In Touch News with Ipswich East February 2019 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

™ ™©©

Skiphire www.collins-skiphire.co.uk

For a fast, efficient & price friendly local service

with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath 01473 327596 Volume 9 • Issue No. 4 • FEBRUARY 2019 orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk Don’t Forget About Me, by Georgina May

Our experienced personal injury lawyers handle accident claims arising out of incidents at work, home, on the roads, on holiday or in a public place in the UK or abroad. You will receive professional dedicated support throughout every part of your claim to help you recover the damages that you deserve.

www.prettys.co.uk

01473 232121 enquiry@prettys.co.uk

● Luxury vinyl tiles ● Vinyl ● Woven & Natural Flooring 01473 626 097 | info@debencarpetsandflooring.co.uk Unit N Bristol Court, Betts Avenue, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, IP5 3RY www.debencarpetsandflooring.co.uk @Debencarpets /DebenCarpetsAndFlooring

In Touch

2 PR534 Personal Injury Advert (InTouch) v3.indd 2

● Stainfree & Wool Carpet

09/05/2018 16:33

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR My husband believes there are two kinds of people; those who see the positives in almost everything, and those who always see the negatives. If opposites attract, we must be the perfect couple, so when Daniel played this song by Kacey Musgraves I’m pretty sure he was making a point. It’s called Miserable. Your heart’s as heavy as the stones you throw Can’t see the flowers for the weeds you grow You blow your bubbles just to watch ‘em burst For you it’s always bad to worse And you can’t win unless you lose You try to tell me you want happiness But you ain’t happy unless You’re miserable Your neighbor’s dirty laundry’s cleaner And the wolf at your door’s always meaner The sky’s still grey when the sun’s around But you can’t set sail if your anchor’s down And you can’t win unless you lose You try to tell me you want happiness But you ain’t happy unless You’re miserable I’m miserable Can’t liven up for the both of us We have enough for the whole of us If misery loves company Then I can’t keep you company no more He got me good! I don’t think I’m this miserable, but when life is going well, I live in dread of what’s bound to come, and it’s bound to be bad! I think it’s an inherited trait, but it’s not one I want to pass on. Is it possible to change? I sure hope so because my New Year’s resolution is to prove Daniel wrong!

InTouch

NEWS CHRISTMAS CHEER AT EAST OF ENGLAND CO-OP STORES Eager to spread Christmas cheer to children and adults across the region, Father Christmas visited local East of England Co-op stores and handed out sweets to everyone on the ‘nice list’ at weekends throughout December. Roger Grosvenor, Joint Chief Executive of the East of England Co-op, said: “We are really pleased that Father Christmas has been well-received. It’s been lovely to see the joy he has brought to children and adults across Suffolk. Christmas is a wonderful time of year and it was great to bring the seasonal festivities to life in our stores.”

HEADWAY SUFFOLK DEMENTIA GROUP Headway Suffolk runs a monthly social support group for people with dementia in Martlesham. It takes place every fourth Thursday of the month at St Michael’s Church Centre, The Drift in Martlesham from 11.45am to 3.15pm. The person with dementia must be accompanied by a carer. The group partake in a variety of stimulating and engaging games and activities. It costs £6, which includes a fish and chip lunch and refreshments. The next meeting is on Thursday, February 28. Find out more at: www.headwaysuffolk.org.uk/dementiamartlesham The group relies on the goodwill of volunteers to help in the kitchen with preparations and tidying away, as well as engaging clients in discussion and with various activities, such as indoor games, cognitive exercises and singing. If you would like to make a referral or want to volunteer, please contact Maureen Howes: 01473 712225 / maureenhowes@headwaysuffolk.org.uk

with Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath

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: ipswicheast@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 Broke Hall, Ipswich East, Ravenswood & Warren Heath is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

We also publish In Touch with... •B eyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge

DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 Information and support for people who are curious, concerned about or living with dementia, their carers, and health and social care professionals in Suffolk.

email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com Mon to Fri: 9am - 6pm / Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays: 10am - 4pm

In Touch with...

MARCH DEADLINE

10 FEBRUARY 2019 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

NEWS BIG LOTTERY FUNDING SUCCESS FOR ART FESTIVAL COMMUNITY MURAL Art Eat Festival has been awarded a grant from The Big Lottery Fund to produce a community mural in Ipswich. The project’s aim is to address and raise awareness of local issues as well as improve public spaces. Art Eat Festival organisers have arranged for mural design workshops to be led by Bristol community artist Zoe Power in collaboration with local organisations Emmaus Suffolk, 4YP, Inside Out, Suffolk MIND at Quay Place, YMCA Trinity Group and Suffolk County Council. High hopes are that the mural designed in the workshops will create a positive, uplifting message which is relevant for everyone to enjoy. Mural Design Workshop Dates Monday, May 27, 11am-1pm & 2-4pm at Quay Place Tuesday, May 28, 2-4pm at Quay Place Tuesday, May 28, 11am-1pm at 4YP (open to ages 12-25 only) Wednesday, May 29, 11am-1pm at 4YP (open to ages 12-25 only) Wednesday, May 29, 2-4pm at Emmaus at The Dales Friday, May 31, 11am-1pm & 2-4pm, Inside Out at Gippeswyk Hall The workshops will be open to the public. Places are limited so please book in advance by texting 07990 802776. Art Eat Festival organisers will also be looking for volunteers to help paint the mural in June once it has been designed. Mural Artist Zoe Power says: “I’m very excited to be working with Art Eat Festival. It’s extremely rewarding working with local people to create a bright and positive landmark for the community to take pride and ownership in.” Allan Williams, an artist from Inside Out says: “For us this is a great opportunity to raise the profile of how creative activities can help with mental health and wellbeing.” Alice Firbank from 4YP adds: “We’re thrilled to be a part of Art Eat. Research suggests that involvement in arts and culture can be lifechanging for young people’s health and wellbeing, so we’re really excited about the opportunity for young people to be involved in a project which will enable them to create a unique piece of art to be enjoyed by the whole community for years to come. Having artwork feature in the festival mural will also help us raise awareness of some of the issues most relevant to young people today, particularly mental health.” Art Eat Festival also invites you to take part in the festival production and attend their monthly open access community meetings at Ipswich County Library. Everyone is welcome to come and share their ideas in an informal setting. Art Eat organiser Iona Hodgson says: “The festival is about our community, these meetings will be for discovering and sharing the festival, and offering your inspirations and contributions. We look forward to welcoming you there.” For more information please contact: daisy@arteatfestival.com / 07990 802 776

AN EXCITING NEW VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY Do you enjoy talking to people and have a passion for helping older people in your community? Here at Age UK Suffolk, we believe it’s important that older people in Suffolk know how and where to access all of the help and information that is available to them. Age UK Suffolk provides many services, including telephone befriending, aimed at older people who are lonely or isolated. We also have our information and benefits advice line for people who have questions about the challenges of ageing, but may not know where to turn. Unfortunately, many of the people who most need our help are unaware that help is available to them, and don’t come to us until there is a crisis. By being there for people earlier, we can help to prevent a crisis with support completing benefit applications, home adaptations, a diagnosis of dementia, or just simply someone to talk to. WE NEED YOUR HELP! We are trying to reach more of the people who need our help by raising awareness of the services we provide. To help us do this, we are recruiting a network of community links volunteers – people who are willing to become links within their community. Your role as a community links volunteer will be to share information about Age UK Suffolk with older people, their families, carers and local groups, and also to feed back to us the wants and needs of older people in your neighbourhood in order to help us to improve our services. If you have a few hours a week to spare, enjoy talking to people and are passionate about improving the lives of older people in your community, please get in touch with Lucy Evans: 01473 298684 / 07525 817984 / community.links@ageuksuffolk.org

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO LISTEN TO CHILDREN READ Can you spare an hour or two a week to listen to children read in your local primary school? Schoolreaders is looking for more volunteers locally to carry out this important role. Reading time for many children at home and at school is often insufficient and according to government statistics, one in four children are now leaving primary school unable to read to the expected standard. This can have a lifelong consequence. Schoolreaders is flexible and aims to match your availability to an appropriate, local school. No qualifications are necessary, just a good command of spoken and written English and a commitment of one year is requested. Our volunteers find the scheme incredibly rewarding, knowing that a few hours helping a child learn to read each week can have such a great impact on their life chances. Please visit www.schoolreaders.org to join or call 01234 924111 for further information.

In Touch

BuildMyGarden We are your one stop company for every single garden requirement, from small maintenance jobs to a stunning landscaped garden.

Fencing TurďŹ ng Patios

Please call now for a free no pressure quotation:

Mark McNeill-Parker M: 07833 567770 or 07486 947031 E: buildmygarden@yahoo.com W: buildmy.garden

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

Block paving Hedge cutting Maintenance Plus lots more...

NEWS ACTIVGARDENS LAUNCHES ITS NEW-LOOK MEN’S SHED

LEADING TINNITUS EXPERTS GATHER IN IPSWICH FOR SPECIAL EVENT

ActivSheds is launching its fabulous new facilities on Friday, March 22 at the CRESS Pavilion, Halifax Road, Ipswich IP2 8RE.

Leading experts from the world of tinnitus and hearing loss are to speak at an exclusive event being held this February in Ipswich.

In the past year, our merry band of shedders have been working hard to build an extension, as well as designing and making work benches for people with disabilities, alongside other improvements and additions.

The Hearing Care Centre haS organised a series of interesting presentations and an exhibition designed to educate the public about what tinnitus and hearing loss are, how they affect us, possible solutions to help and where researchers are in their quest to find way to relieve the symptoms for tinnitus.

The new look ActivShed, part of ActivGardens’ People’s Community Garden, has been kindly funded through Suffolk Community Foundation by Fonnereau Road Health Foundation, Pound Gates and Sevatas and private donors. Representatives of these organisations will be present to cut the ribbon at 11.30am. The launch will run alongside our spring CRESS plant and produce market, with seedlings to plant on your plot, bedding plants to spruce up your garden or windowsills, and freshly picked produce to perk you up after the long winter. Young people from a local school will be hosting our CRESS Community Café with a range of delicious goodies in the spirit of the day. And of course ActivSheds items such as bird boxes, hedgehog homes, garden obelisks and more will be available for sale on the day. Our enthusiastic team will also be ready to take orders for bespoke items and are happy to quote for renovating garden benches and furniture. The project, which is part of ActivLives charity, runs every Friday morning and at other times of the week by arrangement. Our ‘men in sheds’ are keen to pass on their skills to the younger generation, and the new facilities will enable older people who need support or may be in the early stages of dementia to keep active in a social way. Other groups who would like to set up a shed project are encouraged to come along to the launch to meet our shedders, or get in touch to share ideas. We are also planning a Women’s Skills Share ActivSheds event, Take up Tools, on Tuesday, February 26 from 10am until 1pm. The session is designed to be fun, accessible and sociable – but places are limited, so please book. Supervised children are very welcome. We need volunteers to help maintain our gardens, grow veg, make flowers bloom, keep our bees buzzing, help in nature conservation, repair our facilities, support staff to lead groups and mentor our young people, drive vans, bake cakes… There’s a job for everyone! Please get in touch if you would like to turn over a new leaf in 2019 and contribute to ActivGardens, the People’s Community Garden or Chantry Walled Garden. www.activlives.org.uk/activgardens

The event is being held to mark Tinnitus Awareness Week (February 4-10) which is organised annually by the British Tinnitus Association. Tinnitus is a condition where noises are heard when there is no external source, usually in the ears or in the head. This affects around 10 per cent of the UK population and research has shown that a high proportion of tinnitus sufferers also experience hearing loss. The Tinnitus and Hearing Care Show is free to attend and will take place on Thursday, February 7, 9am-1pm at Fynn Valley Terrace, just outside of Ipswich. Headlining the event will be one of the UK’s leading experts on tinnitus Professor David Baguley of Nottingham University. He has co-authored over 150 research papers and has received many awards for his work, including twice having received the British Tinnitus Association’s Shapiro Research Prize. The event will also feature talks from David Stockdale, Chief Executive of the British Tinnitus Association, and The Hearing Care Centre’s Managing Director and lead audiologist Karen Finch. Guests will have the opportunity to ask the experts any questions they may have at regular Q&A intervals between each talk. Karen Finch said: “I’m delighted to have been able to put this event together for the people of Suffolk. Tinnitus and hearing loss affect so many people but there is still reluctance for people to seek professional help. “We are very grateful to have secured the time of specialists in this field so that the public can come and find out valuable information without the pressure of going into a clinic room.” Although free to attend, spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. To secure your place call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330 or visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk/tinnitus.

IPSWICH COUNTRY MARKET February at Ipswich Country Market means new Seville orange marmalade. Our cooks also have many other unusual varieties of marmalade, jams and pickles to tempt you with that are not available in the shops and all have been made locally in their own homes with no added artificial ingredients. Did you know that cakes can be ordered and made for any occasion? How about Valentine’s Day? To order you can visit us during opening hours. If you would like to join us as a member of our cooperative, we would love to hear from you. Maybe you have dug your vegetable plot but don’t know what you will do with your surplus crop? Have you started a new craft or hobby and need an outlet for it? Do you enjoy cooking and would like to get together with like-minded people and find an appreciative audience for your bakes? Why not come along and chat to the producers? You can find more information about the market on our Facebook page (Ipswich Country Market) or at: www.ipswichcountrymarket.co.uk We are open on Thursday mornings from 10.15-11.30am at Rushmere Village Hall on Humber Doucy Lane IP4 3PB. There is plenty of free parking, a warm welcome, and home baked refreshments too. On the first Thursday of the month we always have bacon rolls and every other Thursday we offer scones or cakes so that you can ‘try before you buy’. We offer a free tea or coffee on your first visit so come and see what we can tempt you with.

In Touch

advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed

double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems. Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solutionâ&#x20AC;Ś Just replace the glass!! If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly

experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors. Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

Inâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;Touch

OUT & ABOUT MURDER MYSTERY THE CASE OF THE NAKED GARDENER An entertaining murder mystery is brought to the Venture Centre, Bromley Road, Lawford CO11 2JE by The Rotary Club of Manningtree Stour Valley Radio Broadcasting. This is the team that, a few years ago, brought you 50 Shades of Grain (a cereal killing). You can be assured of laughs and mystery. The event takes place at 7.30pm on Saturday, March 9 and costs £18 which includes a fish and chip supper. A cash bar is available (own drinks prohibited). Tickets can be obtained from David Willis at rotarydemon@sky.com or Sue Clark at petersueclark@btinternet.com.

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCING Join us ar St John’s URC Hall, Cowper Street, Ipswich on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 8pm. For more information contact: Helen at howefamily96@yahoo.co.uk / 01473 717979 John at johnaadams1942@gmail.com / 01473 710406

IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY Our January meeting was held at Kesgrave Community Centre where our member Roger Swindells displayed and talked about his thematic collections and winning competition entries. Afterwards we were able to purchase material from Roger`s extensive stock as he is also a dealer who attends local stamp fairs. During February we have two competition nights and also a visit to Stampex in London. Lynn Roberts will be our speaker at Cedarwood School on the evening of March 6. Lynn will display and discuss her collection of Albania. On March 20 we have another afternoon meeting at Kesgrave Community Centre with Graham Booth who will talk about Cayman Island Postal History. The hall will be open from 1pm. Looking forward to April, we have two big events. On Wednesday 17 we have our annual auction, and on Saturday 27 we have a stamp fair at the community centre. This year we are also hosting Spring Stamp Essex so you will be able to view competition entries from across Suffolk and Essex as well as buy and sell with quality dealers. For further information contact Mike Smith: 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com

ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND Monday, March 11: A New View Down the River Deben Valley – Prehistoric, Roman and Saxon Archaeology along the East Anglia One Cable Route by archaeologist Andy Peachey Andy is an archaeologist who has been working across East Anglia for the last 15 years and over the last two years on a major project, the East Anglia One cable route. This is a corridor excavated along the Deben Valley, through the northern part of Martlesham, before passing over Ipswich to connect the new wind farm to the National Grid. He will talk about the amazing finds discovered during work for these wind farm cables. Earlier last year there was a lot in the press about the interesting and unexpected things unearthed by archaeologists, especially on a site close to Martlesham. These included an exciting array of new settlement evidence, including Roman and Saxon buildings, and an exceptional prehistoric monument, trackway and artefacts that may coincide with the earliest settlements and agriculture in the region approximately 4,000 years BC. Many very unexpected finds were discovered close to Martlesham and were featured on BBC4’s Digging for Britain on 12 December 2018

This fascinating talk will be on Monday, March 11, 7.30pm at St Michaels Church Centre, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. The venue is fully accessible with adjacent free parking. Light refreshments will be available. For further information about this event and the music fund please contact the Burrows family on 01473 625196 or visit: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk

MARTLESHAM BRASS Making music fun in East Anglia Thank you to everyone who gave so generously to our Christmas carolling collections. The grand total raised was £2,389.24, which will be divided between our three chosen charities: The Stroke Association, Tiffers – The Bus Shelter Ipswich CIC and Martlesham Community Responders. On Saturday, February 9 Martlesham Brass are delighted to welcome Katrina Marzella, solo baritone with Black Dyke Band, to perform in a concert with the main band. The concert is at 7pm in St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3SL. Tickets are £4 each (primary school children free) and are available from: www.martleshambrass.co.uk, by calling 07544 962205 or on the door. We would love to hear from new players, young and old, with or without experience. Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to come and have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and would like to come along and meet us, please contact us via the website or use the contact details below. Publicity Officer Liz Howard e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617 / www.martleshambrass.co.uk

www.ipswichphilatelic.uk

A NEW WAY OF LOOKING ROUND HARKSTEAD CHURCH If you visit St Mary’s Church, Harkstead, you will now find a new sort of church guide on the table just inside the door, the Arts Society Children’s Trail.

the graffiti in the church porch, or trying to decide what a fragment of a medieval wall painting represented.

Part of a national initiative by the Arts Society, Harkstead’s trail is an illustrated sheet of 13 questions for children about the interior of the church which guides them round the building looking at the architecture, history and furnishings. Accompanying adults use a corresponding answer sheet to share with the children.

The trail was devised by Ipswich based Orwell Decorative and Fine Arts Society (ODFAS), with the help of the Rev Canon Liesbeth Oosterhof and members and friends of the church.

At the launch, parents and grandparents brought children along to try out the trail. They spent some time going round the church carefully examining fixtures such as the font, the pulpit and the altar, studying

The Harkstead trail will now be added to the Arts Society national register, which includes a number of other churches in Suffolk.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

Typically these trails are aimed at children aged between eight and twelve to encourage them to explore churches, but they can be enjoyed by all ages.

To find out more about Children’s Trails, email: info@orwelldfas.org.uk

OUT & ABOUT SUFFOLK BOOK LEAGUE Suffolk Book League welcomes the fiction writer Zoe Gilbert to Ipswich Institute Reading Room, 15 Tavern Street, Ipswich IP1 3AA on Thursday, February 21. Her work has appeared in many anthologies and journals. In 2014 Zoe won the Costa Short Story Award and her debut novel, Folk, was published in hardback by Bloomsbury in February 2018. The paperback version will be published on February 7. Doors open at7pm, event starts at 7.30pm. Suffolk Book League members £4, non-members £8. Students free with ID. Payment on arrival by cash; sorry no cards accepted.

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, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF at 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on February 19 when Marcia Whiting, Curatorial Associate of the Munnings Museum, will speak on the life and works of Sir Alfred Munnings. Sir Alfred, born and educated in Suffolk, is famous for being one of England’s finest painters of horses. Possibly less well known, he was also a significant artist of the Great War. In her talk Marcia will be paying particular attention to his collection at the Munnings Museum in Dedham. On March 19 Nick Collinson, General Manager for East Suffolk National Trust, will talk about the properties in East Suffolk, with particular reference to Sutton Hoo. The meeting will be preceded by a short AGM Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome; the entrance fee is £3. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 per year (£12 per couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary at: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

CRAFTERS UNLIMITED Happy New Year to all our crafting members past and present. Crafters Unlimited is a craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere with refreshments. We meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in Rushmere Village Hall from 7.30-10pm.

PLAY QUIZGO Play Quizgo with Ipswich & District Kidney Association on Sunday, February 17, 7.30pm at Kesgrave Social Club, Edmonton Road IP5 1EE. Maximum of six per team, £2.50 each. Licenced bar, food available at interval. www.quizgo.net / www.ipsanddistkidneyassoc.onesuffolk.net

IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, February 27: Lost Railways of Suffolk by Nathan Dodd Wednesday, March 28: Zeppelin Raids over East Anglia by Ian Mclachlan We meet at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich; entrance via the rear car park, visitors £3.50, members £1.50 including refreshments. 01473 422145 / www.idhts.co.uk

BROKE HALL WI We meet at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) on the second Friday of the month at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH. We also have monthly clubs, walks, meals out, darts, crafts, theatre trips, outing and visits. Friday, February 8: Suffolk Lavender Farm by Karen Orchard Friday, March 8: Pearly Kings and Queens by Gerry Baxter Friday, April 12: A Lighthearted Look at the Changing Face of Funerals with Sarah Waterston For more information contact Sue (01473 414746) or Cynthia (01473 726068)

Speak EASY AT MARTLESHAM Join us at Speak Easy at Martlesham, your friendly neighbourhood speakers’ club, to improve your public speaking in 2019. Did you miss our open evening on January 24? Yes, we know you were intending to come, but something came up. Never mind – guests are welcome at any of our club meetings. There are two meetings in February: Thursdays 7 and 21. Speak Easy is a Toastmasters International club. TI has spent nearly 95 years devising and refining the best ways for all of us to develop. If you improve your public speaking it also boosts your confidence and helps you become a better leader. Toastmasters International recognises this.

New members are always welcome. For more details contact Emma: 01787 373850

There are leadership projects and opportunities as well as speaking projects, all within Pathways, TRI’s new educational framework. There are online and downloadable learning materials to guide and challenge you. You’re in control of how far and how fast you progress.

IPSWICH & DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB

We meet every Thursday fortnight at the Richards Room in Martlesham (alongside Felixstowe Road, behind Tesco). Our meetings include impromptu speaking, formal speaking and evaluation.

Thursday February 28: Rolling Penny Card (Emma)

Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired gentlemen. We meet monthly at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us. If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com

Evaluation is a vital part of how Toastmasters’ clubs operate. When you evaluate someone else speaking you not only help them, you also – through empathy and understanding – help develop your own speaking. For further details or queries, please call 07968 372563 or get in touch via: www.speak-easy.org.uk (select Contact Us) Speak Easy at Martlesham is all about learning to speak in a friendly, encouraging and enjoyable environment. We look forward to meeting you in 2019.

In Touch

OUT & ABOUT SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, February 28 at 7.15pm Cure or Care? The Contribution of Medicine to the Decline of Mortality in Ipswich 1851-1911 by Anne Folan A general population study with Anne using available medical records and Census Records to outline a fascinating study of interest not only to Ipswich residents but to family history researchers generally. We meet at the Co-op Education Centre where the pedestrian entrance is at 11 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JW, and the car park entrance is in Waterworks Street IP4 1JG. Admission is £2 for society members and £2.50 for non-members, who are warmly welcomed. You can join the society at the meeting if you wish. Tickets are not required, just turn up and pay on the door. For more information contact Howard on 01473 274300 or visit: www.suffolkfhs.org.uk

MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS VALENTINE BY LEAVING AN EVERLASTING GIFT The Leave an Everlasting Valentine Gift Will Month is being supported by Jackamans Solicitors (Ipswich), Ross Coates Solicitors (Ipswich) and Norton Peskett Solicitors (Halesworth), who have kindly offered their services to offer people the opportunity to make a basic single or mirror will in return for a suggested donation to Cancer Campaign in Suffolk. The aim is to raise awareness of the importance of making a Will, as well as highlighting the work of the charity, and is a special way to make a difference and celebrate Valentine’s Day in February. Around 60 per cent of people in the UK do not have a will and planning for later life is essential! People are living longer and with ever-changing family lives; second marriages, extended families, civil partnerships, long-term care needs, lasting power of attorney, funeral costs, inheritance tax… Choosing who you want to leave your gifts to is ever more important so your wishes are fulfilled as complications can arise which can become costly. Making a will gives peace of mind and ensures families and loved ones are cared for in the future. It also gives people the opportunity to leave a lasting gift to a charity that will make a difference to others as well as reduce the inheritance tax bill for the beneficiaries. Karen Hare, Chief Executive of Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, said: “We are delighted that Jackamans Solicitors, Ross Coates Solicitors and Norton Peskett are supporting the Leave an Everlasting Valentine’s Gift scheme by giving their time and offering a will writing service for a donation to our charity. All the monies raised stays in Suffolk to help before, during and after cancer.” For more information contact CCiS on 01473 211884 / fundraiser@cancercampaigninsuffolk.co.uk or visit: ww.ccisuffolk.org

ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY Our first next lecture of the new year will be on Wednesday, February 6 when Andrew Spira will deliver what we are sure will be a fascinating talk entitled The Art and Architecture of St Petersburg. On Wednesday, March 6, Doug Gillen will give a talk entitled Hidden Canvasses: Street Art and the City. So why not join us and enjoy good company and interesting talks? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing promptly at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins before the day on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

U3A 2019 PROGRAMME GETS INTO ITS STRIDE We’ve seen in the new year and have long since forgotten all those ambitious and potentially life changing resolutions – except for one! Our U3A members are continuing their quest for knowledge with stimulating and lively new topics to discover and debate. The U3A spring programme is as interesting as ever, with a variety of speakers examining the truth behind controversial First World War leader Marshall Haig, the impact of the US Army on Suffolk soil and helping us separate the fact from the fiction surrounding St Edmund. Thursday, February 7, 10.30am at Felixstowe Salvation Army Hall The Campaign for Votes for Women by Joy Bounds Phases of the campaign from the mid-19th century to the end of the First World War Thursday, February 14, 2pm at Saxmundham Market Hall, IP17 1AF Overpaid, Oversexed and Over Here by Ian McLachlan The social and cultural impact of the ‘friendly’ invasion of the US Army Air Force in East Anglia Monday, February 25, 2pm at Kesgrave Community Centre, IP5 1JF St Edmund in History and Legend by Dr Sam Newton An assessment of the accounts in the Anglo Saxon Chronicles, the history of Danish East Anglia and the rise of the cult of St Edmund U3A promises a warm welcome to existing and potential members. All details of membership are available on the website. Alternatively call the membership secretary on 0300 123 3913. Occasionally U3A may have to make last minute changes so please see the website for the most up-to-date information. www.a3aeastsuffolk.org.uk

MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday, February 11: The History of the Catholic Church in Kesgrave by The Rev Chris Brighten I’m sure many of you will have passed the small Catholic Church in Kesgrave on your way into Ipswich. But are you aware of the story of two exceptional families and a tragic accident that resulted in the building of the church? The church, which is still in private ownership, has some of the most amazing stained glass windows made by an artist who was one of the finest stained glass designers of the Arts and Craft Movement in the first half of the 20th century. Come along and find out more! Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

OUT & ABOUT / SPORT IPSWICH RSPB LOCAL GROUP For those who have an interest in birds, wildlife and conservation, why not give Ipswich RSPB Local Group a try? Our indoor meetings take place on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in Rushmere St Andrew’s Church Hall, The Street, Rushmere IP5 1DH between September and April (inclusive). You can be assured of a warm welcome. You don’t need to be a member either of the national organisation or the local group. Charges, which include refreshments, are £5 for non-members and £2.50 and £2.30 (concessions) for members of the local group. Young people under 16 (who must be accompanied) are free. In January we heard Darren Tansley from Essex Wildlife Trust speaking about The Issues Facing Wildlife in Dedham Vale and coming up we have Nature Our Way with photographer Jim and Fred Price (February), Birds, their Hidden World with Peter Holden (March) and following our AGM in April we have Claire Boothby, the BTO Garden Birdwatch Development Manager speaking on The All Year Garden Birdwatch Survey and its Importance. In the winter our evening walks have moved to daytime at weekends. Walks coming up include Levington Creek and the River Orwell, Alton Water, Felixstowe Ferry and the River Deben. Park walks, which take place during the week, include and Chantry, Bourne, Bridge Wood and Orwell Country Park. Further information for both indoor and outdoor meetings call 01394 809236 or visit: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ipswich Twitter: @IpswichRSPB / Facebook: RSPB Ipswich Local Group

KESGRAVE ALLOTMENT ASSOCIATION What a joy to see so many bulbs peeping through the soil at last! In another month we’ll be seeing daffs and other spring flowers coming out and the spring will be well on its way. There’s quite a lot you can start getting on with at the allotment, including applying general fertiliser to the whole plot if possible, but certainly to any fruit trees and bushes. Trim the soft fruit bushes too including raspberries. You should be able to sow early peas and broad beans now and any over winter broad beans you planted back in November should be looking sturdy and strong. February is also a good month for planting out onions and garlic (leave the tops sticking out) and you can also sow early lettuce, spring onions and carrots. You could even plant some parsnip seeds too – though they must be canker resistant. If you’ve got any plastic sheeting or cloches use them to cover the soil and start to warm it up for spring planting. Rub any eyes of chitting potatoes and keep three or four shoots ready for planting. We currently don’t have any vacant plots at our site in Playford Lane, but do contact our membership secretary, Angela Brown, if you’d like to go on our waiting list: 01473 612283 / membership@kesgrave-allotments.org.uk Sally Peckham www.kesgrave-allotments.org.uk

DEBEN FLOWER CLUB The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 12 at 7.30pm in the Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PU. The evening will take the form of a demonstration by club members. This will be an informal event with members and visitors having the opportunity to move around the hall and ask questions of those producing the arrangements. Tea and coffee will be available and there will be stalls selling good quality books. There will also be a raffle of the flower arrangements. Visitors (£5) are always assured of a warm welcome. If you would like further information please call: 01394 411422

IPSWICH WANDERERS FOOTBALL CLUB Wanderers have just passed the halfway stage of the Thurlow Nunn League season and are still handily placed in the upper part of the 1st Division table. The 4-1 win at distant Wisbech St Mary was arguably the best performance to date. Man-of-the-match was undoubtedly our captain Marcus Taylor who’s hattrick is the first since Jack Severy’s glorious four from a couple of seasons ago. Our other goal came from Jordan Godbold. Both our managers, Mark Goldfinch and James Buckle, had named themselves as substitutes and both duly came on late in the game. They were understandably delighted with the three points and will be hoping that the team can build on the victory and climb further up the league. The 1st Division table is misleading because eight clubs are not eligible for promotion and current favourites are Swaffham Town. Wanderers still have to play the Norfolk boys twice and can realistically catch up with them, all the more reason for readers to get along to The Doucy and support our young team as they bid for honours. We are looking forward to the visit of Haverhill Borough in the quarter-final of the Suffolk Senior Cup. Can we progress in this exciting competition and make another appearance at Portman Road? The club has entered a new era in the last few months following the appointment of David Bugg as chairman and a new committee. This is David’s second spell as chairman. He previously led the club in Jason Dozell’s time as 1st Team manager when Wanderers lifted the 1st Division Champions Trophy. Upcoming 1st Team matches at The Doucy, Humber Doucy Lane Saturday, February 9: v Haverhill Borough (Cup) KO 2pm (Early KO) Saturday, February 16: v Lakenheath (League) KO 3pm Saturday, February 23: v Downham Town (League) KO 3pm

In Touch

FREE YOUR FINANCES WITH EQUITY RELEASE? Our local team has over 60 year’s combined experience in equity release matters. Unlike many national equity release firms, we have full in house financial planning capability. All our staff are based at our office in central Ipswich enabling us to fully support you through the whole process from initial consultation (always at our expense), through a thorough viability assessment and then application and processing to a successful completion. Williams Farrall Woodward Priority House, 8 Turret Lane, Ipswich IP4 1DL 01473 231644 equityrelease@wfw.co.uk • Cash or Income from an Equity Release scheme could restrict the borrowers’ eligibility for State Benefits. • Equity released will reduce the value of the estate and could leave nothing to pass on as an inheritance. • Home Reversion plans and Lifetime Mortgages are complex products. To understand the features and risk, please ask for a personalised illustration. • Williams Farrall Woodward is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority – FCA 175614.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

Inâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;Touch

SCHOOLS HEATH PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY Wow! What an incredible half term we had leading up to Christmas. The children began the half term by exploring the Polar Regions, having a great time finding out about the different animals that live there and having fun investigating snow and ice. We ended this exciting and fascinating topic by warmly welcoming our parents into the nursery for a very busy and successful Stay and Play session. Next, the children enjoyed learning a range of songs and actions for the Christmas concert. They all did an amazing job performing at a number of sell-out shows; we were very proud of all of the children! Back in the nursery classroom, the children had a very important job as they helped Father Christmas in our very own Santa’s Workshop, designing and building toys ready for Christmas Day. Finally, we would like to say a big thank you to all the parents who came in and supported our Hey Duggee day for Children in Need, helping us to raise over £100 and having lots of fun at the same time. This term is looking to be just as exciting as the last one. The children have settled in really quickly and we are already having lots of fun and excitement with our new zoo topic, exploring our own zoo in the role play area, learning about how to care for the animals, dressing up as animals and playing Guess Who’s at the Zoo. In our up and coming topics, we will be thinking about recycling and how we can help to protect the planet, before moving on to investigate robots and machines. Nursery Open Morning Although our school nursery is full at the moment, we are now accepting applications and allocating places for September 2019. If you would like to find out more about our fantastic, teacher-led school nursery and see us in action, we are holding an open morning on Wednesday, March 6 at 9.30am. During the morning, you will be able to meet me and the rest of our dedicated team of highly-skilled and experienced support staff. You will also be able to spend time exploring our fantastic facilities, both inside and outside. We are lucky to have extensive grounds that include a dedicated Forest Schools area and a separate wildlife area featuring a pond with dipping platform. We are also very proud of our school garden that includes an orchard, allotment and an enclosure for our chickens and rabbits. For those who require childcare outside of the school day, our popular before and after school club, Jigsaw, is available. There are also a number of reputable childminders our area. If you can’t make this date or time, then don’t worry, you can call the school office on 01473 622806 and arrange an appointment for a guided tour at a time that is convenient to you. Nursery Teacher Helen Whatley

SPRING TERM AT BRIGHT STARS Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children with parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Sessions are free and usually based on a theme. They normally include singing, games, crafts and Bible stories, followed by refreshments and more play. Just turn up; no need to book. The session dates for the spring term are: February 11 and 25 and March 11 and 25. You are welcome to come along to any of our mornings; just turn up, no need to let us know in advance. For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

CHURCH NEWS / ON THE GRAPEVINE BIXLEY FARM CHURCH AT TOWER HALL As we start a new year, we hope you have had an enjoyable Christmas and are looking forward to the year ahead. For some it may be some exciting event that can’t come soon enough. For others it may bring more anxiety and fear. For everyone it will be year of change as our country makes difficult decisions. All the more reason to hold onto some certainties in life such as the truths revealed in the Bible. As a church we had number of successful events over the Christmas period, starting with our outdoor carol singing on two evenings. Despite the rain on one outing, we still managed to visit quite a few streets and we hope you enjoyed hearing the singing and music. This year we were very privileged to be invited to sing inside the The Golf Public House. Our Carol and Nativity Services were also well attended as people took advantage of the opportunity to meet neighbours, enjoy the retelling of the Christmas story and enjoy some mulled wine and mince pies. We also joined with St Augustine’s Church for Carols on the Green outside Broke Hall shops. Looking forward in 2019, our toddler group, Little Lambs, restarted on January 11 and will again run from 9.15-11am every Friday during term time at Tower Hall. We have a time of prayer at Tower Hall on the first Thursday of every month at 7pm and again at 8pm. There are also now two evening home groups meeting locally on Tuesdays and on alternate Wednesdays.

Most exciting of all, we are starting a weekly Alpha course, starting at 1pm on Sunday, January 27 at Tower Hall. This is a great opportunity to meet in a small friendly group, have a hot meal, watch a short video and find out more about the Christian faith. Plenty of time too to ask those hard questions about life. Whatever your background or faith or doubt, if you would like to attend, please call the number below or email: pete@mie.org.uk As always, everyone is welcome to join us each Sunday for our regular weekly service at Tower Hall from 4-5pm. There are opportunities to speak to clergy or other members of the church, with time for personal prayer at the end. Holy Communion is celebrated every other Sunday. Bixley Farm Church (CofE) was initiated by St John’s, Cauldwell Hall Road and St Andrew’s, Britannia Road (collectively called Mission Ipswich East, MIE). For further information/questions visit www. mie.org/bixley or contact: office@mie.org.uk / 01473 270978

February already! My, how the time flies! At this time last year I talked about it being probably the coldest month of the year and how Valentine’s Day comes almost at the centre. That day is all about love and the glow of warmth that it brings. We send cards, flowers and chocolates to those we have a deep affection for and hope that our love is returned. Here at the Ark we consider all our members to be family and loved like they belong, like we are our brothers and sisters. As with all families we have disagreements from time to time, but because love is our foundation, we overcome one another’s shortcomings. We believe in the bond of family and as with all families we are growing and our new members know they have a place here to put down deep roots. If this sounds like a place for you then maybe we’ll see you on Sunday. Join us on Sunday mornings at 11.30am (Adult and Children’s Sunday Schools 10.30am) at The Ark Church, The Drift, Nacton Road, Ipswich IP3 9QR. You can contact us via email at arkipswichuk@gmail.com. We can also be found on Facebook and on Twitter @arkipswich or online at www.arkipswich.co.uk where you will find up-to-date information on what’s happening at the Ark each week.

SUFFOLK OPEN STUDIOS LAUNCHES ANNUAL SHOWCASE EXHIBITION Suffolk Open Studios announces the launch of its annual showcase, taking place at the Apex Gallery in Bury St Edmunds. This year’s show will be opened by Ania Hobson, 2018 Winner of the Young Artist Award, BP Portrait Awards at the National Portrait Gallery. With over 100 members contributing work across a wide spectrum of 2D and 3D media, the Suffolk Open Studios Annual Showcase marks a highpoint in the artistic calendar and is the premier exhibition for visual artists across the county. Ania Hobson commented: “I’m very pleased to be opening this year’s showcase. It’s never easy for artists, particularly younger ones, to establish themselves and the showcase provides them with a major opportunity to show their work to a wider audience and gain the exposure they deserve.” Cally James, Suffolk Open Studios Chairperson, commented: “We are delighted to have an artist of Ania Hobson’s international reputation agree to open the Showcase this year. It is a further indication of the growing recognition the exhibition is achieving in the artistic community as the premier venue in which to display your work on a larger stage and have your undoubted talent recognised.” The Suffolk Open Studios Annual Showcase takes place at The Apex Gallery, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. It runs from Tuesday, February 26 to Sunday, March 31; the Apex is open Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. For more information, visit: www.theapex.co.uk/gallery. As in previous years, Suffolk Open Studios is pleased to support the work of participatory arts charity Suffolk Artlink. Suffolk Open Studios members who have not yet submitted work for this year’s showcase are welcome to apply. For details please visit: www.suffolkopenstudios.org/event/apex-showcase-2019

In Touch

www.keepingintouchwith.com/ipswicheast

ON THE GRAPEVINE QUESTIONS ON CASH Your questions answered by Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb Paul from Stowupland is just one of many people who has contacted me to ask what can be done about poor performing ISA funds. He writes: “I have around £60,000 in a stocks and shares ISA with Legal & General and a cash ISA with Barclays Bank. The stocks and shares ISAs have lost over £4,000 in the last six months and have never produced any significant growth, and the rates I am getting on the cash ISA, is awful. I wondered if I could move them?” Yes. If you are unhappy with your stocks and shares ISA investments, you can move them to another fund manager while keeping the money within a taxefficient ISA wrapper. To do this, you instruct a financial adviser to effect an ISA transfer. You can also move a cash ISA into a stocks and shares wrapper, by the same ISA to ISA transfer process.

MINDING THE GAP KICK-STARTS YOUNG PEOPLES’ FUTURES The New Year is a time of resolutions and looking to the future, and Minding the Gap is making that future brighter for hundreds of young people in Suffolk. The project has helped hundreds of Suffolk based youngsters (aged 15-24) already but they want to do even more and are looking for more people in need of support. They provide free targeted and intensive support to help Suffolk’s young people gain and sustain employment and education. The people we support can be unemployed, economically inactive, facing significant challenges to accessing employment or currently experiencing or are at risk of social isolation.

However, before you rush out to do this, you should first investigate whether you could make an internal fund switch into other funds within your existing ISA provider’s range. Legal & General offer quite a wide choice of investment funds within their ISA range, and this would normally be the most costeffective way of changing the investment funds within your ISA. However, this may not be an option if you are invested in a structured product ISA or if your ISA does not have access to the full fund range. It may therefore be just as cost effective to switch to a new fund manager altogether. If you do wish to transfer, then you may wish to consider using an investment platform to hold your ISAs on. An investment platform is an online service that allows you to hold, manage, and track all of your investments in one place. Using a platform means that you only have to give one instruction to one provider and you only receive one statement. You can use a platform to buy new investments, or to consolidate a number of different plans that you already hold into new wrappers. There can also be savings in charges when you have your investments all held on the same investment platform. Platforms also allow you to invest in a wide range of investment funds from many different providers which ensures a wider spread of assets and less volatility, and less dependence upon a single fund manager. A platform will usually provide access to a range of managed portfolios and multi-asset or multi-manager investment funds, which give you access to a wide spread of investment in line with your identified attitude to risk, with the bonus of professional investment management of the fund at a competitive cost. At the moment, I would suggest that a good combination would be to access the Brewin Dolphin Managed Portfolio Service or MPS through a platform such as Novia Financial. The Novia platform has very competitive charges and gives you online access to your investments 24/7, and the Brewin Dolphin Managed Portfolios have a good track record over the last five years, with a low annual management charge of 0.36 per cent per annum, including VAT. They are available to investors with a risk profile of anywhere between cautious and high risk and there are no initial or entry charges for people transferring ISAs into the Brewin Dolphin MPS when it is held on the Novia platform. So, if you are unhappy with the performance of your existing ISAs, an ISA to ISA transfer could be the answer – but remember to take independent advice first. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser. Send your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham, Suffolk IP6 8JP, email them to nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s answers to reader questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require specific advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary initial meeting to discuss their own position and requirements.

Minding the Gap programme manager Emma McConville said: “We help young people who are struggling with getting a job or getting back into education. Sometimes they just need a small kick start to get them back on track. This is where we come into our own. “We offer free 1-1 tailored support to all our participants. They tell us what help they need and we then provide them with that help. It could, for instance, be help with CV’s, job searches or interview techniques. Or it could be support in gaining confidence, experience and new skills to enter the world of work. “Last year 57 per cent of the participants who finished the project from July to September got back into education and 24 per cent of them got a job. The numbers speak for themselves. So, get in touch, if you are in this situation or know someone who is. We want to help, that’s why we’re here, and we can make that difference.” Led by Community Action Suffolk, Minding the Gap works with Suffolk based partners and they are funded by the European Social Fund and the National Lottery, though the Big Lottery Fund. If you think you are eligible for support, know someone who could be, or would just like some more information you can contact Minding the Gap at: 01473 345352 / mindingthegap@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk

WILL YOU OPEN YOUR GARDEN IN 2019? Help us to raise £2.5m to build a new breast care centre at Ipswich Hospital. We are looking for people to open their gardens in 2019 to raise money for the Blossom Appeal. Our vision is for every breast care patient to have the best possible experience when they come to Ipswich Hospital. All types and size of garden are very welcome. You choose when to open. Simply ask visitors for a donation to view your garden. Sell refreshments, plants or crafts to boost your fundraising. To help us to blossom, register your garden at: www.colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk/opengardens Or for more information contact: charity@esneft.nhs.uk / 0300 770 1369

In Touch

AKENHAM CARPENTRY & JOINERY Fitted kitchens, bedrooms, offices, windows, doors, staircases etc in any timber • Kitchen fitting service available on your own units • All interior and exterior carpentry • Competitive rates

NO VAT

To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

Mobile: 07790 370030 Email: dalewatts@btinternet.com

Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning

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

call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441