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In Touch
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with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham Volume 7 • Issue No. 5 • APRIL 2017
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR On a number of recent occasions I’ve been surprised by how people have reacted to fairly typical situations which would normally go relatively unnoticed or produce no more than a raised eyebrow. Just this morning I struggled to make room on a narrow road for a rather large car coming in the opposite direction. I pulled in as far as I could, trying not to go into the brook running alongside, but the other driver was incensed, waving his arms at me, his face ugly with anger. Thank goodness I couldn’t hear what he was saying. He got by a little slower than he obviously wanted, but I sat there for a moment in stunned silence.
NEWS WITNESHAM AND SWILLAND LITTER PICK Sponsored by Ashbocking Swilland and Witnesham WI Saturday, April 29
At the weekend I found myself queuing behind a man who gave a shop assistant a right telling off because she had given him the wrong change. He practically accused her of trying to steal 10p from him. I asked her if she was OK after he’d left and she shrugged it off as if it was a common occurrence, which I fear it might very well be. We may all be feeling pressure just now not knowing how things will turn out (even the weather is disagreeable), but if we lose all self-restraint and can’t even treat those we meet in everyday life with respect I dread to think of the long-term impact. Thankfully we’re not there yet and I’ve had many more instances of people being helpful, kind, thoughtful and understanding in recent weeks (clearly evidenced in the pages of this magazine) than I’ve had of people being rude, judgemental and arrogant. Admittedly a little self-analysis may be necessary now and then, but I’m determined to offset rude drivers and hateful behaviour by doing the exact opposite. By making a little extra effort to be kind to each other, I’m convinced we can make the world a little bit more pleasant for everyone. A smile, a polite ‘good morning’, a wave when another driver makes way (and especially when they don’t!), may initially have little impact on how others behave, but it can’t hurt. Happy Easter from everyone at Mansion House Publishing
In Touch
with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: westerfield@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
ADVERTISING Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 DISTRIBUTION Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380 PRINTING Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk
01473 400379 Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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MAY DEADLINE 7 APRIL 2017
is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
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Meet at 10.30am at Witnesham Recreation Area (over the road from The Barley Mow) or at Witnesham School. Come for lunch at Witnesham Village Hall from noon (non-litter pickers welcome too). Homemade soup and roll £3.50 with tea and coffee. Puddings also available. Please wear high visibility clothing if you have it. Some equipment will be available on loan from Suffolk Norse. Please let us know if you will be joining the litter pick and/ or coming for lunch by calling: 785413 / 785370
THANK YOU TO FIND SUPPORTERS Thank you very much to those who donated special foods for the FIND Christmas Hampers in 2016. We eventually distributed 1,060 with gifts to just over 2,000 children and just under 1,000 adults. The Food Bank continues to serve increasing numbers of emergency food bags to local families in particular need and we regularly draw £400 weekly from that account to buy fresh goods such as bread, cheese, meat and fruit and vegetables. It is good to start 2017 knowing that the Food Bank may stay at its present site for several more months while we actively pursue some promising sites for the eventual move we have to make later this year. Meanwhile, we continue to deliver household furniture and goods to those in need as well as supporting those sleeping rough. FIND Committee Members Heather Cade and Derek Austin
MACMILLAN QUIZ NIGHT THANKS Christine Laughlin wishes to thank everyone who supported her quiz on Friday, February 24 in Witnesham Village Hall in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care. The grand sum of £545 was raised. Well done everyone.
SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE CALL 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. The Suffolk Dementia Helpline can support anyone who needs to talk.
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NEWS HEARING LOSS AND TINNITUS EXPERTS TO SPEAK IN IPSWICH FOR ONE OFF EVENT Leading experts from the world of ‘all things ears’ will speak at an exclusive event in Ipswich this month. Local hearing care specialists The Hearing Care Centre have taken it upon themselves to try and better educate the public about the help and support that there is out there for people affected by hearing loss and tinnitus. In the UK, hearing loss affects one in six people (over 11 million people) and this climbs to one in three people aged over 60 years. Sadly, people wait on average 10 years to address their hearing loss, which impacts significantly on their general health and wellbeing. Tinnitus (noises heard inside the head) also affects around 10% of the UK population and research has shown that a high proportion of tinnitus sufferers also experience hearing loss.
TESCO BAGS OF HELP Bags of Help is Tesco’s exciting local community grant scheme where the money raised from the 5p carrier bag charge is being used to fund thousands of local projects in communities across the UK. Projects that bring benefits to their community will be considered; these range from improving buildings and outdoor spaces to buying new equipment, training coaches or volunteers and hosting community events. If you have a project in mind or know someone in the local community who has, then why not apply for a grant? To apply, visit www.tesco.com/bagsofhelp and complete an application.
WALK TOWARDS A CURE FOR PARKINSON’S IN SUFFOLK
The Suffolk Hearing Care and Tinnitus Show, which is free to attend, is on Monday, April 3, 9am-1.30pm, at Kesgrave Community Centre. A part of the event, The Hearing Care Centre, which has 23 centres across Suffolk and Norfolk, has managed to secure the time of one of the world’s most sought after experts on tinnitus, Professor David Baguley (pictured). Professor Baguley will give attendees a better understanding about what tinnitus is, how it affects us and where researchers are at in their quest to find a solution to the problem. He has over 150 peer-review publications and a PhD in Tinnitus from Cambridge University. The Hearing Care Centre is run by audiologist and well-known local businesswoman Karen Finch. “I’m delighted to have been able to put this event together for the people of Suffolk. Hearing loss and tinnitus affect so many people but there is still reluctance for people to seek professional help. By organising something like this, it allows people to come and find out information without the pressure of going into a clinic room,” said Karen. “Not only will we have three top speakers for people to listen to, but there will also be an exhibition where attendees can find out about local support groups, assistive products, complementary therapies, removal of earwax, hearing loss charities and more. Guests will even be able to learn about some of latest hearing aid technology that is helping thousands of patients with both hearing loss and tinnitus.” Although free to attend, places must be booked in advance. For more details call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330 or visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk/show
People in Suffolk are being asked to pick up the pace against Parkinson’s this year at Walk for Parkinson’s – Glemham Hall on Sunday, July 9, one of a series of walk events to be held across the UK for Parkinson’s UK during 2017. Walk for Parkinson’s offers the opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to get involved in a fun and active day out, while helping the charity step ever closer to a cure. There are a range of distances on offer to suit everyone, with a 1.5 mile, 3.5 mile and 5.5 mile walk to choose from. It is the first time the charity has hosted a Walk for Parkinson’s at Glemham Hall. Previous walks in the region have seen more than 200 local people take part, so the charity hopes to involve even more walkers with the new and exciting venue. The registration fee is £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s. Everyone who registers will receive a free Parkinson’s UK t-shirt, fundraising pack and at the end of the walk, a finishers medal. The charity is hoping to raise over £400,000 from the 32 events, so suggests walkers aim to raise at least £50. All money raised from Walk for Parkinson’s – Glemham Hall will help Parkinson’s UK’s work to provide support and information for people affected by Parkinson’s and to help find better treatments, and ultimately a cure. As well as walkers, the charity is on the lookout for volunteers to help register people at the start/finish area or to be a walk marshal at various points on the route during the day. To find out more and to sign up to walk or volunteer contact: 0207 963 9367 / fundraising@parkinsons.org.uk or visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/walkglemhamhall
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NEWS WESTERFIELD PARISH COUNCIL Join the campaign to clean up our countryside Take pride in our village
HELPING ADULTS TO BECOME CONFIDENT READERS Do you know anyone who might like some one-to-one support to help them become a confident reader? As many as one in six adults may feel that way – it’s much more common than you might think.
VILLAGE LITTER PICK Saturday, April 22 Meet at the village hall at 10.30am All equipment provided Litter picks, gloves, high visibility vests and collection sacks will be available on the day Further details from Yvonne Maynard: 01473 226709 / yvonne.maynard @btinternet.com
Whether you know someone who’d like to start right back at the beginning with reading, or who just wants some time to ask questions and brush up on skills to build confidence, it may be that a Got to Read volunteer can help. Got to Read volunteers and students meet one-to-one at least weekly, in welcoming, confidential spaces. There aren’t any exams. Every student gets to say what it is that they need. Their volunteer guides them and helps to find ways to get there, using whatever methods and resources suit the student best. Examples of what we can help to build confidence with include: • Learning or re-learning the alphabet and sounds to make words and then build sentences (phonics)
FREE PROSTATE CANCER TESTS East Suffolk Prostate Cancer Support Group will be holding its fifth PSA test event for men between the ages of 45 (40 for men with a close relative who has prostate or breast cancer) and 75 at Greshams Sports and Social Club, Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, on April 27 between 6.30 and 8.30pm. Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer in men but it can be successfully treated if detected in time. Eleven thousand men die every year in the UK because their prostate cancer was detected too late. If there is a history of prostate cancer or breast cancer in your direct family blood line there is an increased possibility of you getting prostate cancer. A small blood sample will be taken from your arm by a trained phlebotomist. The sample will be analysed in an NHS laboratory and the urologist will write to you to explain your result and advise whether you should take any further action. East Suffolk Prostate Cancer Support Group wishes to thank the Lions Club of Ipswich for their very generous donation to help support this event.
• Everyday reading and writing tasks like shopping lists, recipes, understanding bills and medical records • Supporting children and being involved with their reading and learning • Getting ready to try something new – a job, a hobby, being a parent or grandparent, formal learning • Reading for pleasure, getting to the stage where you can relax, understand and enjoy what you read • Asking all those questions about punctuation and grammar that you think everyone but you knows about We can offer support in the Woodbridge and Ipswich areas. If you would like to know more, please contact 07528 147654 / info@gottoread.org.uk or visit: www.gottoread.org.uk It’s likely that someone who would enjoy trying this support might not be able to read many of these details, so please do pass the message along if you can.
As we walked through the bluebell woods, I thought he’d like this It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day
01473 851731
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ADVERTORIAL
Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.
Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number
of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
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01394 460187 | 07932 438155 info@jf-plumbing.co.uk | jasonfinbra@btinternet.com www.jf-plumbing.co.uk www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield
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OUT & ABOUT RANSOMES AND RAPIER ANNUAL REUNION
DONATE UNWANTED TOYS TO THE CHURCH FETE
Sunday, April 2 at Kesgrave Social Club
Lots of children bring their parents and grandparents to the church fete so we want lots of toys to sell. Do have a clear out of all you don’t need anymore, also children’s furniture like high chairs, car seats and the like.
Ex-employees, families and friends of Ransomes and Rapier are welcomed from 12.30-5pm. Come and see fascinating artefacts, documents and videos. Meet up with old friends at a really enjoyable event. See what new stories and pictures have surfaced. Admission £2 with reasonably priced refreshments available to purchase. For more information call Elizabeth: 01206 734581
I can collect any you can give – phone 01473 785067 – or drop them off at High View, Tuddenham Lane, Witnesham. By the end of May would be useful so we can sort them out. The fete is on Sunday, June 25. Hope to see you soon, Barbara
WITNESHAM AND SWILLAND VILLAGE SHOW SCHEDULE SATURDAY, JULY 8 Vegetable Section 1 5 Broad Bean pods 2 5 Beans – Dwarf or Runner 3 3 Beetroot with 3” foliage 4 1 Cabbage with outer leaves trimmed 5 3 Carrots with 3” foliage 6 3 Courgettes 7 5 pods of Peas 8 3 Potatoes 9 3 Shallots with 3” tops turned and tied 10 3 sticks of Rhubarb with leaves trimmed to 3” 11 Box of any 5 vegetables (1 of each vegetable) 12 An ugly vegetable (any sort) Witnesham Allotment Holders Only 13 Any of Classes 1 to 9 above (5 Broad Beans or 3 Carrots or 3 Potatoes etc.) Salad Section 14 1 Cucumber 15 1 Lettuce – any variety with outer leaves trimmed 16 3 Radishes with 3” foliage 17 3 Spring Onions with roots trimmed 18 3 Tomatoes with short stalks 19 Box of any 3 salad items (1 of each item) Fruit Section 20 3 strings of Currants 21 6 Gooseberries 22 6 Raspberries with stalks 23 6 Strawberries Flower Section 24 Roses – 1 stem of 3 varieties in your own vase 25 1 single Rose in your own vase 26 Vase of Annuals – 2 each of 3 varieties 27 Vase of Perennials – 2 each of 3 varieties 28 Vase of Sweet Peas – 2 each of 3 colours 29 Vase of 3 stems of Pinks or Carnations 30 Vase of Herbs – 3 varieties, 1 stem of each 31 Vase of Pansies or Violas – 3 blooms 32 A single stem of Delphinium in your own vase 33 A single flower stem to be judged for its fragrance 34 A perfect but lonely flower in a vase 35 A pot plant for foliage – 20cms or 8” max. pot 36 A flowering pot plant – 20cms or 8” max. pot 37 Tuberous Begonia – 20cms or 8” max. pot Flower Arranging 38 A container of floating flower heads – 20cms or 8”max. size 39 A flower arrangement in a child’s welly boot 40 A jug of flowers for the kitchen table 41 Flower table decoration not to exceed 25 cms or 10” in any direction 42 A garden on a plate – max. size 30cms or 12” Cookery 43 Victoria Sponge – using 3 eggs, filled with jam, dusted with castor sugar
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44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58
6 Cheese Straws 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 Ginger Bread loaf using the recipe on the back page (LADIES ONLY) A Ginger Bread loaf 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 Jar of pickled vegetable(s) 3 home produced eggs (brown or white) DISASTER: any disasters from Classes 43 to 50 above can be entered on the day.
Handicrafts 59 An article of Knitting or Crochet 60 An article of Cross Stitch or Tapestry – max. 45cms x 45cms, 18” x 18” 61 A rag doll 62 An unframed, unmounted photograph to depict ‘Seeing Blue’ 63 An unframed, unmounted photograph depicting ‘Suffolk’ 64 An unframed, unmounted photograph depicting ‘a tree or trees’ 65 A handmade Greeting Card max. 8” x 6”, 20cms x 15cms 66 A handmade item of jewellery 67 A piece of artwork using your choice of subject and media. Max. size A4 68 A decorated photo frame – max. 8” x 6”, 20cms x 15cms 69 A gift wrapped bar of chocolate demonstrating your gift wrapping flair 70 A handmade wooden article CHILDREN’S SECTION Under 5s 71 A decorated face mask using a paper plate 72 Make a rainbow using any medium 73 Bling up your Teddy Bear 74 A jam jar of garden flowers Ages 5-7 75 A garden on a plate 76 Make a rainbow using any medium 77 Bling up your Teddy Bear 78 A gift wrapped bar of chocolate demonstrating your gift wrapping flair Ages 8-11 79 Decorate a Ginger Bread Man 80 Design a shield for a knight max. A4 81 Bling up your Teddy Bear 82 A gift wrapped bar of chocolate demonstrating your gift wrapping flair
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OUT & ABOUT DIARY DATES FOR WITNESHAM, SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING Events take place in Witnesham Village Hall unless otherwise indicated. Booking Clerk: Mrs Anne Debenham, 785798 / annedebenham@aol.com Parish Clerk: Mr Steve Barron, swill-witpc@outlook.com / 07719 176917 Please note: If you need notices placed on the village noticeboards please contact either the parish clerk or Anne Debenham who will arrange this between them.
SUFFOLK BOOK LEAGUE Spend an evening with publisher and memoirist Hamish MacGibbon hosted by Suffolk Book League. The author will be talking about his forthcoming book Stalin’s Maverick Spy, which tells the story of his parents, their interaction with the Communist Party and their flirtation with wartime espionage. Hamish will be appearing at the Ipswich Institute Reading Room (15 Tavern Street, IP1 3AA) on Thursday, April 13 as part of Suffolk Book League’s 2017 programme of events.
WEEKLY EVENTS
This particular event is free for members as it is also the league’s AGM. Doors will be open for members only at 6.30pm.
Mondays Dance classes in term time from 3.30pm. Contact Kelly Fear: 07799 130967
The AGM starts at 7pm (members only). General admission is £8 with students free. To book tickets email: tickets@sbl.org.uk
Tuesdays • Post Office at Witnesham Baptist Church, 2.30-4pm • Drop-in Cafe at Witnesham Baptist Church, 2-4pm • Carpet Bowls Club from 7pm. Contact Peter Elmy: 785754
www.sbl.org.uk
Thursdays • Post Office at Witnesham Baptist Church, 9am-12.30pm • Carpet Bowls from 2pm. Contact: 785754 • Tai Chi classes: A beginners’ class begins earlier with a continuing class from 7.30pm. Contact Marc for more details: 07860 471748 Fridays • Mums and Toddlers, Witnesham Baptist Room, 9.15-11.15am; all welcome. Contact Jean Pearson: 785478 • Pilates, 10-11am; contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com
The talk which starts at 7.30pm will be followed by an audience Q&A session with the author.
HASKETON’S JAZZ BBQ Hasketon’s Jazz BBQ has been a popular fixture for some 20 years. It continues, but now as a bring your own picnic following the retirement of Gordon and Molly Smith who have been the prime movers throughout. This year’s Jazz Picnic with the six piece Mike Barry and the Uptown Gang band takes place on Sunday, June 25 at Shrubbery Farm, Hasketon from 12.30-4pm. Tickets are £12 from 01394 383106 or 01473 735 579. Drinks will be available to purchase.
Sewing Classes: For information please contact Kim Shaw: 785678 EVENTS IN APRIL Thursday, April 6: Village Voices meet in the Baptist Church Room at 7.30pm. Contact Christine Laughlin: 785138 Wednesday, April 12: WI meets for its birthday party at the earlier time of 6.30pm. Includes entertainment by Rachel Duffield. Thursday, April 13 • Mobile Library visits the Green, Ashbocking from 12.15-12.35pm • Easter Egg Hunt organised by Witnesham Area Pre-school, 10amnoon; entry is £4 per family, with refreshments available for a small additional charge. Tickets should be purchased in advance by calling Annette (pre-school leader) on 01473 784934. Wednesday, April 19: Swilland and Witnesham Annual Parish Meeting, 7.30pm Thursday, April 20 • Mobile Library visits Weyland Road, Witnesham (9.50-10.20am) / Swilland M&M (10.25-10.40am) / Sunset Cottage (10.45-10.55am) • Village Voices meet in Witnesham Baptist Church Room, 7.30pm Saturday, April 22: Join the WI litter pick from 10.30am in Witnesham and Swilland. At noon there will be lunch at the village hall (soup and roll £3.50 with tea or coffee / puddings also available). For more details and how to book lunch see page 3. Monday, April 24: Ashbocking Annual Parish Meeting at SWT HQ, 7.30pm Wednesday, April 26: Witnesham Village Hall AGM, 7.30pm FUTURE DATES Saturday, June 3 (note change of date): Messy Church, afternoon Saturday, June 24: St Mary’s Fete, Witnesham
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OUT & ABOUT EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION
GARDEN AT BERGHERSH PLACE OPEN TO RAISE MONEY FOR CHARITY
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 IP5 1JF at 7.15pm.
Sunday, June 25, 2-5.30pm
Our next meeting is on Tuesday, April 25 when Horry Parsons will be talking about the construction of the Millennium Tower at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, featuring the installation of the vaulted ceiling. Horry has appeared on national television as a building techniques expert and, as many will remember, is a very entertaining speaker. This promises to be an interesting talk. On Tuesday, May 16 Anthony Cobbold will talk about one of Suffolk’s best known families, the Cobbolds, and their contribution to Suffolk life. Anthony founded the Cobbold Family Trust and will be delving into the family history which, as we will see, consists of more than beer and football. 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: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
The garden of Berghersh Place in Witnesham will be open on June 25 for the National Gardens Scheme which raises money in aid of the following charities: Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, Carer’s Trust (support for carers throughout the UK), Perennial (charity for horticulturalists in need), Parkinson’s UK, Horatio’s Garden (NHS gardens for spinal injuries) and the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Berghersh Place is an extended Regency farmhouse (house not open) with historical links to Witnesham Hall. Its peaceful walled and hedged gardens are set among grass fields above Witnesham village with views over the Fynn Valley. Starting from the farm buildings there is a circular walk with lawns, ponds, a mound and bog area, orchard paddock and a large informal family garden with shrub roses underplanted with perennials. The garden has been created over the last 20 years by the current owners. Directions: Drive slowly north of Witnesham village to the farm entry on concrete track from the B1077 after Berghersh House, turning in before North Lodge and before the sharp bend which leads to the Ashbocking crossroads. The house is accessible by footpath from Weyland Road and from Church Lane, Witnesham. There is no motor access or parking from the bridleway which starts from Berghersh Lane, Ashbocking Road, Henley. Entry for adults is £3.50 with children under 16 free. Tea and cakes available. All proceeds to named charities. Access for disabled visitors on grass into family garden. Dogs on leads welcome for circular farm walk.
WESTERFIELD CLUBS AND ORGANISATIONS Westerfield Bowls Club The club has more than 50 members who enjoy playing outdoors from April through to the end of September. Our teams compete in local leagues as well as playing friendly games against other clubs. For further information contact Tony Baker: 01473 411347 Village Coffee Mornings Coffee mornings are held in the village hall every Wednesday at 10am. Everyone is welcome. Westerfield & District Gardening Club The gardening club meets at Westerfield Village Hall on the first Wednesday of the month at 7.15pm. April 5: Unwins Seeds May 3: Weeding of the 5,000 with Two Hoes and Five Wishes Everyone is welcome. For further details contact: Barbara Bell (01473 231411) / Michele Doick (01473 252330) / 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
Boys and girls, 10½-14 years Scout Leader: Peter Runnacles 01473 785298 / peter@runnacles.plus.com If your child is interested in joining us please use the contact form on our website from where your enquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate leader: www.westerfieldscouts.org.uk Westerfield WI Lively meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the village hall with different speakers on a variety of topics. The membership is 42 at present. April 13: Pauline Moore on Sutton Hoo May 11: Birthday Party New members and visitors are always welcome. For further details please contact Janet Phillimore: 01473 415749 Pilates Classes are in the village hall on Mondays from 10.45-11.45am. Beginners welcome and equipment provided. £6.50 in advance/£8 drop-in. Contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com Chi Kung Exercise class at Westerfield Village Hall on Thursdays from 7.15-9pm. Classes are suitable for all ages, £12 per class. If you are interested please contact Sally Askew: 01394 384013 / sally_askew@hotmail.com
Cub Pack Tuesday, 6.45-8pm Boys and girls, 8-10½ years Cub Leader: Joan Gibson 01473 785510 / gibsonjoan785@gmail.com
Yoga In Westerfield Village Hall on Thursday mornings from 9.40-11am. Stretch, breathe and de-stress with 80 minutes of yoga stretches, breathing practices and relaxation. British Wheel of Yoga qualified teacher. £48 for a block of six, £9.50 drop-in. Contact Caroline Glason: caroline@still-yoga.co.uk / 01473 464204 / 07746 860380
Scout Troop Friday, 6.50-9pm
Please note that there is now an online calendar to check availability of the village hall. For more information visit: www.westerfield-village.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND AND WITNESHAM WI
GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB
Join us as a guest for our WI birthday party at Witnesham Village Hall at 6.30pm on Wednesday, April 12. For further details please contact: 01473 785413 We look forward to sharing the award winning stories of history’s amazing ladies with entertainer Rachel Duffield. There will be a buffet of finger food. Also see WITNESHAM AND SWILLAND LITTER PICK on page 3.
OTLEY & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Patron: Matthew Tanton-Brown We meet at 7.30pm on the first Monday of the month at Otley Village Hall, Chapel Road, Otley. Monday, April 3 (AGM): Growing from Seed and in Containers with Bob Booker
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 with its own parking area at the rear. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within. At our first meeting in March we were pleased to welcome Ruth Fox and Robert Shepherd from Bramford. We hope they will become members in due course. At this meeting we had a visit from Annette Ellis from Stowmarket Tourist Office to give us an insight into the varied work they do. She tested our local knowledge with a quiz about Suffolk. We had a social afternoon led by Brenda for our second meeting of the month
Monday, May 8: Planning and Growing Winter Veg with Pauline Harper
FUTURE DATES April 12: Social afternoon
Compare gardening notes over tea/coffee and biscuits. All welcome; join up or just come along. Admission including refreshments is £1.50 for members, £4 for non-members. Annual membership is £10.
May 10: Social afternoon
To find out more, contact Alan Trevelyan (01473 890563), Jenny Vince (01473 738244) or Isabel Lincoln (01473 890826).
Every night television brings the suffering of the Syrian people right into our homes. Like most others we are left feeling helpless. One small thing we thought we could do was to find out about the Syrians who have been taken in by Ipswich. Our March speaker, Abby Grace, is the co-ordinator of the local Syrian Vulnerable Person Resettlement Programme. Our government’s response to the refugee crisis was to agree to take in 20,000 Syrians over five years, selected from those living in camps in neighbouring countries, not those already on the road. There had to be one family member with a particular vulnerability. Ipswich has taken in 53 people in 11 families. All must spend several hours a week learning English. The children are soon chattering away. They are in local schools with special help provided by the programme. The adults are allowed to work from the start, unlike some other categories of refugees. A tailor and an interpreter already have jobs. A farmer is involved in the People’s Community Garden. Few women have worked outside the home, but some are discussing starting a business to do with food. Syrian food is, said Abby, deliciously irresistible. She knows from the group’s weekly lunch! Otherwise her team gives intensive support for three months, less for the rest of the year and then assumes that people can be independent. They are allowed to stay for five years, when it is hoped they can safely return home. This is obviously a well-funded scheme run by a committed team, hopefully with lifesaving outcomes for this group. But, against the background of the crisis we see daily, we still felt uneasy. There remain so many questions to answer. on
01473
May 24: Behind the Bathroom Door by Liza Jones, looking at the history of items such a the toothbrush, toilet paper and deodorants June 14: Social afternoon with Brenda June 28: A visit by Hannah Barton from the Citizens Advice Bureau explaining the work they do and the services they provide to the community
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB
Please call Jackie about Soroptimism.
April 26: A return visit from Peter Banham with more sayings and the history of their meaning
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July 12: Social afternoon with Sandra July 26: Summer tea party with entertainment by one of our members, Dot Chapman, on her accordion As you can see we have quite a varied programme. New members are always welcome, but if you would just like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you. Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690
IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY Our last meeting was a very informative evening when Norman Emeny displayed a very large collection depicting Astronomy and Archaeology. This varied from the people involved and the equipment used to the buildings that were built for the work. Norman presented material from many countries, covering Greek Gods to the most powerful telescope in the world today. On April 5 we will be holding our annual auction were we sell stamps and philatelic material. There will be approximately 500 lots to bid for. Viewing is on the evening from about 4pm, with the auction starting at 6.45pm sharp. Put the date in your diary if you would like to improve your collection or make a start in a new hobby. You don’t have to be a member to buy at the auction. On April 19 Andy Soutar will present a display and talk entitled German Inflation Following the Great War. This will be very interesting as the cost of postage did not stay the same for very long during this traumatic period, at times only staying the same for a few days. On May 3 Dane Garrod presents 10 Collections: 1 Collector. Meetings are held at Cedarwood Primary School, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave, 7 for 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. For further information contact Mike Smith: 01473 403904
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY
WITNESHAM AREA PRE-SCHOOL EASTER EGG HUNT Thursday, April 13, 10am-noon at Witnesham Area Pre-school
Wednesday, April 26, 7pm: The History & Success of Sanders Coaches, an illustrated talk by Charles Sanders
Tickets £4 per family to be booked in advance by calling: 01473 784934
We meet at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich. Entrance via the rear car park. Visitors welcome – £3.50 at door including refreshments.
Easter Egg Hunt, Raffle, Tea and Cake, Face Painting
Work as a team to find coloured eggs and exchange them for chocolate ones!
Details from: 01473 414746/422145 www.idhts.co.uk
THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE NURSERY, HELMINGHAM The children dressed up and celebrated World Book Day. The day started with the nursery opening for breakfast at 8.30am, offering an opportunity for families to come together and share a book over cereal, juice, toast and jam. All sorts of books were laid out in each room and it was great to see mums, dads and siblings joining us on this occasion. Registration was surreal as a Gruffalo, Postman Pat, Big Bad Mouse, Scratchy the Cat, Geoffrey the Dancing Giraffe and several princesses from Disney came through the door to enjoy the day. We started our day with the story of Owl Babies as we talked about our feelings and the excitement as the Mummy Owl came swooping through the trees back to Percy, Sarah and Bill. Children had the opportunity to pick stories to share with an adult both indoors and outdoors. Factual books are always popular as we have stories of Vicky Vet with our farm animals, Let’s Look at Dinosaurs with our builders tray turned into a dinosaur swamp for the day, gardening catalogues, Tool Station magazine with our builder’s tools – all used and encouraging interaction with the written word. The staff joined in the fun as a pirate, Sheriff Woody and a fairy. Lunchtime (it’s always a roast dinner on Thursdays) saw a strange group of characters and animals enjoying listening to a Charlie and Lola CD. Who doesn’t like peas? The day ended with a story chosen by one of the children, Harry and His Bucketful of Dinosaurs! Visit our website for details of forthcoming events and to download our newsletter, or ring us on 01473 890950 to book a visit. www.theoldschoolhousenursery.com
MINIBEAST DAY Sunday, April 30, 2-4pm at Witnesham Area Pre-school Free event – please let us know you’re coming by calling: 01473 784934 Hunt in the garden for minibeasts, make a bug hotel and plant flowers to attract butterflies and bees
OTLEY UNDER FIVES The start of 2017 has been full of activity at Otley Under Fives. We welcomed Jo, our new manager, who has already made a very positive impression on the children, particularly on Pancake Day where children were encouraged to experiment with their own pancake fillings. Needless to say, lots of scrummy pancakes were consumed – and banana and chocolate was the clear winner among our pre-schoolers. The before school club (8-9am) continues to grow in number as pupils from both the pre-school and Otley Primary School get to enjoy a healthy and nutritious breakfast together. The after-school club (3.15-6pm) has also seen a growth in numbers. Both clubs give parents the peace of mind that their children are being cared for in a safe and stimulating environment where there is never a shortage of things to do, from playing football in the outdoor area to reading a book in a quiet corner. With Easter on the horizon, the pre-school is preparing itself for plenty of themed activities involving bright bonnets and cute chicks. The grand finale, as always, will be the Easter Egg Hunt on Otley school playing field on Monday, April 17 at 10am. The event is guaranteed to be lots of fun, rain or shine. If you wish to grab your chocolate-loving small people and come and join us, tickets are already on sale in the pre-school and all monies raised will go to Otley Under Fives. We are a very small and extremely friendly pre-school in the grounds of Otley Primary School which is in easy reach of many of the neighbouring villages. Our before and after school club facilities mean that the preschool is ideal for working families and the site benefits from lots of outdoor activities including the ever-popular mud kitchen! We pride ourselves on knowing each of our children well so that all play and activities can be centred around them and their interests. The size of the pre-school means that we can take children out and about around the village, to the local park or the shop to post a letter. We currently have spaces available (including government funded ones). If you would like to come and see what we’re up to, please contact us: 07859 401121 / 07789 468853 / contact@otleyunderfives.co.uk / joregent@sky.com We really look forward to welcoming you and your little ones.
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CHURCH NEWS CHURCH NEWS FORM SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING Discovering the Big Picture When my kids were teenagers one of the most valuable things I ever bought was a video recorder. (You can probably see them in museums today!) This meant that whenever they couldn’t watch their favourite TV programmes (“Dad’s got another meeting in the vicarage!” – if you’ve ever seen the John Cleese business-training film, Meetings, Bloody Meetings! you’ll understand how they felt), we could video their programme. Magic! Well, it was, except when I was watching an exciting film I’d recorded for myself and halfway through the tape broke. I never found out what happened at the end. Christmas is a bit like that. Who would have made it up 2,000 years ago? Angels, shepherds, a star, mysterious visitors from the East – and an unmarried mother giving birth to the ‘Son of God’! And then what happened? The ending is far more exciting than the beginning, though it’s not as child-friendly (an 18 rather than a PG). It includes betrayal, desertion by friends, fickle crowds, an unholy alliance between political and religious leaders, torture and death. Sounds true to life? CS Lewis, the author of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (as well as lots of religious and academic books), was an agnostic as a young man, and like many who’d lived through the First World War, pretty dismissive of religion.
Clopton / Burgh Easter Celebration As part of the growing partnership between Clopton and Burgh, on Easter Day there will be a shared service with an Easter celebration at 8am in Clopton, followed by bacon butties, leading into Easter Communion at Burgh at 9.30am. WHAT’S ON ACROSS THE CARLFORD BENEFICE April 3 • PILGRIM at the home of Valerie MacCuish, 7pm • Otley and District Gardening Club AGM Growing from Seed and in Containers with Bob Booker, 7.30pm April 4 • Hobbies Group, Clopton, 10am-noon • Baby Café, Grundisburgh Parish Room, 9-10.30am • Craft and Coffee at Shrubbery Farm, Hasketon, 10am-noon April 5 • SWAPSHOP, Grundisburgh Parish Room, 10.15-11.30am • Going Deeper Homegroup, Manor Farm, The Green, Ashbocking, 10am April 7 • PILGRIM at the home of Beryl Hatelie, 10am • Wedding of Ewan Graham and Charlotte Gedny, Hasketon, 2pm
But one day, undramatically and calmly, he came to believe in God and made a decision to follow Jesus Christ for the rest of his life. He later said that what helped to convince him was discovering the ‘Big Picture’. By that he meant the whole Bible story, from beginning to end, from Creation in Genesis to the New creation hinted at in the New Testament. For Lewis the Bible’s ‘Big Picture’ was the backdrop which made the most sense of life. It wove together and made sense of his experiences – joy and pain, goodness and evil, his observations and reasoning, his longing for truth, beauty, and for the world – and himself – to be better than they were.
April 9 Grundisburgh Sunday Club in the Parish Rooms, 10.45am
Good Friday (why ‘Good’?) and Easter are not quite as hectic and commercialised as Christmas. Maybe we can find time to read the end of the Jesus story* that millions of people around the world are celebrating on April 16.
April 23 Grundisburgh Sunday Club in the Parish Rooms, 10.45am
Have a good Easter The Rev Fred Woods * There are four descriptions of Jesus’ death and resurrection in the Bible, in the last few chapters of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. SERVICES THROUGHOUT APRIL SUNDAY April 2: Holy Communion, Swilland, 9.30am April 16 – Easter Day: Family Communion, Swilland, 9.30am Holy Communion, Ashbocking, 11am HOLY WEEK Holy Communion There will be a Holy Communion in Grundisburgh at 9.30am on the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of Holy Week An Hour at the Cross Good Friday, April 14, at Grundisburgh from 2-3pm, with readings, hymns and meditations accompanied by music. Passover Supper Passover Supper and Shared Communion, 7pm at Otley Hall on Maundy Thursday, April 13, £7.50. Details from Jane Hall: 01473 785251
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April 10 • Knit and Stitch – Due to unforeseen circumstances this will be cancelled until further notice for all future dates • Grundisburgh Prayer Group in the Upper Room, 5pm April 14 • Messy Church, Otley Village Hall, 10-11.30am. All Welcome; £1 per family suggested donation. • Reader Support Group in the Upper Room, 9.30am
April 27 • Hasketon Community Lunch, 12.15pm • Tiddlywinks Group for Toddlers and Carers, Grundisburgh Church, 2.30pm April 29 Wedding of Vicky Hart and Oliver Foskett, Grundisburgh, 2.30pm April 30 Kagera Benefice Service at Burgh, 9.30am. We meet together to celebrate what has been achieved through taking part in the Kagera Challenge during Lent. Please bring your Kagera Challenge money with you. Beyond Alpha – Spring 2017 Grundisburgh Parish Rooms, 10.30am-noon on Mondays, May 8 and 22, June 5 and 19 and July 3 and 17. Meetings will be facilitated by The Rev Wendy Gourlay. Tea and coffee will be available and a warm welcome to those of faith, agnostic or atheist. A small charge of £1 per session covers costs. We will consider: May 8: Group discussion: Covenant May 22: A Brief History of Resurrection June 5: Group discussion: The Infancy Gospels June 19: Group discussion: Grace and Mercy July 3: Moses & Exodus July 17: Group discussion: Trinity
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CHURCH NEWS
Haven’t been along yet, why ever not? Join us this spring. Enquiries to Paul: 01473 738474 / paulwiffen222@btinternet.com An informal style of Christian Worship for all the family, adults and children, to participate together involving fun, singing, creative activities and sharing food. Join us at Otley Village Hall on Good Friday, April 14, 10-11.30am. All welcome, £1 per family suggested donation. If you’d like to come, please let us know names of adults and children so we can get the catering right and have fun together: mark@thecresswells.me.uk Easter Coffee Morning Saturday, April 8, 10.30am-noon at Burgh Schoolroom, Drabbs Lane IP13 6QA. Tea, coffee, cakes and a grand raffle in aid of Burgh Church Fabric Fund.
April 18 at 10.30am. We’ll be discussing Who Moved the Stone? by Frank Morison. Why not get a copy and start reading now? We would be very pleased to have you come along. Please let us know if you would like to join us: paulwiffen222@btinternet.com / 01473 738474 Knickers for the Vicar The response to the request to collect underwear for Christian refugees in Jordan has been fantastic. Thank you. My godmother writes: “A very big thank you. Your parishioners have been very, very generous; I know their contribution will greatly appreciated by the children.” In addition to underwear, donations of over £500 were made to buy medicines for children in the camps. FANCY A COFFEE? Burgh: Monday, April 10 at Burgh Schoolroom, Drabbs Lane, 10.30amnoon
Midsummer Music Saturday, July 1 at Grundisburgh House; if you would like to perform email: midsummermusic@easy.com
Clopton: Wednesday, April 19 at the village hall, 10am-noon
All styles of music welcome, whether you’ve performed at a previous Midsummer Music or not, we’d love to hear from you.
Otley: Thursday, April 13 at the home of Ruth Farnhill, 9 Spring Park, Otley, 10am
BBC: Bible Book Club A small group – those of faith, agnostics and atheists – interested in the historical context of Christian literature. We meet in Grundisburgh on the third Tuesday of just four months each year and our next meeting is on
Swilland: Saturday, April 1, hosted by Nikki Gavin at The Moon and Mushroom, Swilland from 10am
Grundisburgh: Saturday, April 1, 10.30am-11.45am, and then Wednesday, April 5, 10.15am-11.30am both at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms
Ashbocking: Friday, April 7 at the home of Steve and Sarah Wilson of Eastbrook House, The Green, Ashbocking, 10am-noon
WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor: Andrew Croft, 07851 060482 Secretary: Anne Camp, 3 Acre Close, Witnesham / 01473 785448 www.witneshambaptist.org.uk We welcome you to worship at 11am each Sunday. Sunday, April 2: Morning Service including Holy Communion – Pastor Andrew Sunday, April 9: Mrs Janice Davies Good Friday, April 14: Morning Service at 10.30am Easter Sunday, April 16: Family Time All Age Service Sunday, April 23: Morning Service – Pastor Andrew Sunday April 30: United Service at Westerfield We welcome all families to our new Family Time on Sundays at 9.30am. Please note it will be at 11am on Sunday, April 16. EVENTS Tuesdays Drop-in Café, 2-4pm. Everyone is welcome to call in for tea and friendship. Combine a visit to the post office with a cup of tea. Varied Church Open House, 7.30pm Fridays (not Good Friday, April 14): Babies and Toddlers Group, 9.1511.15am. Contact Jean: 01473 785478 Monday, April 3: The Munch Bunch Lunch Club, 12.30-2pm. Light lunch and good company. Contact Karen: 01473 251787 Wednesday, April 12: Prayer Fellowship, 2pm Wednesday, April 26: Bible Study, 2pm The church is open for prayer and listening every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9am-5pm; at other times please contact Pastor Andrew The post office is open on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings in the conservatory.
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JESUS IS ALIVE! I’m not referring to Jesus the footballer but to Jesus Christ, Son of God. Easter is the time of remembering and celebrating what Jesus (Christ) did for us all, whether we believe or not, as we are all God’s creation. We Christians acknowledge that Jesus gave up His life when He was crucified and took upon Himself the responsibility and blame for all the wrong we have done over the centuries and today. We believe that by Jesus taking the blame on our behalf we can be forgiven by God and come to enjoy a relationship with Him that we couldn’t before. Although Jesus was killed, we also believe that Jesus came back to life and that He remains alive today, albeit in heaven and by His Spirit in our lives. Having this belief and faith gives us purpose in life and a future beyond this earth bound life. I guess that we all need a purpose in life and that can be work or family orientated or an ambition to achieve. Caring for each other in family is good and in today’s society this needs to be encouraged. It is relationship with others that give us purpose. So for Christians it is our relationship with Jesus that gives us purpose. God is not a crutch as some would say but a real vibrant relationship that gives us reason to look to the future. It is sad when our human one to one relationships break down for whatever reason and the reality is that Christian relationships are not immune from breaking down. Love conquers all, it is said and in some respects that is correct. Certainly the love shown to us by God through Jesus is all conquering if we accept it and embrace it. Through Jesus’ death He expressed great love for us so that the way of life eternal is opened up for us. Many choose not to accept this, choose not to enter into a relationship with God and, I suggest, miss out on many aspects of real life here and now let alone in the future. So Easter (April 14-16) is the time to celebrate the opportunity of entering into a new life with Jesus for a relationship that will give purpose to your life and the real hope of life eternal. Join us for reflection and celebration on Good Friday or Easter Day. Easter Day at 11am is for all the family and will be interactive. Pastor Andrew
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The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham
which don’t happen in the hurly-burly of our modern world about the meaning of faith and spirituality, Christianity and the Bible.
On Ash Wednesday (1st March) Bishops Martin and Mike set off on a pilgrimage walking from Dunwich Beach to Bury St Edmunds. Along their way they stopped at schools, museums, farms, local businesses, community projects and churches. At various stages, they were joined by other pilgrims who walked and talked with them for a few miles. At the end of each day the bishops shared their experiences and reflections on the day in a video diary. They spoke of meeting with individuals who were making a significant difference to their local and church communities. They heard about the joys and challenges of rural life and rural church. Walking with someone gives the opportunity for deeper conversations
2nd April Fifth Sunday of Lent
9th April
On Easter Sunday we will be celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord. We will also be bring our ‘Kagera Lent Challenge’ jam jars to church to give thanks for the generosity of people responding to the generosity of God who gave us His only Son, Jesus Christ.
In one of their video diaries, Bishop Mike reflected on the gifts that enable churches and communities to work and asked, ‘What in the world is God up to and stirring in people’s hearts?’ Part of the answer to this question is how people respond to God’s generosity by being generous themselves.
As the Bishop of Kagera says, ‘God’s love is so great that it is beyond our imagination. It is only through this love that we may become the same before the Lord.’ Catherine Forsdike __________________________________
In our benefice we are encouraging people to be generous this Lent by participating in the Diocesan Kagera Appeal. Kagera is our link diocese in Tanzania. Life is particularly difficult this year as for the third year running lack of rain has led to crop yields and income.
Revd’s Alan and Catherine (and Tolly their dog) joined the pilgrimage walk between Framlingham and Early Soham. Here you see the pilgrims posing in Earl Soham church after Evensong that day.
Some 30 individuals and households from our churches have taken jam jars to fill as they participate in the ‘Kagera Lent Challenge’. Every day we are learning something about life in Kagera and contrast it with our own. For instance: Most people in Kagera grow their own food. If you didn't grow the vegetables you eat today, please give 20p. Small amounts they may be, but collectively these can make an enormous difference to people’s lives.
CHURCH SERVICES April– May Day / Date
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
10am All-Age Worship
11am Family Communion
9.30am Family Service
10am Family Communion
8am Holy Communion 11am Family Service
10am Family Communion
11am Family Communion
9.30am Family Communion 16th April (followed by Easter Egg Easter Day hunt for the young at heart)
23rd April
8am Holy Communion
Second Sunday of Easter
9.30am Morning Worship
30th April
Joint Benefice Service at Westerfield
7th May Fourth Sunday of Easter
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St Mary Magdalene Westerfield
9.30am Family Communion
Palm Sunday
Third Sunday of Easter
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9.30am Family Communion
(followed by Easter Egg hunt for the young at heart)
(followed by Easter Egg hunt for the young at heart)
10am Family Communion
11am Morning Worship
Joint Benefice Service at Westerfield
11am Joint Benefice Service (with Witnesham Baptist Church
10am All-Age Worship
11am Family Communion
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In Touch with WTW
The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham
Church Diary—April
Who’s Who:
Mothers’ Union—Thursday 6th April: Annual Lunch at Acer Cottage and “Bring & Buy”. (contact Ann Bennett 785685)
MINISTRY TEAM: PARISH PRIEST: REV’D ALAN FORSDIKE t: 01473 252904 e: Alan@wtandw.org.uk
Benefice Youth Group—meet on Wednesday 12th and 26th April, 6pm (contact Julia 785497)
ASSOCIATE PRIEST:
Village Voices—Rehearsals Thursdays 6th and 20th April, 7.30pm in the back room of Witnesham Baptist Church (contact Christine 785138) Kingdom Kids—meet Sunday 9th April in Witnesham Village Hall and then church (contact Gill Thorley 890821) Wednesdays—said Morning Prayer at Westerfield Church weekly at 9.30am (Holy Communion on the first week of the month)
The Big Reveal…
Each day at 6.30pm for about 40 minutes: Monday 10th April Witnesham Church Tuesday 11th April Westerfield Church Wednesday 12th April Tuddenham Church
Maundy Thursday 13th April Witnesham Church at 6.30pm (followed by Passover Meal book with Christine Laughlin)
Good Friday 14th April Westerfield Church 12noon-2pm Vigil and 2-3pm ‘The Last Hour’ www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield
After years of planning and months of work, the repairs, improvements and enhancements at St Mary’s Witnesham will soon be complete. The paths have been relaid and lighting installed outside to make it easier for everyone to access the building. Inside, it’s bright, light and warm. We now have a kitchen and a loo (so no more traipsing over to the village hall in the rain). The south aisle can be used separately and there is space to move around and socialise at the back. Stonemason Tom is pictured pointing up the new plinth to the font which has been lowered to improve access and safety
A bright, clean, warm and welcoming interior with improved sound too. The new kitchen and loo are at the back behind the doors under the west window.
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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 Julia Farmer
01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk
Beating the Bounds Come on a walk with us! Revs Alan and Catherine Forsdike are upholding the ancient tradition of Rogation on Tuesday 25th April which is known as Major Rogation Day. Rogation Days are when the fields are blessed and prayers said for the community.
Starting at 9am with Morning Prayer at Westerfield Church, they will walk across the fields to Witnesham Church arriving in time for Mid-Day Prayer at 12 noon. They’ll have a picnic lunch and leave Witnesham at 1.30pm aiming to arrive in Tuddenham for tea in The Old Stores at 3pm. Suitable fortified, they’ll ascend the hill for Evening Prayer at 4pm before setting off at 4.30pm on the final lap (1.25miles) back to Westerfield Church. In all, the walk is just over 8miles so some training is needed! If you’d like to join them along the way for company and conversation, just turn up at any of the locations. 19