In Touch with Westerfield - May 2016

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with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham Volume 6 • Issue No. 6 • MAY 2016

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Blackthorn Blossom

by Martin Chambers

Trusted by local families since 1925 64 New Street Woodbridge 01394 385456 43 Sizewell Road Leiston 01728 830670 139 Main Road Kesgrave 01473 860030 364 Foxhall Road Ipswich 01473 728445

The East of England Co-op has been your local funeral service for 90 years.

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

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In Touch online:

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

NEWS

Yesterday we had thunder, lightening, rain, hailstones… Today the most glorious spring day of the year so far. I think this is it! I can feel it in my bones. Summer is finally on the way. Time to get out the sun cream, to pack away the woolly jumpers and to open the doors and windows and let the fresh air in. At last!

It’s a busy, busy year with many extra events to celebrate the Queen’s 90th Birthday in addition to annual fun days, galas, regattas, fairs and fetes. There isn’t a single weekend between now and the end of June when there isn’t at least one event every Saturday and Sunday and many more on Bank Holiday Mondays.

I’m currently trying to organise a Star Wars birthday party for my sixyear-old son and the kitchen table is covered in scrapped invitation cards (Jack was writing the names!), lists (food, games, shopping, goodie bags, decorations), recipes (Chewy Wookiee Cookies look particularly challenging!), and information about keeping rabbits!

Don’t ask! This I have to do but those who plan, organise and promote local events often do so by choice and I can only imagine how much time and energy, never mind the blood, sweat and tears, they invest to bring it all together and pack it all away again.

I’m hoping at least 10 of Jack’s friends turn up, but at least I’ll know in advance and can plan accordingly. I may not need 16 inflatable lightsabers after all and I’ll probably be eating Obo-Wan Kabobies for a month, but I’m not sure I could cope with not knowing if anyone would turn up! Yet our valiant teams of local event organisers do it year after year, hoping the weather will play along, hoping their neighbours will roll up, hoping there will be a sufficient number of people to make all the effort worthwhile, hoping to raise a significant sum for the cause, whatever it may be.

Surely the least we can do is turn up. Let’s make the effort this year and we might all find new reasons to appreciate our local community.

In Touch

with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham

In Touch with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham is published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: westerfield@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 Printing Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk

01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions.

While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Kesgrave & Rushmere is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

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SONGS & SCONES Saturday, May 14 at 2.30pm Witnesham Village Hall Afternoon tea and entertainment from Witnesham’s Village Voices

TUDDENHAM FETE The annual Tuddenham Fete in aid of church funds will be held as usual in the lovely gardens of Poplar Farm by kind permission of Bill and Monica Pipe on Saturday, June 11 from 2pm.

This year we will celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday with a red, white and blue theme and everyone is encouraged to wear or bring along a crown to be photographed in.

There will be cream teas with a regal flavour, ice creams and all the usual stalls – cakes, books, accessories, White Elephant, toys and plants – children’s games and competitions, and of course tombola and a grand draw.

Admission is 50p, children free. Contact: 01473 785415

QUEEN’S 90th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Mike Hurrel’s GENTLEMEN OF JAZZ Traditional Jazz band Saturday, May 21, 3-7pm Church Paddock, Westerfield • ‘Hep to Step’ dance demo • Bouncy Castle • Ice Creams Tickets: Adults £10 / Children (under 16) free Available from: Olive Miller 212316 / Val Byrne 251624 / Linda Rolph 211015 Any proceeds to charity ORGANISED BY WESTERFIELD EVENTS GROUP

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NEWS ASHBOCKING NEWS It took two and a half hours, eight gallant folk, muscle and fortitude, but Ashbocking now has the beginnings of a community orchard. The weather wasn’t kind and we all got wet and muddy. But take a look down the end of Allotment Lane – it’s all looking good. Well, we had some professionals on the job. Our thanks go to Richard Last, our own homegrown expert! Richard showed us the best way to plant a fruit tree and generously supplied the stakes, ties, compost and magic micro stuff that guarantees good root growth. But more than that, he supplied an enthusiasm and commitment to the project that gave us all the confidence to go ahead and create history in Ashbocking.

Thanks go to Andrew and David Gaught and Jonathan Bell who, with Steve Stegman’s expertise, provided muscle power and technique to construct protection for the trees, to keep out the destructive tendencies of rabbits and deers. Mike Surridge brought along walnut, horse chestnut and oak trees to add to the trees on the site and with Duncan Bray, dug a number of holes and showed how being an allotmenteer means you know exactly what you’re meant to be doing!

And then this angel (otherwise known as Catherine Beaumont) appeared, bearing coffee, tea and hot cross buns to give us further encouragement and praise. Thanks C! I hope we will all enjoy watching the trees thrive and grow and bear fruit that we will all be able to enjoy.

The speedwatch gun has been in action again. There are two sites in the village where the police have given permission for us to record speeds through the village. One is at the road entrance to SWT and the other at Allotment Lane. Since it can’t be done in the dark or when it’s raining, we hope to have more checks as the summer months approach. If anyone would like to join in this scheme and not just complain about speeding, but give some of their time to help stop it, then please contact Steve Stegman or any one of the parish councillors. Speeding through the village is one of the main concerns of parishioners, and the police are very aware of this. Increasing the number of speedwatch team members means it won’t be a drain on any one person’s time.

Another community project has taken place this month.

As many of you will have noticed, we now have clean road signs in the village. This also including signs on the B1078 when approaching the cross roads from all directions. Thanks go to Tony Rubin, Tony Gilbert, John Pollard, and Steve Stegman for responding to the call. Highways will be cleaning the bollards at the crossroads in the near future. I decided that was a task too far. Well, have you stood near those crossroads recently?

Too risky for our residents with only high vis jackets.

Finally, do make sure you can attend the quiz at the church on June 25. Don’t worry if you can’t make up a team of five or six. Just come and we’ll all mix in. I’m reliably informed the questions will be easy and with a raffle, a bar and good company, you’ll be guaranteed to have an enjoyable evening.

Really, finally. Don’t forget to start growing your fruit and vegetables in preparation for the Village Produce Arts and Craft Show. I bet my pumpkin will be bigger than yours!

Liz Stegman

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LIVE MUSIC AT THE MOON AND MUSHROOM Suffolk based folk rock duo Silbury Hill are playing at the Moon and Mushroom in Swilland on Saturday, May 7. Scott Dolling (flute, guitar, vocals) and David Stainer (guitar, mandolin, vocals) play a lively set of songs by a variety of artists such as Jethro Tull, Fairport Convention and Sting as well as their own original material. They will also perform songs from their brand new CD, Justice of the Rowan, which was released in April. The concert starts at 8.30pm and will be acoustic (un-plugged).

Entry is free.

Further information about Silbury Hill, their recordings and concerts can be found at: www.silburyhill.net We are excited to announce that the wonderful Joseph and Maia will be playing at the Moon and Mushroom on Thursday, June 2. Originating from New Zealand, they were signed on one of the country’s largest record labels until the company insisted they change from their folk/pop based roots to become an ‘electro duo’.

Joseph and Maia took the brave decision to break their contract.

Relentless touring and with the support of family and friends they were able to release their album Sorrento.

They spent much of 2015 promoting the album across Europe, including their very popular lounge gigs (playing at your house), building an ever increasing fan base.

They are returning to the UK in May and June and we are delighted to have secured a date on this tour. A fabulous opportunity to see a young and highly talented duo up close and local. Admission is free, but we will ask you show your appreciation by way of a donation at the end of the gig.

LUNAR LADIES The first Lunar Ladies girls only night held at the Moon and Mushroom Swilland on April 4 exceeded all expectations when 31 ladies left the men folk at home. Thank you for so many lovely emails commenting on what a good night it was.

The next meeting is on Monday, May 16 at 7pm. The speaker will be Terri Thorpe. Her subject will be A Way of Seeing – a photographer’s perspective of life through a lens. The cost is £10 which includes a hot supper with pudding.

Places do need to be booked via gina.wilden@btinternet.com / 01473 785577 or drop in to the Moon and Mushroom.

VILLAGE GARAGE SALE Sunday, July 10, 10am-1pm Sponsored by Witnesham & Swilland Community Group Clear out those cupboards and sheds and start collecting items for your sale.

Put the date in your diary now.

More news in the June edition of In Touch.

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

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NEWS SWILLAND AND WITNESHAM GROUPED PARISH COUNCIL Devices (SIDs), as used by Speedwatch, were preferred. Mr Templeman advised that he had been asked for fixed speed indicator devices to be installed in the Mow Hill area. However the flexibility of mobile signs were felt to be of greater benefit than fixed signs.

that a heating upgrade is to be undertaken once finance grant approved.

Footpaths: Mr Rush advised on condition of bridleway across to Tuddenham via Strugglers Lane which is in poor condition due to recent ditch and hedge clearing work. Mr Hindle has advised that he will continue to monitor repairs are put in place where necessary and Mr Templeman would also report back on continuing issues.

The chairman thanked Mrs Pace and all involved in the local Speedwatch group for all their dedicated work rolling out regular speed checks.

Allotments: Mrs Camp advised that all payments for 2015/16 had been received and there remained one spare allotment at Coopers Close which was available.

Mr Everett advised that surveys had been undertaken of B1077 blocked drains and he would chase Highways for start dates again.

Planning: Mr Wilks reported on recent planning meetings and advised the following: • Valley Farm Strugglers Lane, Witnesham, barn conversion was supported.

• The Barn Mill Lane, Witnesham, new dwelling on site of barn was supported with conditions attached.

• Tarnside Mow Hill, Witnesham, side extension was supported.

• Broom Hill Tuddenham Lane, new dwelling was not supported and refused by SCDC. • Moon and Mushroom, removal of planning condition on The Button annexe. Refused by SCDC and likely going to appeal.

• Fynn Valley Golf Club, potential planning application at golf club for new clubhouse and housing scheme. An invitation to attend APM and present details. Mr Wilks to ask Mr Tyrell.

Mr Rush confirmed that all verges between the Barley Mow and the school had been cleared

by Highways.

Community Group: Mrs Camp reported that various events were planned for the coming months including the Queen’s birthday celebrations at the Barley Mow and the village show and garage sale in early July, a quiz in September and a musical evening planned for November.

Mr Rush also advised that Mr Hindle and he had written to Highways requesting Tuddenham Lane be swept and drain gullies cleared as the area had become flooded and covered in mud over recent weeks. Highways have agreed to inspect and provide an update.

AOB: Mr Rush outlined a letter received expressing concern at poor vehicle parking in Weyland Road which was making access down the road particularly difficult at times. It was agreed to write to local residents to ask them to park more considerately.

Mr Rush thanked all the ladies from WI who had carried out the litter pick through the village in early March as part of the Clean for the Queen weekend.

Mr Rush had also received a letter from a resident in Coopers Close expressing concern over flooding during heavy rainfall which appeared to be coming from a blocked piped drain which runs through several adjoining gardens. Suffolk County Council Flood Manager had been contacted and suggested that areas be inspected and cleared which would require residents who had manholes in their gardens to check for blockages.

Parish council meeting Wednesday, March 16 Finance update: Current Account approx £14,000 which includes approx £1,800 grant money for village hall and play area repair.

Ipswich Building Society approx £8,000.

Police report: SNT have not submitted a report and not in attendance. Mr Rush advised that Kesgrave SNT base will close shortly, but area will be covered by a combined SNT based at Woodbridge.

Highways: SAVID VAS Signs: Mr Everett confirmed no further meetings had taken place, but views from other parishes would be sought re. the installation of permanent posts for Vehicle Activated Signs. The general view however was that more mobile Speed Indication

GRUNDISBURGH CHURCH CONCERT

Solo Singers of Suffolk present a varied programme of popular operatic classics and musical theatre interspersed with wellloved traditional songs on Friday, May 20, 7.30pm.

Programmes at the door, refreshments available. Tickets from Olde Forge Stores and at the door: £10 / £7 concessions.

All proceeds to St Elizabeth’s Hospice and Grundisburgh Church.

Enquiries: Charmian Wells, 01473 735143

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Playing Field Management Committee: Mr Wilks advised that he had made WASPs and parents aware that there was further funding available for sports related projects from SCDC. Ideas would be welcomed.

Mr Rush confirmed that parish grass cutting contracts are currently out to tender.

Play area inspections: Mrs Pace and Mr Stanley had undertaken regular inspections and issues are being resolved as part of the refurbishment works at the school site shortly.

VHMC: A report provided by Mr Elmy confirmed

Tree Officer: Mr Darrell-Brown advised that works on an ash tree at Hall Lane allotments would be undertaken in early April.

The parish council to write to householders asking for these areas to be attended to if possible and any blockages or build ups resolved.

Clerk: Mr Steven Barron, Tangley Way, The Street, Witnesham IP6 9HG swill-witpc@outlook.com / 07719 176917

GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB The club is open to anyone of that age living in Great Blakenham and 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 a raffle.

On afternoons when we 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 at the rear. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.

We had a very enjoyable meeting in March when Mr Tyler of the River Gipping Trust presented a slideshow of the work the trust has been doing

along the Gipping with pictures of the various locks and sluices along the route.

Our meetings for the next few months are: May 11: Social Afternoon May 25: Mrs Jane Paley with her lighthearted talk What do you know about tea?

June 8: To be confirmed June 22: To be confirmed July 13: Mrs Pauline Walker on The History of the Co-Op Juniors Theatre Company July 27: Social afternoon including quiz time with Brenda Cooper We will be pleased to welcome anyone who wants 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

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT THE BARLEY PLAYERS At last the news everyone has been waiting for… Yes, audition dates have been set for the next Barley Players production which is Cripps, Cripps and Cripps, a comedy set in the City of London during the sixties which revolves around an insurance claims department over a two day period in December 1966. There are eight acting parts altogether plus numerous back stage and front of stage requirements for those who want to help, including lighting, sound, stage management, costumes, make-up, programmes and front of house.

Auditions are over two sessions to hopefully suit all: Sunday, May 22 at 6.30pm and Friday, May 27 at 7.30pm in the village hall. The casting will be announced on the Friday and rehearsal days and times will be agreed with the cast to suit people’s requirements. The play itself will be performed late August early September, again to be agreed among the cast to suit all. Don’t worry if you are on holiday, just let me know and we can arrange another date for you. Please let me know if you intend to audition as it gives me more time to consider which part might suit you best. There are male and female parts for ages ranging from 16 to 75.

Regarding props, I have been able to source quite a few, but I am still looking for a manual calculator from the period. They were produced by Monroe and/or Adler so if you have one or know someone who might have one I would be grateful if you could let me know.

Remember this is an amateur production so don’t be afraid to give it a try: we all have to start somewhere. Again, we will be looking for sponsors to help us put on the productions so any help will be appreciated.

Performances will again be staged at the Le Panto Theatre on Manor Farm thanks to the kindness and support of Terry and Erica Burrows. This is another activity aimed at the collective support and togetherness of all our local villages and depending on demand we may well provide further performances at Henley, Tuddenham and Westerfield, if not now, then hopefully in the future.

If you want more information please let me, Steve Henley, know: 01473 785707 / henleysteve@btinternet.com

WESTERFIELD CLUBS AND ORGANISATIONS Westerfield Bowls Club The club has more than 50 members who enjoy playing outdoors from April through to the end of September. Our teams compete in local leagues as well as playing friendly games against other clubs. For further information contact Tony Baker: 01473 411347 Village coffee mornings Coffee mornings are held in the village hall every Wednesday at 10am. Everyone is welcome.

Westerfield & District Gardening Club Meets at Westerfield Village Hall on the first Wednesday of the month, starting at 7.15pm.

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May 4: Trimley Herbs with Chris & Paul June 1: Create Your Own Bonsai with Will Badeley

Everyone is welcome. For further details contact Barbara Bell (01473 231411), Michele Doick (01473 252330) or Barry Reeve (01473 251 843).

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts The 1st Westerfield Scout Group was founded in 1955. Using the village hall as its headquarters the group consists of:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

Beaver Colony Thursday, 5.45-6.45pm Boys and girls, 6-8 years old Beaver Leader: Jenny Kent, 01473 435711 / jennyk.kent@ntlworld.com Cub Pack Tuesday, 6.45-8pm Boys and girls, 8-10½ years.

Cub Leader: Joan Gibson, 01473 785510 / joan_gibson785@yahoo.co.uk Scout Troop Friday, 6.50-9pm Boys and girls, 10½-14 years.

Scout Leader: Peter Runnacles, 01473 785298 / peter@runnacles.plus.com If your child is interested in joining us please use the contact form on our website from where your enquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate leader: www.westerfieldscouts.org.uk Westerfield WI Lively meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the village hall with different speakers on a variety of topics. The membership is 42 at present.

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May 12: Birthday Party June 9: Brian Heard, Forensic Science and Fire Arms Investigator

New members and visitors are always welcome.

For further details please contact Kath Richards: 01473 217829 Pilates Classes are in the village hall on Mondays from 10.45-11.45am and noon-1pm. Beginners welcome and equipment provided. £6.50 in advance/£7.50 drop-in. Please contact Kat: 07804 90908 / katspilates@live.com Chi Kung Exercise class at Westerfield Village Hall on Thursdays: 7.15-8.05 for beginners and 8.109pm for improvers. £6.50 per class or £12 if staying for both. Suitable for all ages. If you are interested please contact Sally Askew: 01394 384013 / sally_askew@hotmail.com Please note that there is now an online calendar to check availability of the village hall.

For more information visit: www.westerfield-village.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT DIARY DATES FOR WITNESHAM, SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING All events take place in Witnesham Village Hall unless otherwise indicated: Booking clerk: Anne Debenham, 785798 Parish clerk: Steve Barron, swill-witpc@outlook.com / 07719 176917 WEEKLY EVENTS Mondays Dance Classes in term time from 3.30pm. Contact Kelly Fear: 07799 130967 Tuesdays • Post Office open at Witnesham Baptist Church, 12.30-4pm • Drop-in Cafe at Witnesham Baptist Church, 2-4pm • Witnesham Carpet Bowls Club from 7pm. Contact Peter Elmy: 785754 Thursdays • Post Office open at Baptist Church, 9am-12.30pm • Carpet bowls, 2pm. Contact details: 785754 • Tai Chi Classes for beginners (5.45pm) and the more experienced (7.30pm). Contact Marc: 07860 471748 Fridays • Mums and Toddlers meet in Witnesham Baptist Room, 9.15-11.15am.

All welcome. Contact Jean Pearson: 785478 • Pilates Class, 10-11am. Contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com Sewing classes: For information please contact Kim Shaw: 785678 EVENTS IN MAY Thursday 5 • Election for Police and Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, 7am-10pm.

Ashbocking residents at Suffolk Wildlife Trust Headquarters, Swilland and Witnesham residents at Witnesham Village Hall.

• Village Voices meet in Witnesham Baptist Church Room, 7.30pm.

Contact Christine Laughlin: 785138 • Friends of Witnesham Nursing Home AGM at the Nursing Home, 7pm Monday 9 Ashbocking Parish Council AGM at SWT HQ, 8pm Wednesday 11 • Friendship Club meets for chiropody (if desired), a quiz, chat, draw and light refreshments. All welcome. If you require chiropody please let me know in advance. Heather Cade: 785464 • WI meets to hear a talk on wine by David Jones, 7.30pm Thursday 12 Mobile Library visits The Green, Ashbocking, 12.25pm Saturday 14 Songs and Scones – afternoon tea and entertainment by Village Voices.

No need to book, nor a charge, but donations welcome for Christian Aid, 2.30pm.

Thursday 19 • Mobile Library visits Witnesham at Weyland Road (9.50-10.20am), Swilland M&M (10.25- 10.40am) and Sunset Cottage (10.45-10.55am) • Village Voices meet in Witnesham Baptist Church Room, 7.30pm Saturday 21 Messy Church for children, their parents and friends – games , crafts and other activities, organised by members of St Mary’s Church and Witnesham Baptist Church. Starts at 2pm in Witnesham Village Hall and in the church, followed by a free tea. To finish by 5pm.

Wednesday 25 Swilland and Witnesham Parish Council AGM, 7.30pm FUTURE DATES June: Event at the Barley Mow to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday.

Saturday, June 25: Witnesham Church Fete Saturday, July 9: Swilland & Witnesham Community Group’s Flower Show Saturday, September 17: Ashbocking Produce, Arts and Craft Show

Saturday, June 11 Saturday, June 11, 2-4pm TK site, Whitehouse Farm, Wash Lane, Witnesham IP6 9JE 2-­‐4pm £3 per cream tea, £1 for extra scone along and see the progress of the work.

No need to book. Just come Any queries please ring the office on 01473 857432 TK site www.talithakoum.org.uk

Whitehouse Farm Wash Lane IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL Witnesham TRANSPORT SOCIETY IP6 9JE Wednesday, May 24: Transport related presentations by members of the Norfolk Railway Society £3 per cream tea Meeting at the £1 Salvation 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich, 7 for eArmy xtra Citadel, scone for 7.30pm. Visitors £3.50 admission at door including refreshments. For

further details call: 01473 414746/422145 No need to book.

Just come DISTRICT along and sGARDENING ee the OTLEY AND CLUB progress o f t he w ork.

Otley and District Gardening Club meets at 7.30pm

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on the first Monday of each month in Otley Village Any queries please ring the office on 01473 857432 Hall on Chapel Road. Invited speakers on a wide www.talithakoum.org.uk range of subjects.

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

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OUT & ABOUT WITNESHAM AND SWILLAND VILLAGE SHOW Saturday, July 9 Entrants are needed to grow, make and bake.

Some new classes for 2016 and all the old favourites. Why not take up the challenge?

VEGETABLE SECTION 1. 5 Broad Bean pods 2. 5 Beans – Runner or Dwarf 3. 3 Beetroot with 3" foliage 4. 1 Cabbage with outer leaves trimmed 5. 3 Carrots with 3" foliage 6. 3 Courgettes 7. 5 pods of Peas 8. 3 Potatoes – any variety 9. 3 Shallots – with 3" tops turned / tied 10. Box of any 5 vegetables (1 of each veg) 11. An ugly vegetable (any sort) SALAD SECTION 1. 1 Cucumber 2. 1 Lettuce, any variety, outer leaves trimmed 3. 3 Radishes with 3" foliage 4. 3 Spring onions – with roots trimmed 5. 3 Tomatoes – with short stalks 6. Box of any 3 salad items (1 of each) FRUIT SECTION 1. 3 strings of Currants 2. 6 Gooseberries 3. 6 Raspberries – with stalks 4. 3 sticks of Rhubarb, leaves trimmed to 3" 5. 6 Strawberries – with stalks FLOWER SECTION 1. Roses – 1 stem of 3 varieties in your own vase 2. 1 single Rose in your own vase 3. Vase of Annuals – 2 each of 3 varieties 4. Vase Perennials – 2 each of 3 varieties 5. Vase of Sweet Peas – 2 each of 3 colours 6. Vase of 3 stems of Pinks or Carnations

7. Vase of Herbs, 3 varieties, 1 stem of each 8. Vase of Pansies or Violas – 3 blooms 9. 1 stem of Delphinium in your own vase 10. Pot plant for foliage, 20cms or 8" max. pot 11. Fuchsia in pot, 20cms or 8” max. pot 12. Geranium / Pelargonium, 20cms / 8" max. pot 13. Tuberous Begonia – 20cms or 8" max. pot FLOWER ARRANGING 1. A container of floating flower heads – 20cms or 8” max size 2. A flower arrangement in a teacup or saucer 3. Jug of flowers for the kitchen table 4. Flower table decoration not to exceed 25cms or 10” in any direction 5. A flower arrangement for a celebration – max size 40cms or 16” in any direction COOKERY 1. Victoria sponge – using 3 eggs, can be filled with jam and butter cream and dusted with sugar 2. Savoury scones of your choice, 3 on a plate 3. Loaf of bread hand made using yeast 4. Loaf of bread made using a bread maker 1. A cake of your choice made using vegetables e.g. carrot or courgette 2. A pudding in a glass 3. A chocolate cake using the recipe on the back page – men only 4. Jar of Jam 5. Jar of Jelly 6. Jar of Marmalade 7. Jar of Lemon Curd 8. Jar of Chutney or Pickle 9. 3 home produced eggs (brown or white) HANDICRAFTS 1. An article of Knitting or Crochet 2. An article of Cross Stitch or Tapestry – max

45cms x 45cms, 18" x 18" 3. A hand made Toy – any materials 4. An unframed, unmounted photograph featuring a Bridge.

5. An unframed, unmounted photograph to depict ‘Leisure’.

6. An unframed, unmounted photograph of a portrait of a person or animal. All photos max size 20cms x 15cms or 8" x 6" 7. A hand made greetings card max. 8" x 6", 20cms x 15cms.

8. A hand made item of jewellery 9. A piece of artwork using your own choice of subject and media. Max size A4. 297mm x 210mm / 11.7" x 8.3" 10. A gift wrapped tennis ball CHILDREN’S SECTION Under 5s 1. A finger or handprint painting – max size 30cms x 25cms, 12" x 10" 2. A jam jar of garden flowers 3. A decorated paper plate 4. A model made from playdough or plasticine on a 15cms or 6" plate 5-7s 1. A plate of 3 rice krispie or cornflake cakes (own recipe) 2. A flower posy in an egg cup 3. A handmade greeting card 4. A model made from recyclable materials 8-11s 1. A ‘Selfie’ photo taken yourself – max 20cms x 15cms, 8” x 6"A gift wrapped tennis ball 2. A handmade or computer generated greeting card – max size 20cms x 15cms, 8"x6" 3. A container of floating flower heads – max size 20cms or 8"

WESTERFIELD & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB education, sheltered volunteering or employment. When asked if there was anything they would particularly find useful, the answer was a vegetable trug. While there, we were shown the work that the students carry out within the walled garden, growing, planting, propagating, pruning and so much more. We were so pleased to be able to support this worthwhile organisation and trust the trug will prove very useful to them.

Well, we certainly got off to a good start at our first meeting of 2016 in February. Our speaker was Anna Outlaw, head gardener at Somerleyton Hall Gardens. Anna gave us a talk and slide show presentation about her career and the work taking place at Somerleyton Hall Gardens.

Our summer outing will be to Henstead Exotic Gardens (we had a talk by Andrew Brogan, the owner, last year) and Somerleyton Hall so that we can see for ourselves all the work that has been undertaken by these inspirational gardeners.

In March we were entertained by Bob Booker, the proprietor of Ladybird Nurseries at Snape.

We were told the story and shown slides of the nursery right from its inception, when Bob was but a child! He brought along a lovely selection of plants for our members to purchase.

Also in March, four members of the club made a visit to Thornham Magna to deliver

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W&DGC members at Thornham with Doris Erith, Beyond the Wall trustee and helper and Elizabeth Gingall, one of the students a gift from our members to Beyond the Wall, a charitable project based on the Thornham Estate. The charity works primarily with young people between 16 and 25 with mixed disabilities who face barriers to learning and living in the community. They learn confidence and self-esteem, along with skills to unlock future opportunities for them in mainstream

Our April meeting was a thoroughly enjoyable presentation by David Coop of Westland Horticulture about finding the right plant food now that the weather has improved enough for us to get onto our gardens and a follow-up from a talk last year on compost.

Our next meeting on Wednesday, May 4, 7.15 for a 7.30pm start, is a presentation by Trimley Herbs. Visitors are very welcome. The £4 entrance includes refreshments and a draw ticket and there is ample free parking in the adjacent car park to Westerfield Village Hall.

In Touch online:

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND AND WITNESHAM WI David Jones will be joining the WI meeting at 7.30pm on Wednesday, May 11 at Witnesham Village Hall to talk about wines with possibly a sample or two! Guests are welcome on the evening, so come along, give WI a try.

Recently, members were asked for their likes and dislikes about WI along with ideas for outings and things they would like to do. Following on from this, there are plans to put suggestions into practice, so a busy summer looks likely with plenty of options on offer. Another reason to check out what your local WI is all about.

HELMINGHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL

BBC: BIBLE BOOK CLUB The Bible Book Club is a small group, those of faith, agnostics and atheists interested in the historical context of Christian literature.

We meet in Grundisburgh on the third Tuesday of just four months each year. Our next meeting is on July 19 at 10.30am when we will be discussing The Greatest Prayer by John Dominic Crossan.

Why not get a copy and start reading now? We would be very pleased to have you come along. paulwiffen222@btinternet.com / 01473 738474

OLD SCHOOL HOUSE NURSERY

Last term we enjoyed visits to Colchester Zoo, SeaLife Centre and Framlingham Castle. Our themes this term are Rio, The Olympics and Travel & Transport. Visits are planned to Alton Water, Cambridge museums and Crucial Crew. On top of this we are very excited to start using our new outdoor learning area and some forest schools styled activities.

Events this term include our sports day on July 1, starting at 1.15pm, followed by our annual summer fete. Also watch out for the Trail Run on June 12!

Please come and visit us to see what we can offer your children.

Bernie Cleland, headteacher: 01473 890267

OTLEY UNDER FIVES “My dear young fellow,” the Old Green-Grasshopper said gently, “there are a whole lot of things in this world of ours you haven’t started wondering about yet.”

James and the Giant Peach, Roald Dahl

The children had great fun at a playday during the Easter Holidays. The sun shone and everyone was in good spirits as the children painted hardboiled eggs from one of our staff’s home hens. Cupcakes were decorated with icing and fondant shapes and then topped with an Easter jelly bunny!

Primary school places for September 2016 have now been announced and the prospect of ‘big school’ and all of the excitement and adventure held there seems ever closer on the horizon. It all seems so new and exciting and daunting in the same breath.

Rabbits featured again, made from 3D cardboard with white cotton wool tails and a surprise chocolate Easter Egg inside. Outdoors we had the big double bikes, talking telephone system and a small world castle with all its knights and princesses.

At Otley Under Fives we continue to help prepare the children in our care (and their parents) for the transition, including time spent with Class One at Otley Primary School and weekly attendance at the primary school assembly to improve familiarity.

Phonic sounds are being explored, making letter shapes in the sandpit outside and using pens and paint inside. There are daily arts and crafts and the children enjoy getting involved in cooking with delights packed up ready in individually designed bags to take home.

The children continue to be active, building up the miles towards the target of covering the distance between Otley and Legoland Windsor as part of the Golden Mile initiative.

Weather permitting the children are outside every day, cooking up a feast in the mud kitchen, tending to the vegetable patch, racing round on the bikes and scooters, investigating the new water taps and clambering over the play equipment which can be a pirate ship, castle, space rocket, house or fire engine depending on the children’s imagination at any given moment.

A number of the children took part in the Sport Relief mile in Otley village, bringing their medals into pre-school to show their friends.

For more information about Otley Under Fives, to arrange a visit and free trial session, or to talk to a member of the team please call 07789 468853, visit our Facebook page or go to: www.otleyunderfives.co.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

Egg shaped chalks added to the fun with lots of drawing on the playground, leaving trails for friends to follow.

After a packed lunch and fully fuelled for the afternoon the children raced out into the grassy garden to hunt for eggs of all shapes and sizes.

They then had them counted and recorded before racing off again to find more. Finally indoors for a well deserved snack and story time. Rabbits don’t lay eggs – or do they?!!

We start the summer term looking at opposites, practising for our sports day and excited about our annual outing.

If you would like your child to visit contact us at 01473 890950 or visit: www.theoldschoolhousenursery.com

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SCHOOLS / SPORT WITNESHAM AREA PRE-SCHOOL

WITNESHAM CARPET BOWLS CLUB

The children continued to learn about space and the final activity was to make the solar system from the planets we created using balloons and papier maché. The children then chose a planet to paint and placed them in the correct order.

It has been another successful year for Witnesham Carpet Bowls Club and a pleasure to see the club thrive and the standard of play improve.

We now have two Suffolk County players in our club.

Before the Easter holidays the children and staff took part in a heroes and princesses day in aid of Crackerjacks, an organisation that helps children with special needs.

We visited Debenham Fire Station where the children clambered around the fire engine, helped to dress a parent as a fire fighter and squirted water from the hose to try and knock over the buckets.

In January we purchased a new mat which will be very fast. This will enable us to compete on an equal footing in the matches played at Needham Market. During the winter we organised two winter warmers, which involved the men cooking stews, curries and chilli and the ladies cooking the desserts which we enjoyed after bowling.

The topic for the new term will be food from around the world and we will be exploring recipes and cooking that promote the diverse cultures of our world.

In February we had a fours competition and the ladies organised a high tea. We have played a number of clubs in friendlies, beating two league one clubs. We can now take on other clubs and give them a good game.

The captains drawn pairs was won by Joan Roper and Donny Allen.

Random triples was won by Joan Ford. Singles winner was Donny Allen and doubles winners were Rob Harris and John Brace.

From the start of term the children moving on to primary school in September take part in activities with the Reception class children to ease their transition in the autumn term.

Our Christmas party was held at Witnesham Village Hall, where 50 people attended and danced the night away. The ladies provided a fantastic amount of food.

HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB

Now the children have settled back into the summer term following the Easter break, we are making the most of the warmer weather and the extra hours of sunshine by getting the children out in the garden to learn and play.

Greetings guff lovers, Spring has sprung! Though with the state of my Achilles’ tendons there isn’t much springing about on the courts these days. For league players, April means waving goodbye to the winter league, though in the case of Matt and Adam they had the added satisfaction of finishing above their dad, Graham, who with Nick did a Leicester and just avoided relegation.

We feel that it is important for children to get fresh air so, weather permitting, the children are outside playing in the garden every session, be it with the bikes, trykes, toy buggies, in the water or sand pit, with bats and balls or simply with their own imagination.

The children will be planting flower and vegetable seeds in our new garden and flower beds, and watching them grow throughout the term.

We hope to enjoy the fruits of our labour by the end of term, with some wonderful vegetables and beautiful flowers to brighten up the setting.

We will spend this term looking at staying healthy and healthy eating. This will work in with growing our own vegetables, and the children will learn about the joys and benefits of being active and the importance of a varied and balanced diet. We hope to make budding young gardeners out of them by the end of term!

We are a small rural pre-school situated in the light and airy Boughton Room within Henley Community Centre which is less than a ten minute drive from Ipswich town centre (straight out on Henley Road).

There is a large car park on site making drop off and collection of your child a safer and easier experience.

We have both grant funded and paid sessions for two to five year olds. We also accept childcare vouchers. Lunch club is also available (noon-1pm).

You don’t need to live in the Henley catchment area to come and play with us – we have children from Ipswich, Claydon, Needham Market and other surrounding areas.

If you would like to come and join in the fun, please call 01473 833848 during session time any weekday morning or Monday, Wednesday or Friday afternoon before 3pm. Out of hours, or if you wish to leave us a message, please call: 07979 468467 www.henleypreschool.co.uk

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For social players summer usually involves the annual racquet hunt which, depending on where you left it last, can be quite an athletic pastime. No such problems for me as I always know where mine is, though it also means we don’t eat any spaghetti from now until September as we don’t have anything to strain it with once I put it into the sports bag.

At the AGM last month a new (smaller) committee was formed meaning that there are vacancies for anyone who wishes to join. We have had some new members join and hope that with the proposed new developments in the village we will see membership rising again. Nick and myself have been asked to play a few games against each other so that potential members aren’t daunted by the thought that our standards are too high.

We have entered one men’s team this season as injuries and other commitments have meant the ladies availability is seriously affected, especially as the summer format involves three doubles pairs, as opposed to two doubles pairs in the winter. We are seeking friendly fixtures during the season for those interested in competitive play, though the best competition is often seeing who can persuade Graham to buy a round afterwards.

We are hoping to get the courts cleaned to remove the winter algae build up. This wasn’t helped when Nick was seen pouring thick dairy products over himself before he started playing last week. He claimed to have read that it helps you to relax and improve your flexibility. I had read the same article and pointed out that it referred to 'yoga' and not 'yoghurt'!

New club sessions are on Sunday mornings from 10.30am and Tuesday evenings from 6’ish. To prevent players turning up and finding insufficient partners we are planning on a group texting system to assure any players thinking of attending that there will be enough opponents on the courts.

Joke of the month A woman is placing flowers on a grave when she sees a distraught man standing over a headstone repeatedly saying: “Why did you have to die?”

Concerned, she asked him if it was his wife’s grave. “No,” replied the man, “it’s my wife’s first husband!”

More guff next month, Mick Russ

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To advertise in this section, which appears in 17 magazines in areas accross Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

15

CHURCH NEWS CHURCH NEWS FROM SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING A WAVE OF PRAYER In the week of May 8 to 15, there will be a ‘wave of prayer’ throughout the land, in the Church of England and many other churches. This has been requested by Archbishops Justin and John and every Anglican church has been asked to take part. It made me think of a Mexican wave, which is relevant as it is joyful – and can’t be done on your own, which reflects our community prayers. And a wave of prayer also made me think of the sea, which is like God, holding us fast in the ebb and flow of our individual lives.

The particular prayer we are asked to pray is the Lord’s Prayer and especially ‘Thy will be done, thy kingdom come’. It is impossible to overstate the life-transforming power of the Lord’s Prayer. It is a prayer that is reassuring enough to be on the lips of the dying and yet dangerous enough to be banned in cinemas. It is famous enough to be spoken every day by billions in hundreds of languages and yet intimate enough to draw us even closer into friendship with Jesus Christ.

What can you do?

• Visit the prayer corners in our churches. Pray the Lord’s Prayer there, enjoying the peace and quiet and chance to just ‘be’.

• Take our free prayer cards and pray at home, lighting a candle to help you focus.

• Join our services on Sunday, May 15 and pray with us.

• Read this poem by Mary Oliver, go for a walk and let it inspire you: Praying It doesn’t have to be the blue iris, it could be weeds in a vacant lot, or a few small stones; just pay attention, then patch a few words together and don’t try to make them elaborate, this isn’t a contest but the doorway into thanks, and a silence in which another voice may speak.

Catherine Beaumont SUNDAY SERVICES May 1: Swilland, Holy Communion, 9.30am May 8: Ashbocking, Family Service, 11am May 15: Swilland, Family Service, 11am May 29: Ashbocking, Benefice Service, 11am WHAT’S ON May 2 • Hasketon Plant and Book Sale, Victory Hall, 2.30pm. Free entry.

• Otley and District Gardening Club, 6.30pm. Visit to Larks’ Hill Gardens, Tuddenham St Martin.

May 3 Craft and Coffee at Shrubbery Farm, Hasketon, 10am-noon May 4 • Going Deeper Homegroup, Manor Farm, The Green, Ashbocking, 10am • Grundisburgh Parish Room Swapshop, 10.15-11.30am • Meeting with churchwardens and Ministry Team, Grundisburgh Upper Room, 7pm May 9 • Knit and Stitch, Burgh Schoolroom, 10.30am-12.30pm. All welcome.

Details: 01473 735544 • Benefice Prayer Group meets in Grundisburgh Upper Room, 5pm • Archdeacon’s Visitation at Hollesley Church, 7.30pm. Please support your newly elected churchwardens as they take up office.

• Monday House Group, Grundisburgh, 7.30pm May 10 • Boulge PCC, 2pm • GHBu PCCs meet at Grundisburgh School, 7.30pm May 12

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• COSA Pastoral Committee • Tiddlywinks for pre-school children, Grundisburgh Church, 2.30pm May 13 FOBS quiz in Burgh Schoolroom, 7.30pm May 16 Lunar Ladies Group meets at The Moon & Mushroom, Swilland, 7pm May 18 Going Deeper Homegroup, Manor Farm, The Green, Ashbocking, 10am May 19 Social Bridge, Burgh Schoolroom, 7.15pm. All levels, tuition available: 01473 735544 May 20 Grundisburgh Church Concert May 26 • Hasketon Community Lunch, 12.15pm • Tiddlywinks for pre-school children, Grundisburgh Church, 2.30pm • COSA PCCs meet at Clopton Village Hall, 7.30pm May 28 Baptism of Florence Hirst at Grundisburgh Church May 28-30 Clopton Flower Festival, 10am-5pm each day UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA Grundisburgh Parish Room, Saturday, May 21, 9.30am-12.30pm An introduction to The SPECAL® Method. For everyone who knows and cares for someone with dementia. The SPECAL® method offers a simple way of understanding how dementia is experienced by the person with the condition. This short presentation shows how the introduction of simple SPECAL skills can change life for the better for the person with dementia and everyone concerned with their well-being.

LETTER FROM THE RECTOR This month Nicky and Nigel write in place of Clare about Christian Aid Week Most of us are hard wired to try and improve our lives. This may be apparent in the big decisions we make such as continuing with our education, or just in little every day matters like working late in the evening to ensure our children have clean clothes to wear the next day.

Increasingly, however we are seeing people across the world for whom self- improvement comes at a cost – involving the desperate step of leaving their homes.

Christian Aid seeks to help improve people’s lives so that they don’t have to make this terrible decision, so that they can make a decent life for themselves and their families where they are. For example in Bangladesh, where climate change means sea levels are rising, Christian Aid is helping people to build homes that are safe from flooding and for one woman who lived in fear of the river near her home, she said: “What I have received from Christian Aid has changed my life. It is a blessing.”

Please support Christian Aid Week (May 15 to 21) if you can this year by giving generously in the envelope that will be put through each door. Or contact Nicky Seabrook on 01473 735131 if you would like to help with the distribution or collection of envelopes.

Special Christian Aid themed services will be held in Otley church on Sundays, May 1 and 15. A soup and bread lunch in aid of Christian Aid will be served at 10 Spring Park (the home of Pauline and Nigel Crowley), on Tuesday, May 17, from 12.30pm.

Christian Aid’s mission is to ‘Follow in Jesus’ footsteps, and love every neighbour. To help people in poverty out of poverty.’

Please give generously, thank you.

Nicky Seabrook and Nigel Crowley THE QUEEN’S 90th BIRTHDAY We are planning to celebrate of the Queen’s 90th birthday in Otley on Sunday, June 12 and you are invited to be part of the big lunch event

In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS

which will include: 11.30am: Open air Service of Thanksgiving 12.30pm: Big Lunch (BYO picnic and drinks, rugs or chairs, no barbecues please) and a children’s treasure hunt 1.30pm: Activities on the playing field include rounders, races and games, tug-of-war and apple bobbing 4pm: Community tea (BYO cup and saucer) in the car park There will also be an exhibition of Otley in the last nine decades and a variety of competitions in Otley Village Hall.

FANCY A COFFEE? Ashbocking: Friday, May 6 at Ashbocking Hall Farm, 10.30am-noon Clopton: Wednesday, May 18 at the village hall, 10am-noon Grundisburgh: Wednesday, May 4, 10.15am-11.30am and Saturday, May 7, 10.30am-noon at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms Hasketon: Tuesday, May 3 at Shrubbery Farm, 10am-noon Otley: Thursday, May 26 at the home of Peter and Gerry Senior, Field View, Helmingham Road, 10am-noon

WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH SERVICES IN MAY Sunday 1 11am Tuesday 3 2-4pm Thursday 5 10.30am Sunday 8 11am Monday 9 Noon-2pm Tuesday 10 2-4pm

7.30pm Wednesday 11 2pm Sunday 15 11am Tuesday 17 2-4pm

7.30pm Thursday 19 10.30am Saturday 21 2-5pm Sunday 22 11am Tuesday 24 2-4pm

7.30pm Wednesday 25 2pm Sunday 29 11am Tuesday 31 7.30pm

The Rev G Tubbs including Communion Café Centre Point The Rev D Hughes Monday Munch Bunch Lunch Café Open House Prayer Meeting Pentecost – Team Ministry Café Church Members Meeting Centre Point Messy Church, seaside at the village hall The Rev E Vass Café Open House Bible Study United Church at St Marys Westerfield Open House

Hi folks, I’ve just arrived back from a trip to Romania. I went out with a Christian charity called Haven in Romania and stayed in the Baptist Church in Piatra Neamt. During the week I visited a village church which was somewhat different to the village chapel here in Witnesham. We have a well equipped brick building with heating, running water, both hot and cold, and decent toilets.

a sun tan but for the folk living there it was not good. Rain is needed for agriculture as well as drinking.

The city of Piatra Neamt is like many European cities of Greece, Croatia, Hungary or others in that region. A mixture of modern shops, expensive cars and the very poor run down areas. It is as if people are unsure how to live with the ‘freedom’ that has come post communism. In the city many older people are more frightened of going out now than before.

Previously they knew who to fear, now they aren’t sure and so are more suspicious of people. All those I met in city or village I found to be lovely, friendly and generous people and I value the experience of being alongside them in their faith in Jesus. Here we have great freedom to do many things, to have a faith or not, to attend church or other meetings without hindrance and perhaps we can take that for granted?

Pastor Andrew

Come and share a Messy Seaside at St. Mary's Church Witnesham All ages welcome

Fun for The whole family,

Be prepared you might Get Wet

The church I visited was in essence a 20 foot by 10 foot garden shed in the back garden of someone’s home. Electricity was available, but the whole property had only an outside cold water tap and the outside toilet was without flush!

Since the communist downfall back in 1989 the predominate authority within Romanian life, especially in the villages, is the Orthodox Church and priests. They view non-conformist, free, evangelical churches like Baptists as a cult and tell the people that they shouldn’t attend or have anything to do with them on fear of immediately going to hell. So for any to attend takes courage and what is clear is their strength of faith in Jesus. On one occasion I visited there was an after school children’s club from 4-6pm and then a service with adults from 6-7pm. I was privileged to preach during the service with interpretation being done by a 16-yearold lad. People are eager to hear about Jesus.

Life in the villages is tough with many still reliant on wells in the garden for fresh water which hasn’t been helped this year by very low rainfall. For our visit the weather was wonderful; bright sunshine and temperatures in the early mid twenties, and even higher in the mountains. I got a bit of

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

You are invited to Messy Seaside on Saturday May 21st 2.00 'til 5.00 pm Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Come as a family, all are welcome!

No Charge,

Free afternoon tea provided

Arts, crafts, games and activities for all This event is organised by Christian friends from St Mary's and Witnesham Baptist Church

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In Touch with WTW Keith Jillings—RIP Much loved and appreciated Ministry Team member Keith Jillings passed away on Wednesday 23rd March in the middle of Holy Week; a season he particularly loved.

Almost 200 people attended the funeral service and thanksgiving for Keith’s life on Friday 1st April.

Keith first came to our notice when Paul Laughlin received an email through the Witnesham Village website.

Keith contacted Paul to ask whether Witnesham church was a high or a low church, explaining that he was of the ‘high’ tradition. Paul admits that he was somewhat dismissive when he replied that we don’t do ‘high’ or ‘low’, as our church catered for all the people in the village. That didn’t stop him moving to Witnesham!

The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham

Keith often remarked on how right it was for him and Margaret to move here and how happy they were.

Although it’s only six years, they’d quickly become a part of the community.

Since his arrival we have all been blessed by Keith’s friendship; his knowledge, erudition, skills and wisdom; his doggedness and attention to detail, his kindness, his generosity, his passion for Jesus … and his whisky. He threw himself into the life and work of this Church and spearheaded the improvements and repairs to the church building.

Keith had a wealth of experience and he liked to share it—he had some wonderful tales to tell. He had indeed, “Been there, done that, got the T-shirt” and often told us—but never in an arrogant way. He used his vast

CHURCH SERVICES May-June Day / Date 1st May Easter 6

8th May Easter 7

15th May Pentecost

22nd May Trinity Sunday

29th May Trinity 1

5th June Trinity 2

12th June Trinity 3

19th June Trinity 4

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St Martin’s Tuddenham St Martin

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experience of management and business constructively.

Keith also had an immense knowledge of scripture, he loved liturgy and knew how to use it well.

We are not “high” church but Keith encouraged us to “do church” well: with dignity and quality.

Rev’d Alan says of Keith, ‘I’d often ask him if he wanted to lead something but he’d say, “No, you drive; I’ll be there.”

And be there he would: quietly watching, encouraging, chipping in when appropriate; supporting and giving confidence and support.

Keith was strong in character and faith; he had well informed opinions too but he never imposed himself. His faith informed inspired and directed his life.

With confidence we say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. May you rest in peace and rise in glory.”

This information was correct at the time of going to press (early last month) occasionally it can be necessary to make changes—please cross reference with our website for the most up-to-date information at www.wtandw.org.uk

St Mary’s Witnesham

St Mary Magdalene Westerfield

9.30am Family Communion

10am All-Age Worship

11am Family Communion

9.30am Family Service

10am Family Communion

8am Holy Communion 11am Family Service

9.30am Family Communion

10am Morning Worship

11am Family Communion

8am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Worship

10am Family Communion

11am Morning Worship

Joint service at Westerfield

Joint service at Westerfield

11am Special service to commemorate HM The Queen’s 90th Birthday

9.30am Family Communion

10am All-Age Worship

11am Family Communion

9.30am Family Service

10am Family Communion

8am Holy Communion 11am Family Service

9.30am Family Communion

10am Morning Worship

11am Family Communion

10am Family Communion

11am Morning Worship

26th June

8am Holy Communion

Trinity 5

9.30am Morning Worship

In Touch online:

In Touch with WTW

The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham

Church Diary—May...

Who’s Who:

Mothers’ Union—meet on Thursday 5th May at 2pm when Rev’d Toby Tate will tell us about his change from “Teacher to Minister” [Toby is the newly appointed Priest-in-charge of Martlesham and Brightwell following a curacy at St Matthew’s Ipswich] (contact Ann Bennett 785685) Benefice Youth Group—Wednesdays 11th and 25th May, 6pm (contact Julia 785497) Village Voices—rehearsals on Thursdays 5th and 19th May at 7.30pm in the back room of Witnesham Baptist Church (contact Christine 785138) Kingdom Kids—meeting on 22nd May (contact Gill Thorley 890821) Wednesdays—said Morning Prayer at Westerfield Church—weekly at 9.30am (Holy Communion on first week of month)

MINISTRY TEAM:

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PARISH PRIEST: REV’D ALAN FORSDIKE t: 01473 252904 e: Alan@wtandw.org.uk ASSOCIATE PRIEST: Rev’d Catherine Forsdike t: 01473 252904 e: Catherine@wtandw.org.uk To enquire about Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, telephone or email Alan & Catherine Forsdike.

READERS: Paul Laughlin

01473 785138 Paul@wtandw.org.uk

Carol Rivett

01473 717404 Carol@wtandw.org.uk

ELDER

Tuddenham Quiz

Julia Farmer

01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk

Saturday 14th May at the Village Hall 7.30pm Tickets £7.50 per person including Ploughman’s Supper (bring your own drinks) teams of six : Proceeds in aid of Church Funds To book tickets, contact Monica (785272) or Jean (785682)

Fetes this Year Tuddenham Church Saturday 11th June Witnesham Church Saturday 25th June Westerfield Scouts Sunday 26th June

Witnesham Village Voices

Songs &Scones Saturday 14th May— 2.30pm Witnesham Village Hall Afternoon tea and entertainment from Witnesham’s Village Voices

In aid of...

Westerfield Church Saturday 13th August

Celebrating HM The Queen’s 90th Birthday There’s going to be a lot of celebrating going on this Summer as we mark a remarkable lady’s birthday. For many of us, this is the only reigning monarch we have ever known and she is, of course, the Head of the Church of England.

CHURCHWARDENS: Tuddenham 01473 785296

Jim Punton Jim@wtandw.org.uk

Tuddenham 01473 785272

Monica Pipe Monica@wtandw.org.uk

Westerfield 01473 230188

Judy Northfield Judy@wtandw.org.uk

Westerfield 01473 251207

Loelia Brow Loelia@wtandw.org.uk

Witnesham 01473 785673

Derek Austin Derek@wtandw.org.uk

KINGDOM KIDS—WITNESHAM Gill Thorley 01473 890821

Gill@wtandw.org.uk

BENEFICE YOUTH GROUP Julia Farmer

01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk

Messy Church Messy Church is open to all children accompanied by parents or grandparents or carers.

No charge - includes a light meal.

Saturday 21st May 10am-1pm [next one is Sat 15th October]

As a Benefice, we’ll be thanking God for her example of service at 11am on Sunday 29th May at Westerfield Church and following that with a “bring & share” lunch in the Paddock.

We’ll also be giving away copies of this beautiful sixty-four page book called “The Servant Queen and the King she Serves” which uses the Queen’s own words to draw out the central role of her trust in Jesus Christ

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

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