In Touch
™© ™©
with Kesgrave & Rushmere
Volume 9 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2019
Looking Forward by Charmian Berry
Skiphire www.collins-skiphire.co.uk
For a fast, efficient & price friendly local service
01473 327596
orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk
● Stainfree & Wool Carpet ● Luxury vinyl tiles ● Vinyl ● Woven & Natural Flooring 01473 626 097 | info@debencarpetsandflooring.co.uk Unit N Bristol Court, Betts Avenue, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, IP5 3RY www.debencarpetsandflooring.co.uk @Debencarpets /DebenCarpetsAndFlooring
2
In Touch online:
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I often write about how fortunate we are to live in a part of the world where ‘community’ is valued and where there are endless opportunities to engage with those who share our little part of the planet. Finding that special place to lay your roots and raise your children, where you know you will be greeted with a smile when you pop into the local (shop or pub) and share your day-today existence with neighbours you can call on in an emergency is something to treasure. If you’re lucky you may even have family close by. A recent trip home to Ireland to celebrate my dad’s 80th birthday has reminded me how distant I have become from my extended family, inevitable when you move away. Events like weddings and significant birthdays have become treasured opportunities to catch-up, to meet new family members and to get to know others a little better. And so it was on this occasion. For possibly the first time ever, I had an opportunity to have a proper girly chat with my dad’s three sisters, a chat which started when they admired my dress. Well in no time at all they were telling me about the way they dressed going to dances and balls when they were young. They howled with laughter as they told me about cycling six miles to dances at the Emerald Ballroom and back home again at 1am. They talked about the music, the dancing (proper dancing!), the way all the men lined up on one side and the women on the other… and the dresses. They’d all learned to make their own dresses but occasionally paid a local dressmaker to create something for a special occasion. The planning and effort they put into these events was extraordinary. Everyone had to get their hair properly done and in those days hair-dos were an architectural phenomenon. Hair pieces are not a new invention! They laughed in horror when they remembered having to sleep on their faces because their hair had so much lacquer in it! I know it’s wasn’t all dressing up and dancing, but boy did they know how to party, and alcohol wasn’t mentioned once (which is probably why they remember every tiny detail). If you do have older family members in your life, or neighbours who would like nothing better than an opportunity to reminisce, don’t wait for an occasion. Put the kettle on and get to know someone a little bit better while you’re fortunate to have the opportunity.
Kesgrave InTouch with & Rushmere
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: kesgrave@intouchnews.co.uk
Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication.The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380
Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380
Printing Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk
01473 400379 Disclaimer:
The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Kesgrave & Rushmere is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
We also publish In Touch with... •B eyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge
NEWS LONDON TO BRIGHTON FOR GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND Two local women, Jacqueline Jones of Kesgrave and Christina Edwards of Ipswich, who met at a local zumba class have decided to challenge themselves by walking 63 miles from London to Brighton. The pair are taking on one of the action challenges arranged by the Ultra Challenge Team and are walking continually through the night from Richmond Park in London to Brighton Race Course during the Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May. They are raising money for Guide Dogs for the Blind, a cause very close to Christina’s heart as her mother and her friend Carolyn are both registered blind. Carolyn is currently on the waiting list for a new dog. She says stepping out with her old guide dog for the first time gave her the most liberating sense of freedom. Over the last five years she has regained a full and active life, a successful partnership really is life changing. Mobility for her at the moment is quite challenging as she awaits a new match, but she can’t wait to be in the community again with one of these amazing dogs by her side. Neither Jacqueline nor Christina are looking forward to walking over the South Downs during the night, but have support from Craig (Christina’s husband) who has promised to be their backup/support driver carrying any spare kit in his car. Christina also has an added fear of cows so they are hoping not to encounter too many on the route! Guide Dogs for the Blind rely on charity donations and both ladies have set up JustGiving pages where you can make a donation: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jackie-jones25 www.justgiving.com/fundraising/zumba-girls-walking
NEW CEMETERY IN KESGRAVE The new cemetery in Kesgrave has been open since 2013 and provides burial grounds restricted for residents from the parish of Kesgrave immediately prior to their death, or those from Kesgrave who have been living in residential care or a nursing home. The cemetery is owned and managed by a charitable trust, and is located in Doctor Watsons Lane IP5 1BL. The right of burial can be purchased in advance which will permit future use of a burial plot in the new cemetery, and can be advantageous if a move away from Kesgrave is a possibility. The new cemetery has a website from where the current rules and regulations can be downloaded, along with an application form for the advance purchase of the right of burial. The website address is www.askesgrave.org.uk/new-cemetery or just search for New Cemetery Kesgrave. The cemetery administrator can be contacted directly at: cemetery@askesgrave.org.uk
IPSWICH AND DISTRICT KIDNEY ASSOCIATION QUIZ Sunday, April 14, 7.30pm at Kesgrave Social Club on Edmonton Road, Maximum six per team, £2.50 each. Licenced bar, food available to purchase and pre-order for the interval. For further information contact Carol Negus: 07922 155181
BUS NOTES
In Touch with...
Our local 68 bus service seems to have escaped a round of bus cuts, so let’s make the best use of it. Remember it goes right into the hospital grounds for your appointments, or any daytime visits. And then it’s a fast run into Ipswich.
10 APRIL 2019
It is a little unfortunate that the times are rather close to those of the parallel 66, and I have noticed how many people choose to use the 66, which is often crowded, when there is room on the 68. I know the stops served in Kesgrave are different on the two routes, but it would spread the load along Woodbridge Road if some people opted to board our Kesgrave local 68.
MAY DEADLINE is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
Happy Wanderer
3
NEWS KESGRAVE TOWN COUNCIL
LENT CHALLENGE UPDATE
There’s a busy time ahead for Kesgrave with lots of local events happening!
Our ambitious Swap the Bike for a Hike Lent challenge is going well. People from Tuddenham, Westerfield, Witnesham, Kesgrave, Ipswich, and beyond are raising money for the Kagera clergy who have to walk up to five miles between their churches. But we need your help.
Kesgrave Saturday Market: April 20, 9am-12.30pm Saturday, April 20, noon-6pm: The 12th Annual St George’s Day Charity Bike Show and Meet Kindly hosted by The Bell Inn, Main Road, Kesgrave. Lots of show categories with trophies. Come along and support this very popular event with live music, real ale, The Moving Plaice Fish & Chips, a raffle, tea, coffee and cake. All show bikes to be registered by 1.30pm and must be road legal. This is a free entry event! All proceeds in aid of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Kesgrave Easter Egg Hunt: Sunday, April 21 from 9am on the bridleway at the bottom of Bell Lane. Eggs provided, just bring the kids and a basket! £2 entry with all proceeds to St Elizabeth Hospice. Kesgrave Community Litter Pick: Saturday, April 27 Contact the town council for further information. Kesgrave 5k Fun Run: Sunday, May 5, starting at 11am from The Bell Inn. For further information and registration forms visit: www.kesgrave5k.com KESGRAVE FUN DAY Kesgrave Fun Day 2019 is on Saturday, June 8 from 11am to 4pm with lots of free activities including the popular climbing wall, WI tea, coffee and cakes, Scouts BBQ and The Moving Plaice Fish & Chips. Come along for a great day out. If you are a local group and would like to showcase your skills or have a stall, please contact the town council office for further information. 01473 625179 / enquiry@kesgravetowncouncil.org.uk Office Opening Days and Hours Monday: 9am-1pm / Tuesday: 9am-1pm Wednesday: 9am-3pm Thursday: Not open / Friday: 9am-1pm
We’re trying to clock up 4,178 miles, the distance from Tuddenham to Kagera, Tanzania, during Lent (Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday). Can you do some of them and get sponsored or give a donation? It doesn’t matter how you do those miles; it can be on a cycle ride, an exercise bike, or even ditch the bike and go for a walk with friends, the dog, the pram, play golf – it all counts. Just tell us how far you’ve gone each week and we’ll add it to the total. Sponsorship and donation forms are available from Tuddenham Church or at: www.wtandw.org.uk And to give our total a boost we’re having a mega cycle session on Saturday, March 30 in Tuddenham Village Hall from 9.30am to noon. We’ve got exercise bikes you can hop on and show off your lovely Lycra (or your old jeans). And we’ll have the kettle on for a cup tea, coffee or squash afterwards, along with a biscuit or even a piece of cake. Send your weekly miles to sharon.may.evans@btinternet.com and check out our total at: www.wtandw.org.uk
Rushemere St Andrew Parish Council Gemma Read, our new PCSO who is funded by Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council and Kesgrave Town Council, has been busy in the parish. Following reports of unsociable behaviour, police patrolled Rushmere Heath and located an area used by people to gather. They found litter and assorted drug paraphernalia. Gemma and her colleague PCSO Charles Rogers acted to clear up the area safely and will be liaising with local agencies including Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council to keep the area clean. A meeting has already taken place between the parish council and Gemma to discuss possible actions. We will keep you informed of the outcome. Broke Hall School Tree Planting In order to provide a legacy for the Battle’s Over Beacon lighting event organised by Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council in November 2018 (part of the national celebrations to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War), 100 trees will be planted on the school field at Broke Hall School in March. As you will see from the photograph, the area has been prepared in order to allow the trees to establish and thrive for the pupils to enjoy. Year 5 pupils are planting the trees with the help of James Baker and volunteers from The Greenways Countryside Project. Everyone is very excited about burying a time capsule, prepared by the Year 5 pupils as part of their work on the local area, in front of the newly planted trees in May. There will then be a plaque dedicated as a permanent reminder of why the trees are there and, of course, to mark the location of the time capsule! Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council Newsletter We are still looking for a new name for the Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council newsletter so please get in touch if you have any thoughts. From 2019 the newsletter will be posted through your doors at the new regular times of the last weeks in June and November. Please email the assistant parish clerk with any ideas, articles and comments about what you would like to see in the parish newsletter: sarah.jenkins@rushmere-st-andrew.org.uk www.rushmerestandrew.onesuffolk.net
4
In Touch online:
advertorial
Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed
double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems. Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!! If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly
experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.
Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors. Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
5
NEWS / OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE SHORT MAT BOWLS
KESGRAVE CO-OP GUILD
On February 10 we had our annual charity tournament. Seventy people attended and I would like to thank everyone for coming and for giving so generously to the draw and for purchasing raffle tickets. Together we raised £500 for Ipswich Heart Centre. We hope to see you all again next year.
Our speaker on February 17 gave an interesting talk on the East of England Coop’s Sourced Locally initiative which started in 2007 following the discovery that South American asparagus was being sold in stores although there was fields full of the British crop nearby. Together with local farmers, they took action and sold 33,000 bundles in the first season. The Co-op really cares about its producers and treats them as equal partners to help ensure that their businesses have a sustainable future. Members were reminded that Sourced Locally Fortnight showcasing these producers will run in Co-op stores from June 2-15.
My sincere thanks, Ann Masters and all our members
VERDI’S REQUIEM AT SNAPE MALTINGS Gippeswyk Singers, Phoenix Singers and Beccles Choral Society are delighted to announce they will be joining forces to present Verdi’s Requiem on Saturday, May 11 at 7.30pm at Snape Maltings Concert Hall. Geoff Lavery brings his vast experience and formidable talent as a musical director and conductor to the production which features soloists Elin Pritchard (soprano), Kate Woolveridge (mezzo soprano), John Upperton (tenor) and Andrew Slater (bass baritone). This promises to be an exciting and memorable evening with tickets (£15£25) in high demand. The best seats go quickly so don’t delay in purchasing from choir members, Cheryl Coutts (cherylcoutts468@btinternet.com / 01502 714655) or Snape Maltings Box Office (01728 687110). www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk / www.beccleschoralsociety.co.uk www.phoenixsingers.co.uk
PORTAL WOODLANDS CONSERVATION GROUP Our AGM is on Monday, April 8 and all are welcome to come and see what we do, congratulate this year’s young winner of the Nature Explorers Award and enjoy a presentation about badgers. Additionally, please would any nominations to stand for our committee be submitted via the group’s email by April 4? DATES FOR THE DIARY Volunteer Work Morning (all ages): Sunday, April 28, 10am-noon Meet at the Education Area. Tools, training and light refreshments provided All ages welcome – no need to book Nature Explorers (ages 11-18): Saturday, May 18, 9-11am Please book a place via our email below New volunteers of all ages and abilities are always welcome. No experience needed. For further information, please contact us at 01473 612632 / pwcg.martlesham@gmail.com, visit our website or join our members’ Facebook group by messaging Duncan Sweeting. Nature Explorer and Young Volunteer Sam Cork www.pwcg.onesuffolk.net
INTERESTED IN FLOWER ARRANGING? Ipswich Flower Club would like to invite you to its meeting on April 8 when the demonstrator Vicki Hease will present Treasured Moments Part 1. The meeting starts at 2pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall on Bucklesham Road. The cost for visitors is £5 which includes tea and biscuits. You will be warmly welcomed if you just turn up, or for more information please contact Janet on 01473 415749. On May 13 Alan Smith will present a demonstration entitled Floral Magic. Ipswich Flower Club meets on the second Monday afternoon of the month. We also have six Friday afternoon workshops during the year which are suitable for all. The workshop on May 3 will be a modern contemporary arrangement and will be tutored by Janet Greengrass. If you are interested in the workshop, which will cost £5, please phone Stella for more details and to book a place: 01473 711946
On Tuesday, March 5 we had several gentlemen visitors arrive to hear our speaker. Unfortunately we had to politely point out that our constitution only allows ladies to attend our meetings. David Phelan gave a fascinating talk on Sutton Hoo and the Pretty family and we were encouraged to visit Sutton Hoo when it re-opens in late April. Tuesday, April 2: Ann Wilding will demonstrate the art of Iris folding which is done by arranging and layering strips of paper or fabric in a spiralled pattern that resembles the iris of a camera lens, which is how this craft got its name. This craft technique can be used to create cards and pictures. Tuesday, April 16: Barbara Faulkner will entertain us again with her love of hats. After her Ascot talk last year, we can look forward to a very amusing evening. Tuesday, April 30 : Paul from Hills Jewellers will be our speaker and is happy to value and advise on members’ jewellery. We welcome new members who can visit for two meetings before joining. The annual membership is £15 and we charge £2.50 per meeting to including refreshments and raffle tickets. Meetings start at 7.30pm in the community centre.For more information please contact Gloria Everett: 01473 61499. www.kesgravecoopwomensguild.onesuffolk.net
SUNDAY AFTERNOON CONCERTS The spring series of Sunday Afternoon Concerts at St Andrew’s Church, Rushmere St Andrew continues on March 31 with a mixture of traditional and contemporary music performed by the all-female folk trio Triangle. On April 7 wind ensemble Zephyr play works by Telemann, Albinoni and others and the series ends on April 14 with a piano recital by Daniel Law featuring Beethoven’s Les Adieux piano sonata alongside music by Brahms and Sibelius. Each concert starts at 3pm and is followed by delicious homemade refreshments. For the first time in several years, admission is free with a retiring collection in aid of the charity L’Arche Ipswich: community.larche.org.uk/Sites/ipswich www.rushmerestandrews.wordpress.com/concerts
ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY Our talks throughout the year cover a broad spectrum of art and are delivered within a relaxed and welcoming environment. On March 6 Chris Garibaldi’s talk on The Fine and Decorative Arts of Horse Racing opened our eyes to the history of art relating to the Sport of Kings and was entertaining from the start through to the finishing post. We next meet on Wednesday, April 3 when the guest speaker will be Simon Inglis. Simon is a writer and historian, a regular contributor to radio and television who specialises in the architecture and heritage of sport and recreation. His talk has the interesting title Beer and Skittles. We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing promptly at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
6
In Touch online:
WE SPECIALISE IN DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS, CALL FOR YOUR FREE CHECK UP
Mr Misty ‘The Window Doctor’ is a family run business that prides itself in exceptional customer care. W e p r o m i s e e a s y s e r v i c e f r o m s t a r t t o fi n i s h .
DOES YOUR DOUBLE GLAZING STEAM UP? WE REPLACE JUST THE GLASS AND NOT THE FRAMES AT A FRACTION OFTHE COST FOR NEW WINDOWS PROBLEMS WE SOLVE ELIMINATE WINDOW CONDENSATION
SECONDARY GLAZING TO BLOCK OUT NOISE
BROKEN WINDOW PARTS
DOOR AND WINDOW LOCKS
BROKEN GLASS
FAULTY HINGES
FREE PHONE : 0800
25 45 111 FOR YOUR FREE CHECKUP
WWW.MRMISTY.CO.UK
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
7
8
In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT
HOW LONG IS A PIECE OF STRING? When meeting new clients and taking on claims for personal injury, one of the first questions that we are often asked as personal injury practitioners is “how long will my case take to settle?” Unfortunately, this is a difficult question to answer. It tends to be case specific and is dependent upon a number of factors: • What further evidence is required before we can submit a claim for personal injury and loss on your behalf to the person who we deem to be at fault. • Whether responsibility for your accident or illness is accepted at an early stage by the person at fault or whether further evidence is required before a decision can be made as to whether the claim can be pursued. • What the extent of your injuries are. • Whether you require further treatment to assist in your recovery. If this is the case then it depends on when we are able to obtain a final medical report detailing the extent of your injuries and loss. • What further evidence we will then need to calculate the financial losses that flow from the injuries or illness that you have suffered, and when we can obtain the information required. Once the above information has been gathered, then your case can either proceed to a settlement, normally by way of negotiation with the person at fault (or more likely their insurer.) Or if fault has not been admitted and we are still of the view that the case should be brought against the person who we deem to be at fault, then at a court hearing. Fortunately, the vast majority of cases are settled without proceeding to court, but the process can take a matter of months or longer depending on the circumstances of the specific case. It is worth remembering that as personal injury practitioners, we are here to guide you through the personal injury claims process, and to assist you through to the conclusion of your claim as quickly as possible. This includes obtaining appropriate treatment for you where necessary to aid your recovery. If you would like any advice or assistance arising out of an accident or incident and would like to pursue a personal injury claim, please contact our Louise Plant: 01473 232121 / lplant@prettys.co.uk
KESGRAVE COMMUNITY & CONFERENCE CENTRE WE ARE RECRUITING KWMCC is looking for a new member of the team to work as a weekend caretaker for their busy sports facilities. The position is for approximately 1215 hours over the weekend. Applicants must be physically fit as some manual handling will be required. Previous customer service experience is preferable and a willingness to provide holiday and sickness cover in other areas of the facility at weekends and possibly during the week. For more information regarding this integral position please call Cheryl on 01473 612648 during office hours or call into the centre for a chat. Health & Fitness Join the fun with Active Adults on Mondays from 9-11am. These sessions are designed to improve health and well-being. £3 per session. Tai Chi with Marion Commencing on Friday, April 5, we are very pleased to introduce tai chi for arthritis, suitable for all abilities, especially beginners. These classes will take place in the bowls pavilion from 11.15am-12.15pm, £30 for a six session course. To book your place please email: fitforliving2007@aol.com Monthly Business Networking Sponsored by Bates Wells & Braithwaite Solicitors, these events take place in the conference centre on the second Tuesday of every month from 9.3011.30am. No membership fees; just turn up and pay £2 on the door (donated to St Elizabeth Hospice). Email: jo@kwmcc.co.uk Saturday, April 13: Black Sheep Party Nights Dancing doesn’t stop at 29! 80s & 90s night with Black Sheep Parties from 7.45pm-midnight (doors open at 7.30pm). Dressing up is optional but encouraged. Tickets are £10 (in advance) at: www.blacksheepparties.co.uk Saturday, April 27: Stamp Fair Ipswich Philatelic Society’s Annual Stamp Fair, 10am to 4pm For further information on KWMCC activities or events or to book a function room, please contact the centre on 01473 612648 or visit: www.kwmcc.co.uk
IPSWICH RSPB LOCAL GROUP Ipswich RSPB Local Group is now at the end of its programme of indoor meetings for the winter, with our last talk – The All Year Garden Birdwatch Survey and its Importance by BTO Garden Birdwatch Development Manager Claire Boothby – on April 11 following our AGM. We start again in September with Costa Rica Explored with RSPB Minsmere Visitor Experience Officer Ian Barthorpe, who will be well known to many. Indoor meetings take place on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in Rushmere St Andrews Church Hall, The Street, Rushmere IP5 1DH between September and April (inclusive). You don’t need to be a member of either the national organisation or the local group to attend. Charges, which include refreshments, are £5 for non-members and £2.50 and £2.30 (concessions) for members of the local group. Young people under 16 (who must be accompanied) are free.
You will receive professional dedicated support throughout every part of your claim to help you recover the damages that you deserve.
We have a full programme of walks over the spring and summer. These are free and include: Felixstowe Ferry and the River Deben, Kiln Meadow and Spring Wood, Wolves Wood, RSPB Headquarters at The Lodge, Sandy, Newbourne Springs, Upper Hollesley Common, Rushmere Common and Foxhall, Landguard Nature Reserve, The Grove, Felixstowe and Wrabness. Park walks include: Bridge Wood, Orwell Country Park, Pipers Vale and Christchurch Park.
Contact us
Further information for both indoor and outdoor meetings can be found at: www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ipswich
Our experienced personal injury lawyers handle accident claims arising out of incidents at work, home, on the roads, on holiday or in a public place in the UK or abroad.
www.prettys.co.uk
01473 232121 enquiry@prettys.co.uk
Twitter: @IpswichRSPB Facebook: RSPB Ipswich Local Group
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave PR534 Personal Injury Advert (InTouch) v3.indd 2
9 09/05/2018 16:33
OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE LIBRARY
MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB
Sunday Crafts (10am-noon) in April
The bring-and-buy sale held in February raised £57.40 for Suffolk Search and Rescue, the charity we are supporting this year.
•
Sunday 7: It’s spring. Pop along and make a daffodil Easter card to give to someone special.
•
Sunday 14: Next Sunday is Easter Day. Why not pop along and make a paper plate Easter Bunny and a paper cup Easter chick complete with a small Easter treat.
•
Sunday 21: CLOSED
•
Sunday 28: April 23 was St George’s Day – the patron saint of England. Design and decorate a dragon to celebrate.
Activities are free. Parents must stay with under eights. There’s no need to book – just turn up and have a go. Free BookStart Sessions every Thursday (9.45-10.15am & 10.30-11am) Free Story Time Sessions every Friday, 9.45-10.15am Lego Club: Every Tuesday afternoon in term time, 3.45-4.45pm Knit and Natter: Wednesdays 3 & 17 at 2.30pm Afternoon Book Group: Thursday, April 4 at 2.45pm Evening Book Group: Thursday, April 25 at 7pm NEW FOR APRIL Sofa Storytime: Monday, April 8, 10-11am IT Drop-In sessions: Monday, April 15, 9.30am-noon MacMillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning: Monday, April 29 from 10am Adult Colouring: Starting on Tuesday, April 2, 9am-noon
On April 11 we are holding an Easter Quiz Evening followed by a fish and chip supper, and on April 25 Graham Hart presents an illustrated talk entitled Walking the Cotswold Way. On Thursday, May 2 we have a coach trip to Marlow’s Garden Centre near Bury St Edmunds. The coach will leave from the community hall on Old Felixstowe Road. Looking further ahead, on May 9 Peter Carr will give a talk entitled From Sheep to Shawl. He will bring some fleeces and show us how raw wool is turned into a shawl. All ladies are most welcome to our meetings. There is sure to be something of interest to you on our varied programme. Meetings are held on alternate Thursday evenings at 7.15pm in the Richards Room. To find out more ring Doreen Boar: 01473 622768
MARTLESHAM BRASS This year’s spring concert is on Sunday, April 28 at 3pm in St Michael’s Church Centre when you can see all of our bands performing. Tickets are £4 (primary school children free) on the door or from: 07544 962205 / www.martleshambrass.co.uk Looking forwards into May, Tea & Tunes is on Saturday, May 18 10am to noon, also in St Michael’s Church Centre. The preliminary and beginners bands will be showcasing their talents. Admission is free.
Elmer the Elephant Afternoon: Tuesday, April 9, 2.30-4.30pm No need to book. Bring your favourite cuddly animal along to join in. Mid-Week Easter Holiday Craft Sessions During April, Suffolk Libraries are celebrating children’s literature. Why not pop along and take part in our free craft sessions, 2.30-4.30pm each day. Wednesday, April 10: Kipper by Mick Inkpen Thursday, April 11: The Tale of Mrs Tiggy-Winkle by Beatrix Potter Tuesday, April 16: Winnie the Pooh by A A Milne Tuesday, April 23: Window by Jeannie Baker EASTER OPENING TIMES Good Friday, April 19: Closed Easter Saturday, April 20: Open Easter Sunday, April 21: Closed Easter Monday, April 22: Closed Tuesday, April 23: Normal hours resume Maggie Lusher, Kesgrave Library Manager, Kinsey House, Kays Close, Kesgrave. 01473 626103 / www.suffolklibraries.co.uk NORMAL OPENING TIMES Monday: 9am-noon / Tuesday: 9am-noon & 2.30-5pm Wednesday: 2.30-6pm / Thursday: 2.30-8pm Friday: 9am-noon & 2.30-6pm / Saturday: 10am-5pm Sunday: 10am-3pm
SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, April 25, 7.15pm: What did your Grandfather do in the Great War? David Empson has a lifelong passion for all things military and has collected medals for 50 years. He will help you learn more about your Great War or Second World War ancestors. Bring along your medals, documents, details and artefacts. We meet at the Co-op Education Centre where the pedestrian entrance is at 11 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JW, and the car park entrance is in Waterworks Street IP4 1JG. Admission is £2 for society members and £2.50 for nonmembers. Tickets are not required, just turn up and pay on the door. For more information contact Howard: 01473 274300
A recent trip to my allotment (yep – first one this year!) enabled me to weed between my strawberry plants and dig up the remainder of my parsnips. Sadly something had eaten all the tops off them, leaving about half the root in the ground. But I still managed to make a batch of curried parsnip soup out of it all. I also weeded a couple of beds in readiness for planting which was easy as the ground was so soft (there has to be some advantage from all the rain!). So April is the time to plant, plant, plant! Get your seed potatoes planted by the end of the month and onion sets too. It’s also the time to get summer broad beans planted (my winter sown ones are looking rather good I have to say). Also continue with repeat sowings of parsnips, carrots, beetroot, raddish, lettuce, turnips, early peas and kohl rabi. Dwarf and French beans can also be planted. As can leeks and summer cabbages into a prepared bed. If you have a greenhouse you can now plant runner beans, courgettes, pumpkins, sweetcorn and cucumber. I don’t have a greenhouse, but I do have a conservatory which is excellent for germinating seeds though I do have to be careful that it doesn’t get too hot on really sunny days. If you planted early brussels sprouts then this is the time to thin them out and it’s also a good time to check for pests and diseases like aphids before they get a hold. Don’t forget that diluted washing-up liquid is really good for this and very cheap too. Good luck with all your planting. It’s a lovely time on the allotment and for vegetable gardening – full of promise and potential for the season ahead… and the weeds aren’t too much of an issue yet either!. Although we don’t have any vacant plots at the moment we are happy to keep names on a waiting list so do contact our membership secretary, Angela Brown: membership@kesgrave-allotments.org.uk / 01473 612283 Sally Peckham
www.suffolkfhs.org.uk
10
In Touch online:
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
11
Life | Land | Business
Whatever life brings we’re always here for you For your life, land and business, Barker Gotelee is here to help. Our friendly, local solicitors are on hand to advise you on a host of legal matters, including buying and selling property, family breakdown, making a will or developing your business. 41 Barrack Sq, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RF Free parking
Visit barkergotelee.co.uk or call 01473 611211
12
In Touch online:
OUT & ABOUT MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday, April 8: Sutton Hoo by Sally Sibley Sarah is a volunteer at Sutton Hoo. Using a combination of slides, commentary and replica objects she will cover information about the site, some of the more influential characters in its history, its links with neighbouring sites and the specifics of the excavations carried out during the 20th century, revealing previously unknown details about the Anglo-Saxon period. There will also be an opportunity to hear about the project to develop the site during the winter of 2018-19 to further visitors’ knowledge and understanding of this extraordinary necropolis. Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.
IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY We are holding a Stamp Fair on April 27 at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre. All are welcome. There will be dealers from across the region and the AEPS (Association of Essex Philatelic Societies) will be displaying and judging their spring competition entries. This does give you the opportunity to see what stamp collecting is all about and the many different ways that you can collect. The fair is open from 10am until 4pm. Entry is free and refreshments are available so come and have a look. For further information contact Mike Smith: 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com www.ipswichphilatelic.uk
YOUR LOCAL COUNTRY MARKET New ideas for your family meals! It never ceases to amaze me what our marketeers think of, so what’s our great new Idea? Our tasty ready-to-heat soups, main and sweet courses have always been popular in small helpings. What about feeding the family and bigger get-togethers? Instead of getting factory-made meals from the supermarket or paying for posh premium brands when you’re short of time, why not choose from our new family menu selection from just £2.80 per person for two courses, £4 for three? We offer starters, mains and desserts – you choose as much as you want, mix and match so everyone’s happy. We make it and you collect it from our market, ready to heat and eat. You only buy what you need, when you need it. You save time and money and know that your meal is freshly made to the high standards of our local artisan cooks. There’s still time to order meals for Easter weekend, plus extra cakes, biscuits, jams and savoury treats for indulgent tea-times. The family sized menu will be posted on our Facebook and Instagram pages or you can collect a printed copy from the market. We will begin taking orders from March 31. Another thing – buying from your co-operative Country Market means you’re helping the local economy to thrive. Money put into local pockets gets circulated into the neighbourhood’s businesses more quickly than when it goes to shareholders outside the area – or outside the country. When you buy our delicious food – or a hand-turned bowl, cards, jams, honey, preserves, bead jewellery, tote bags, a quilt for baby, hand-made jumpers, scarves, hats and gloves – you’re supporting your neighbours and building economic resilience in your street, in your parish, in your town. You make a difference. Our popular weekly Country Market is at Martlesham Heath Pavilion from 9-11.15am every Tuesday. Handmade, home-grown, artisan-baked… all locally produced, and now you can pay by card. It couldn’t be easier. Want to join us? We still need more cooks and craftspeople. Call in or phone Margaret Gayfer: 01473 623849
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
MARTLESHAM HEATH AVIATION SOCIETY Friday, April 5, 7.30-10pm: Grandma Flew Spitfires by David Horton During the Second World War the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) had 1,515 aircrew, including 167 women, who ferried every type of aircraft (from training aircraft to four engine Bombers) to RAF and Fleet Air Arm bases from factories and maintenance units. The aircraft were unarmed and they mostly flew them alone. We meet at Martlesham Heath Community Centre on Felixstowe Road. Admission on arrival is £3 for members and £4 for non-members. 01473 274300 / www.mhas.org.uk
IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB Join us on the last Wednesday every month (excluding July & August) for a three-course lunch followed by an interesting speaker and a prize raffle. On the second Wednesday we meet for coffee and a chat. In July and August, and at Christmas, our wives, partners and friends are invited to join us. They also accompany us to theatres, shows, musicals and trips to places of interest in East Anglia and beyond. Why not come and meet other gentlemen, all retired or semi-retired and from a wide range of careers, interests and backgrounds? Our objective is to provide fellowship for members and their families. Prospective new members are always welcome and there is no requirement to have belonged to any other organisation previously. If you wish to join us, as a guest initially, or require further details, please contact our secretary, Malcolm Kemp: 07711 689130 / secretary.ipswichprobus@gmail.com
ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCING Join us ar St John’s URC Hall, Cowper Street, Ipswich on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 8pm. For more information contact: Helen at howefamily96@yahoo.co.uk / 01473 717979 John at johnaadams1942@gmail.com / 01473 710406
KESGRAVE WI Our March meeting started with a cookery demonstration by two of our members who led us through making hot cross buns and then giving other ideas for using the same mixture to make Chelsea buns or a Swedish tea ring. All demonstrated items were eagerly sampled with the usual cup of coffee after the business section of the meeting. Suffolk East Federation of Women’s Institute celebrates its centenary in 2019. One of the many events being organised is a Windmill Trail. Each WI has been asked to erect a windmill in their locality, the idea being the members from other WIs will then travel around East Suffolk to see how many windmills they can visit. Kesgrave’s windmill is going to be on view at Kiln Farm Nursery, Main Road, Kesgrave giving members and their friends not only an opportunity to view the windmill but also to enjoy the plants on offer and possibly indulge in some light refreshment in the café. Many thanks to Kiln Farm for agreeing to display our windmill. Tuesday, March 5 saw around 1,000 WI members congregating at Trinity Park for our annual meeting where we listened to a variety of speakers, the main one being ‘Kevin from Grimsby’, star of Strictly Come Dancing. What a delight he was, entertaining us with details of his rise to fame and allowing endless ladies to be photographed with him! Our next meeting is at Kesgrave Community Centre at 7.15pm on Thursday, April 4 when our speaker will be Barbara McElroy talking about The Bevin Boys. Visitors are very welcome to join us. If you require any information please call the secretary, Di Chilver: 01473 611415.
13
SPORT KESGRAVE CRICKET CLUB
MARTLESHAM CARPET BOWLS
It’s hard to believe the sound of leather on willow will be ringing around Kesgrave again this month as we embark on our 26th season. Our groundsmen have been working hard to prepare the wickets in readiness for playing in Division 2 of the Two Counties League this year. Please come along and support us, tea and coffee is available and the bar will be open.
We are still second in our division, having beaten Bramford at home and losing to Burstall away. Bramford are still top but have now completed all of their matches. We still have four to play, and are only ten points behind, so we are still in a strong position. However, three teams are less than ten points behind us, so there is still plenty of work for us to do.
Senior net practice is now in full swing as we prepare for our first home match on Saturday, April 20. If you would like to join in, sessions are held in the gallery at Ipswich School from 10am-noon on Sunday mornings up to April 14. Contact club captain Mike Worne for further details: 07843 898999 Details of junior outdoor training for ages nine to 15 are now on the website where you can complete the online application form. You will also find details of the very popular All-Stars programme for ages five to eight. This is a perfect opportunity for boys and girls to get their first taste of cricket. Every child registered will receive a backpack full of goodies including a cricket bat, ball, activity book, personalised shirt and cap, all for £40. Training takes place on Sunday mornings at Kesgrave Community Centre with our qualified coaches and parents are most welcome to come along and enjoy a bacon roll and a hot drink. All age groups will also be participating in matches against other teams in Suffolk. With 2019 being a massive year for cricket with the World Cup and the Ashes taking place in England, we are expecting increased numbers so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Plans are progressing for a Ladies Softball Festival (with free Prosecco!). We will be contacting many of the girls and ladies teams and organisations in the area so please try to get a few friends to come along and have some fun. If we get enough interest, we may look into running more sessions, or even starting a girls/ladies team. Please visit our website for more information and follow us on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages for up to the minute updates. Dickie Bard www.kesgravecricketclub.org.uk
IPSWICH WANDERERS FC As I write, Wanderers have just enjoyed adding four points from two league games. A win at Haverhill Borough and a draw at home to in-form side March Town have given the team a boost ahead of a crucial month. The man-of-thematch at Haverhill was Danny ‘Percy’ Thrower with a hat-trick. Percy was not available at The Doucy when fifth placed March Town were the visitors but, having gone a goal down, our team battled back to a deserved point after Joe Berry hammered a free kick into the visitor’s net. Friday, April 5 is now the match to watch. The Suffolk Senior Cup Semi-Final will be played at Hadleigh United’s Millfield ground. Our opponents will be Cornard United. Interestingly, we beat them 6-0 at The Doucy in August and they beat us 4-0 at their ground in September. So it seems that an intriguing and close encounter beckons in early April. The prize is a final place at Portman Road in May. The other semi-final will be between Achilles and Henley, both of the Suffolk and Ipswich League. The semi-final is scheduled for Friday, April 5 with kick-off at 7.45pm. We urge all Wanderers supporters to come to Hadleigh to cheer on the boys in blue. Other Home Encounters in April Tuesday, April 9: v Haverhill Borough, League, KO 7.45pm Saturday, April 13: v Swaffham Town, League, KO 3pm
In the club singles competitions, Vic Harrup and Bob Wellington will meet in the men’s final. The remaining semi-finals are still to be played. The club triples competition was held on Sunday, February 17 with six teams entered. It was a very close run competition, but in the end the victors were Sharon Clarke, June Levett, and Judith Longman. Well done! You can keep up to date with the club diary and the latest competition results at: www.martleshamcbc.appspot.com We still have a few vacancies at the club and would welcome new members. We meet on Tuesday and Friday afternoons from 1.30-4.30pm, and Tuesday evening from 7.30-10pm at the community hall on Old Felixstowe Road, behind Tesco. Just turn up or you can ring our secretary, Ian Hunt, on 01473 611947, or email douglas.benger@btinternet.com, especially if you plan to come along on a Tuesday evening as there may be a league match. The club provides all of the necessary equipment. Why not give us a try? Doug Benger
NORTHGATE AND ASSOCIATED KARATE CLUB It’s all go at the karate club right now as the competition season is in full swing. The competition squad are producing some excellent results, showing us all that hard work and commitment to training really does pay off. On February 17 a team of seven competitors travelled to Dudley for the UK Open Karate Championships. Each team member medalled and won a total of nine medals for the club. A fantastic achievement, with congratulations going to Dylan Barnes, Lauren Berry, Chloe Campbell, Amelia Clow, Thomas Humphries, Ruby Hunt and Lilly Melton, not only for their outstanding performances but also for their positive attitude and incredible team spirit at a challenging competition. As we go to print, the squad are looking forward to and training hard for the Tczew Cup in Poland for the third consecutive year. They will be travelling in style with many thanks to one of our valued club sponsors C.J. Clow Motor Engineers, who very kindly provided the club with the competition suit carriers from our wish list. From 7pm on Friday, April 5 we are holding our Family Race Night at Kesgrave Social Club on Edmonton Road. The event is open to the public so do come along and join us for an entertaining evening and a chance to win some races and fantastic prizes. Tickets can be purchased on the door or in advance from the karate club. For further information please visit our Facebook page @northgatekarate or email sharonmbuckley@hotmail.com.
Under 18 Home Fixtures Monday, April 1: v Leiston, KO 7.45pm Thursday, April 11: v Walsham-le-Willows, KO 7.45pm Thursday, April 18: v Needham Market, KO 7.45pm
We are a family friendly karate club and welcome new members. Karate is a great way to make new friends and there are always rewarding opportunities available. Regular practice has continual benefits, both physical and mental. It increases fitness, stamina, strength, tone, flexibility, balance, self-confidence, self-control, mental awareness and co-ordination. We offer a free trial lesson, so why not come along and give karate a go?
New supporters are always welcome at The Doucy. 1st Team matches offer a bar and hot food, programmes and raffle and entry is £6/£4.
For details of the various classes we hold for both adults and children, please visit: www.northgate-karate.co.uk
14
In Touch online:
BuildMyGarden We are your one stop company for every single garden requirement, from small maintenance jobs to a stunning landscaped garden.
Fencing TurďŹ ng Patios
Please call now for a free no pressure quotation:
Mark McNeill-Parker M: 07833 567770 or 07486 947031 E: buildmygarden@yahoo.com W: buildmy.garden www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
Block paving Hedge cutting Maintenance Plus lots more... 15
Quick & Easy way to upgrade your kitchen...
30 d s r an ur e v s lo O le co y st r 90 e ov
simply cover the worktops replace the doors and drawer fronts for a whole new look!
Special Limited Offer Hurry - Don’t miss out
*£500 appliance contribution when purchasing worktops and door replacements. Not in conjunction with any other offer.
£500 EXCLUSIVE LIMITED OFFER VOUCHER
*
Before
After
Worktops
Don’t just take our word for it
In a matter of hours
The top that fits on top
Granite Transformations were brilliant from start to finish and such nice staff, nothing was too much trouble. So happy with our new worktops - thank you so much. Sue - Colchester
Transforming your old kitchen does not have to be stressful, as we have the products and expertise to modernise it within just a few hours, by replacing the door & worktops - no mess.
With over 1 Million installations globally, our worktops are the market leaders in terms of styles and durability. Plus all our worktops come with an industry leading 10 Year Guarantee.
“
”
Appliance Contribution Voucher Code: APPLIANCE£500 Ipswich Showroom
For more information or to arrange a FREE No-Obligation Home Visit
Unit 3 Alstons Court, Leslie Road, Ipswich IP3 9PL
or visit: www.gt-ipswich.co.uk or visit: www.gt-colchester.co.uk
Hatfields Home Furnishings, Peartree Road, Colchester C03 0LA
Call Ipswich: 01473 851 360 | Call Colchester: 01206 807 347 16
Colchester Showroom
In Touch online:
Schools hedgehog nursery at gorseland primary school The Hedgehogs have had a great time planting bulbs and seeing them bring colour to our garden; we also discovered how plants need water to grow. The story of Superworm captured our imagination during Children’s Book Week when we found worms in the soil, looked at wiggly lines and painted interesting pieces of art in response. We enjoyed celebrating World Book Day with our favourite books and dressed up as characters. Some of us went to the big school ‘Reading around the Campfire’ event where we had hot chocolate and found a place to get comfortable with our families to share stories. We even used torches to read in the dark! We warmly welcome families from our community to visit and we have added a further date to our open events in April: Tuesday, April 23: 1.30-2.30pm Thursday, April 25: 10-11am Tuesday, April 30: 1.30-2.30pm Please get in touch with the school office to arrange a visit: 01473 623790
THREE BEARS PLAYGROUP It has been great seeing the children working on physical skills; they have had fun showing us their bike and scooter talents, completing our fun run at the beginning of every session, taking part in the mini yoga sessions and playing together for ball skills time. We have also been visiting the zebra crossing to practice road safety during the term. Following on from World Book Day, the children brought in their favourite storybook along with their teddy bear or soft toy. It has been lovely reading the stories in the tents with all the teddies and soft toys. Our ‘WOW’ Workshop on Tuesday, April 2 from 2-3pm has a gardening theme and will take place in the garden (let’s hope for good weather). The Easter themed fundraising raffle will be drawn. Thank you for all your donations. If you are interested in a place for your child at a fantastic setting with amazing staff, it’s never too early to register with us. We are now accepting registrations for September 2019. Call in for a registration form, email us or visit our website. Three Bears Playgroup, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave IP5 2ES 01473 635255 / threebearsplaygroup@btconnect.com www.threebearsplaygroup.org.uk
Nursery Lead Teacher Mrs Haig www.gorseland.net
CEDARWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL During the recent Children’s Mental Health Week, Cedarwood Primary School joined with the Suffolk User Forum (SUF), a service user-led charity which supports people to improve their emotional well-being and mental health, to implement a range of activities to highlight the importance of good physical health on mental wellbeing. Alongside the daily mile challenge in school, additional mindfulness and meditation lessons took place in PE lessons and pupils reflected on the importance of active, outdoor activity to keep their minds and bodies fit. As a school we are committed to supporting pupil’s physical development and mental wellbeing so healthy living and mindfulness feature strongly in our curriculum. We have used this stimulus to initiate discussion and learning around the importance of a healthy body in ensuring a healthy mind. Staff and governors at Cedarwood are very aware of the pressure on young people caused by social media and the internet, therefore safer internet was also a focus of learning and teaching during the week. This extended into homework where pupils across the school recorded their favourite outdoor activity and were challenged to swap screen time for physical activity. The children have enjoyed engaging in these activities and have a really good understanding of the relationship between maintaining a healthy mind and body. The theme for this year’s Children’s Mental Health Week was Healthy Inside and Out, which encourages children and young people to look after their bodies and minds. Our bodies and minds are connected, so simple things we do to improve our physical wellbeing can improve our mental wellbeing also. Our children now have a good understanding of the connection between and healthy body and a healthy mind, which we hope will benefit them as they grow up. Headteacher Tina Shute
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
HEATH PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY Wow! What a busy month. The circus moved into the Nursery and we put on our very own Greatest Show on Earth. Clowns, jugglers, stilt walkers, ferocious lions and tigers, graceful acrobats and tightrope walkers all graced our big top role play. After practising some movement skills in PE, the children put on a show of their own, showing off all the circus skills they had learnt. The circus topic certainly got all of the children excited, and they worked very hard painting fantastic images of the performers they would see at the circus and writing in their big top flap book about their experiences in the big top. Following on from our circus topic, we moved on to celebrate Pancake Day by flipping pancakes and choosing wonderful toppings that we wanted to try for our cooking activity. We then welcomed prospective new families to our Nursery on our open day. It was lovely to see so many people attending and looking round with interest. We also warmly welcomed Mrs Harris from Tree Frog Yoga, who worked with the children with her greatest showman yoga session. Most recently, we held our Elmer Stay and Play Day for World Book Day, and the Nursery celebrated the work of David McKee and the much loved Elmer. Once again our parents attended with enthusiasm to work together with the children printing Elmer bags, forming clay Elmer tiles, decorating Elmer biscuits, creating Kandinsky Elmer elephant patterns and investigating Elmer’s colours with fizzy inks and safety goggles. Thank you very much to all those who attended and the hard working staff who helped to make the event a success once again. Now that the circus have packed up and departed for the neighbouring town, we are starting to think about springtime and begin our new theme of growing, hopefully encouraging some warmer weather too. NURSERY SPACES – SEPTEMBER 2019 Our school Nursery is full at the moment, but we are still accepting applications and allocating places for September 2019, although places are filling up fast. If you would like to find out more about our fantastic, teacher-led school Nursery and see us in action, call the school office on 01473 622806 and arrange an appointment for a guided tour at a time that is convenient to you. Nursery Teacher Helen Whatley
17
CHURCH NEWS RUSHMERE BAPTIST CHURCH
HOLY WEEK AT ALL SAINTS KESGRAVE
Tuesday, March 5 was celebrated as Pancake Day. Were you able to toss your pancake without it falling to the ground? Of course the next day, Ash Wednesday, marks the start of the six weeks of Lent. The last week of Lent is Holy Week starting with Palm Sunday. Following the New Testament story, Jesus’ crucifixion is commemorated on Good Friday, and at the beginning of the next week the joyful celebration of Easter Sunday recalls the accounts of the Resurrection of Christ.
Palm Sunday, April 14 So you enjoyed the Christmas Nativity? Well Jesus is all grown up so it’s time for the Eastivity! Angels, shepherds and wise men will need their costumes as there are angels, disciples and soldiers in this story.
Wishing you all a Happy Easter as you celebrate this event in our calendar. EASTER SERVICES Thursday, April 18, 7.30pm: Maundy Thursday Communion Service Friday, April 19, 10.45: United Worship for Good Friday at Rushmere Baptist Church. Followed by ramble and picnic at Playford Village Hall Sunday, April 21 8am: Early Morning Communion and Breakfast 10.45am: Morning Worship: An Easter Celebration OUR USUAL SERVICES Sunday: 10.45am and 6.30pm Monday 6.15-7.30pm: FFaF Children’s Club for School Years 2-6 7.15pm: Spring for Youth Wednesday 2.30pm: Friendship Hour on the second Wednesday of each month 2pm: Rag Tag Club on the first Wednesday of each month. To find out more please ring Myrna: 01473 728361 7pm: Art & Craft Group Thursday 12.30pm: Luncheon Club
9.15-10am: Breakfast in the hall 10.15am: Eastivity in the hall and churchyard Maundy Thursday, April 18 7.30pm: Film clips and discussion on the Passion with Robin followed by the stripping of the altar Good Friday, April 19: Family Day 12.15pm: Egg Decorating & Soup Lunch in the hall 1.15pm: Egg Rolling Competition 2pm: Traditional Service in the Church or FIG Family in the hall Easter Sunday, April 21 6am: Sunrise Service (meet in Car Park at 5.45am) 8.30am: Holy Communion 10am: Holy Communion Festival 10am: FIG Family in the hall followed by Easter Egg Hunt in the churchyard 4pm: Silver Café 5pm: Easter Praise Everyone is welcome to all events; it doesn’t matter if you don’t often attend church. Join in with as much as you feel able; learn more with new and familiar friendly faces. Please see the website or email Charlotte to receive our fortnightly notices: cha.markham@btinternet.com www.askegrave.org,uk
Friday 9.15am: Rushmere Ducklings for Babies & Tots Saturday 10.30am-noon: Meeting Point Coffee Morning (fourth Saturday) Minister: The Rev Heather Marsden / Secretary: Mrs Jean Cutting 01473 721455 / www.rushmerebaptist.org.uk
BIXLEY FARM CHURCH AT TOWER HALL At the time of writing the season of Lent had just started. By the time you read this it will be Easter. Lent marks the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness at the start of his ministry and Christians use that time to reflect on our own spiritual life and make an extra effort to draw near to God. If you can, come along a little earlier to our family event at Tower Hall on Easter Sunday, April 21 at 3.30pm We will have an egg hunt for the children, to be followed by our service with tea, cakes and hot cross buns. Everyone is welcome. As the seasons meld into each other and changes in life come thick and fast, we believe that God’s love never changes and our marking of Lent, Good Friday, Easter and Pentecost helps us to slow down and truly appreciate every stage of the life God has given each of us. We organise extra 45-minute prayer meetings at Tower Hall on the first Thursday of every month at 7pm and again at 8pm. Different people attend on each occasion to pray, listen or ask for prayer. The toddler group, Little Lambs, continues to run from 9.15-11am every Friday during term time at the Tower Hall. This allows children to play and explore in safety and mothers are able to meet, make new friendships and enjoy a cuppa. There are also two evening homegroups meeting locally on Tuesdays and alternate Wednesdays. If you would like find out more please contact us via the details below.
Joy in this month’s 30 Days of Prayer theme and for the whole of this month we will be looking at what joy really means through scripture. Joy is mentioned 174 times in the Old Testament, 57 in Psalms alone, so what is it? The dictionary tells us it is ‘a state of happiness, bliss, delight’ or ‘the prospect of possessing one’s desire, source or cause of delight’. It is something beyond happiness… The Greek word means ‘the natural product of living things.’ Joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22 & 23). When you first become a Christian you may wonder why these attributes don’t automatically come to you. The truth is we still bring a lot of our old nature with us and this fruit must be worked into our lives. Becoming a Christian doesn’t mean you are suddenly made perfect, but that God has a willing person to work with. As Kathy Howard puts it: “…like physical fruit needs time to grow, the fruit of the Spirit (in this case, Joy) will not ripen in our lives overnight. Like a successful gardener must battle against weeds to enjoy the sweet fruit they desire, we must constantly work to rid our lives of the ‘weeds’ of our old sin natures that want to choke out the work of the Spirit.” Nehemiah 8:10 says ‘the joy of the Lord is my strength’. Can you have joy in the chaos? Or does your moodiness hover over everyone like a cloud? Not that anyone should be joyful about the hard times, but rather your joy comes from God being with you through it and God using every trial to help you become stronger in the faith. Intrigued? Then maybe we’ll see you Sunday…
As always, everyone is welcome to join us on Sundays for our 4-5pm service at Tower Hall. There are opportunities to speak to clergy or other members of the church, with time for personal prayer at the end.
Join us on Sunday mornings at 11.30am (Adult Sunday School and Children’s Church at 10.30am) at The Ark Church, The Drift, Nacton Road, Ipswich IP3 9QR.
For further information contact us at office@mie.org.uk / 01473 270978 or visit: www.mie.org/bixley
You can contact via arkipswichuk@gmail.com, find us on Facebook and Twitter @arkipswich or online at: www.arkipswich.co.uk
18
In Touch online:
Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning
Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation
call John Burch: 07870 347486
Tel: 01449 721441
To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380
www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave
19