In Touch News with Westerfield – June 2016 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

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with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham Volume 6 • Issue No. 7 • JUNE 2016

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

NEWS

I’m gotten to know the lollipop lady outside Jack’s school quite well over the years. We have talked about her daughter, who is in high school, her son, who is in college, the fact that she’s been on a diet and her yellow coat is now far too big… Now you may wonder when we have time to chat and rather surprisingly it’s as we stand waiting for cars to stop each morning. She holds her lollipop aloft, arm outstretched to prevent eager children from running across the road, and we wait, and wait, and wait as driver after driver pretends not to see us, gaze focused directly ahead, determined to get to somewhere awfully special (I assume). Occasionally they will wave as if to say “I acknowledge your existence but you must realise how incredibly busy and important I am so I’m going to ignore your request”. And we carry on waiting. Just the other morning a driver stopped, forcing the driver coming from the other direction to reluctantly (there are some words it’s rather easy to lip read!) to do the same thing. Just as the lollipop lady set off another car overtook one of the stopped cars, forcing her to jump back onto the footpath. What was he thinking? If the prospect of being 30 seconds late is so appalling then get up earlier or take a different route. If you are driving past a school please be sensible and respectful and let’s show those impressionable boys and girls waiting to cross how it should be done. On the subject of responsibility, we just got two rabbits, yet unnamed but very cute. I’ve been telling Jack it’s his responsibility to look after them, stressing time and time again how important it is to make sure the hutch is properly closed. As we came downstairs this morning he shouted “the rabbits are running around the garden” – and so they were! And who was the last person to visit the hutch? Me!! By the time we got to school Jack had told eight people what I’d done, including the lollipop lady. My authority has been completely undermined, but I’ve come up with a way to make this work to my benefit. Clearly I’m not up to the task so Jack really has to take over in order to keep those rabbits safe!

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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

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WITNESHAM CHURCH FETE Saturday, June 25 from 2pm Come along and enjoy all the fun at the annual Witnesham Church Fete on Saturday, June 25 from 2pm in the paddock and village hall on Church Lane. Enjoy Ipswich Community Wind Band, a gun dog demonstration, a village history photographic display, cream teas, a grand draw, all the usual stalls including tombola, cakes, books, white elephant and plants, games and children’s races. Stall donations welcome: 01473 785669

PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION IN WITNESHAM Exciting photographs of the recent archaeological dig in Witnesham will be among the huge collection displayed in the church during the Witnesham Church Fete on June 25. The village archive has more than 100 photos of Witnesham and Swilland, recording an amazing village history, from our first known resident and through 20 centuries. The dig, giving the latest information about our past, was on private property, but the owners have given permission for the photos to go public while they wait for the official report to be published, which may not be until next year.

NEWS ASHBOCKING NEWS

LUCY’S LONDON MARATHON JOURNEY

Not content with cleaning the road signs in Ashbocking, or cleaning up the litter adjacent to parish roads, residents have also given Ashbocking All Saints Church and churchyard a make over. Doors have been oiled, graves have been weeded and the grass has been manicured. Wild flowers are being nurtured and areas of grass have been left to grow naturally. The churchyard will be a welcoming area for insects and small beasties, as well as children and adults.

A huge undertaking. A challenge. Turning a negative situation in to a positive for others and myself. The Virgin London Marathon 2016. I trained hard, I had a plan and stuck to the intensive training and it paid off on the day. I completed the 26.2 miles in four hours 33 minutes and raised £2,500 for the Ipswich Hospital Critical Care Unit at Ipswich Hospital and £3,000 for the NSPCC so far.

But more importantly, the church itself welcomes all. In particular, on June 25 when there will be a family quiz with food, a bar, a raffle with amazing prizes, and an award winning quizmaster. Some folk may ask ‘why in the church?’ Well, we have a five year plan to try and raise enough funds to have a toilet and kitchenette in our church. This will enable us to give an even warmer welcome to our community and also for the church to be used for many community events. It is a beautiful building that needs to be used more by more folk in both worship and to bring the community together. In Touch helps us all communicate to our parishioners, but thanks to Karl Vernau we now also have a website: www.ashbocking.onesuffolk.net Please send any news/information to myself or the clerk. Our annual parish meeting was, by all accounts, an enjoyable and informative three-ish hours. About 50 people from the parish attended so with In Touch, What’s App Ashbocking Alert, the new Ashbocking website and a few fliers here and there, the word got around successfully. Tim Passmore and Matthew Hicks both attended, as did The Rev Catherine Beaumont, to reminisce on the past year’s events in the parish. When the minutes have been approved by the councillors, details will appear in In Touch. As I write the sun is shining and the ground is slowly drying out to some extent. It won’t be long before the community land will be drained for a play area. We are applying for a grant to buy a basketball net and a small goal for football. The benches will be sited and securely fixed on concrete bases and by July, hopefully, it will be ready to make full use of. It would be wonderful to have a pizza oven or a barbecue constructed on site. If anyone is up for building such a structure please let me know. Let’s hope this sunshine continues. Liz Stegman Also see FAST BROADBAND FROM YOUR CHURCH TOWER on page 7.

SUFFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL’S CONNECTING COMMUNITIES EVENT Revised rural transport tenders affecting several areas of Suffolk will be implemented on June 13. In order to explain the changes, there will be a public meeting at all district councils. In order to participate, SCC has asked interested people to contact them on the Suffolk On Board website so that they are aware of numbers: www.suffolkonboard.com The meeting for Suffolk Coastal DC is on Monday, June 6 at 10.30am at SCDC Council Chamber, Melton Hill, Woodbridge.

I traveled up on the Ipswich Jaffa coach with my brother Marcus Catlin from Ipswich at 6am with all these amazing runners. The atmosphere and trepidation was starting to build even at 6am. I got my running shoes and my NSPCC running vest and number ready and prepared myself for the huge challenge I was about to begin. One banana and some water was about it. As I joined the other runners on the start line the atmosphere was amazing, electric, and I along with 37,000 other runners were poised ready to run our socks off. The countdown began and we all clapped and cheered as we started off. I set into a steady pace, my breathing was good and I was feeling okay. I was running past a rhino, fireman, even Jesus made an appearance, and the Rhino came past me again along with a dinosaur and camel – the sights were fantastic. The spectators and family along the route were amazing and cheered me on. The thought of my dad, my friends whom I have lost and my family, the money raised – all this provided a huge motivation. Knowing the support received from friends, customers of Lucy Jane Flowers in Debenham, my son Hayden’s football team Claydon FC, and the wonderful donations received including Tesco’s from Stowmarket who donated more than £100 worth of food, Hamilton Smith, Riverhills, Arcade Tavern, Fred Olsen, Highland Motors, the list is endless, meant that every mile I completed my legs were spurred still further on. The finishing line was nearing and the last few miles were proving difficult. I kept my breathing under control and although my legs felt tired I was nearly there. Thoughts of my dear friend Helen (in whose memory I was running) moved me further on. Finishing and crossing the line was simply amazing. I was hit by tiredness, elation and was very emotional but I had succeeded. I had prepared for so long for this day and I did it. A huge achievement, a fantastic amount of money raised and I loved every minute of it.I really want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped, supported, donated to me and my fundraising since January and without all this I would not have been able to achieve everything that I have, so a massive thank you to you all! Lucy Ransome Finally: I will find out in October if I am running the Marathon again. I cannot wait, and for all of you who feel that you could do it then it is definitely worth every moment.

Saturday, June Saturday, June 11 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 Witnesham IP6 9JE

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NEWS FAST BROADBAND FROM YOUR CHURCH TOWER Please come along to one of the meetings if you are interested in a scheme to bring faster broadband to Ashbocking. The church always welcomes the opportunity to work in and with the community and a new opportunity has presented itself whereby the church parishes of Ashbocking, Boulge, Burgh, Clopton, Grundisburgh, Hasketon, Otley and Swilland, collectively known as the Carlford Benefice, have taken the first step to improve the speed of broadband in our area. How can they do that you might ask? Well we have interviewed three suppliers of wifi (wireless) broadband and have invited County Broadband to use our church towers as relay stations for their service. However it doesn’t just stop there. As a commercial undertaking County Broadband will only come into our area if there is a sufficient take up of their service by householders and businesses. So to take the second step we all need to play our part, whether we live within or outside the Carlford Benefice, by coming along to one of the public meetings at Grundisburgh Village Hall at 7.30pm on June 14 or at Otley Village Hall at 7.30pm on June 15. County Broadband will talk to us about what they can provide and what it will cost. We will be able to ask them any questions we may have about any aspect of the arrangement. Please come along and decide for yourself whether County Broadband can provide the broadband service you need and at the right price for you. Should County Broadband proceed Carlford Benefice will receive £600 a year for every tower that is used as a relay station. The money received, as part of this community project, will be divided equally between all eight of the churches.

fast village broadband is up to you! Bringing superfast broadband to our village depends on YOUR cooperation. We are planning a community led project that needs your support. So join us to discuss how we can improve broadband in our villages

14th June 2016 at the Grundisburgh Village Hall at 7.30pm OR

15th June 2016 At the Otley Village Hall At 7.30pm

Carlford Benefice Broadband Group

LIVE AT THE MOON AND MUSHROOM 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 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’.

Henley Community Centre Friday 3rd June 7:30pm Saturday 4th June 2:30pm & 7:30pm

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SOMERSHAM SUPPORT GROUP COFFEE MORNING Coffee morning and sale on behalf of patients in Ipswich Hospital. Saturday, June 25, 10am-noon, at Rushmere Church Hall. All welcome.

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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.

OTLEY AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Otley and District Gardening Club meets at 7.30pm on the first Monday of each month in Otley Village Hall, Chapel Road, Otley. Invited speakers talk on a wide range of subjects.

NEWS WITNESHAM 2015: THE VILLAGE RECORDER’S ANNUAL REPORT PARISH COUNCIL • In January the precept was increased to £12,500. • Mr Rush reported that he had met with representatives of the probation service who are keen to assist in clearing and widening the footpath verges from the Barley Mow to the school. • SHLAA published potential housing sites for public viewing, including three specific sites in the Witnesham Bridge area. • It was reported that speeding was still an issue. • Flooding was still an issue. • It was reported that street signs needed replacing at Juby’s Shoot, America Hill and Burwash. • Play equipment for the play area had been ordered. • There had been some vegetable theft at the allotments. • In March both Mr Tyrrell and Mr Henley announced that they were resigning from the parish council. Later Mr Tyrrell was presented with a gift from the council for all his past efforts. Mr Henley received thanks from the chairman for his work. • The clerk confirmed the current account bank balance was £17,407.73 and the building society reserves remain at £7,980.62 • Potholes remain a problem but some damaged road signs had been replaced. • It was reported that the recreation play area was nearing completion. • The council would only support a reduction in tree size at the school and not agree to the trees being felled as they were considered to be in a healthy state. • Nick Stanley and Chris Templeman joined the parish council. • Dog mess is still a problem, as is flooding. • Tree felling has taken place in many parts of the village. • Mr Wilkes takes over the chair on the planning committee. • Speeding is still a problem in the village. • Many sites in the village are now under construction to meet government demand for more housing. • Footpaths are still a concern with repairs required, including gates, stiles and overhanging trees.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND COMMUNITY NEWS • In January firefighters took 90 minutes to extinguish a chimney fire at a property in Weyland Road. • The village show, with 68 categories, was set for July 11. • The annual Russell Stutter Memorial Golf trophy was played for on May 25, this year at Crettingham Golf Course. The winner was Chris Finlayson with nearest to the pin going to Tom Henley. The event raised more than £1,000 for research into Colitis and Crohn’s disease. • The music festival was planned for November 28. • A trip to Agincourt took place with a number of Witnesham folk attending. It included a walk around the battlefield on the 600th anniversary and lunch at the village restaurant. • The Barley Mow again provided the annual fireworks display. • The nursing home held its annual Christmas Fayre on Saturday, December 5. • The Boxing Day Walk took place again, just over 100 people turned up. • The Poppy Appeal raised £3,886. • The closure of the computer shop resulted in the opening of the interior shop End of a Rainbow.

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE • The Witnesham walk took place on April 11 • A viewing of Crows Hall was set for June 26 • 67 years of the WI was celebrated in April. There are 37 members. • Sylvia Hawes gave a talk on guide dogs for the blind in May. • A garden party took place in Hall Lane. • A tree and a bench were sited to celebrate 100 years of the WI. • The Christmas party took place on December 9.

• In December it was announced that the next production will be Cripps, Cripps and Cripps.

VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT • It was reported that car park repairs should be completed by the end of March. More funds were required to carry out lighting and heating improvements.

SCHOOL The federation between Witnesham and Otley school is reported to be working very well. Both schools participated in Dance Spectacular 11 at Trinity Park on March 10. The basketball team came in for praise for their efforts in a local tournament. Degrees were obtained by: Emily Cross (PSCE in Science), Juliette Dinghy (Bsc, Hons in Biomedicine, Laura Etheridge nee Farmer Bsc. Occupational Therapy, Eleanor Parkes BA (Hons) English Lit, Melanie Rose French and Spanish BA (Hons) and Becky Webb BA (Hons) Criminology and Psychology. Staff at the end of 2015 Headteacher Mrs Hubbard-Whitehead; Deputy head Mrs Booty; Class 1 teacher Mrs Skeet; Class 2 teacher Mrs Chambers; Class four teacher Mr Gooderham; part time teacher Mrs Lancaster; high level teaching assistant Mrs Fayers. Teaching assistants: Mrs Cook, Steele, Wilson, Fleming and Frost. Office: Bursar Mrs Leggett; admin Mrs Baker School cook Ms Bradley; kitchen Mrs Day; dinner lady Mrs Lagden

THE CHURCH The church fete, which raised £1,520, took place on June 20 on the field owned by Mr and Mrs Burrows. Heather Cade stepped down as a churchwarden for Witnesham Church. The lime trees which boarded the Baptist Church were cut down! Repairs to the roof neared completion at a cost of £125,000

WITNESHAM WASPS Now has more than 250 members, with 12 boys teams, two girl teams, two adult male teams, one ladies team and now a new male veterans team (over 35s) Season 2014/15 Honours: Under 14 South Suffolk Youth League Division 3 winners; Under 16 South Suffolk Youth League U18 cup-winners; U18 Division 2 winners.

FYNN VALLEY GOLF CLUB The present management of the club stands as follows: club secretary and managing director – Tony Tyrrell; company secretary – Jenny Holmes; assistant secretary – Jan Harlott; director of golf – Ryan Parfett; catering manager – Will Archer.

CHRISTENINGS, MARRIAGES, DEATHS 2015 Christenings: Henry Lohay Hindle, born 7/5/11, christening 24/5; Isobel Agnes Sundi Hindle, born 16/01/15, christening 24/5; Katie Louise Blom, born 20/07/14, christening 12/7. Weddings: Mathew Benjamin Cornish and Rebecca Aline Collings, August 22

BARLEY PLAYERS

Deaths: Ethel Maud Kirby (90) 7/4/15 / Eva Mary Smith (80) 29/5/15 / Margarite Philippa Kightley (68) 17/10/15 / Eric Sydney Redgrave (88) 30/10/15

• Confirmed that the recent panto had raised £310 for EACH.

Steve Henley, Village Historian and Recorder

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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH HOSPITAL BAND 40th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT Saturday, July 9 at 7pm at St Peter’s by the Waterfront If you, or someone you know who was a past member, would like you to join us at this celebration tickets are £8 and available from: 40@ipswichhospitalband.org / 01473 225269 We look forward to hearing from you.

SUFFOLK BLUE CROSS TEA PARTY Suffolk Blue Cross Animal Rehoming Centre is holding a tea party at the Old Schoolroom, Mendlesham, Suffolk IP14 5SA on Saturday, June 18, 10am-2pm.

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.

Entry is free. There will be refreshments, cakes, a tombola, a draw and other sideshows.

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.

Please come and give your support to this event.

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

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

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

45cms x 45cms, 18" x 18" A hand made toy – any materials An unframed, unmounted photograph featuring a bridge. An unframed, unmounted photograph to depict ‘Leisure’. An unframed, unmounted photograph of a portrait of a person or animal. All photos max size 20cms x 15cms or 8" x 6" A hand made greetings card max. 8" x 6", 20cms x 15cms. A hand made item of jewellery A piece of artwork using your own choice of subject and media. Max size A4. 297mm x 210mm / 11.7" x 8.3" A gift wrapped tennis ball CHILDREN’S SECTION Under 5s A finger or handprint painting – max size 30cms x 25cms, 12" x 10" A jam jar of garden flowers A decorated paper plate A model made from playdough or plasticine on a 15cms or 6" plate 5-7s A plate of 3 rice krispie or cornflake cakes (own recipe) A flower posy in an egg cup A handmade greeting card A model made from recyclable materials 8-11s A ‘Selfie’ photo taken yourself – max 20cms x 15cms, 8” x 6"A gift wrapped tennis ball A handmade or computer generated greeting card – max size 20cms x 15cms, 8"x6" A container of floating flower heads – max size 20cms or 8"

OUT & ABOUT DIARY DATES FOR WITNESHAM, SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING All events take place in Witnesham Village Hall unless otherwise indicated.

Thursday 9 Mobile Library visits The Green, Ashbocking, 12.25pm

Booking clerk: Mrs Anne Debenham, 785798

Saturday 11 Afternoon tea (supporting Talitha Koum) at Whitehouse Farm, Wash Lane, Witnesham (see page 4)

Parish clerk: Mr 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

Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration at The Barley Mow Afternoon entertainment from 4.30pm, bring your own picnic. Barbecue from 7pm and live singer from 8pm until late Thursday 16 Mobile Library visits Weyland Road, Witnesham (9.50am), M&M in Swilland (10.25-10.40am) and Sunset Cottage (10.45-10.55am) Village Voices meet in Witnesham Baptist Church Room, 7.30pm Wednesday 22 Friendship Club meets at 2.30pm for chiropody (if desired), quiz, chat and a light tea. For more details contact Heather Cade: 785464

Thursdays • Post Office open at the Baptist Church, 9am-12.30pm • Carpet Bowls, 2pm. Contact: 785754 • Tai Chi Classes for beginners (5.45pm) and the more experienced (7.30pm). Contact Marc: 07860 471748

Saturday 25 Witnesham St Mary’s Church Fete on Manor Farm meadow (courtesy of Erica and Terry Burrows) and the village hall. Entrance from 2pm. Stalls, games and teas. Ipswich Community Band, a display by Peter Elmy’s dogs, llamas also in attendance. Adult admission 50p, children free.

Fridays • Mums and Toddlers meet in Witnesham Baptist Room, 9.1511.15am. All welcome. Contact Jean Pearson: 785478 • Pilates Class 10-11am. Contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com

Thursday 30 Village Voices meet in Witnesham Baptist Church Room, 7.30pm

Sewing Classes: For information please contact Kim Shaw: 785678 IN JUNE Thursday 2 • Village Voices meet in Witnesham Baptist Church Room at 7.30pm. Contact Christine Laughlin: 785138 • Joseph and Maia play folk/rock at the Moon and Mushroom (see page 15) Wednesday 8 WI meets for their garden party at 6.30pm

FUTURE DATES JULY Saturday 9: Swilland and Witnesham Community Group’s Village Show. Entries staged in the village hall, 9am. Judging at 11am, then open viewing. Teas and cakes from 2pm. Further details on page 11. Sunday 10: Village Garage Sale sponsored by Witnesham and Swilland Community Group, 10am-1pm. Further details on page 15 SEPTEMBER Saturday 17: Ashbocking Produce, Arts and Craft Show

GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50s CLUB The Great Blakenham Over 50s Club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham from 2-4pm. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. Over the past few meetings we have been very pleased to welcome new members Jenny Burgess, Paul Warne, Bert Leech and Jane Neal to our club. We had a very enjoyable meeting in April when Mr Peter Banham visited us and led an interactive discussion about old sayings and their meanings. These are sayings and phrases we use all the time and we had to guess

their derivation with quite a bit of prompting! Members thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and as Peter has researched many more sayings we will no doubt have a repeat visit next year. Forthcoming meetings June 8: Woodworking and inlay work – my job and my hobby, by one of our new members, Paul Warne. June 22: Social afternoon including the next part of our occasional series A Walk Down memory Lane. July 13: Mrs Pauline Walker on The History of the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company. July 27: Our last meeting before our summer break. Social afternoon including quiz time with Brenda Cooper. We would be pleased to welcome anyone who would like to come to one of the talks. There is no obligation to become a member. So do come and join us. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

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OUT & ABOUT 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

Scout Troop Friday, 6.50-9pm Boys and girls, 10½-14 years. Scout Leader: Peter Runnacles, 01473 785298 / peter@runnacles.plus.com

Village coffee mornings Coffee mornings are held in the village hall every Wednesday at 10am. Everyone is welcome.

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 & District Gardening Club The gardening club meets at Westerfield Village Hall on the first Wednesday of the month, starting at 7.15pm.

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.

• •

June 1: Create your own Bonsai with Will Badeley July 6: Barbecue. Please ring Barbara, Michele or Barry if you need details

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: 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

TEAM LUKE FUNDRAISING Richard King and Jo and Catherine Payne are taking part in a team triathlon at Fritton Lake in Norfolk on June 19. This involves Jo doing a 1.5km open water swim, Catherine a 39km cycle and Richard a 10km run. We are doing this to raise money to assist Luke who is 24 years old and until recently worked as an engineer at The Port of Felixstowe. Luke’s grandmother, Margaret Butler, is also doing the Orwell Walk on June 26. About a year ago Luke started to have recurring problems related to a childhood cancer and spinal trauma and has now completely lost the use of his legs and has reduced grip in his right hand. This means he is now wheelchair dependant and no longer able to work. He lives on his own in a bungalow in Hollesley. We are raising funds to help purchase an electric wheelchair which rises (not available from the NHS) so that Luke can access his cooker, sink and cupboards and to convert his bathroom to a wet-room. These two items will make Luke’s life very much easier and more independent. If you can support our efforts we have opened a bank account (Sort Code: 53-61-24 / Account Number: 09191933) in the name of J King at NatWest. We haven’t used an online fundraising facility as these take a percentage of the proceeds. Cheques may be sent to 16 Magnolia Drive, Rendlesham, Woodbridge IP12 2GB. Your kind support is very much appreciated.

• •

June 9: Forensic Science and Fire Arms Investigator Brian Heard July 14: Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses, cheese tasting and wine

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/£8 drop-in. Please contact Kat: 07804 909083 /

katspilates@live.com

Chi Kung Exercise class at Westerfield Village Hall on Thursdays, 7.15-8.05pm for beginners and 8.10-9pm for improvers. Cost £6.50 a class or £12 if staying for both classses. 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

STRAWBERRY FAYRE

The Salvation Army Priory centre in Queensway, Ipswich are having a Strawberry Fayre on Friday, June 10, 11am2pm. There will be a variety of stalls including gifts, toys and toiletries. Our café will be serving strawberries and cream, bacon butties and a mix of other snacks and drinks. Everyone is welcome and admission is free.

HASKETON TRADITIONAL JAZZ AND BARBECUE The 20th annual traditional jazz and barbecue event in support of Hasketon Parish Church takes place on Sunday, June 26. Held in the garden of Shrubbery Farm, Hasketon IP13 6HR, this will be Gordon and Molly’s last time to host the event, but the standard will be as high as usual. The French Quarter All Stars is an outstanding traditional New Orleans style band which last entertained at this event in 2007 and continue to be much enjoyed in jazz clubs around the country. The event runs from 12.30-4pm as usual, serving a sumptuous three piece barbecue with salads and puddings to follow, all included in the £15 ticket. Pay bar and ice creams also available. For more details contact: 01394 383106

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OUT & ABOUT ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND AND WITNESHAM WI Colour is the theme for our Caribbean Evening on Wednesday, June 8. Food, fun and friendship will be on offer with games and competitions to amuse everyone outside in the garden. Please phone Gill Dunstan (785638) for all the details if you would like to join in. On June 17 we’re invited to a croquet taster session at Fynn Valley, no skills necessary – we hope. We travel to Witnesham Baptist Church for the July 13 meeting to hear all about David Jessop’s African Experience. New faces are always welcome.

WITNESHAM AND SWILLAND GARAGE SALE Sunday, July 10, 10am-1pm Sponsored by Witnesham & Swilland Community Group If you plan to have a sale at your house please contact Caroline on 785413 to have your address included on the garage sale route map

IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Our next event, a coach excursion to the Great Western Society at Didcot, is on Saturday, July 9, departing from Ipswich Transport Museum at 8am. The total cost is £40 which includes coach travel, entrance to Didcot and a two-course early evening meal. For further details visit: www.idhts.co.uk This excursion is open to non-members but must be booked in advance. Contact Pat Caddick (01473 402152) or Martyn Hunt (01473 422145).

GIPPESWYK SINGERS’ IN CONCERT

Gippeswyk Singers will perform a lovely programme of English choral music ranging from 16th century madrigals to the present day, including a popular music hall medley, at the Salvation Army Citadel in Felixstowe at 7.30pm on Saturday, July 2. The accompanist will be Jane Van Tilborg. Tickets are £10 with profits going to support local charities Got to Read and Home-Start. Tickets will be available at the door or in advance from Phil Speirs, 2 Treetops, Felixstowe IP11 9ER (please send a SAE with a cheque payable to ‘Gippeswyk Singers’). Refreshments available. Come along and enjoy a delightful summer evening of beautiful music. www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk

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SCHOOLS HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL

THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE NURSERY

Summer is now well and truly upon us, and the children are making the most of the warm weather and getting out in the garden. We are donning our sun hats and glasses, slapping on the sun-cream and enjoying free play and tending to our little garden patch in which the children planted flowers and vegetables in the spring. We have also started practising with the children for our sports day, ranging from the classic running race, to egg and spoon, and bean-bag on the head races. This year we celebrate 30 years of Henley Pre-school and our anniversary is being embraced by the village with Henley Flower Festival inviting us to create a display within the church to celebrate our 30th anniversary. Our church display will be made up of smaller displays all made by the children themselves, so June will be a busy month preparing, making, sticking and arranging. Henley Flower Festival is on Saturday and Sunday June 25 and 26 at St Peter’s Church, Henley. Please come along, support the festival (there are really some magnificent arrangements), the village and the pre-school and enjoy the children’s work. We are a small rural pre-school situated in the light and airy Boughton Room within Henley Community Centre which is less than a 10 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 sessions available for both grant-funded and paid sessions for two to five year olds. Lunch club is also available (noon-1 pm). You do not need to live in the Henley School catchment area to come and play with us – we have children from Ipswich, Claydon, Great Blakenham and Needham Market and other surrounding areas. If you would like to come and join in the fun, please ring 01473 833848 during session time any weekday morning and Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons before 3pm. Out of hours, or if you wish to leave us a message, please ring the pre-school mobile on 07979 468467. You can also visit our website at www.henleypreschool.co.uk Carol and the team

HELMINGHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL We have launched our outdoor learning programme, much to the delight of the children. They have created outdoor artwork, made mud slides and been bug hunting. This is a great way for the children to develop resilience, team working and risk taking skills, to name but a few. Congratulations go to our quicksticks hockey team who made the county finals for the second year in a row.

The children have been making good use of the good weather. Outside play is one of the most important elements for children and ours make good use of the grassy garden. We are lucky to have a large grassed area and a tree area where children can be seen climbing over and under the branches, calling to their friends to ‘save them’ and then launching rescue missions with ropes. The storylines the children create in their play are marvellous. Den making with camouflage nets, treasure boxes and clipboards for map making all add to their creations. The mud kitchen where cakes are baked, potions mixed and soup made is always popular. Mixing, pouring and then washing up is all part of the fun. Our mega sandpit allows children to sit within it – even lay in it – with diggers, creating holes to then be filled in, towers built to be knocked down... the sound of laughter trickling through the group. We have just had our Key People Meetings with parents to celebrate the learning journeys, set the date for our sports day and booked our annual nursery outing to Foxborrow Farm. www.theoldschoolhousenursery.com

There are a few events coming up. Our sports day is on July 1 with a small fete afterwards. On June 12 there is a trail run – watch out for the fliers – and a Bags2School collection on July 13. If you have young children please come and visit us and see our school in action. Bernie Cleland, headteacher, 01473 890267 Helmingham Community Primary School, Stowmarket IP14 6EX

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SCHOOLS / SPORT OTLEY UNDER 5s

GIVE VOLLEYBALL A TRY THIS SUMMER

“Would you like an adventure now, or shall we have our tea first?” Peter Pan, J M Barrie It’s fair to say that nine times out of 10 the children at Otley Under Fives would choose to have the adventure first, whether they are acting out role plays using the dressing up clothes, playing in the outdoor Wendy house, clambering aboard the pirate ship, or playing stuck in the mud. Imaginative play and creativity is encouraged, incorporating arts and crafts to create ‘props’ and practising numbers in a fun way. Last month saw the children focus on dental health, hosting a visit from a local dental nurse who explained the importance of looking after your teeth. The children were shown a model of a person’s mouth and how to use the ‘giant’ toothbrush to clean all of the teeth. The children were then able to pretend to be dentists, using toy dental mirrors to check each other’s teeth. Gleaming smiles all round! When it comes to ‘tea’ the children have fresh fruit and vegetables for snacks, the option of a hot meal prepared on site at Otley Primary School and the delights they have made with their own hands when baking with the play leaders (as well as the mud pies created in the mud garden – though it should be emphasised that the eating of these is strongly discouraged). 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 or visit our Facebook page. www.otleyunderfives.co.uk

YOGA FOR ALL This yoga class in The Thomas Wolsey School gym, Defoe Road, Ipswich, IP1 6SG is open to participants of all ages and abilities. Yoga is an excellent way to strengthen muscles, keep joints mobile and improve balance. If you have not been to a class before, just bring along a sleeping bag and pillow – no need to rush out and buy special equipment. This Monday evening class starts at 7.35pm and ends, after a short relaxation session, at 9.05pm. Sessions cost £7 a week or £30 for six sessions. We are currently looking into running the class throughout the summer holidays, subject to demand. For more information please call Lavinia on 01473 690762 or Jemma on 01473 832646.

Volleyball is loads of fun and a very friendly game. It’s the only highenergy, no-contact mixed team sport you can play indoors and outdoors – whatever your ability. It’s energetic enough to help with your fitness but without placing high demands on your body, and good teamwork is important as well as individual skill. This summer is the perfect time to give volleyball a go and find out why it is one of the top three most-played sports in the world! The sport is thriving in Suffolk thanks to the support of Volleyball England’s Go-Spike campaign. tthere are clubs in Ipswich and Stowmarket with members of mixed abilities, male and female, and all ages from teenagers to their grandparents. The clubs will all give a warm welcome to prospective new players whether experienced or complete beginners, and you can go along to join a session and play some friendly games at a park near you this summer. Ipswich Ravens and Ipswich Volleyball Club play in Christchurch Park (near the Westerfield Road entrance) on Saturday afternoons, while Stowmarket VC play on the Recreation Ground on Tuesday and Sunday evenings (all sessions are subject to weather and other fixtures). All sessions are completely free! The clubs are happy to accommodate people who want to play either competitively or at a more recreational level. All sessions are organised by a qualified coach who also gives playing advice to each individual. So why not go along and take a look? If you like what you see please introduce yourself and you will be very welcome to participate in a session under no obligation. To find out more, visit: www.suffolkvolleyball.org.uk

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Greetings guff lovers. With all the furore over performance enhancing drugs and their increasing use by sportsmen, I am pleased to report that I have been given a clean bill of health from the tennis authorities following their recent investigation into my performances. After video analysis of my game they have concluded that no amount of artificial stimulants could improve my performance to the point where I may possibly beat an opponent unfairly, so that was a weight off of my mind. I was just relieved that they did not test for the presence of Adnams Ghost Ship in the blood samples. Not much to report this month (as if you didn’t know already), with the summer league yet to start and most of the players recovering from winter leagues injuries, usually frostbite, we have taken the lull in activity to indulge in some court maintenance, steam cleaning the surfaces to make them safer after the wet winter algae growth has been removed. We usually repair the fences too as they get damaged from having to climb over to find Nick’s serves in the long grass, and we had the added

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bonus of having one of the balls we thought he had lost after a particularly high lob returned to us from Tim Peake in the Space Station. By the time this report has appeared in In Touch we will have begun the summer league season, although a good indicator of how we are faring may be gauged by the amount of tennis rackets thrown over the fences in frustration. Dog walkers may benefit if they have an Ebay account as there is usually a good secondhand value on tennis rackets before Wimbledon starts. Joke of the Month: Two bird watchers were out in the woods when a giant grizzly bear appeared at the top of a hill and with a ferocious roar immediately ran down towards them. One of the men took a pair of trainers out of his backpack and started to put them on, “Are you mad?” asked the other man, “You can’t outrun a bear.” “I don’t have to outrun the bear,”said the man tying up his trainer laces, “I just have to outrun you.” More guff next month, Mick Russ

ON THE GRAPEVINE COULD YOU GIVE A ‘SENIOR PET-IZEN’ A SPECIAL RETIREMENT HOME?

QUESTIONS ON CASH

Blue Cross pet charity in Suffolk is appealing for happy retirement homes for some of its Old Age Pets (OAPs) who are getting overlooked in favour of their younger counterparts. Almost 30 per cent of pets at the new Blue Cross rehoming centre in Wherstead, which opened its doors in January this year, are over eightyears-old and are struggling to find families to give them a second chance. Cat Missy is just one of the charity’s 50 residents waiting for a family to take her home. The 12-year-old moggie arrived at the centre in January because her owner could no longer care for her. She has been waiting 75 days for a new home – almost three times the average stay for cats of just 28 days. Andrew Gillon, centre manager at Blue Cross Suffolk, explains: “We have some lovely older pets looking for loving new homes but sadly they get overlooked for younger pets. But taking on an older pet can be very rewarding and more mature pets have lots of advantages. They are often more settled, have some good training in place, don’t demand as much time and attention as puppies and kittens, and their character and temperament has already formed so you know what you’re going to get.” Another one of the centre’s long stay golden oldies is Tia, a 14-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier who has been waiting for a home since March after his Tia, above, and Missy, below previous owners had a change in circumstances.

A platform for investment success?

Andrew adds: “If anyone is thinking about taking on a new pet, please think about visiting your local rehoming centre. We’ve got lots of deserving dogs and cats waiting for someone to love them.” To find out more call 0300 777 1480, email Suffolk@bluecross.org.uk or visit: www.bluecross.org.uk

With independent financial advisor Nick Plumb

Allan from Ipswich wrote to me to ask about investment platforms. He asked: “Our financial adviser is suggesting that my wife and I should move our existing investments onto a platform with Novia. We have ISAs with different companies and Investment Bonds with Aviva and Prudential. Surely we would be better to keep these spread between several different companies rather than having all our eggs in the same basket?” Investment platforms have become very popular in the last few years, for a number of reasons. Primarily, the main attraction of these platforms is investment choice. An investment platform will usually offer access to a range of investment wrappers, such as ISAs, collective investments, bonds and pensions, within which investors will have access to hundreds and in some cases, thousands of individual investment funds, and in particular, to managed portfolios, where a professional fund manager actively manages a portfolio of investments for you in line with your chosen risk profile. No single fund manager will ever be top in all investment sectors and most fund managers have a specialist area in which they are known to have particular knowledge or ability. That is where a ‘portfolio’ manager will come into their own, as they can pick the very best investment managers and funds from each sector, thus giving you as an investor access to a wide choice of the best funds, rather than a range of funds that are ‘jack of all trades but master of none’. You can also save money on charges by using a platform, particularly when you have older investments with high ongoing management charges, or if you currently have your ISAs with a lot of different fund managers. For example, in the case of Novia, our clients can access their platform for just 0.40% per annum with no initial charges deducted when you invest. Most platform managers will also have negotiated discounted initial and ongoing charges with many top fund managers, so you can often end up paying less to access those funds through the Novia platform than you would by investing direct with the individual fund or portfolio managers. Having all your investments on a platform is not really a case of ‘having all your eggs in the same basket’, as the platform manager would not actually hold your money. Your investments would actually be held by each of the fund or portfolio managers that your money would be invested with, so your exposure to any one company will be greatly reduced as your investments are likely to be spread across several different investment managers and funds. A final benefit of using a platform is simplicity and ease of access to information. Although you can hold many different investments on the same platform, you will receive just one statement from the platform provider, showing all your individual investments and their values. You can also access your account online at any time and get up-to-date investment valuations in between your usual statement dates, arrange a withdrawal or income payment, and even conduct investment fund switches if you wish to. All in all, a platform can be a good way to simplify your current investment arrangements, and reduce your ongoing charges. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham, Suffolk IP6 8JP, email nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position.

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Please call Ian on: 01449 740285 / 07939 837939 E: ian@marchconsultingltd.co.uk

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

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CHURCH NEWS CHURCH NEWS FROM SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING EXTRAORDINARY ORDINARY TIME After the great festivals of May, Pentecost and Trinity, June, in the Christian calendar begins the season of Ordinary Time. I always feel this is a rather downbeat title and personally prefer to call these weeks ‘growing time’, a heading that would even marry up with the ‘green’ colour of church vestments worn. June begins a sustained period of Bible teaching when we can take stock of what it means to live in a community as a Christian; to consider what our purpose in life is; to refocus perhaps, or certainly sharpen up, the direction of our efforts and energies in life. I write this in the knowledge that for our family, like some others in the benefice, this year’s June will be anything other than ordinary: for we celebrate the gift of marriage. I think I speak on behalf of all the ministry team in saying that marriages are wonderful Pastoral Offices to be involved in. They enable relationships to be formed and nurtured, and faith in Christ to grow. However, it’s not often that a son or daughter asks their parent to conduct the marriage ceremony itself, but such is the case on June 4 at 2pm at St Mary’s Church, Grundisburgh. For me this a huge privilege, deeply meaningful and certainly a high point of my priestly calling. So, with butterflies in my stomach, even now, in twilight years, I am still growing in God. The hymns and readings, chosen by Kirsty and Simon, have taken on new meaning as I read them afresh, overlaid on all the experiences and events occurring on sacred ground. Our churches are where people gather to give thanks to God. I recall weekly Sunday worship, Holy Communion, choir practice, baptisms, funerals (too many of late), confirmation services, weddings, crib exhibitions, concerts, and so much more. I come to the conclusion that there is nothing ordinary about living with Christ. If you can celebrate with us, we’d love to see you – weddings in churches are public occasions. If however, you read this after June 4, then please reflect upon the following words, and how they relate to your own life (whether you are married or not) for God’s is the glory known in this place. God, in the planning and purpose of life, Hallowed the union of husband and wife; This we embody where love is displayed, Rings are presented and promises made. Jesus was found, at a similar feast, Taking the roles of both waiter and priest, Turning the worldly towards the divine, Tears into laughter and water to wine.

CELEBRATING THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY ACROSS THE BENEFICE OUR QUEEN, A LIFETIME OF SERVICE Flower Festival at St Mary’s Church, Grundisburgh Friday, June 10 & Saturday 11, 10am-6pm Sunday, June 12, 1.30-9pm, followed by fireworks on The Green SUNDAY, JUNE 12 • A Celebration of 90 Years in Hasketon, 9.30am • Village Celebration Service (with communion) in Ashbocking, led by Bishop Mike Harrison, 11am • Songs of Praise in Grundisburgh Church, 11am • The Big Lunch in Otley with worship, picnic, games and tea at the recreation ground from noon • Village barbecue in Burgh by kind invitation of the Creasy’s, 2.30pm • Churchyard picnic tea in Clopton followed by Songs of Praise at 6.30pm SUNDAY, JUNE 19 • Songs of Praise in Burgh Church, 11am • Songs of Praise in Boulge with combined choirs from Grundisburgh and Melton, 6.30pm

Therefore we pray that his spirit preside Over the wedding of bridegroom and bride. Fulfilling all that they’ve hoped will come true, Lighting with love all they dream of and do.

• A Celebration of 90 years in Hasketon, 9.30am

Praise then the Maker, the Spirit, the Son; Source of the love through which two are made one. God’s is the glory, the goodness and grace Seen in this marriage and known in this place.

WHAT’S ON

Sung to the tune Slane, perhaps better known as Lord of all Hopefulness The Rev Wendy Gourlay

June 4: • Wedding of Simon and Kirsty, 2pm at Grundisburgh • Wedding of Tom and Abi, 2pm at Hasketon

SUNDAY SERVICES

June 6: Beyond Alpha, 10.30am-noon, in Grundisburgh Church

Sunday, June 5, 9.30am: Holy Communion at Swilland Sunday, June 12, 11am: Family Service at Ashbocking Sunday, June 19, 11am: Family Service at Swilland

June 8: SWAPSHOP at Grundisburgh Parish Room, 10.15-11.30am

• Village Celebration Service (with communion) in Ashbocking, led by Bishop Mike Harrison, 11am

June 1: Going Deeper Homegroup, Manor Farm, The Green, Ashbocking, 10am

June 9: Tiddlywinks for pre-school children, Grundisburgh Church, 2.30pm

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LOCAL SERVICES June 10: Second Fridays Group, Hasketon Victory Hall, 7.15pm

THE CARLFORD BENEFICE GROUP

June 10, 11 & 12: Queen’s Birthday celebrations; see above

On Wednesday, June 15 The Rev Jane Hall will be speaking on The Holy Land revisited or how to survive a ‘relaxed pilgrimage’. Come and share in the experiences of the Coastland Pilgrims when they travelled in the footsteps of Jesus last autumn, from dancing on the Sea of Galilee via a Bethleham orphanage and Arab souk to a Dead Sea dip. Jane, Rev Catherine Beaumont and some of the survivors will tell you more.

June 13: • Knit and Stitch, Burgh Schoolroom, 10.30am-12.30pm: 01473 735544 • Benefice Prayer Group, Grundisburgh Upper Room, 5pm • Monday House Group, Grundisburgh, 7.30pm June 14: Deanery Synod at Clopton Village Hall, 7.30pm; if you are interested in issues concerning mental health please do join us. June 15: Going Deeper Homegroup, Manor Farm, The Green, Ashbocking, 10am June 16: Social Bridge, Burgh Schoolroom 7.15pm; tuition available: 01473 735544

DATE FOR YOUR DIARIES September 24: Trip to Beth Chatto Gardens, Essex Cost only £15 inclusive of coach and garden entrance (normally £6.95). For details contact Alan Trevelyan: 01473 890563 / atrevelyan62@gmail.com FANCY A COFFEE? Ashbocking: Friday, June 3, 10.30am-noon, at the home of Jan and Jon Bates, 4 Ashley Grange

June 18: • Burgh Soup Lunch, noon-1.30pm • Wedding of Michael and Nicky, 2pm at Hasketon

Grundisburgh: Saturday, June 4, 10.30am-noon, and then Wednesday, June 8, 10.10-11.30am, at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms

June 19: Queen’s Birthday celebrations; see above June 23: • Hasketon Community Lunch, 12.15pm • Tiddlywinks for pre-school children, Grundisburgh Church, 2.30pm June 25: • Clopton Strawberry Tea, 2.30pm onwards at Thamanyia, Shop Road, Clopton • Ashbocking Quiz night, 6-10pm ANIMAL SERVICE: Sunday, June 5 9.30am at Hasketon / 11am at Grundisburgh. Bring your animal friends with you. Owners remain responsible for them throughout the service.

Swilland: Saturday, June 4, 10-11.30am, at the home of Ann Kent of Red Court, Swilland Hasketon: Tuesday, June 7, 10am-noon, at Shrubbery Farm, Hasketon Clopton: Wednesday, June 15, 10am-noon, at the village hall Otley: Thursday, June 23, 10am-noon, at the home of Geoff and Ann Robinson, Southview, Chapel Road Please see FAST BROADBAND FROM YOUR CHURCH TOWER on page 7

WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH So this month sees us going back to the polling booths to vote on staying or leaving the EU. I’m not sure that I’ve heard any facts about the argument since I commented on the issue in the April issues. But again I am aware that decisions we make on the day will affect the coming months and years. As I commented in April, our decision about Jesus also affects our tomorrows. Within church circles there is a concern leading to a call to evangelism – speaking out for Christ and challenging people to come to Him. We at the chapel already do that through these notes and through our weekly activities. While I see that as the core of our ‘business’, I hope that our actions and expressions of care towards all is more recognised than our words – written or spoken. Church and Christians I fear still have a bad name because of what is perceived as our disagreements between denominations and sometimes the apparent harsh reactions to other people of other faiths. Having been earlier to a church leaders prayer meeting in Ipswich where at least seven denominations were represented I don’t see disagreement but unity in our diversity of forms of worship. We all need to recognise that the most fundamental laws of our country are

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based on Biblical, Christian values and laws. It is these that can be eroded subtly or overtly whether we are in or out of the EU and this is perhaps central to our voting decision. I commented in our church newsletter in April about who holds the ‘title deeds’ to our lives suggesting that it should be Jesus. Who do we wish to hold the ‘title deeds’ to our way of life, beliefs and freedoms? Whatever the result of the vote – in or out – will affect our tomorrows, but I remain assured that I’m a citizen of another Kingdom and that that will not change by the result of a vote this month. Yours, a citizen of heaven through faith in Jesus, Pastor Andrew We welcome you to worship at 11am each Sunday. Sunday, June 5 Morning Worship with Pastor Andrew Sunday, June 12 Morning Worship with Pastor Andrew Sunday, June 19 Morning Worship, Team Ministry Sunday, June 26 Morning Worship with Pastor Andrew

EVENTS Every Tuesday Drop-in Café, 2-4pm. Everyone is welcome to call in for tea, cakes and friendship. Combine a visit to the post office with a cup of tea. Varied Church Open House, 7.30pm Every Friday: Babies and Toddlers, 9.1511.15am. Contact Jean: 01473 785478 Monday, June 6: The Munch Bunch Lunch Club, noon-2pm. Delicious lunch and good company. Contact Karen: 01473 251787 Wednesday, June 8: Prayer Fellowship, 2pm Thursdays, June 2 & 16: Centrepoint, 10.30am Wednesday, June 22: Bible Study, 2pm The church is open for prayer and listening every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am5pm or at other times. Please contact Pastor Andrew. The post office is open on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings in the conservatory. Pastor: Andrew Croft, 07851 060482 Secretary: Anne Camp, 3 Acre Close, Witnesham IP6 9EU / 01473 785448 www.witneshambaptist.org.uk

In Touch with WTW

The Kingdom Strikes Back You may remember the publicity that surrounded the refusal of cinemas last Christmas to take an advertisement for The Lord’s Prayer (“because it may cause offence to people of other or no faith”). Some newspapers and most social media platforms blew up a dust storm of outrage, but the dust soon settled. What emerged from it, of course, was coverage that far exceeded the intended Star Wars audience!

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

Day / Date 5th June Trinity 2

12th June Trinity 3

19th June Trinity 4

26th June Trinity 5

3rd July Trinity 6

10th July Trinity 7

17th July Trinity 8

24th July Trinity 9

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen. justpray.uk - thykingdom.co.uk Paul

Six months later, the Lord’s Prayer is still there. The traditional translation we may know best is not just a pretty piece of prose in well-crafted Prayer Book English. The words have something to say. In saying this prayer we call on God to establish his kingdom right where we are. It is a kingdom with no democracy (warning: may cause offence), but one with righteousness, justice and mercy beyond anything a civil court can offer. We acknowledge that we need his sustaining provision day by day. When we admit our wrongdoing we can seek his total forgiveness, and we are called to do the same to those who wrong us. When wrongdoing beckons or evil lurks we can call on his direction and protection. Here’s the more modern translation:

CHURCH SERVICES June-July St Martin’s Tuddenham St Martin

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

9.30am Family Communion

10am All-Age Worship

11am Celebration of the completion of recent work.

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

11am Joint Benefice Service of Joint service at Holy Communion Tuddenham Church Trinity 10 With Witnesham Baptist Church)

31st July

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Joint service at Tuddenham Church

In Touch online:

In Touch with WTW

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

Church Diary—June...

Who’s Who:

Mothers’ Union—meet on Thursday 2nd June at 2pm when Jody Stokes will be telling us about “Active Lives” (contact Ann Bennett 785685) Benefice Youth Group—Wednesdays 8th and 22nd June, 6pm (contact Julia 785497) Village Voices—rehearsals on Thursdays 2nd, 16th and 30th June at 7.30pm in the back room of Witnesham Baptist Church (contact Christine 785138) Kingdom Kids—meeting on 12th June and 17th July (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 Julia Farmer

01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk

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

Invitation to everyone in Westerfield to come and join a

Celebration of the completion of recent work at Westerfield Church Sunday 3rd July at 11am

Julia Farmer

01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk

Our free gift to You This beautifully illustrated book is being offered to every household in the benefice to celebrate the 90th birthday of HM The Queen.

Our website has a host of information: about the churches and villages in Westerfield and Tuddenham with Witnesham Benefice

www.wtandw.org.uk

If you’d like an extra copy to give to a friend or family members, please ask one of the wardens.

See (and hear) how the recent repairs and improvements have enhanced the our beautiful and ancient church. Coffee and cake afterwards.