In Touch with Sproughton - February 2016

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with Burstall & Sproughton

Volume 6 • Issue No. 4 • FEBRUARY 2016

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Ipswich High School for Girls aged 3-18

Whole School Open Morning Friday 11th March 2016, 10am - 1pm

Scholarships and Bursary Awards available For further information please contact our Registrar on 01473 201034 admissions@ihs.gdst.net | www.ipswichhighschool.co.uk Comprehensive coach service across Essex and Suffolk

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NEWS

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR We had a friend coming over to play last Saturday and I asked Jack if we should invite him to stay for dinner. “He loves Chinese,” my oh-so-quick sesame prawn toast loving son replied, so I said I’d send a message to his mum. “Is a message just a slow way of telling someone something?,” Jack asked and I must admit it would have been quicker and easier to pick the phone up and actually speak to Emma. Three texts later we knew Adam was staying for dinner, that he liked Spaghetti Bolognese and didn’t have any food allergies, so the answer to Jack’s question, at least in this circumstance, was probably YES. Information technology has transformed our lives for the better it so many, many ways, but nothing beats direct communication and social media can never replace actual physical, social contact. I’m reminded of a submission from Elaine Bamber in Washbrook which I’d like to share. I hope it gives you a giggle FACEBOOK FOR THE OLDER GENERATION For those of my generation who do not comprehend why Facebook exists!

I am trying to make friends outside of Facebook while applying the same principles. Therefore, every day I walk down the street and tell passers by what I have eaten, how I am feeling at the moment, what I did the night before, what I will be doing later and with whom. I give them pictures of my family, my dog, of me gardening, taking things apart in the garage, watering the lawn, standing in front of landmarks, driving round town, having lunch and doing what everyone and everybody does every day. I also listen to their conversations and give them the ‘thumbs up’ and tell them that I like them.

It works just like Facebook! I already have four people following me... two police officers, a private investigator and a psychiatrist!

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In Touch with Burstall & Sproughton is published by:

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IN TOUCH WITH . . .

• Hadleigh NEW • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Bramford, Offton & Somersham • Woodbridge & Melton • Gt. & Lt. Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Needham Market, Creeting St Mary & Creeting St Peter

SPROUGHTON BONFIRE AND FIREWORKS NIGHT Friday, November 6

While the weather was reasonably kind to us on the day, the preceding rainfall made the field very muddy and slippery. Despite this, a crowd of 2,300 people supported the event and everyone enjoyed a great evening of family fun that included an enormous bonfire, an excellent barbecue and superb child-friendly fireworks.

So many people contribute to such a safe and well-managed event. Our set-up and clear-up team worked from early in the morning until 12.45am.

We were very grateful to the head and governors of Sproughton Primary School for granting us permission to use the school playing field and also to the Playing Field Management Committee for car parking.

The TA Cadets, ably assisted by Matt and Bradley, did a superb job by getting more than 200 cars safely parked. The collectors at the gates did a brisk trade and as usual our hard working catering team provided an excellent barbecue. The St John Ambulance team was again in attendance and fortunately there were only a couple of very minor incidents to report.

We must thank Factair for once again generously providing the generator to power the footpath lighting. Thanks are due to Jon Phillips for hiring the lighting towers at a discounted rate and Bradley for the loan of some additional lighting.

Many thanks to Christine, John and Jane for delivering the leaflets before the event and to all the people who so enthusiastically helped during the day (especially to Sally and Rosie who pre-cooked sausages in the church hall), in the evening and with the clearing up.

Particular thanks go to the Millennium Green directors for allowing us to use the field, the Woolf Family for their help and farm equipment, Ben, Charlie and Sophie for their help building the bonfire, Martin Ellingham, and Green & Skinner for the pallets, the cadets for manning the event, Tess for litter picking the school field and the Millennium Green and last, but not least, the Brownies for making the guy.

We are delighted to be able to report a grand total of £4,911 raised for church funds. We were also able to send a donation of £850 for use of the Millennium Green, £170 to the school for use of the school field and £38 to the Playing Field Management Committee for car parking.

This event would not be possible without volunteers, from the 50 plus helpers through to the cadets. If you’d be interested in helping at the event or with the organisation we’d be delighted to hear from you – it really is good fun.

Ralph Earey and Simon Curl, organisers on behalf of Sproughton PCC ralphearey@gmail.com

IN TOUCH WITH . . .

MARCH DEADLINE

10 FEBRUARY 2016 is the final date for both advertising & editorial copy

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NEWS FIRST AID COURSE IN SPROUGHTON

It is a delight to report that 18 people from the village were interested in taking part in a first aid course, which by the time you read this will have taken place in the Barley Room behind the Tithe Barn on January 16.

It should have covered primary survey, unconscious casualty, chest pains, child, adult and infant resuscitation, choking and severe bleeding as well as the use of a defibrillator.

The St John trainers could only take 14 participants on this course so it did mean that some had to miss out.

I was invited to go to a parish council meeting where one of the councillors put our case for a grant to enable this course to run. I was delighted at the support all the councillors gave to this project and agreed to a grant for which I thank them. They are hoping to have a defibrillator for the use of the parish.

It is hoped that these 14 trained first aiders will serve as a core willing to act at any event put on for the whole village as a thank you.

June Webb

SPROUGHTON MILLENNIUM GREEN WORK PARTIES 2016 IMPORTANT CHANGE-PLEASE NOTE! As an experiment, the Millennium Green directors have decided to try organising work parties on Sunday (rather than Saturday) mornings this spring in the hope that more people will be able to help.

As a result, the dates published in last month’s In Touch have been revised as follows: Work parties are planned for the third Sunday in each month: • February 21 • March 20 • April 17 Please come along for a couple of hours, or as much as you can spare, between 10am and noon. You’ll be made very welcome. There will be much to do on the green this spring to prepare for the coming year, and we’ll need your help to get it all done. We’ll provide tea, coffee and some light refreshments, so we hope to see you there!

If you have any queries, please give me a call. Thank you.

POLICE ARE URGING EXTRA VIGILANCE WHEN USING BANK CARDS

Officers are seeing an increased number of thefts in Suffolk, mainly targeting older people, in which their bank cards are stolen and then fraudulently used.

Offenders are known to use a variety of methods including ‘shoulder surfing’; standing close enough to the victim to identify their PIN number when using a bank card, before then stealing the card using different methods of distraction.

In a previous incident a woman suspect was seen to approach a pensioner using a cashpoint machine (ATM). She purposefully dropped something on the floor and nudged it towards the victim.

She told him that he had dropped something and as he bent down to pick it up the woman’s accomplice took the victim’s card from the machine and swapped it for another without him noticing. It is believed that the accomplice was watching as the victim entered his PIN into the machine. The victim then took the swapped card from the ATM, none the wiser that the suspects had both his bank card and the PIN. The suspects then used the card to obtain cash from the victim’s account.

More recent methods used by suspects have involved asking for directions/change, particularly in supermarket car parks. While the victim is distracted, the accomplice steals their bank cards, often without the victim noticing. The suspect or their accomplice will have obtained the PIN by watching the number being entered at the supermarket till or ATM.

Suffolk Police advise taking the following steps: • Be vigilant when entering your PIN – make sure you cover the keypad on both chip and pin machines and at cash points every time you enter your PIN number • Be aware of who is around you and make sure people stay a good distance away from you.

• Don’t let anyone distract you while you are using the cash machine or making a card payment. Cancel the transaction if you are worried.

• Be aware of who is around you and make sure people stay a good distance away from you.

• Keep your valuables secure – never leave them unattended, even for few moments. Keep your belongings tucked away safely in a zipped pocket or bag and use a purse chain if you have one.

• Report stolen cards – if you lose your wallet, report it to your bank immediately.

Help us keep our communities safe by reporting any suspicious activity.

Please use the following link to pass useful information to Suffolk Police about any incident: www.suffolk.police.uk/safetyadvice/ reportacrime/tellthepolice.aspx Do not use this link in an emergency or in a situation that requires an immediate police response when you should ring 999.

Suffolk Police Community Safety Team

Ken Seager, 01473 741410

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NEWS

SPROUGHTON FOOD FAIR By your Community Shop Saturday, February 20 / 11am to 3pm Sproughton Tithe Barn Local quality produce and organic foods Discover new tastes and ideas Meet local producers, growers, farmers and bakers Sample their products

FREE ENTRY

Refreshments available We stock the essentials and the unusual

For further information please contact the Community Shop: 01473 747768 6

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NEWS SPROUGHTON COMMUNITY SHOP: Something for everyone As I write this Christmas and New Year are over, the clearing up is done and 2016 is in progress.

The shop has completed its yearly stock take. Many thanks to the brave volunteers who counted everything from loo rolls to 1p sweets. It was a good opportunity to wipe shelves and see what was selling well. New ideas welcome.

How are your New Year resolutions going?

Mine was based around this Buddha saying: “Beautiful things happen when you distance yourself from negativity.”

Perhaps some of you will have some spare time on your hands because of retirement, part time working, empty nest syndrome or lifestyle changes. If so please consider giving a few hours to the shop. Help of any sort is invaluable – it is run by local people for the community, and that is you.

Some dates to note February 20: A Food Fair will be held in the Tithe Barn. Join us and sample local produce, see other community shops, bring us ideas of items you would like to see us stock and (re)discover the many, varied and well-priced things the shop sells.

Following the success of our autumn disco we will be repeating this so watch for dates.

Easter comes early this year so we will be stocked with Easter Eggs and Fair Trade goods that will appeal to all.

I continue to meet (local) people who express surprise that the shop exists so if you are reading this and have never visited us make 2016 the year to do so.

At the time of writing the paper shop at Bramford has suddenly closed.

Do not despair! Plans are already afoot for continuing the service under the aegis of Suffolk News Deliveries who want to take over the business. Problems need to be ironed out with the wholesalers, but our message is, if you want to continue to have a paper delivered, leave your name with us at the shop. The shop will be acting as a point of contact, but will also continue to provide papers for those of you who prefer to collect your papers direct from the shop.

Looking forward to seeing you, Sally Sparrow, volunteer and director www.sproughtoncommunityshop.co.uk / 01473 748478

LEMONY CHICKEN February. One of the coldest months of the year, and many of us are still feeling the effects of Christmas: stuffing bills instead of turkeys, and trying to maintain a happy and healthy family with hot meals fit for kith and kin, and possibly even a king (but with hardly a king’s budget… far from it). One of my favourites that fits

the bill is Lemony Chicken. It’s tasty, easy, fast, and economical, and easy to clean up afterwards. Enjoy!

LEMONY CHICKEN

sides. Add the other ingredients, including the rest of the garlic, cover, and place in a pre-set oven at 200º, gas mark 6, for about 30 minutes. What could be easier? A few parsnips and carrots with green beans make colourful side dishes, and ensure you get your daily five a day.

8 chicken thighs 1 tbsp olive oil 2 red onions, peeled and cut 3 cloves garlic, peeled 2 sprigs rosemary 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut 2 unwaxed lemons, quartered 250 ml chicken stock Clean and blot dry the chicken thighs, then rub with some of the oil and garlic, minced. In an oven-proof skillet or pan, sauté them in olive oil 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown on all

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Mary Bright Basan Questions or comments? Email: ms.bb@talktalk.net

Accompanied with the wild rice blend from Sproughton Community Shop, it is a simple yet pleasurable blend of flavours.

Most, if not all, ingredients can be found in the shop tucked away on Sproughton’s Lower Street at the Tithe Barn. Remember, it’s the little shop with something for everyone (and probably a little bit more).

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NEWS ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY UPDATE Suffolk’s energy-from-waste facility attracted more than 2,600 visitors in its first year and 99.5% said they were either happy or very happy with their visit.

As well as seven open days, aimed primarily at those living very close to the site, the centre has hosted 37 school or children’s groups and 92 adult groups during the year. Visitors have come from right across the county and beyond, but over half of the visitors live in Mid Suffolk or Babergh.

The feedback has been very positive, with local people welcoming the opportunity to learn more about the energy-from-waste process, as well as recycling and the need to produce more energy from renewable sources.

One local resident commented: “Very informative. I feel a lot happier with the facility being here now as it has all been explained to me. Thank you.”

A typical visit includes a presentation, a tour of the facility including the control room where the emissions monitoring information can be seen, and time in the visitor centre rooms.

The chimney emissions monitoring information is also available on our website: www.suffolkefw.co.uk Before the site opened, Suffolk County Council set up a monitoring station close by to measure general air quality before, during and after construction. This information is available on the Green Suffolk website at: http://tinyurl.com/zd6jdlr USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060 SITA Trust: 01454 262910

Years Ago 100 From a February, 1916 magazine In January 1916 the children of the village were busy with knitting ‘comforts’ for the soldiers, who very much appreciated by them.

One girl knitted 10 garments for the men who were fighting in the First World War. Other parishioners knitted 40 scarves and 16 pairs of mittens.

The children did plays and other entertainment for the people of the village and several soldiers from Mary Lands Convalescent Home came down to the church hall to watch.

As mentioned before, during this time the son of Major Robert Phillipps, Lieut. Robert, who was born at The Manor was mentioned in dispatches and was awarded a Military Cross.

Several people took an exam in first aid with the Red Cross, and 14 out of 16 Sproughton people passed.

SAVE THE DUKE UPDATE You’ll be pleased to hear that progress has not stopped. More than £190,000 was raised in just three months – and people are still buying shares, so the total is edging its way upwards. If you haven’t already joined in, it’s not too late, so please do. Just go on the website to invest or contact Gerard Kroon: 01473 657178 The fantastic support and encouragement from local communities has kept the committee going, ploughing through laborious tasks and layers of bureaucracy to get to the strong position we’re now in. We’re determined to make 2016 the year we get our pub back.

The committee Having started the Save the Duke campaign, then tirelessly driven it forward over the last year – while also working as a doctor – Sarah Caston is stepping down as chair. She has made an invaluable contribution and been an inspirational leader and our sincere thanks are due to her. She will continue to sit on the committee and support the campaign going forward. We are pleased to announce James Batchelor-Wylam from Somersham as new chair. James runs a branch of the NFU/NFU Mutual in Lavenham and his business acumen will be of great use to the committee as we move to a new phase of the project with the purchase of the pub this year.

Buying shares We are in constructive discussions with the pub’s owners about its purchase. In order to buy and operate the Duke of Marlborough a further £150,000 is needed. This can, and will (!), be raised. Other communities have done it – and so can we. But we need your help.

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• If you are not already a shareholder, could you invest £250 or more?

• If you are a shareholder, would you be prepared to increase your current shareholding?

• Could you help us find more supporters – refer friends, colleagues or family who would consider buying shares?

• All donations (however small) are also very welcome Loaning big lump sums – great new scheme with attractive payback In order to buy the pub as soon as possible, we need to borrow money. If you have £5,000 to £50,000 to invest for a period of four years and if your tax liabilities are over £3,000 a year, then you may well want to benefit from a fantastic new scheme.

The government’s Social Investment Tax Relief should enable you to reclaim 30% of your loan against your tax bill. The end result is equivalent to a whacking 7% a year interest – and your loan returned in full after four years.

The good news is that the loans will cost the pub nothing: the benefit to savers comes direct from the taxman. We’re in the process of registering with HMRC for the scheme, and are seeking expressions of interest. Please email marlboroughsomersham@gmail.com or call James on 01473 831042 if you’d like to get involved or to know more about it.

BASH IN THE BARN 2: Fundraising event on March 19 Put March 19 in your diaries for Bash in the Barn 2. More details to follow – our Facebook page is a good way to keep abreast of latest news: www.facebook.com/marlboroughsomersham Follow us on Twitter: @helpsavetheduke

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT USEFUL ITEMS FOR LOAN IN SPROUGHTON EASTER FLOWERS AND AFTERNOON TEA (VINTAGE STYLE) There are several items within the village (mainly financed by the Reading Room Trust) that can be borrowed for a token donation towards their maintenance, or eventual renewal: a trailer, Powerpoint projector, set of steel scaffolding, a very long ladder, a slide projector, large barbecue and two folding tables.

Your first port of call should be Michael Earey at 26, Lower Street, Ipswich / 01473 742766 who will let you know of the availability of the various items and where they are stored.

The next meeting of the trustees will be in March when the trust will consider any applications for financial help from village organisations.

Written applications to Trustee Gwen Moore at 5 Ransome Close.

LENT SOUP LUNCHES

Enjoy an Easter flowers and vintage style afternoon tea event on Sunday, March 20 in Burstall Village Hall, 2-4.30pm. Arrange some flowers for Easter to give or to keep and enjoy delicious afternoon tea, served vintage style.

The cost is £10 per person and is suitable for all. The idea is to have fun with friends old and new and to take home an arrangement to be proud of.

You will need to bring a couple of bunches of standard supermarket flowers, some foliage, a sharp knife and some garden scissors. Floral foam, containers and candles will be supplied.

Booking is essential as places will be limited. Contact Ann Burchnall for details and to book your place: 01473 652262 / ann.burchnall@gmail.com

Once again during Lent you are warmly invited to soup lunches taking place in Sproughton Church Hall between noon and 1.30pm on Mondays, February 15, 22 and 29 and March 7, 14 and 21.

On each occasion there will be a cake stall (contributions are invited) and the proceeds from this and the lunches will go to World Vision.

World Vision is a Christian organisation currently helping more than 100 million people in nearly 100 countries in their struggle against poverty, hunger and injustice, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

Come and enjoy a bowl of soup (homemade whenever possible) and a roll, buy a cake for your neighbour and have fellowship with others, knowing that your money is helping some of the world’s most vulnerable people.

JIGSAW EVENING

Saturday, February 20, 7pm In aid of Sproughton Millennium Green Do you like doing jigsaws?

If you do, why not come along to our jigsaw challenge evening on Saturday, February 20 in the Church Hall and see if you can finish the puzzle faster than another team?

EAST ANGLIA POTATO DAY 2016 Potato Day Poem by Buddy Lawrence from Harwich, a first time visitor 2015 It only happens once a year.

It’s called Potato Day. You go into a big marquee, and out there on display, there’s boxes placed on tables, and inside them they hold, A myriad of seed potatoes there’s one called Yukon Gold.

The whole thing is well-organised you have to queue in line, and wait until they open up.

It starts at half-past nine.

Then in like ants, swarm connoisseurs, and amateurs as well, each looking for their favourites, and maybe - who can tell?

They’ll find something that’s different, they didn’t know about.

Varieties they thought long gone; they’re still there, have no doubt.

The volunteers who run the day, some regular, some new, will still be there at next year’s day, and hope to see you, too.

Mr Lawrence kindly submitted this poem in 2015 and we think it sums up potato day brilliantly.

The fun starts at 7pm. Tickets cost £4 for adults and £2.50 for children in advance, or £5 and £3.50 on the door. Teams of six, or you can make up a team on the night.

For any potential potato growers who haven’t been before, this years’ East Anglia Potato Day is being held on Saturday, February 13 at MidSuffolk Showground, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket IP14 6AT (on the A1120 approximately two miles from the A140), from 9.30am-1.30pm. There is a small admission charge of £1.50.

Light refreshments will be served. There will be prizes and a raffle in aid of the Green.

For a list of the varieties expected visit: www.eapd.btck.com

Tickets available in the Community Shop or from John (742788), Jane (670303) or Ken (741410).

Come along and join in the fun and help to keep your Green safe and pleasant for all to enjoy.

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As well as seed potatoes (sold per tubor) we have various stallholders including refreshments, secondhand tools, seedswap, King Seeds, Rougham Nurseries, chip tasting and lots more.

2016 will be our 21st year and is organised by Suffolk Organic Group, Norfolk Organic Gardeners and Ipswich Organic Gardeners Group and we look forward to seeing everyone again in February.

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB 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 on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. 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.

Our meetings for February and March are: February 10: Social afternoon February 24: Chocolate!

March 9: Social afternoon March 23: Mr Lewis Tyler of the River Gipping Trust will give a presentation entitled Rebuilding History - Baylham Lock and Sluice Visitors and new members are always welcome so do come and join us.

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.

Our next meeting is on Tuesday, February 16 at 7.15pm when David Brown will be talking about China – The Land of the Dragon.

This illustrated talk will focus on a number of famous and less famous attractions, both ancient and modern, as well as aspects of Chinese history and culture.

The talk on March 22 will be given

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB In last month’s note I gave my usual annual update of the club and its membership for the benefit of newcomers to the area who may wish to join. By comparison, there is little to report this month. Members will have had the first outing of the New Year, a visit to the Wild Man for New Years’ Lunch on January 20, and the first main event will be the Annual General Meeting booked for Wednesday, April 20, following another lunch at the Wild Man. Meanwhile, take care of yourselves, especially if the forecast for a spell of freezing weather is correct.

Best wishes to all, John Bates

Countryside walks For the December walk some of the group went to Needham Lake and enjoyed ambling along the paths in the area. The small islands at one end of the lake were being cleared of some of the small trees and it was hoped that the water would improve with more light.

On the Sunday afternoon walk in January the group went to Bourne Park and walked on hard paths. They were hoping to miss the mud and large puddles.

The February rambles will be on Sunday, February 14 ,meeting at the church at 2pm, for a local walk. The midweek walk will be on Tuesday, February 23, leaving the church at 10am. At the time of writing the destination had not been decided.

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by Luke Potter, the new East Suffolk general manager for the National Trust. Luke will give us an insight into the current work and future plans of the trust for our area. This will be preceded by a short AGM. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome for an entrance fee of £2 each. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 a year (£12 for a couple at the same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events.

For more information contact our membership secretary: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

EASTER BRIC-A-BRAC SALE 1st Sproughton Brownies are holding their Easter Brica-Brac sale on Saturday, March 5 at Sproughton Church Hall, 2-4pm. Admission free.

In aid of Save the Children, HOPS (Holiday Opportunity Play Scheme for children with disabilities) and Brownie funds.

Everyone welcome.

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL Well, the start of the year is passing really quickly and the children have settled back in really well. We have also got some new children who joined us for this term. We are all hoping for some nice sunny weather so that everyone can enjoy the garden.

There are lots of fun activities for the children to enjoy coming up soon, and parents may want to start thinking about the design for their children’s Easter bonnets for the Easter show next month (Tuesday, March 22). Further details will be issued nearer the time.

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 in the Easter and summer holidays for two to eight year olds – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator.

If you would like more 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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NO VAT

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Trusted by local families since 1925 47 St Helens Street Ipswich 01473 257242 283 Norwich Road Ipswich 01473 232837 364 Foxhall Road Ipswich 01473 728445 Meredith Greengrass 9 Marriotts Walk Stowmarket 01449 612765

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We are not part of the national Co-operative Funeralcare chain based in Manchester.

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SCHOOLS CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL We have had a busy start to term with Year 11 students returning to their internal mock exam results. These practise papers are a key indicator to students in helping them get ready for the first real exam on May 3. Revision really starts in earnest now, supported by a Friday night and Saturday GCSE Boot Camp trip to the Essex Outdoors Centre on Mersea Island. This overnight stay includes revision in English and mathematics on Friday night, followed the next morning by a hearty cooked breakfast to help the students face some outdoor challenges on Saturday, such as the climbing wall and assault course as well as working in a classroom to learn more about how to revise. Our aim is that students leave tired and muddy, but with 101 revision strategies!

We continue to celebrate our students’ successes both inside and outside of school and some fantastic performances have come from Robert Welham in karting, Minty Bloss in pony racing, Charlie Johnson in cycle speedway and Amie Philpot in swimming, to name but a few. While we cannot offer these types of activities in school, our P.E. Department are always looking at different ways to challenge and enthuse students about sport and have recently introduced a StreetGolf after-school club.

StreetGolf is a fun and engaging golfing activity designed by StreetGames and The Golf Foundation with the help of young people. The StreetGolf format aims to bring golf to young people, regardless of their access to traditional facilities and is ideal for use in an urban or inner city environment. Young people are encouraged to make innovative use of everyday equipment to make sessions different, challenging and enjoyable. Our small but dedicated team has had the opportunity to represent the Eastern Region in the National StreetGolf Finals in Wolverhampton and also qualified for the Super 6 Games finals back in July. The chief executive of the Golf Foundation, Brendan Pyle, came to visit the school in December to observe and speak to the students taking part in this successful club, which is supported by Sam Foster, golf professional at Bramford Golf Centre. Brendan has produced a very interesting case study which can be viewed at: www.golffoundation.org We have two very exciting trips abroad for our language and art students this month, one to Paris and one to Salamanca in northwest Spain. Students will visit key tourist sites to practise their language skills in a real-life context as well as absorbing the different cultures. In other areas of the school, Year 9 students will be choosing what subject options to study at GCSE, Year 11 art students will visit the Tate Gallery in London and, to finish the month, music students will be taking part in a rock band workshop with visiting local band, Underline the Sky.

OPEN MORNING

SPROUGHTON CEVCP SCHOOL RESIDENTIAL 2015 During the autumn term, Class 4 drove to Sizewell Hall for an unforgettable trip. They were stunned by Sizewell Hall’s magnificence; everything about the hall was incredibly grand.

Throughout the trip, everyone was in a group: Hyenas, Elephants or Lions.

The trip to Sizewell really improved Class 4’s teamwork and friendship.

The range of activities included: • • • • • •

Bridge building Archery Crafts Games Climbing Scavenger hunts

Many people agreed that the night-walk really stood out as a highlight.

Basically, during the night-walk the pupils in Class 4 were blindfolded and were directed around the area while only holding a rope. It was a fun time for everyone, even with some surprises.

“I walked into a tree!” said Bethan after the night-walk.

On the final night, the class sat around the campfire telling jokes, stories and songs while roasting marshmallows.

“I really enjoyed the campfire,” commented Isabelle.

For everyone in the class, the trip was truly unforgettable. New skills were learnt, friendships grew, and Class 4’s bond became even greater.

Written by school reporters Oliver Jones and William Beaven

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 would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The date of the next one is Wednesday, February 24. Please telephone Mrs J Pedersen, the headteacher’s PA, to book a place: 01473 836110

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

Mrs S Skinner, headteacher

You may also register your interest online and fill in the details on the Join Us section: www.girlguiding.org.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE

PLAYING FIELD NEWS PFMC have been tied up with club administration matters this month, so I’ve only two updates for you: SPROUGHTON CLUB UPDATE The next Super Saturday will be on February 13 when, as usual, the club will open from 7pm. We will be holding another quiz night, starting at 8.30pm with teams of around four.

Even if you don’t like quizzes please feel free to drop in and see what it’s all about anyway – you’re more than welcome. The last few Super Saturdays have been really busy and a great laugh. And if you’d like to help run the bar then please come on down – I’d be especially pleased to see you!

VOLUNTEERS The playing field is run by Sproughton residents for the benefit of Sproughton by way of the Playing Field Management Committee who are the registered trustees of the Playing Field Trust. We are always on the look-out 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.

Damian Lavington, chairman 01473 809512

SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB The club has had a fairly busy ‘closed’ winter season with indoor friendlies at Ipswich and District Bowls Club, Colchester Indoor Bowls Club and Sudbury Indoor Bowls Club, and while we haven’t chalked up a victory results have been close with defeat by four shots overall at Colchester and just one shot at Sudbury. As we are primarily an outdoor club these results are extremely encouraging. Our next game is at Mid-Suffolk Bowls Club in Stowmarket early in February. Thanks to club captain Joy Mackie for organising teams for these games.

John Thompson is still looking for a few more people to join the late summer tour to Llandudno from August 29 to September 6. Full details can be obtained by emailing John at: Sproughtonbowlsclub@outlook.com For more information about our club please visit: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com

QUESTIONS ON CASH

With Independent Financial Adviser, Nick Plumb David and Karen from Ipswich ask: “We were considering a buy to let property as a way of generating income, but the increase in stamp duty that was announced in the Autumn Statement in November has put us off. We understand that the stock market is rather low at the moment. Does that mean now would be a good time to invest some spare capital? There seem to be a lot of investment ‘opportunities’ around right now and we would appreciate your views.”

Investing profitably and safely has never been easy. My 10 basic investment rules should help point you in the right direction, but always seek professional advice on your own personal situation.

Rule 1 Don’t expect miracles. Newspapers may feature tales of lucky investors who have trebled their money in a couple of years by picking the right shares, but the odds against such a return over the short-term are about as long as winning the National Lottery.

Rule 2 High potential rewards mean a greater potential risk of losses. Unless you specifically want a high risk investment, a good financial adviser is likely to suggest an investment portfolio that is broadly spread and designed to outperform cash by a few percentage points on average over the longer term.

Rule 3 Don’t look for a ‘get rich quick’ scheme. All non-cash investments should be viewed as a medium to long-term commitment (over at least five to 10 years).

The steady sensible ‘tortoise’ usually beats the volatile ‘hare’.

Rule 4 Remember a cash reserve and adequate insurance. It is important to ensure your family would be well provided for financially if you died or suffered ill health and that your income in your retirement years will be comfortable, before making other investments.

Rule 5 Know what you want to invest for. It could be for a regular income now or to build up a capital sum with some future project in mind. Have a clear goal or objective.

Rule 6 Make sure your investment is as tax efficient as possible. Your tax position and that of your spouse will affect what kind of investment is recommended.

Make use of ISA allowances to build up a fund that can produce tax free income or capital withdrawals.

Rule 7 Avoid putting all your investment eggs in one basket. Consider managed collective investments or risk-managed portfolios which spread your money across a wide range of assets in accordance with your risk tolerance.

Rule 8 Never deal with brokers who email or phone you. These people are probably not authorized by the FCA and all of your money could be at risk. Never trust someone who cold calls you out of the blue, regardless of what they say or where they are based.

Rule 9 Never lock money away in a long-term plan if you may need it tomorrow.

Although interest rates at banks are currently very low, you should keep a healthy and accessible cash reserve of around six months income before considering longer-term investments.

Rule 10 Review everything on a regular basis together with your financial adviser.

Changes in your circumstances or cha nges in tax law may affect your position, and it may be necessary to change or adapt your investments.

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 call Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s opinions and views in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position and requirements. Plumb Financial Services is regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

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In Touch online:

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YOU GROW IT I’LL MOW IT

Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning

GROUNDS & GARDEN MAINTENANCE We offer the following services all year round: Grass cutting • Garden clearance Fences & Gates • Patios & Paths Hedge Cutting • Tree Cutting Sheds • Summer Houses Digger & Dumper work

For a free quotation please call Nigel Coton 01449 721025 or 07801 515505

Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation

call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441

To advertise in this section, which appears in 16 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

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CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE

Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook & Belstead and Bentley with Tattingstone For parish queries please contact: The Rev Annette Shannon The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton, Ipswich IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674 Benefice administrator Hayley Purnell northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07713 863023 As we are now one month into a new year, I’d like to focus for a moment on something which left a deep impression on me in 2015, Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child. This wonderful campaign to fill shoeboxes for disadvantaged children stretches right across the villages in and around Ipswich. I am a volunteer, presenter and church co-ordinator for the charity and it is a charity I am passionate about.

The story of the Good Samaritan gives a clear picture of God’s desire for us to help those in desperate need wherever we find them. After describing how the Samaritan rescued a hurting man when others had passed by, Jesus told his hearers: “Go and do likewise.” This is the mission of Samaritan’s Purse, to follow the example of Christ by helping those in need and proclaiming the hope of the Gospel.

For 40 years Samaritan’s Purse has done its utmost to follow Christ’s command by going to the aid of the world’s poor, sick and suffering.

The organisation serves the church worldwide to promote the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Since 1990 more than 113 million boys and girls in over 130 countries have experienced God’s love through the power of simple shoebox gifts. These shoeboxes are an expression of God’s love to us and the gift of his son at Christmas. They give local churches the opportunity to show God’s love in a tangible way, and during the distribution event to share the good news of Jesus Christ. It is an unconditional gift of love.

This is all made possible through the amazing support of thousands of adults and children in the UK and Ireland and each box is packed with love by each Good Samaritan.

During the first few centuries of Christianity, many famous teachers loved to tell the parable of the Good Samaritan. We find it in the sermons of Augustine, Jerome, Ambrose and other greats of the early church. In retelling this story, they gave a name to the fictional character in the story.

They put a face on the Good Samaritan – the name they gave him was Jesus Christ. They recognised him in the face of their crucified and risen Lord, the Lord who is risen with his own wounds, the marks of the crucifixion. For these Saints it was Jesus himself who was the first and pre-eminent Good Samaritan.

The world in which we live is in need of a Good Samaritan and the hands of Christ the Good Samaritan are our hands. The compassionate gaze of Christ is offered to people of today through our eyes. Christ takes our hands and uses them to tend the wounds of those who lie by the roadside in our world. Christ the Good Samaritan acts through us as we learn what it means to be a neighbour to those around us.

Jesus in his parable closes with the words “Go and do likewise.” May we all remember those words as we continue on our Christian journeys this year.

Best wishes Angela Neale, Reader

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ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICES February 10: Burstall at 10am / Tattingstone at 7.30pm LENT GROUPS Burstall: February 17 & 24 and March 2, 9 & 16 at 2.30pm Bentley: February 17 & 24 and March 2, 9 & 16 at 7.30pm WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Friday, March 4: Burstall Church, 7pm BELSTEAD JUMBLE SALE Saturday, March 19: in the village hall, 10am MAUNDY THURSDAY SERVICE Thursday, March 24: Copdock Church at 7.30pm, followed by an hour’s watch

FROM THE REGISTERS Baptisms Ellie May Newport, Belstead Funerals John Walter McCluskey, Bentley Anthony Wilson, Belstead FEBRUARY 3 Bentley Home Communions, 19 The Link, 10am 4 Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm

Bentley Coffee and Company, 10am 6 Copdock Morning Market, 10am 8 Bentley approval of accounts 9 Copdock approval of accounts

Tattingstone approval of accounts Ash Wednesday Morning Service at Burstall, 10am, and Evening 10

Service at Tattingstone, 7.30pm 13 Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am

Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm 17 Copdock Home Communions 18, Charlottes, Washbrook, 10am

Burstall Lent Group, 2.30pm

Bentley Lent Group, 7.30pm 18 Churchwardens’ meeting at Copdock Church Room, 1pm 24 Burstall PCC and adoption of accounts, 7.30pm

Burstall Lent Group, 2.30pm

Bentley Lent Group, 7.30pm 25 Ministry meeting, noon MARCH 2

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10 12

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Bentley Home Communions, 19 The Link, 10am Burstall Lent Group, 2.30pm Bentley Lent Group, 7.30pm Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm Bentley Coffee and Company, 10am Women’s World Day of Prayer, Burstall church, 7pm Copdock Morning Market, 10am Bentley adoption of accounts Burstall Lent Group, 2.30pm Bentley Lent Group, 7.30pm Belstead approval of accounts Sproughton Morning Market, 10am Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm Copdock Home Communions, 18 Charlottes, Washbrook, 10am Burstall Lent Group, 2.30pm Bentley Lent Group, 7.30pm Tattingstone adoption of accounts Belstead Jumble Sale, village hall, 10am Ministry meeting at The Rectory, 7.30pm Copdock Maundy Thursday Service followed by an hour’s watch, 7.30pm Good Friday Benefice Service Belstead adoption of accounts

In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7 8am Copdock 10am Copdock 9.30am Burstall 10am Bentley 10am Tattingstone 11am Sproughton

Holy Communion Morning Prayer Holy Communion Candlemas Holy Communion Candlemas

ASH WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10 10am Burstall 7.35pm Tattingstone

Holy Communion Holy Communion

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14 9.15am Sproughton 9.30am Burstall 10am Copdock 10am Bentley 6.05pm Tattingstone

Croissant Church Family Service Holy Communion Holy Communion Evensong

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21 9.30am Burstall 10am Copdock 10am Bentley 11am Sproughton 6.05pm Tattingstone

Holy Communion Simply Sunday Family Service Matins Holy Communion

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28 8am Sproughton 9.30am Burstall 10am Bentley 10am Copdock 10am Belstead 10am Tattingstone 11am Sproughton

Holy Communion Matins Holy Communion Holy Communion Morning Celebration Family Service Fourth Sunday

FRIDAY, MARCH 4 (WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER) 7pm Burstall Benefice Service SUNDAY, MARCH 6 8am Copdock 9.30am Burstall 10am Bentley 10am Copdock 10am Tattingstone 11am Sproughton

Holy Communion Holy Communion Mothering Sunday Service Mothering Sunday Service Holy Communion Holy Communion

SUNDAY, MARCH 13 9.15am Sproughton 9.30am Burstall 10am Copdock 10am Bentley 6.05pm Tattingstone

Croissant Service Family Service Holy Communion Holy Communion Evensong

Church letters and copy for the March edition of In Touch to Hayley Purnell by February 4 please: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com

VILLAGE CONTACTS LIST

Details for organisations and activities in Sproughton Allotments

Sue Frankis (clerk)

01473 463852

Parish Council Chairman

Simon Curl

01473 747114

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

Gwen Moore

01473 740629

Children’s Play Area

Sue Frankis (clerk)

01473 463852

Reading Room and Caretaker’s 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 01473 742182

Craft Group

Julie Hodges

01473 226004

Sproughton CEVC Primary School Karen Read (head)

Football Club

Mrs G Studd

01473 747017

Suffolk Guides

June Webb

01473 742778

Footpath Warden

Sue Frankis (clerk)

01473 463852

Tennis Club

John Tallent

01473 402307

Jigsaw Pre-school

Rosemary Laflin

01473 745716

Tithe Barn Bookings

Sue Frankis

01473 463852

Millennium Green Trust

Ken Seager 01473 741410 07578 552324 / keseager@sky.com

Tower Captain (church bells)

Ralph Earey

01473 743812

Tree Warden

Sue Frankis (clerk)

01473 463852

Mother and Toddler

Sam Pateman-Gee

01473 464595

Village History Recorder

Doreen Bradbury

01473 210008

Parish Council

Sue Frankis (clerk)

01473 463852

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

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