic in the garden into an unforgettable adventure. That said I don’t ever want to eat ox tongue sandwiches again as long as I live. Our annual daytrip to Kinvarra beach and the annual pilgrimage to Knock were the highlights of summers spent in the garden and on the farm. Every year I bought red heart-shaped sun glasses in Kinvarra and one of those little toy camera picture viewers in Knock and I was the happiest little girl in the world. My life is remarkable different to theirs, but I suspect my everyday worries are not entirely dissimilar. Making my own butter or knitting socks aren’t realistic money-saving options for me, but, thanks to my parents, I do have a ‘pull your socks up and get on with it’ approach to most things, and this I’m grateful for in these rather disconcerting political times.
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In Touch with Burstall & Sproughton 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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SEPTEMBER DEADLINE 10 AUGUST 2016
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SPROUGHTON FETE 2016 It’s just over a week since this year’s fete as I write this, but the deadline for the edition means something should be written now. This year’s fete was undoubtedly the best yet. Despite the fact that it rained heavily during the morning while we were putting up the tents and getting everything ready, the skies cleared about half an hour before the start and the afternoon was dry and even sunny for most of the time. Large numbers of people attended, many staying for most if not all of the afternoon. A full programme of entertainment filled the grand ring with many stalls and sideshows surrounding it doing a roaring trade. Thank you to everybody who supported our fete – those who helped plan and organise it, those who helped put up tents and clear away afterwards, those who cooked or served or ran stalls and especially all those of you who came along to enjoy the day. It was, as somebody remarked during a particularly sunny period in the afternoon, a great celebration of our community, young and old, and pride in our village. The early indications are that the fete has raised about £1,200 for our funds. The organising committee is due to meet shortly to decide what to do with the proceeds, but inevitably local organisations will be uppermost in their minds. Make a note now of next year’s fete: Sunday, June 25, noon-4pm as usual. Updates will begin to appear in In Touch from January onwards, but keep the date free. Ken Seager On behalf of the local community, The Rev Annette Shannon expresses a special thank you to Ken for his boundless enthusiasm, dedication and hard work in making the fete such a success.
SPROUGHTON MILLENNIUM GREEN AN IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR ALL PARISHIONERS The Millennium Green in Sproughton was founded in 1998 as part of a national programme of providing public ‘breathing spaces’ to mark the millennium. Local land was purchased with assistance from the National Lottery and other sponsors, and through the hard work of volunteers turned into the green we all know and enjoy. Many people think the green is funded by the parish council as part of your council tax. Not so. All the cost of maintaining and improving the green has to be met through charity fundraising and the generosity of organisers of village events like the fireworks display, fete and so on. A very small group of local volunteers, in fact only four of us now, are directors of the trustee company that is responsible for managing the green, keeping it safe and pleasant for you all to enjoy. Our numbers have gradually dwindled over recent years to the point where we are now hardly viable. Like everything else, the fewer there are of us, the more each of us has to do and the more that impacts on our other responsibilities and less gets done. It is a negative spiral. As chairman of the trustee company, I feel I have to be frank with you about the predicament we are in. This is not a sustainable way to manage the green and unless things change substantially for the better, and quickly, we will have to consider alternative ways of managing the millennium green from 2017 onwards when our long-standing treasurer intends to step down. What this will mean for the millennium green is unclear at the moment, and I will be speaking to Natural England (the government’s adviser for the natural environment in England) for advice on how to proceed and what our options are. I will write in In Touch again when I am clearer about the future options. Ken Seager
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NEWS BURSTALL FLOWER FESTIVAL St Mary’s Church, Burstall will be holding a Flower Festival entitled Harvest in a Country Church on Saturday, October 1 and Sunday 2.
AMELIE AND ISABEL RAISE £120 FOR THE WORLD WIDE FUND FOR NATURE
The church will be open from 10am-4pm on Saturday and 11am-4pm on Sunday and refreshments will be available in the village hall throughout the weekend.
After learning about the serious issues that face the natural world and the countless species that face extinction, two children from Sproughton recently decided to take action. Over the last five months, sisters Amelie (age 9) and Isabel (age 8) have been finding ways to raise money to help protect the animals they love. Beginning with Amelie’s four-hour sponsored silence back in February and followed by months of planting seeds and nurturing bedding plant and vegetable seedlings for various plant sales during May and June, the girls raised more than £120 in total. The money has been donated to WWF and the girls are delighted to have adopted Narva, an Amur Leopard, and will be following her progress closely over the coming year. Many thanks to everyone who has kindly supported their endeavours.
VOLUNTEERS URGENTLY NEEDED FOR HOME-START Home-Start in Mid and West Suffolk reaches out and supports parents who are struggling in their parenting role due to a variety of reasons. Volunteers are at the very heart of the service, connecting on a one-to-one basis with families, offering friendship and support. Home-Start Volunteers offer their time and personal experience; most are parents or grandparents, foster parents or step parents. Full training and on-going support are given. Do you have two hours to spare each week? Do you have parenting experience? Do you want to give back to your community? Do you like to learn new things and meet new people? We have preparation courses starting soon. Find out more by contacting Maria: 01379 678552 / office@homestartmidsuffolk.org.uk
We stopped to look at our favourite view It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day
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NEWS ANGLIAN WATER CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT Water is a valuable resource and despite what it feels like sometimes, we are in one of the driest regions of the UK. With that in mind, it is very important to ensure we keep our river water as clean as possible to meet the ever increasing drinking water needs of the region. Alton Water Reservoir supplies more than 200,000 people around the Ipswich, Felixstowe and Shotley area with wholesome drinking water. Anglian Water’s treatment works can treat up to 10 million gallons of water every day to the stringent drinking water standards set by our regulators. A chemical that we find particularly difficult to treat is Metaldehyde, which is found in the most commonly used slug pellets. If Metaldehyde finds its way into water it can be very persistent and we have to dilute the water with other sources to bring levels down. Over the last two years we have been working with local farmers to encourage the use of an alternative slug pellet ingredient called Ferric Phosphate, which isn’t an issue in water. Although agriculture covers three-quarters of East Anglia it is not the sole contributor of Metaldehyde in our watercourses. Ditches and drains connect to watercourses so it’s very important to consider your allotment and garden use of pesticides. Ferric Phosphate pellets work just as well as Metaldehyde and stop slugs feeding straight away, sending them underground to die so you do not see the slug trails or slugs the next day. Ferric Phosphate based pellets are available at most garden centres so give them a try. Gary Hodgetts, Catchment Advisor, Anglian Water 07802 856632 / ghodgetts@anglianwater.co.uk
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SAVE THE DUKE As we head into summer the Save the Duke team are working on a big push to raise the final sums needed to make an offer on the Duke of Marlborough in Somersham. We are getting dangerously close! We are proud to announce the total raised, in both shares and loans, at the time of writing is more than £265,000. This figure is getting very close to the valuation we undertook last year and we are hopeful of attracting a few more investors to reach a point at which we can make an offer. Huge thanks to everyone who has helped make this happen so far. We will still need a further sum to get the pub open – to buy equipment and stock, cover the overheads and start paying staff. If you could spare a sum upward of £250 to buy shares, or £5,000 to loan to us over a four years period, now is the time to do your bit. Whether buying shares or lending us money, in both situations you can claim 30% of the value of your investment off your tax bill, subject to terms and conditions. We are happy to talk this through with anyone thinking of making an investment. Please call James on 07789 691434 for more information or visit: www.savetheduke.net FUNDRAISING EVENTS NEWS Reel the night away at our Harvest Ceilidh at Church Farm, Somersham on Saturday, September 3, 7.30pm. Tickets (£15 adults / £7.50 under 18s / Under 5s free) include supper and are available from Somersham shop, Somersham Garage or Lucy on 01473 831042 (evenings only). See website for further details. All welcome. Save the Duke was pleased to get a visit from Green Party Leader Natalie Bennett in May, pictured here outside the pub with James and Lucy Batchelor-Wylam and Councillor Anne Killett
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NEWS COMMUNITY ACTION SUFFOLK
A HUNDRED YEARS AGO
SEARCHING FOR THE COUNTY’S MOST INSPIRING VOLUNTEERS AND COMMUNITIES
From an August 1916 magazine we learn that the Scouts gave a display in the rectory grounds on August 5. They hoisted the Union Jack on a temporary flag staff and saluted. There was then a presentation of badges which they had worked on during the winter. The Wolf Cubs did some flag drills after which there was basket making and ambulance work. This was followed by a play about a diamond thief which was very well presented.
Nominations are now open for the Community Action Suffolk Awards 2016 which recognise the volunteers, communities and young people making an impact on the lives of people in Suffolk. Nine awards will be presented to individuals and organisations in Suffolk, from Village Hall/Community Building of the Year to Most Inspiring Volunteer story. If you know of someone or an organisation making a real difference, you have until Friday, August 12 to make your nomination via the CAS website: www.communityactionsuffolk.org.uk/awards One of the 2015 winners was Youthbase from Stowmarket who won The Roddy Macleod award for Youth Club of the Year. They were nominated as an inclusive, volunteer-run youth club welcoming all young people from the age of nine. Several of the young people have behaviour issues and are struggling at home and at school, but through the support and the value the team place on them as individuals, there has been a real difference in their behaviour. The club does not make any charge for attendance as many of the families come from deprived areas and the club needs to be open to all. Beccles Lido won the Colonel Probert award for Community Initiative, as a project which involves the whole community. Suzanne Gibbons from Beccles Lido Limited said she accepted the award on behalf of the team, but it was also an award for the community of Beccles, many of whom have supported the project from the beginning: “It shows us that when the community feels passionate about something, then they all do their best to help where they can.” CAS Awards categories include The Anne Dunford OBE award for Youth Participation, The Roddy Macleod award for Youth Club of the Year, The Andrew Towers award for Young Person of the Year, The Colonel Probert award for Community Initiative, The Ian Campbell MBE award for Individual Initiative, The Village Hall/Community Building award, Outstanding Contribution to Volunteering, Event Organiser of the Year and Most Inspiring Volunteer story. Awards will be presented at CAS’s Annual Celebration event on October 18 at the Museum of East Anglian Life. Local businesses are welcome to sponsor a table at the event and can find out more by contacting: belinda.couldridge@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk
Sproughton Recorder Doreen Bradbury
SUFFOLK ENERGY FROM WASTE FACILITY Staff at the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility went all out to support the Rio Roadshow, a massive charity event which aims to raise £75,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Over five weeks the roadshow visited more than 130 SUEZ sites from Scotland to Cornwall with a giant truck kitted out as a mobile gym. At each site staff were encouraged to run, row and ride as many miles as they could in a bid to cover the 5,761 miles between London and Rio. While in Suffolk, staff clocked up an incredible 227 miles towards the overall target and managed to raise more than £500 through a mini Olympics competition, a cake sale and a mocktail bar. Their efforts were filmed by Anglia TV. The roadshow follows on from the Big Ride in 2014 when SUEZ staff raised nearly £50,000 for Macmillan. USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060
SIGN UP AND GET CONNECTED WITH POLICE CONNECT Police Connect is a free messaging service connecting you to the very latest policing news for your area via email, text or phone. Police Connect will provide you with localised information for a variety of situations, including emergency alerts, missing people appeals, crime reports, neighbourhood policing news and events. To register, contact 101 and we will get a form to you or register online at: www.Suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect Suffolk Police supports the use of social media as a means of talking with and listening to the communities we serve. Our networks provide people with an alternative source of the latest information in real time, often accompanied by images or videos. Suffolk Police can also be found on Facebook, Google, Instagram and YouTube. Officers in Hadleigh have recently joined social networking site Twitter and will be issuing regular updates about news, events, arrests and what’s happening in your neighbourhood. Follow us @ HadleighPolice.
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The short updates, known as tweets, will give a better insight into police work and help build relationships alongside the day-to-day work carried out by officers. In addition to @SuffolkPolice, our main corporate account, we also have the district accounts providing information at local level, as well as some departmental accounts and personal ones of senior officers. It is important to remember however that Twitter is not the place to report a crime or raise an issue you need to discuss in confidence: For non-emergency matters call 101. In emergencies always dial 999. Hadleigh SNT, Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk
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NEWS SPROUGHTON COMMUNITY SHOP: Something for everyone As we meander through a typical English summer, occasional hot days mixed with everything else, including hail, your community shop continues to thrive. We are having very helpful dialogue with the parish council via Peter Powell who now attends our directors’ meetings. Peter, who is a parish councillor, is very quickly learning about the community focus the shop takes and some of the issues facing it. We are looking forward to a strong and positive working relationship with the parish council. The shop stall at the summer fete made £120. Many thanks to all those who donated tombola prizes and to all the volunteers who helped there and at the tea tent and barbecue. By the time you are reading this the shop will have delicious raspberries in stock and the strawberries will still be available. Anyone who hasn’t tried them is missing a real tasty treat. If you haven’t seen our array of plants, bedding and otherwise, do check them out. They are strong and healthy and very good value. If you enjoy and test out Mary’s regular recipe slot in the magazine you will know that most, if not all, of the ingredients are available
in the shop, so we look forward to seeing you. Looking ahead, a reminder of the Halloween Disco on Friday, October 28 and the Christmas Sale in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice on Saturday, November 5. As always many thanks to our loyal gang of volunteers without whom the shop would not exist and especially good wishes to Zac who has left us to move on to bigger and better things. Thanks too to Paul Flynn who is stepping down from his volunteer role at the end of July. He has helped in and supported the shop since the beginning. Joining us is Sue Robinson who does date checking on Mondays, a very valuable role which prevents wastage and ensures our stock is rotated in a timely way. If anyone has a few hours to spare we always need more volunteers (and directors). Just call in at the shop and express an interest, you will be given a warm welcome. Best wishes and continue to enjoy the summer, Sally Sparrow, volunteer and director
DELIGHT YOUR TATSTEBUDS WITH SEAFOOD PASTA Another August rolls around, lazy and hot if my weather forecast holds true. I’m betting on a hot one this year, traditional for the season, maybe not so traditional for Suffolk, and in a year that has been any thing but traditional. I’m learning to expect the unexpected. So, keeping heat to a minimum, I’ve decided on a simple but elegant pasta dish, great for a starter or main course that delights the tastebuds, especially outdoors on a sunny day, preferably near a herb garden or the sea. For it’s the combination of those smells and fragrances that create a fresh atmosphere for the spirit, and embellish an already exciting experience for the tastebuds. Enjoy! SEAFOOD PASTA Serves 4 Water in a large (1½-2 litre) saucepan, about halfway up 8oz linguine noodles (2oz/person) 250ml olive oil 3 large garlic pods, minced 1-2g cayenne pepper, or finely chopped red-hot chilli (more or less according to taste) 3g salt 1g black pepper 375g shelled raw prawns*
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*or other preferred seafood. If using pre-cooked prawns, only re-heat them as cooking them again makes them tough Juice of 1½ fresh limes Fresh chopped coriander (optional) Parmesan Cheese, grated Start heating the water to boil for the linguine, meanwhile organise the rest of the ingredients in the order given. When the water begins to boil put the linguine in the pot. Turn the heat off when all the pasta has softened enough to be contained, and partially cover to let it finish. Care must be taken to ensure it does not boil over, so lift the lid carefully (away from you) every now and then to let steam escape. Meanwhile, in a large pan, heat the olive oil slowly, add and blend the seasonings into the oil, and when hot, add the prawns. They are done when they turn pink. Add lime juice and coriander, and set aside. Test linguine for doneness by biting into one. It should be done enough to bite through, but neither too soft nor doughy in the centre. Drain, and place linguine in the seafood pan, stirring for even distribution while heating. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve either individually or in a large pasta bowl, with plenty of grated parmesan cheese to go around and French bread. Bon Appetit! Mary Bright Basan Questions? Contact me at: ms.bb@talktalk.net
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OUT & ABOUT MAKE A WISH COMES TO BURSTALL Fundraising event at Burstall Village Hall on Saturday, August 13
OUR LOCAL MEN’S HEALTH CHARITY CHAPS is a men’s health charity dedicated to raising awareness of men’s health problems. Why? Because UK men’s health statistics are so poor in comparison to both women and our European neighbours across the whole spectrum of disease. Sixty-thousand UK men of working age die prematurely every year at a rate one and a half times that for women. The causes are well known: heart disease, smoking, cancers, diabetes, suicide and risk-taking behaviour to name but a few. There are numerous health programmes devoted to women’s care, but few equivalent services exist for men, while men themselves remain largely unaware of health issues and reluctant to use the services that do exist. For instance, NHS health checks aimed at detecting the top seven causes of premature death are offered to men aged 40-74, yet less than 50% are actually taken up! Furthermore, although prostate cancer kills 11,000 UK men annually, there is no national screening programme and only 8% of UK men avail themselves of the PSA prostate cancer screening test available to them via the NHS. Our objective is to raise awareness on the premise that if a man knows what can go wrong, he at least will have the knowledge to make an informed choice as to whether to take preventative action. Over the last five years CHAPS has run men’s health days, typically at football stadia, where we have provided free tests to men for aortic aneurysm screening, heart disease and stroke risk assessment, diabetes, skin cancer and prostate cancer screening. At ITFC last October 138 men attended and we even had a team from the Medical Detection Dogs collecting urine samples from men having prostate checks to train their dogs to recognise prostate cancer! So far we know 11/94 prostate checks were abnormal and one man with an unknown aneurysm underwent potentially life-saving surgery within two weeks of the event. Another first on the day was a successful seminar, Mental Health in The Workplace, run by Suffolk User Forum, Suffolk Mind and Picasso HR. At our last event in Clacton in December an exceptionally high attendance thoroughly endorsed our raison d’être. For instance, 21 heart checks and eight prostate checks were abnormal while eight skin cancers were diagnosed. These results typify our activity and overall in 2015 we performed a total of 1,944 clinical tests for 814 men at eight major events. We are concentrating our activity in Essex and Suffolk on the principle that ‘charity begins at home’ and in recognition that there are considerable local unmet health needs. Sadly we have all lost friends to preventable and curable diseases, but through local support at local events we can make a difference. We are therefore encouraging male orientated groups such as Rotary, Masons and Lions and employers of male workforces to commission us to provide smaller, private health check events for the members or employees. To fine out more, please check our website or contact us at: chris.booth@chaps.uk.com / info@chaps.uk.com / 07734 747854
The Make a Wish Foundation has been close to my heart since I was a child. It brings back very fond memories of fun and outings the whole family enjoyed at a time when hospitals and treatment were a daily occurrence. Today, now that I have established my own business with the help of the Prince’s Trust, I am able to give back to this worthwhile charity that made all the difference to me. I am once again holding what is becoming an annual craft fair in Burstall Village Hall. The prize draw this year has been donated by Barrett & Coe to raise much-needed funds for Make A Wish. They have generously donated three vouchers worth £160 for a family photography gift experience and this alone I hope will raise a lot of money for Make a Wish. Tickets are only available on the day. This year I ring the changes by offering taster workshops ranging from making polymer clay beads and animals to fabric printing with ink pencils and a chance to create and design a Zentangle drawing to start your own mindfulness colouring book. The Craft Loft will also be holding workshops over the summer holidays for children to experience the range of crafts available. See the website for the timetable and programme or to book a craft party. As a young ambassador for the Prince’s Trust this year, my aim is to inspire and motivate people, on this occasion your inner craving to learn something new and be creative. Many people have seen The Craft Loft at local events and perhaps wondered what it’s all about. Now is your chance to come along and get a taste of what it has to offer and to support a worthy charity at the same time. So what are you waiting for? Here’s your invitation to come along and find out what we do, enjoy some homemade cake (yes, made by me) tea/ coffee, and browse the many other craft stalls taking part. For more details on booking a space on the taster sessions please contact me at: alison.mayston@gmail.com I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, August 13, 10am-4pm. Alison Mayston
IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5 Town/village
Location
Time
MIP/5A Sproughton
Church Lane
9.10-9.25am
MIP/5B Sproughton
Wild Man
9.30-9.45am
MIP/5C Bramford
St Mary’s Close
9.50-10.05am
This year’s event at Ipswich Town Football Club on Thursday, November 3 will offer the following health checks: • Aneurysm screening • Cardiovascular risk assessment – your risk of a heart attack or stroke over the next 10 years • Diabetes screening • Skin cancer • Prostate • Physiotherapy, blood pressure and BMI checks
MIP/5D Bramford
Paper Mill Lane
10.10-10.25am
MIP/5E
Chequers
10.35-1055am
MIP/5F Great Blakenham
Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park
11-11.15am
MIP/5G Baylham
Post Box
11.25-11.45am
MIP/5H Claydon
Crown
11.55am-1pm
MIP/5I
Claydon
Edinburgh Gardens
2.05-2.20pm
The day is co-ordinated by CHAPS and the clinical services will be provided by Onelife Suffolk, Ipswich Hospital, the Suffolk Nuffield Hospital, Day Lewis Pharmacy and the Co-op (hearing tests).
MIP/5J
Barham
Bacon Road
2.25-3.50pm
MIP/5K
Bramford
Packard Place
4-4.30pm
Clinical Director Chris Booth www.chaps.uk.com
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Great Blakenham
DATES: August 2, August 30, September 27, October 25, November 22, December 20
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Summer Sale Now On
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Only available at the Stonham store
Cane sofas
from
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Sale price RRP £529
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furniture www.harpersfurniture.co.uk
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£549
Only available at the Ipswich store
Sale price RRP £769
York solid oak slat bed
Sale price RRP £549
£299
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OUT & ABOUT OPEN DAY AT BLUE CROSS ANIMAL REHOMING CENTRE There will be an open day at the new Blue Cross Animal Rehoming Centre, Bourne Hill, Wherstead IP2 8NQ on Saturday, August 27, noon-4pm. This an opportunity to see behind the scenes of a working animal rehoming centre. As well as refreshments there will be various stalls. Entry is free but donations will be gratefully received. Further information can be obtained from Ian Hendry, vice-chairman of the events and fundraising committee: 01449 767747
ST MICHAEL’S, MONTHLY MARKET The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, August 13, 9am-12.30pm. A chance to buy a whole range of products from local people including fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items. Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee, and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue. New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777
SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB In last month’s magazine I stated I would give members’ reaction to 90 Glorious Years at the Spa Pavilion in Felixstowe on June 13. In spite of being assured during a recce the previous week that catering facilities would be available, only a cup of coffee was available on the day. Later, our group of four shared a packet of crisps. This was obviously due to some last minute catering problem as the menus were still on view. Not a very good start to our outing! The show itself started rather slowly, but improved towards the interval. However, in spite of the few cast members (who were very good) the second half livened up and had most of the audience joining in the singing. It was quite something to see some of our usually quiet members, standing, singing and waving their Union flags. Our members enjoyed the show very much and we have 11 booked for Christmas Matinee Nostalgia by the same company at the Corn Exchange on December 12. It recently became apparent that some of the rules we follow at the club were doubtful as they were not listed, but were ‘as they had always been done’. At a recent committee meeting we drew up a list of a few rules to follow and I hope to produce a club rule book to cover the formation and running of the club. This will be added to piece-meal and then agreed to form a reference document. I often wonder how we have managed for so long without such a book. My best wishes for your holidays, John Bates
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB
EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre at 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on September 20 when our speaker will be Hugh Belsey, a renowned art historian who was curator of Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury for 23 years. He is a lecturer, book reviewer and a contributor to the TV programme Fake or Fortune. Hugh has travelled extensively throughout the world visiting galleries and unearthing many unexpected treasures. In his talk he will be sharing some of his discoveries, so it promises to be an interesting evening. On October 18 architectural historian Dr Simon Bradley will be exploring the life and work of Sir Nikolaus Pevsner.
The Great Blakenham Over 50s Club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet from 2-4pm on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. For our second meeting in June we had a strawberry tea party with red, white and blue outfits optional. July 27, or last meeting before our summer break, will be a social afternoon including quiz time with Brenda Cooper. We will start back again on September 14 with our AGM and our new programme will follow in due course. We would be pleased to welcome new members, but if you would just like to come to one of the talks there is no obligation to become a member so do come and join us Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome for an entrance fee of £2. National Trust members/volunteers can join us at half the normal price (£4/£6 for a couple at the same address) for the rest of 2016. We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events.
COUNTRYSIDE WALKS
For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761
The August rambles will be on Sunday, August 14, meeting at Sproughton church at 2pm, and Tuesday, August 23, leaving Sproughton church at 10am.
www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
Doreen Bradbury
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For the June mid-week walk the group went to Felixstowe and enjoyed the sea air. In July the walkers went to Lemon Bridge and watched the birds on Alton Water.
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL As you read this article we are all busy enjoying the summer holidays. However, the last few weeks of term were once again action packed, full of trips, events, productions and, of course, learning. I must start by saying congratulations to the extremely talented cast and crew who transformed the school into Rydell High and took us back to 1950s America with a fantastic production of Grease on July 4 and 5. With high energy, humour, great choreography and all the well known and loved songs, the students did the school proud with outstanding vocals and strong performances all round. My thanks go to everyone involved including performers, back stage crew, front-of-house, staff and parents/ carers for their support during a very demanding rehearsal schedule. It really was a fantastic show. On Thursday, July 7, 150 Year 6 students joined us for an induction day to prepare them for the start of high school in September. Despite a few anxious faces in the morning, students soon settled into their activities, taking part in specially designed maths, geography, art, PE and French lessons throughout the day. By break time it was clear that many students had made new friends and are excited to be joining our warm and friendly school. Staff involved in the day were extremely impressed with the positive attitudes and enthusiasm shown by all students and we look forward to them joining us in the autumn. Year 5 students from our feeder primary school joined us on Tuesday, July 12 for an arts festival. Students were split into groups and took part in drama, dance, music and art based activities all designed around the theme of the sea. The afternoon of July 18 saw the school’s annual Headteacher’s Praise Tea Party which is held in order to celebrate those students who have been awarded four or more Headteacher Awards on their school reports and
those who have 100% attendance throughout the year. I am delighted that a huge number of students were eligible for invitations. On the same evening the PE department hosted a Sports Award Evening. Celebrations got off to a brilliant start with certificates awarded to students in Years 7-10 for Endeavour, Excellence and Team Sports with the awards culminating in a trophy for Claydon High School’s Sports Personality of the Year. The winner of this special award was nominated and voted for by students in a secret ballot. It was a lovely evening celebrating so many individual and team sporting achievements across the year. On July 20, 28 Year 9 students took part in a residential, three day Battlefield Tour of Ypres and The Somme. Travelling by coach and ferry, students visited the key battlefield sites of the First World War in Belgium and France to mark the centenary and to pay their respects. Students stayed at The Poppies School Hotel in Ypres and while there took part in the Last Post Ceremony held at the Menin Gate, where two students laid a wreath on behalf of Claydon High School at this famous memorial for the soldiers who have no known grave. In other areas of the school we have had a trip to the Globe Theatre in London with Year 7 English students, KS3 students travelled to the market town of Boulogne in France for a day to practise their language skills and do some shopping, selected Year 9 science students visited the Big Bang Fair in Newmarket, the PE department held its most successful Sports Day with three school records (held since the early 1990s) being broken by one student, and Year 10 students experienced the exciting world of work on their work experience placement. I would like take this opportunity to thank colleagues who will be leaving Claydon High School for pastures new come September and welcome new teachers who will be joining us for what I hope is another very successful year. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please contact my PA, Mrs J Pedersen, on 01473 836110 to book a place on one of our open mornings in the autumn term. Mrs S Skinner, Headteacher
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SCHOOLS CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL The summer term has been an exhausting but fun-packed end to the year.
Finally in June, Years 5 and 6 ended their Ancient Greek history theme with a dramatic performance of Greece Goes to Pieces where a selection of Greek stories depicted on pots were performed. Well done to the actors, singers, stage hands and technical crew. Summer term sports round-up The summer term is always a busy time for sports. During May, we entered the School Games Key Steps gymnastics competition and were delighted to be awarded the silver position. Good luck to all participants in the finals. Year 3 PE lessons saw Sam Moss come in to teach dance. This culminated in an impressive dance performance to parents at the end of the month. Finally in May, the Year 5/6 girls’ football team started their first matches in the IPSSA league. May 2016 Both Year 4 classes spent two days at Minsmere, with a night at Blaxhall Youth Hostel. Linked to their learning in science, they enjoyed exploring a range of habitats at the nature reserve. They also enjoyed being away from home for the first time as a class and had a night walk in the countryside to the pit. Years 5 and 6 were visited by a Greek warrior who shared with them his knowledge of warring city states, the birth of democracy and Greek legends. Pupils were involved in a range of interesting activities to learn about the Ancient Greeks.
Meanwhile, pupils who attended Mars, Venus and Pluto clubs decorated and planted donated wellington boots for The Great Suffolk Wellington Hunt. The activity was organised by Recycle Suffolk and the colourful creations were sold at the Suffolk Waste Partnerships stand at the Suffolk Show, raising £337 for EACH. June 2016 Year 6 spent a morning at Crucial Crew, a personal safety education programme for ages 10 and 11. They experienced a series of real-life scenarios related to personal safety in an interactive and exciting way. Year 5 were inspired to read by a visit from author Jo Franklin who came to talk about her writing and books. Year 2 enjoyed an active morning at Piper’s Vale gymnastics club where they had fun doing gymnastics and karate.
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Moving on to June and July, the children practised and prepared for our School Games Day. They researched different countries, looking at the differences in culture and festivals. They then made flags to represent what they had learnt and displayed them at the Key Stage 2 School Games Days. The children showed great sportsmanship and determination and represented the Olympic values throughout the events (despite the drizzle for Key Stage 2). Congratulations to the Orang-utans who were the overall winners. During our School Games Day, we also celebrated the fact that 60% of Key Stage 2 children had participated in extra-curricular sports activities. Those children who had represented the school in the School Games competitions received a Claydon Primary School Sports Performer wristband. Year 6 took part in the School Games cricket tournament, winning gold and progressing to the next round and the county finals. Years 5 and 6 represented the school in swimming at the School Games where all the children took second or third place in their races with Jensen Wagstaff winning gold for the backstroke. Year 6 represented Norway at Quadkids where they took part in running, jumping and throwing. They finished 37th out of 64 schools and had an enjoyable afternoon. Well done to everyone who participated in a School Games competition throughout the year and thank you to those who made it possible and who came along to support the children. Fond farewells With the end of term fast approaching, we look forward to sharing leaving celebrations with Year 6 and we wish them well as they move on to their high schools. In addition, we hope everyone has a safe and relaxing holiday and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in September.
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SCHOOLS/ SPORT CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL
EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB
We are all really grateful for our well-earned break and are going to enjoy what sun we can get! It will be really exciting in September to say hello to all our new starters. There are still a few spaces available so if you are interested in joining us please speak to the administrator or send us an email.
The club held its AGM in June. Martin Peck was elected as the new chairman to succeed Tony Moss.
Our open event was really successful and a big thank you to everyone who was involved, either helping out or just coming to look around. Summer Holiday Club There are still spaces available for some days. Please call us on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 9am and 3.30pm if you would like to book a day. The club’s for ages two-to-eight and will run until September 1. It’s £20 for a full day (bring a packed lunch) and £12 for either a morning (9am-noon) or afternoon (12.30-3.30pm) session. The pre-school is open Monday to Friday from 9am-3.30pm during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to Reception. Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a lunchclub (noon-12.30pm) for £1.60. We are happy to accept childcare vouchers and we offer two-year funded places for any eligible children. We also run a holiday club at Easter and in the summer holidays for two to eight year olds – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator.
Pre-season training got under way on July 4 at Gandish Road. New players always welcome. The new season gets under way in August. Fixtures subject to change. Please refer to http://tinyurl.com/hlv54p6 and chose the appropriate competition to confirm. Events currently scheduled include a quiz night in September and a race night in November. We are always looking for people who can help the club as a committee member, whether it be on the playing side or just in the background. If you would like to sponsor the club in some capacity we would also be delighted to hear from you. Club strips, dugouts, banners or boards on matchdays offer exposure for your business while supporting a local organisation. EBUFC is a community club with very strong village traditions. The majority of the players either live in or have links to the village. Please come along and give us a look sometime. Steve Butcher, stevebutcher55@btinternet.com
For information regarding any of the above events or just to find out more about Claydon Pre-school, please contact the administrator, Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk
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PLAYING FIELD NEWS Here’s the latest update on what the Playing Field Management Committee (PFMC) have been doing, and what changes you may see around the playing field in the coming months. This month it’s all about ups and downs (and nuts!). THE UPS Community Payback has been. This is good news as we were starting to look a bit shabby around the edges. As we wrote in last month’s magazine, Community Payback has had a few issues with its operating model and forward planning, so please bear with us and them while we get the regular visits back on track. We’ve made progress on the damaged bench replacement. We’ve seen some examples and have been able to select one that almost matches the others (unfortunately we were never going to be able to replace the original with a like for like). When it arrives, the new bench will go where the original was earmarked to go – on the far side of the field near the cut through. THE DOWNS Unfortunately the sign on the gate at the entrance to the playing field has been vandalised. Ironically it’s the notice that asks visitors to respect the playing field, its’ facilities and their neighbours! We’ll certainly be looking to replace it, but may review the siting to put a permanent sign on the main noticeboard next to the gate.
THE NUTS The Playing Field Management Committee ran the coconut shy at the village fete this year (thanks to Charlotte, Joe and Ross for running the stall in my absence). Owing to a slight oversight on the prize giving generosity, we’ve decided to donate the entire profit for the day (£8.50) to fete committee funds. Club house and changing room development Still no material changes to report – it may have gone a bit quiet in terms of new information, but it’s still squarely on the forward planning agenda. We’ll give more information as and when we have it. Sproughton Club Update It’s holiday season, so there’s no club night in August. The next Super Saturday will be Saturday, September 10 when the club will open from 7pm. Volunteers – the big ask (as usual!) The playing field is run by Sproughton residents for the benefit of the village by way of the Playing Field Management Committee, the registered trustees of the Playing Field Trust. We are always looking for new members – you’d be very welcome if you’d like to join us. The only condition is that you’re a Sproughton resident. If you’re interested in joining this relaxed and friendly group please give me a call, or ask one of the other trustees what it’s all about. Chairman Damian Lavington, 01473 809512
SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB At long last the weather seems to be improving and bowlers are getting used to playing without the added bulk of wet weather gear. This season has seen an unprecedented number of postponements due to waterlogged greens. Despite the amount of rain we have been subjected to, the Sproughton Green is receiving a lot of favourable comments from home players and visitors alike. The huge amount of work put in by the greens team is paying handsome dividends. The club recently hosted one of the semi-finals in the Suffolk Senior Cup between Lowestoft Railway and Rookery and both sides complimented the playing surface.
SPROUGHTON SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB From July 27 we train at Sproughton Playing Field on Wednesday nights from 7pm. If any local lads (16+) would like to join us in the hope of playing in the SIL on Saturday afternoons we would be pleased to welcome you. The SIL season starts on Saturday, September 3, but we will hopefully play several pre-season friendlies. G Studd, 747017
At the time of writing the club have a good number of players in county competitions. Adrian Beecroft and June Laws have reached the area semi-finals of the mixed pairs in the EBF competitions. Adrian has also reached the same stage in the two wood singles. Joy Mackie is area champion in the senior singles and Julie Spice is area champion in the four wood singles. Both Julie and Joy now contest the county semi-finals on July 9/10. In the Bowls England competitions Julie Spice and Lesley Morgan have reached the county final to be played at Framlingham on July 30 and will represent Suffolk at the national finals in Leamington Spa starting on August 17. We wish them all good luck. Find out more about our club, results and fixtures at: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com
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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE TITHE BARN CARPET BOWLS CLUB Twenty-two members, family and friends recently travelled to Scotland and enjoyed an eight-day stay at the Lochs & Glens Ardgartan Hotel and a range of outings including a steam train journey, two boat rides, a day trip to Edinburgh and a visit to Lock Lomond. The weather was superb, the hotel lovely and the company great. Thanks to Jill Quadling for organising the trip. M Damant
EBONY’S BLOG: LIFE AT THE SHELLEY CENTRE Well, it’s August and our clients are resting. I’m thankful to report that with 11 horses and ponies here this summer a noble band of volunteers keeps coming along to poo pick and care for the live animals and see that all is well. But me and Babs? We are behind closed doors so I can’t report on much this month. What better person to share the page with me than HRH the Princess Royal? Did you know that Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, and RDA (that’s us) has launched a new charity initiative? In preparation for RDA’s 50th anniversary in 2019, Wooden Spoon has pledged to help the RDA fund a team of horses across the UK. RDA is experiencing a growing demand for services among older children and needs to increase the number of bigger horses (my sort of size you see) at its centres. Wooden Spoon aims to help fill this gap. HRH, The Princess Royal, who is Royal Patron of both charities said: “I am particularly pleased as this exciting initiative combines two of my big passions, horses and rugby. Both pastimes offer a great deal to young people from all walks of life which makes the Wooden Spoon and Riding for The Disabled partnership all the more important.” Good for you Ma’am. I know nothing of rugby myself but lots of my helpers’ and riders talk about it so it must be exciting. We start up again on September 5 and the first event is our long distance ride on Sunday, September 11. See you then.
INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER NICK PLUMB ON THE EU EXIT VOTE So, just over half of us (and it was close) have decided that it is time for Britain to leave the EU. But now that the voting is over, a new Tory prime minister has been appointed, and Labour seem intent on ousting their leader, how is that exit vote actually going to impact upon your investments and pensions? To be completely honest, I admit I guessed wrong. When asked before the vote what would happen if we voted to leave, I predicted that there would be a significant slump in the FTSE and other markets, which would probably last for several weeks, although I did say that I did not think there would be another recession. In fact, markets did react negatively on the Friday following the news of an exit vote. The referendum result prompted the pound to initially fall seven per cent against the dollar and the FTSE 100 fell by more than four per cent on that Friday morning. However, although the pound is still weak in comparison to the dollar and the euro, the markets have recovered and this week the FTSE 100 surged to above 6500 for the first time in a year. We are definitely entering a period of uncertainty. Currency, stock and bond markets are probably going to be extremely volatile in the days and perhaps weeks to come. However, most financial advisers, Plumb Financial Services included, are stressing the need to not take snap decisions without first taking advice and considering all options. In our opinion, it’s a case of not panicking in the short-term and sticking to the longer-term plan for your investments and pensions. Any market drop is likely to be a short-term position rather than the start of another descent into a deep recession as some would have had us believe before the referendum. Sure, it might get tough for a while in the months to come, but that won’t last forever. For example, after hitting its lowest point of under 3,500 points during the last financial crisis in March 2009, the FTSE 100 had
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already pulled back by more than 60 per cent just a year later. The true impact of this EU exit vote won’t be measured in five days or five weeks, but probably in more like five years. If markets do drop back, investors with strong cash positions could actually find opportunities by investing while funds are low in value. Investment sage Warren Buffet is an advocate of the ‘buy low and sell high’ investment strategy, and although simple – it works. Panicking and cashing in investments and moving into cash after a large fall is never a good idea. The smartest investors make most money, not by ‘second guessing’ the markets, but simply by sitting tight over the longer-term. Those who remain calm, while others around them panic and sell while markets are low, generally fair well and enjoy better returns over the longer-term. We believe that having a well diversified investment portfolio, preferably managed in accordance with an identified risk profile that the client is comfortable with, is the best long-term strategy for successful investing, regardless of any political events that may impact upon that position in the short-term. That’s why we are not panicking, and why we are continuing to take a longer-term view. To over-use the popular second world war saying, our advice to our clients is: “Keep calm and carry on!” Or as Corporal Jones of Dad’s Army would say: “Don’t panic Captain Mainwaring!” 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 answers to reader’s questions 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. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
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ON THE GRAPEVINE PICTURE: ©Mark Ward Media
HEALTHWATCH SUFFOLK Healthwatch Suffolk makes sure that your voice is heard to improve health (NHS) and social care services in Suffolk. Its annual report for 2015/16 shows the difference that has been made throughout the year for people using services in the county.
FESTIVAL OF CLASSIC & SPORTS CARS The annual Festival of Classic and Sports Cars will take place at Helmingham Hall on Sunday, August 7. Held in association with Suffolk Vehicle Enthusiast’s Club (SVEC), this year’s event is the biggest yet and will showcase more than 800 cars representing the last 100 years of motoring history. It will also raise money for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), a charity which gives support to families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions. Set in the grounds of the stunning 15th century moated Helmingham Hall with its Grade I listed gardens, the backdrop for the festival could not be more beautiful. The garden will be open and visitors are invited to wander through the fragrant rose garden, pause a while on the stunning parterre and explore the kitchen garden with its overflowing borders and tunnels of ornamental vegetables. The festival is a highlight in the Helmingham Hall calendar of events and attracted more than 7,000 visitors in 2015, raising £5,500 for The Treehouse hospice in Ipswich. This is very much a family day out and there are plenty of activities planned for children. There will be mini Land Rovers for them to drive, fairground stalls, birds of prey demonstrations and other events in the main entertainment ring. There will also be over 40 craft and trade stalls and plenty of refreshment choices ranging from pies to Pimms, to homemade cakes and other delicacies with an international flavour from around the world. Folk singers The Broadside Boys, The Suffolk Phoenix Brass Band and Itchy Feet will provide musical entertainment and the Chocks Away dance troupe will be demonstrating their jive, swing and lindy hop skills. The Festival of Classic and Sports Cars is on Sunday, August 7 from 10am to 5pm and admission is £9 for adults, £4 for children and £22 for a family of four. Tickets are available on the gate (cash only) or in advance via the Helmingham Hall website: www.helmingham.co.uk.
SUMMER AT THE MIX We are excited to launch The Summer Mix Market fundraising event. On Saturday, August 20 The Mix will be full of stalls selling clothes, furniture, gifts, crafts, music and much more. Pop in to find some treasures. We will be open from 11am-3pm. Just £5 per pitch; to book a pitch please email: lucy@themixstowmarket.com Free entry to buyers and browsers. All profits from the day will go to support young people and their families in and around Stowmarket Don’t forget that we’re open every weekday in August for our Summer Days drop-in. Join us for barbecues, competitions, ball games and sumo suit wrestling… or try a treat from our ice cream bar. Some days we’ll be down the Recreation Ground. Please check the website for details: www.themixstowmarket.com/events
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Healthwatch Suffolk continued to raise its profile in the county in 2015/16, reaching more people for their views than ever before. It launched a new website for obtaining views from people and well over 3,000 people have already rated their care. It also completed high profile research projects including innovative work with hospitals to listen to the needs of mums and birthing partners who had accessed maternity services. A number of notable outcomes are highlighted, including the following examples: • Ipswich Hospital revised its policy to allow birthing partners to stay with mum overnight so that they might provide much needed support with baby care and emotional wellbeing. • It visited seven care homes to talk to residents about their care and treatment. Recommendations were made which have led to a good number of improvements in services. • It influenced the decision to slow down the implementation of new domiciliary care services in the county so that people could have more time to make better decisions about how they wanted their care to be delivered. • West Suffolk Hospital improved support and information for carers and implemented actions to address concerns about poorly coordinated care for patients at the end of life. • Ipswich Hospital took action to address negative feedback about the way it had treated a patient with end term cancer. • The Care Quality Commission worked closely with Healthwatch Suffolk to hear the views of local people when inspecting local services. Andy Yacoub, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Suffolk, said: “We have been pleased with the impact we have made throughout the year. We have achieved some very definite outcomes that will improve the experience of people accessing our local services and we have seen continued support from our local communities for which we are grateful. It is with the strength of public voice behind us that we can make the greatest impact on shaping, influencing and improving local care.” For more information about Healthwatch Suffolk, its current projects and most recent outcomes, please visit www.healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk where you can download a copy of the annual report or take a few moment to watch the supporting video. You can also use the website to share your experiences of health and social care services in the county so that they can be used to shape local services now and for the future.
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CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE
Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook and Belstead and Bentley with Tattingstone
Suffolk Historic Churches Trust Bicycle Ride September 10, 9am-5pm
For parish queries please contact:
Harvest Services September 25: 11am at St Mary’s, Belstead followed by lunch in the village hall
The Rev Annette Shannon The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674 Benefice Administrator Hayley Purnell northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07713 863023 Friends, Some years ago, we took our church away for the day. Not far, just to the coast where we borrowed a church building and included in the day’s programme a couple of sessions of discussion, prayer and thought about the future of our church. Eddie Vass, who at that time was responsible for finding ministers for a string of independent churches around the country, came to lead us. He told us how he had attended some kind of conference-cum-festival as one of the speakers. As he sat waiting his turn to speak, God spoke to him, and they were not comfortable words. “Eddie,” God said. “I called you to run a lifeboat station. You have joined a yacht club.” There’s nothing wrong with a yacht club. But as a picture of a church, it stands for an organisation that exists primarily for the benefit of its members. It can be difficult to get into, but membership brings benefits. You pay a subscription and enjoy privileges. You may get to know knowledgeable and, perhaps, well-connected people. It can be run to suit its members’ preferences, comfort and convenience. The club exists for the enjoyment, pleasure, interest, benefit and relaxation of its members. A lifeboat station, on the other hand, exists entirely for the benefit of people who are not its members. All who belong there work together as a team in the serious business of saving lives. Those who make up the crew of the lifeboat lay their own lives on the line in order to rescue people who are lost and in danger, and bring them back and set them on firm ground. Another nautical simile, beloved of some Christian folk, is the ‘workingship-not-a-cruise-liner’ contrast. We’ve all got a job to do, we don’t carry passengers. True enough, but it misses an important point; what job is it doing? It would be easy to slip into the comfortable assumption that it was just about maintaining the ship and keeping it afloat. The lifeboat exists to save lives. That presupposes that there are lives that need saving. Jesus said: “The Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19.10). Saving the lost is his passion and he calls us to share it. So ask yourself: is our church preoccupied with its traditions, its furniture and its fundraising, or are its priorities to listen in prayer, to learn more of God’s purposes, and to find ways of communicating the Good News to the people round about? Is it a yacht club or a lifeboat station? The Rev Tony Wilcox We have a Facebook page where services and events are updated: www.facebook.com/northsamfordbenefice Bentley Evening Prayer Fridays, August 5 and 26, September 2 and 23, all at 6.30pm in the church Burstall Show August 6 in the village hall – flower show and fete with refreshments all day Baptism Party August 28 at The Rectory for our baptism families from the past three years, 3-5pm
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September 25: 11am at St Mary’s, Bentley followed by lunch October 7: 6.30-7pm Copdock Harvest Supper at St Peter’s / Harvest Service in the church on October 9 October 9: 10am Harvest Service at All Saint’s, Sproughton followed by brunch in the church hall October 9: 11am Harvest Service, St Mary’s, Burstall followed by lunch October 9: 6pm Harvest Service at St Mary’s, Tattingstone followed by Harvest Supper Teddy Bear Parachute Jump and Paper Aeroplane Competition September 11 at 3pm at All Saint’s Church, Sproughton. £1 entry, refreshments available. FROM THE REGISTERS Weddings Michael Vaughan and Anne Sheldon – Sproughton Allan Jolley and Sally Keeble – Sproughton Burial of Ashes Anthony Lambkin – Burstall Baptisms Shayla Stacey – Copdock Presley Stacey – Copdock Sienna Stacey – Copdock AUGUST 3 4 5 6 13 17 26 28 30
Bentley Home Communions, 10am Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm Burstall Show Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am Copdock Home Communions, 10am Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm Baptism Party at the Rectory, 3-5pm Copdock PCC Meeting
SEPTEMBER 1 Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am 2 Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm 3 Copdock Morning Market, 10am 5 Ministry Meeting at The Rectory, noon 7 Bentley Home Communions, 10am 10 Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am SHCT Cycle Ride, 9am-5pm 11 Teddy Bear Parachute Jump, 3pm 14 Churchwarden’s Meeting, Copdock Church Room, 1pm 21 Copdock Home Communions, 10am Tattingstone PCC Meeting 23 Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm 24 Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm 25 Belstead Harvest Service at 11am followed by lunch in the village hall 25 Bentley Harvest Service at 11am followed by lunch
In Touch online:
CHURCH NEWS AUGUST 26 6.30pm
Bentley
Evening Prayer
AUGUST 28 9.30am
Burstall
Matins
10am
Bentley
Family Service
10am
Belstead
Morning Celebration
10am
Copdock
Family Service
10am
Tattingstone
Holy Communion
11am
Sproughton
The Fourth Sunday
SEPTEMBER 2 6.30pm
Bentley
Evening Prayer
Holy Communion
SEPTEMBER 4 8am
Copdock
Holy Communion
Bentley
Family Service
10am
Bentley
Family Service
6pm
Tattingstone
Evensong
10am
Copdock
Morning Prayer
AUGUST 21 9.30am
Burstall Family Service
10am
Tattingstone
Holy Communion
10am
Copdock
Simply Sunday
9.30am
Burstall
Holy Communion
10am
Bentley
Holy Communion
11am
Sproughton
Holy Communion
6pm
Sproughton
Evensong
6pm
Tattingstone
Evensong
SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE AUGUST 5 6.30pm Bentley
Evening Prayer
AUGUST 7 9.30am
Burstall
Holy Communions
10am
Bentley
Family Service
10am
Copdock
Morning Prayer
10am
Tattingstone
Morning Prayer
11am
Sproughton
Holy Communion
AUGUST 14 9.15am
Sproughton
Croissant Church
9.30am
Burstall
Family Service
10am
Copdock
10am
Please submit church letters and copy for the September edition of In Touch to Hayley Purnell by August 4: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com
VILLAGE CONTACTS LIST
Details for organisations and activities in Sproughton Allotments
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Parish Council Chairman
Dave Shannon
01473 807674
Almshouses (Cooper Trust)
Ken Sheppard
01473 743122
Parochial Church Council
Jan Hart (sec)
01473 740434
Badminton Club
June Jackaman Jean Mardon
01473 745246 01473 461568
Playing Field Management Committee
Damian Lavington
01473 809512
Burial Ground
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Lunch Club
Sheri Walne
01473 602717
Bowls Club Chairman
Mike Snell
01473 748848
Quilters
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Brownies
Debra Last
01473 741773
Ramblers
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
Carpet Bowls Club
Bob Jones
01473 744093
01473 740629
Children’s Play Area
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Reading Room and Caretaker’s Gwen Moore House Charity
Church Hall Booking
Jill Quadling
01473 464336
Senior Citizens Club
John Bates
01473 743476
Community Shop
Rosalind Lavington 01473 747768
Sports & Social Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Craft Group
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Karen
Football Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Sproughton CEVC Primary School (head) 01473 742182
Footpath Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Suffolk Guides
June Webb
01473 742778
Jigsaw Pre-school
Rosemary Laflin
01473 745716
Tennis Club
John Tallent
01473 402307
Millennium Green Trust
Ken Seager 01473 741410 07578 552324 / keseager@sky.com
Tithe Barn Bookings
Sue Frankis
01473 463852
Tower Captain (church bells)
Ralph Earey
01473 743812
Mother and Toddler
Sam Pateman-Gee
01473 464595
Tree Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Parish Council
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Village History Recorder
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton
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