In Touch News with Kesgrave April 2020

In Touch

™© ™©

with Kesgrave & Rushmere

Volume 10 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2020

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR My parents came to stay recently and as the weather wasn’t great we spent a lot of time at the kitchen table with cups of tea and my mum’s scones.

It was fascinating to talk again about their early lives and the various trials and tribulations they have faced over the years.

My dad was only 11 when he ‘unofficially’ took over the family farm. That was the end of school for him but he is one of the most astute men I know.

Mum stayed at school until she was 14 when she was taken to work at a country shop and pub about 20 miles from home. She had to live in, only making it home once a week by bicycle. Even now she struggles to talk about this time in her life. It must have been incredibly lonely for a little girl who had never been away from home, living with strangers and expected to work ridiculously long hours. She really wanted to stay at school and her aptitude for numbers still puts the rest of us to shame.

Mum left her job when she married and together she and dad have run the farm for more than 50 years. Life was tough at times and money was often tight. Dad contracted TB soon after they married and while he recovered mum took the reins. Those were the make and do days, the days when all our clothes were home-made and almost everything we ate came from the farm or was home-baked. We even made our own butter.

It was interesting too to talk about the changes they have experienced, such as ‘new’ money (twice), increasing bureaucracy and paperwork, internet banking, mobile phones and, most recently, the climate emergency. Just as they accepted change in many other aspects of life over the years, they are now doing what they can to save the planet, even using a shampoo bar instead of buying plastic bottles.

My parents are living proof that we can overcome difficulties and unexpected challenges (I haven’t even mentioned the shooting accident!) and somehow find the strength to carry on. Those of us who are fortunate to have family and friends to support us are the lucky ones and we must look out for those who are alone, particularly now.

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@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.

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In Touch Titles • Stowmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Needham Market & The Creetings •S hotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone • Martlesham • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead •W esterfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe

Tuesday 7 April

is the advertising and editorial deadline for the May edition

www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

NEWS SPARK AGM Now in its 21st year, SPARK will be holding its annual general meeting on Monday 20 April in the board room at Kesgrave Community Centre at 7.30pm.

If you are a resident of Kesgrave you are most welcome to attend.

Have you ever considered becoming a SPARK trustee? If you have please contact the SPARK secretary at: secretary@kesgrave-spark.org.uk As many of you are aware, profits from the 2nd Stop Charity Shop are made over to SPARK. These in turn can only be distributed to a Kesgrave based organisation or club against a completed grant application form available from the SPARK secretary. All such applications are regularly reviewed by the trustees and an appropriate response confirmed.

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC Over the past year, the organ at St Mary’s Church, Martlesham has been undergoing restoration at a cost of £31,000 and we are very grateful to all those who contributed towards the cost. To celebrate its completion, we are holding an organ recital and flower festival on the weekend of May 2 and 3.

The organ recital is by the renowned organist Kate Macpherson and her husband Richard Brain, a baritone singer. The recital will be at 3pm on Saturday 2 May, followed by a celebration tea. There is no charge for the recital but there will be a retiring collection.

Throughout the rest of the weekend we will be holding a flower festival with the theme of Thank you for the Music. During this time our resident organists will take the opportunity to play the organ so that you can hear the sound it makes.

The church will be open from 10am to 3pm on the Saturday, followed by the organ recital at 3pm. On Sunday the church will be open from 10am to 4pm, with a Songs of Praise service at 4pm at which The Venerable Jeanette Gosney, the new Archdeacon of Suffolk, will preach.

If you have never visited St Mary’s before you will find it at the end of Church Lane, Martlesham IP12 4PQ.

FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE Come along to Kesgrave Forget-Me-Not Cafe (formally known as Kesgrave Dementia Cafe) which is held on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 9.30am until 12.30pm.

We meet at Kesgrave Bowls Pavilion next to Kesgrave Community Centre.

You will be made most welcome but you must be accompanied by a carer.

We offer a range of activities, a variety of craft making, cards, games and a sing-a-long to your old favourite songs. A team of volunteers will be delighted to help you.

COFFEE MORNINGS AT KESGRAVE HELP CENTRE Our Thursday coffee mornings are still going well despite our awful weather.

Our Valentine’s Tea in February proved to be a great success and was enjoyed by all. In April we shall be making a return trip to Perrywood and we intend to visit The Hut in May. If you would like to come along to our friendly coffee mornings you will be most welcome. They are held every Thursday morning between 10am and 11.30am in Kesgrave Community Centre. There’s no membership fee; just call in and have a chat with a few local people.

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NEWS KESGRAVE TOWN COUNCIL Annual Litter Pick The town’s annual litter pick and small shrub cutback will take place on Saturday 25 April from 10am until noon. Just turn up at the town council office on Ferguson Way IP5 2FZ. Pickers and bags will be provided.

New Picnic Benches Installed Courtesy of funding from District Councillor Mark Newton from his Enabling Local Communities Budget, a wheelchair accessible picnic bench has been installed at Broke Hall Playing Field and at Chestnut Pond.

Kesgrave Fun Day 2020 This year’s Kesgrave Fun Day is on Saturday 27 June, 11am-4pm at the Millennium Field. If your group would like to attend, put on a performance, have a stall or promote your charity, please contact Jennie Catling-Green, Events and Estate Manager at Kesgrave Town Council.

Cardiac Response Seminar Forty of us joined to together on Saturday 29 February for a cardiac response seminar delivered by Community Heartbeat Trust. Everyone agreed that it was very worthwhile, providing the confidence to know what to do should you need to use a defibrillator and or give CPR. This was a very successful joint venture between Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council and Rushmere Baptist Church. Our thanks to Rev Heather Marsden and the church secretary, Jean Cutting, for helping to make this event so successful.

Kesgrave Market This month’s market is on Saturday 18 April from 9am-12.30pm at the Scout Hall, Rupert Fison Square.

There will be a defibrillator installed at Rushmere Village Hall soon in addition to the ones already at Tower Hall, Rushmere Baptist Church and Penshurst Road.

EVENTS COMING UP IN KESGRAVE

Allotment Plots available at The Street If you are interested in taking up an allotment and want to know more please contact the parish office for further information and to arrange a visit to the allotment to chat with the allotment manager, Mr John Westrup.

Annual Parish Meeting Tuesday 26 May at Rushmere Village Hall, Humber Doucy Lane, Rushmere IP4 3PD. Your chance to have your say about local parish matters.

Neighbourhood Plan Update In the previous edition we reported that we are looking at the creation of a neighbourhood plan and asked for volunteers to join the working group.

We had a very good response. The parish council has agreed to commence with a neighbourhood plan for the parish and East Suffolk Council has recently approved the designation of the whole of the parish as a neighbourhood plan area. This means we will be progressing and engaging residents and the general public on the plan soon. We have limited spaces left on the working group and if you are interested in joining it please contact the parish clerk.

Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council Office, Tower Hall, 5 Broadlands Way IP4 5SU / 01473 711509

Kesgrave Town Council Meetings Monday 20 April: Planning & Development at 6.15pm Community & Recreation at 7.15pm

Annual Easter Egg Hunt Sunday 12 April 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 Bike Show Saturday 25 April from noon to 6pm. Hosted at the Bell Inn in Kesgrave by Royal British Legion Riders Branch. Free entry, ales, food, tea, cakes and live music by Under Cover. Come along and support this popular event. Sponsored

by Tru7 Group and SPARK (Sport and Recreation Kesgrave).

Kesgrave 5k Fun Run Sunday 3 May. Starts at 11am from the Bell Inn. For further information and registration forms visit: www.kesgrave5k.com Kesgrave Town Council 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

Parish Clerk: sylvia.stannard@rushmere-st-andrew.org.uk Assistant Clerk: sarah.jenkins@rushmere-st-andrew.org.uk

MARTLESHAM SURGERY PPG I’m sure readers are well aware of the measures being taken to deal with the Coronavirus. There is a notice on the surgery website at www.mhdoctors.co.uk and links to further information. If you don’t have access to the internet, the key message is not to turn up at the surgery, pharmacy or hospital if you have symptoms or have been in contact with someone who has symptoms. Stay at home, avoid close contact with other people and call 111 if you need to speak to someone.

We were very sorry to say farewell to Lynne Marsh (practice manager) at the end of February. She has supported our PPG since its inception in 2011.

The surgery now has a new practice operations manager, Rachel Wilson, who is joining the surgery team on April 1. She will be assisted by a deputy operations manager, Julie Cracknell, who started in March. We look forward to working with both of them.

If you like singing, dancing and acting you need to come to Whikidz!, a musical drama group for KS2 children.

We are a free club running after school on Mondays until 4.30pm at The Ascension Church, Larchcroft Road, Ipswich IP1 6AN. To find out more contact Becky 07956 788069 / whikidz1@gmail.com

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OUT & ABOUT AN EVENING OF EASTERN STEAM NOSTALGIA Presented by Amanda Huntley, archivist of the Huntley Film Archives Ipswich and District Historical Transport Society invites you to join them at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich IP4 4PH on Wednesday 22 April at 7.30pm Entrance is £5. Tickets are available at IDHTS meetings (see page 17) or from Pat Caddick: pandj83@gmail.com / 01473 402152

IPSWICH COUNTRY MARKET Each week we have a tempting selection of sweet and savoury bakes, pickles, preserves and marmalades and local honey. There really is nothing like the taste of homemade produce.

We also sell seasonal plants and garden produce, freshly picked.

You will find craft items on offer too, all locally made with many tempting gifts ideas that you won’t find on the high street. We have babies to ladies accessories and practical gifts, knitwear, sewing and cards with designs unique to our producers.

Our logo says COOK, CRAFT, GROW; if you like to do any of those and would like to be part of a local cooperative, please come along and see what we are about. You can be a social member too and help set up or serve our homemade refreshments. We really do welcome all.

You can find more about the market on our Facebook page – Ipswich Country Market – or at: www.ipswichcountrymarket.co.uk We are open at Rushmere Village Hall (Humber Doucy Lane IP4 3PB) on Thursday mornings from 10.15-11.30am. There is plenty of free parking and we offer a free tea or coffee on your first visit. Come and see what we’re up to and give us your feedback.

THE ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND For sale at the Richards Room, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham IP12 4PB on Saturday 16 May from 2-4pm: • • • •

Pictures and cards by local artist Sonya E Burrows Mighty Morty’s handmade jewellery by Laura Morton Photos and limited edition prints by Helen Ellison Plants

All welcome, entrance free, light refreshments available. The venue is fully accessible with plenty of free parking.

For further details of the Roger David Burrows Music Fund: 01473 625196 / www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk

FORTHCOMING EVENTS Curry & Quiz Night: Friday 1 May Curry and interactive quiz night with Icons entertainment, £14 per person.

Questions will be fun, varied and suitable for a range of age groups. Arrival 7pm for 7.30pm start, teams of four to six, prizes, charity raffle and bar. To book go to: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/curry-and-quiz-night-tickets-96064687065 Mustard Theatre Company perform Wait Until Dark: Sunday 3 May For tickets visit: www.mustardtheatrecompany.org.uk/buy-tickets.html Jess Fest: Saturday 3 October A fantastic day of live music in memory of Jess and to raise vital funds for Jess Grant Celebration, set up to improve the well-being of children suffering from medical conditions by supporting the provision of music therapy. Early bird tickets (£10) for the evening show are on sale now at: www.tickettailor.com/ events/jessgrantcelebration/337394# Kesgrave Catwalk: Friday 16 October Join us for this year’s evening of fashion and style with catwalk host Pam Davis. All details to be confirmed. To register your interest in tickets or to be a part of the shopping experience as an exhibitor please email: jo@kwmcc.co.uk Christmas Shopping Evening: Friday 20 November This festive event just gets better and better every year so once again we will fill the centre with lovely festive stands and treats to get you in the mood for Christmas, along with some great live music to keep you entertained.

To register your interest in tickets or to be stand holder please email: fiona.k.farrell@btinternet.com Christmas Party Nights: December 11, 12, 18 & 19 Following the success of last year’s Christmas party nights, we have decided to do it all over again this year. We would love you to join us for our Winter Wonderland party nights. Book now to get your early bird offer from just £25.

Email: jo@kwmcc.co.uk Check bookings and availability for the sports hall and outdoor sports via the new online calendar: www.kwmcc.co.uk/sports-centre If you would like 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

MARTLESHAM BRASS Making music fun in East Anglia

MARTLESHAM HEATH CONTROL TOWER MUSEUM Opens for the 2020 season on the afternoon of Sunday 5 April and open from 2-5pm every Sunday until October 25.

Learn the story of this fascinating airfield from 1917 to 1963.

The museum is located at the rear of Parkers Place, off Eagle Way, Martlesham Heath IP5 3UZ. Easy, free parking, free entry; donations appreciated.

Special openings for school and clubs, groups are available by prior arrangement.

For more information contact Ian: 07707 711104 / mhasmuseum@mhas.org.uk

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We are taking part in the St George’s Day Parade on Felixstowe Promenade on Sunday 26 April, starting at 2.30pm.

This year’s spring concert is on Saturday 16 May at 7pm in St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3SL. Further details will be published next month.

Our aim is to encourage anyone who would like to play in a brass band to have a go. If you would like to join us, please email join@martleshambrass.co.uk or use the contact details below. Instruments are provided as part of your membership subscription (currently £1.40 per week).

Publicity Officer Liz Howard e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617 www.martleshambrass.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT

KESGRAVE LIBRARY Sunday Crafts (10am-noon): The following activities will take place during April.

• Sunday 5: To celebrate children’s month and Easter, we are holding an Easter Fayre and Gruffalo morning. Pop along and create a Gruffalo crown.

Holiday Craft Sessions, 2.30-4pm: Celebrating Easter and Children’s Books • Tuesday 7: Pop along and make an Easter Bunny. Includes a small Easter treat for each child.

• Sunday 12: Closed

• Wednesday 8: Mr Large in Charge by Jill Murphy. Create an elephant to take home.

• Sunday 19: Aliens Love Underpants – create a new pair for them during today’s session.

• Thursday 9: Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith. Will your donkey be able to stand up?

• Sunday 26: Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar is still as popular as ever. Make your own hungry caterpillar to take home.

• Tuesday 14: The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips by Michael Morpurgo. Did you know a cat is supposed to have nine lives?

Activities are free. Parents must stay with under eights. There’s no need to book – just turn up and have a go.

• Wednesday 15: The Bad-Tempered Ladybird by Eric Carle. How many spots will you draw on your ladybird’s back?

Free Wordplay Sessions – every Thursday Tot Rock 9.45-10.15am / BabyBounce 10.30-11am

Easter Treasure Hunt: 50p a go from 2 April. Find the hidden letters and work out the Easter word. Prize every time.

Free Story Time Sessions: every Friday 9.45-10.15am This session combines stories and rhymes. All welcome. Why not pop along?

Children’s Favourite Book Display: Have you read a fantastic children’s book recently? Please let us know so we can add it to our display for others to borrow. You can even give it a star rating.

Lego Club: Every Tuesday afternoon in term time from 3.45-4.45pm.

Parents must stay with under 8s. The themes this month are Animals, Your Dream Bedroom, Free Play and Easter. Just pop along; this is a free activity.

Drawing Competition: Kesgrave Library is running a drawing competition with two age groups. Pop along and collect a sheet, then draw your favourite book cover to enter. The winners will be announced at the end of children’s month.

Knit and Natter: Wednesday 1, 15 & 29 April, 2.30pm. Just £1 with tea/ coffee provided. New members welcome.

Easter Opening Friday 10 April, Good Friday: Closed / Saturday 11 April: Open as usual Sunday 12 April: Closed / Monday 13 April: Closed

Afternoon Book Group: Thursday 2 April, 2.45pm. Currently reading Exposure by Helen Dunmore.

Maggie Lusher, Kesgrave Library Manager, Kinsey House, Kays Close, Kesgrave / 01473 626103

Evening Book Group: Thursday 23 April, 7pm. Currently reading Rebecca

by Daphne Du Maurier.

www.suffolklibraries.co.uk

If you are interested in joining any of the groups, please ring or speak to a member of staff.

Sunday 5 April, 10am-noon: Easter Fayre & Gruffalo Morning With a visit from the Gruffalo himself. Includes a free Gruffalo craft, find the word, tombola, tabletop games, a raffle and refreshments.

SPEAK EASY AT MARTLESHAM A member’s thoughts…

Imagine that you have to present a speech, be it for work, to demonstrate a skill, to give a best man speech or for a myriad of other reasons. You quake in your boots, bite your nails, shiver with fear and consider how you can you escape from it.

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

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

Embrace your fear and come to Speak Easy at Martlesham. Its raisond’être is to boost your confidence to speak in public. The club is affiliated to Toastmasters International and works to a proven formula. We learn from each other – and it works.

We are a friendly group of differing ages and lifestyles. I liken the club to having a corporate friend, always there to support you. Come along to a meeting. You will be assured of a warm welcome, and likely a cup of tea and a cake.

Speak Easy meetings are held on alternate Thursdays (2, 16 & 30 April, 14 & 28 May) from 7.15-9.30pm at The Richards Room, Martlesham Community Hall, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham, IP12 4PB (behind Tesco) If you would like any further information please contact Margaret Stanway: 07979 373934 / president@speak-easy.org.uk www.speak-easy.org.uk / Facebook: SpeakEasyMartlesham

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QUIZ NIGHT Sunday 26 April from 7.30pm Kesgrave Social Club, Edmonton Road, Kesgrave IP5 1EE Doors open at 7pm Bar and food available Teams of up to six players, £2.50 each All proceeds go to Ipswich & District Kidney Association For more information contact Carol: 07922 155181

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OUT & ABOUT SUFFOLK AVIATION HERITAGE MUSEUM

IPSWICH GANG SHOW 2020

The museum on Foxhall Road in Kesgrave re-opens on Easter Sunday and Monday, April 12 and 13, from 11am until 4pm, and with it a new season begins.

Are you looking for a really good evening out with first class entertainment for all the family? Then look no further that the Ipswich Scout and Guide Gang Show.

We look forward to welcoming back old friends and first-time visitors. Those who visit are very impressed with the displays, which is very rewarding for our enthusiastic and hardworking volunteers. Visitors often say that they didn’t know there was an aviation museum on Foxhall Road, or that they have been meaning to visit but have never got around to it. Do come along and see our exhibition of the history of Suffolk aviation including a full size replica of Edith Cook’s Bleriot and many other interesting exhibits.

The cast is made up from 65 Scouts, Guides and Leaders from Ipswich and the surrounding area, plus 10 Cub Scouts who have a very special place in the programme as the Mini Gang.

The programme has a nod to Gang Show founder Ralph Reeder, but comes right up to date with fantastic production numbers, singing and dancing to music by the Beach Boys, Spice Girls and the Jersey Boys involving over 50 cast members.

The museum relies on donations to cover running costs and keep the museum open. We hope to see more visitors this year and they can be assured of a warm welcome from our staff.

There are also sketches entitled I Joined Gang Show, Over the Gate and The Babies Revenge, and a tribute Item to the Two Ronnies – You Rang M’Lord.

Tea room and picnic area, free admission and parking. Donations welcome.

One highlight of the show is always the men’s dance number and this year will be no exception, although we cannot disclose too much!

For further information contact Colin Durrant: 01473 677517 / colindurrant113@yahoo.com

MARTLESHAM HEATH AVIATION SOCIETY

The show runs from 8-11 April at The Great School Theatre, Ivry Street, Ipswich with evening performances starting at 7.15pm and a matinee on Saturday 11 April at 2.15pm. Tickets are available online at www.ipswichgangshow.org.uk, from Craftability on St Lawrence Street and from 01473 561004.

The Gang looks forward to entertaining you.

Friday 3 April: 75th Anniversary of Bentwaters – The RAF Years 1944-1945 by Simon Gladas from Bentwaters Cold War Museum.

We meet from 7.30-10pm at Martlesham Heath Community Centre on Felixstowe Road. Entry is £3 for members and £4 for non-members; pay on arrival.

01473 274300 / www.mhas.org.uk

MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY

KESGRAVE CO-OP WOMEN’S GUILD In recent months we have enjoyed learning about Easter Island with Stephen Hope, a look behind the scenes at Wimbledon with line judge and umpire Wendy Smith, and a talk about the Cobbold family

by Mick Farrow.

Monday 6 April: My Experience of Life in a Foundling Hospital by Ruth Miller From 1741 when the first babies were admitted, to 1954 when the last pupil was placed in foster care, the Foundling Hospital in London cared for and educated around 25,000 children. Ruth Miller arrived at the Foundling Hospital in April 1942, just a few weeks shy of her fifth birthday and will tell us all about what it was like to be one of these children.

Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm.

Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.

FRIENDS ON FRIDAY St Michael’s and All Angels Church, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL Every Friday from 10am to noon We are a friendly community group who enjoy coming together to share in chat, puzzles, table games and table tennis and snooker.

Everyone is welcome even if it’s just for a refreshments and a chat.

NEXT MEETINGS Tuesday 31 March: Realm of the Polar Bear by Chris Parfitt Chris will talk about the animals, birds and wild flowers on the Arctic islands of Svalbard and also look at some of the history of these beautiful islands.

Tuesday 14 April: Ipswich Deaf Society Alison and Penny from the Ipswich Deaf Society will talk about being deaf in a hearing world.

Tuesday 28 April: The Mitford Sisters by David Lilley Nancy, Pamela, Diana, Unity, Jessica, Deborah gained widespread attention for their stylish and controversial lives and their political views. David will tell us about their fascinating lives.

We welcome new members who can visit for two meetings before joining. The annual membership is £15 and we charge £3 per meeting to include refreshments and raffle tickets. Meetings start at 7pm in the community centre.

For more information please contact Gloria Everett: 01473 614991 www.kesgravecoopwomensguild.onesuffolk.net

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OUT & ABOUT ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY Our talks cover a broad spectrum of art and are delivered within a relaxed and welcoming environment. If you would like to know more, please come and meet us. We are always happy to welcome new people.

The guest speaker on 4 March was Shawn Kholucy who beautifully illustrated what motivated the architect and designer R R Ashbee. We next meet on Wednesday 1 April when Jennifer Toynbee-Holmes will talk about The Holland Park Circle, Victorian painters, sculptors and architects living in Holland Park. Jennifer, an experienced guide at Tate Modern and Tate Britain, had a long-standing career as a television producer/director making documentaries and factual programmes for BBC, ITV and Channel 4.

We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU on the first Wednesday of most months. Meetings begin at 2pm and last about an hour, with refreshments available from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have available space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 so please contact Wendy Robbins in advance to check if there is available space: 01394 823807 For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

KESGRAVE WI Sonya Burrows gave a most interesting talk on flowering bulbs at our March meeting, illustrated with delightful photographs of what we could see in our gardens at various times of the year.

Our monthly competition – an item connected to the topic of the talk – was won by Sue Hilling with a lovey bowl of outdoor flowering bulbs. Margaret Pickering was second with her decorated light bulb and Angela Finch’s paper flowering hyacinth took third.

IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB Last year we reported that we were making syringe driver bags for Ipswich Hospital and were delighted to receive offers of materials from readers. Palliative and End of Life Coordinator Tracy Hitching recently asked whether we could possibly make purple bags in a similar design, not for patients this time but for the Butterfly Volunteers. We couldn’t possibly say no.

These volunteers provide company and companionship to hospital patients in the last days of their lives. They also reassure and support patient’s loved ones (if they have any).

The purple bags will hold notebooks, pens, tissues and whatever else the volunteer thinks would be useful. By wearing the bags the volunteers will stand out so that patients, visitors and staff can recognise them easily.

We have made 16, with varying linings for both men and women volunteers.

We hope they will be of help to them in their sensitive role. But, to cap it all, we heard about Alfie, a volunteer who happens to be a dog! So we have made him a purple neckerchief to wear when he’s on duty.

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.

Our wives, partners and friends are invited to join us on three oscassions every year. 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?

Maureen Swale gave a report from the Suffolk East Federation of Women’s Institutes annual meeting held at Trinity Park on Tuesday 3 March. The main speaker was Danny Craig – Gold Paralympian.

Danny was an inspiration to us all. Despite loosing his right arm at the shoulder when he was 21, Danny never gave up. He recovered to play his beloved rugby again, trained to be a scuba diving instructor, worked as a window cleaner for a Sea Life aquarium cleaning windows in the shark tank, plus many other amazing exploits. At present he can be seen on Channel 4 TV as a sports commentator.

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.

We welcomed three visitors who came along to see what we get up to. All seemed to enjoy the evening and plan to join as full members.

It’s always good to see new faces.

With spring here at last our meeting on April 9 is a real celebration of the season. Sheila Dix, a working shepherdess, is paying a return visit to tell us more about her work and will bring some lambs with her.

Our next meeting is at Kesgrave Community Centre at 7.15pm on Thursday 2 April when our speaker will be Alison Mayston with a silver clay demonstration. Visitors are very welcome to join us. If you require any information please call the secretary, Di Chilver: 01473 611415

On April 23 we are having a quiz evening and bring-and-share supper.

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

MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB

Unfortunately, the first meeting in May has been cancelled due to unavailability of the hall; but on May 21 Jenny Gibbs will tell the story of silk and pashminas.

Meetings are held on alternate Thursday evenings at 7.15pm in the Richards Room. To find out more contact Doreen Boar: 01473 622768

IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday 22 April: Films from The Huntley Film Archives presented by Amanda Huntley Special admission charges apply; visitors welcome.

KESGRAVE CANASTA CLUB Meets at the Royal British Legion Hall on Ropes Drive at 7.30pm and welcomes new players. If you’d like to play but don’t know how to, club members will happily teach you the ropes.

We meet at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich; entrance via the rear car park.

This month we meet on Wednesday 15 and the dates for the rest of the year are: 20 May, 17 June, 15 July, 19 August, 16 September, 21 October, 18 November and 16 December.

01473 422145 / www.idhts.co.uk

For more information contact Barbara Rose: 01473 622017

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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH TRANSPORT SOCIETY

Monday 20 April: City of Norwich Aviation Museum – The Collection & the Story by Trevor Eady All meetings take place at Greenfinch Church Hall, Greenfinch Avenue, Ipswich at 7.30pm. Refreshments available.

U3A EAST SUFFOLK SUSPENDS ALL ACTIVITIES

IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY

The committee has taken the decision in order to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of its members, many of whom are elderly and thus at greater risk.

In a change to the advertised programme, on 4 March four committee members showed items from their own collections and one showed photos of his trip to India. Very interesting they all were too. On 18 March Terry Harrison presented an informative and colourful display of stamps issued and correspondence to and from St Vincent, a British Colony until 1979 but now part of the Commonwealth.

All speaker meetings and interest group activities were suspended from Monday 16 March. The committee will review the decision in four weeks’ time.

Looking to April, our annual auction is on 15 April with more than 400 lots of postal history, stamps and ephemera from around the world. The full list is available at: www.ipswichphilatelic.uk

This decision has not been taken lightly but the committee wishes to protect its members as far as it is able.

There is a whole host of information about us and about stamp collecting on the website so please visit. Or come along to one of our meetings at Cedarwood Primary School in Kesgrave. You’ll also find the programme and directions online.

In light of the spread of the Coronavirus, U3A East Suffolk has suspended all activities and meetings until further notice.

BOSWELL OFFICE SUPPLIES – WE KNOW OUR BUSINESS AND YOURS In a global marketplace isn’t it good to know there’s a local supplier with a long history which has not only survived in an increasing competitive industry, but has secured its place as a preferred supplier based on quality of service and value for money.

Boswell Office Supplies has a long history and still operates out of Ipswich as part of Mansion House Group. Led by Jon Emerson (pictured left), the current team of four has nigh on 100 years of industry insight and knowledge which customers can access.

“Knowledge is everything in this industry,” explains Jon. “Because we know our product range intimately we can quickly identify what our customers need and provide solutions when a specific need exists.

For example, we don’t just deliver office furniture – we can put it together too!”

In fact the very term ‘office supplies’ is somewhat inadequate to describe what Boswell can offer. Of course they provide every variation of every office product you can envision, from paperclips to chairs, but the product range has expanded in recent years to include furniture, shredders, print consumables, first aid kits, arts and crafts supplies, clothing, computer software, cleaning materials and equipment, even catering supplies.

If it’s something you need in your office, village hall, community centre, sports club or school, you’ll probably find it at Bowell Office Supplies.

“We relish the opportunity to find the best products for customers,” says Jon who runs the office with Mark (pictured right). “Not many people understand our passion for office products. In fact we talk in code a lot of the time, using reference numbers we’ve stored in our memories over many years. ”

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Jon and Mark are always available to take calls but more and more customers order online, a simple process once an account has been set up. It’s easy to find specific products on the website where special offers are regularly highlighted.

As part of Mansion House Group, which also includes Mansion House Publishing, Colourplan Print and Musical Marketing, Boswell can provide a range of additional add-on services including a full print service, advertising in any one of several regular publications and a range of online/social media marketing options.

“We are stronger and more competitive as a group,” explains Jon. “Many of our customers come to us for a mix of products or services, knowing we have their best interests at heart but also because it’s easier, quicker and cheaper to deal with a single supplier. Many Colourplan Print customers have become Boswell customers and vice versa. Trust is key to our success and the fact that Andy, our main delivery driver, and Nick, our field sales operative, are well-liked and knowledgeable doesn’t hurt either.”

So whether you need a regular supply of essential products, clothing or office furniture for new staff, first aid kits for staff on the move or any one of the thousands of products Jon and this team can source on your behalf, check out the website or give the office a call if you have a specific enquiry.

“Buy locally, use our local knowledge and get your office supplies delivered right into your office or school,” says Jon. “We are good at what we do because we love what we do. For us it’s personal and that’s why so many of our customers have been with us for many years. We look forward to working with you too.” www.boswellofficesupplies.co.uk 01473 212000 / officesupplies@boswell.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT GIRLGUIDING KESGRAVE BROKE HALL WI Friday 17 April: Chernobyl with Elizabeth Parker from Chernobyl Children’s Life Line Friday 15 May: Resolutions We meet at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) on the second Friday of the month at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH. For more information contact Sue (01473 414746) or Cynthia (01473 726068).

IPSWICH FLOWER CLUB We would like to invite you to our meeting on Monday 6 April when Lee Berrill will present a demonstration entitled What a Wonderful World. 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.

The 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 standards.

Girlguiding Kesgrave currently has three Rainbow Units (ages 5-7), four Brownie Packs (ages 7-10), three Guide Companies (ages 10-14) and one Ranger Unit (ages 14-18) meeting around the parish.

If you are interested in joining as a member or helping as a volunteer, please contact girlguidingheathlandsdivision@gmail.com (Kesgrave) or www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested (HQ).

Come join the fun and start your Guiding adventure today!

PEACE GLASS CRAFTERS (PGC) STAINED GLASS CLUB PGC is a club of friendly ‘glassers’ named after a respected tutor who taught many of the original members. We share an interest and enjoyment of creating art from sheet glass of all colours and textures.

As a group we support each other by sharing ideas, knowledge and experience. Projects include panels, windows, clocks, suncatchers, lamps, Christmas decorations, 3D items and more. The garden scenes panel pictured was donated to Ipswich Hospital and is on display there. Each PGC member completed one of the six-inch squares.

For more images of our finished work please visit our Facebook page.

The club is mainly for ‘tiffany’ (copper foil) glass work but there are occasions where a member decides to make a leaded piece. We have our own equipment (mainly grinders and soldering irons) plus a few consumables for use on club nights.

April showers sound such a gentle and welcome term, but when there seems to have been nothing but rain for weeks and weeks the thought of rain throughout April is a bit sobering! My plot is so claggy at the moment it’s almost impossible to dig and my wellies keep building up layers of mud that make them heavy to lift.

Obviously this is the month where planting in earnest can begin so hopefully you’re on top of your weeding. If you find small weeds are now emerging then wait for a windy day to dry the surface and hoe the affected area. This will destroy the weeds and break down the soil.

We are always keen to welcome new members. Having attended workshops or classes previously, people who come to the club have some experience in the main stained glass techniques, including glass cutting, grinding, foiling and soldering.

We meet at Felixstowe Academy on Thursday evenings during term time. The fees are currently £35 per term and there are three terms per year. If you are interested in joining us please contact the secretary on 01473 625782.

Facebook: Peace Glass Crafters

Seed potatoes and onion sets should be planted by the end of the month and it’s also time to get summer broad beans planted. I planted winter ones as usual but lost about half the crop to something that dug them out. I’m not feeling very friendly toward the Easter Bunny!

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.

You can also plant runner beans, courgettes, pumpkins, sweetcorn and cucumber on a sunny window sill or a greenhouse or in a conservatory, but be careful it’s not too hot.

We have a small number of plots available at the moment so do contact our membership secretary, Angela Brown: 01473 612283 / membership@kesgrave-allotments.org.uk Sally Peckham

www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

ORWELL FLOWER CLUB Our next meeting is on Thursday 23 April at Tower Hall, 5 Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU. This meeting marks the start of our new flower arranging year and we hold a brief AGM (approximately 20 minutes). This is followed by refreshments and a raffle and then Ann Day will entertain us with a talk entitled The Ladies of Ipswich.

This is a members’ only meeting, our only one for the year, and it will begin at 7.15pm. If you would like to consider becoming a member the cost is £45 for the year (the equivalent of £4.50 per meeting) which is very good value for an entertaining evening out.

Please contact Janet Dye – 01473 601750 / janet.dye@ntlworld.com – or Delcie Corbett – 01473 623371 / gil.corbett@btinternet.com – if you would like to find out more or would like to become a member.

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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH RSPB LOCAL GROUP Our winter season of indoor meetings concludes in April with our AGM and a talk on practical sustainability from Melissa Abbott, sustainability and CSR co-ordinator at Munton’s Malt of Stowmarket.

Indoor meetings usually take place on the second Thursday (note in April we meet on the third Thursday) at 7.30pm in Rushmere St Andrews Church Hall. You don’t need to be a member of either the national organisation or the local group to attend. The attendance fee, which include refreshments, is £5 for non-members and £2.50 and £2.30 (concessions) for members of the local group. Under-18s (who must be accompanied) are free.

Our programme of walks continues over the spring and summer. These are free and include Bourne Park, Spring Wood and Kiln Lane Meadow, Rushmere Common, Upper Hollesley Common, Newbourne Springs, Felixstowe Ferry, Languard Nature Reserve, Levington Creek and Orwell Country, Pipers Vale and Christchurch Parks. Walks are expertly led and there is always someone willing to help with bird identification.

Details of all walks including date, time, meeting place (we always use map references for these to avoid confusion) and suitable clothing can be found by contacting us in any of the ways set out below.

01394 809236 / www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ipswich Twitter: @IpswichRSPB / Facebook: RSPB Ipswich Local Group

PORTAL WOODLANDS CONSERVATION GROUP Inevitably, the recent storms caused some disruption to the woods and the group’s normal operations. One tree was badly split and a path had to be closed until we could make it safe. We had to abort our February volunteer work morning due to safety concerns. Fortunately, the weather was fine and sunny on the rearranged date, 1 March, and the woods were showing all the signs of spring with a good display of violets, snowdrops and suitably for St David’s Day, daffodils.

THE 2020 SUFFOLK WALKING FESTIVAL Have you ever crafted in the wild, enjoyed baking over a campfire or foraged for a cream tea? If not, then this year’s Suffolk Walking Festival is for you!

The 13th Suffolk Walking Festival launches on Saturday 9 May with over 120 guided walks and countryside events over three weeks across the county.

This year also sees plenty of brand new events including Castle on the Hill celebrating Ed Sheeran’s favourite castle, a fun photography scavenger hunt in Orford and a spooky day head hunting in Ipswich.

The event finishes at the end of half-term week withplenty of family-friendly activities. Here are just a few events to whet your appetite.

A sell-out every year is Walk n’ Water, a short walk and boat trip along the River Stour in Sudbury with a free hot drink at the end. RSPB Minsmere is one of the most special places in Suffolk, famous around the world for its wildlife. Surprising Spring Wildlife shows off the site, introducing you to some of its iconic species. Another icon of Suffolk is Orford Ness and Walk with a Shepherd and a Sheepdog is a guided walk by Kite, the sheepdog who manages the island’s very own herd of sheep. It’s a very fun walk and a joy to watch Kite in action.

Campfire Make and Bake at Thornham Walks brushes up your whittling skills before making damper bread over an open fire in the woods. Family Wild Crafts at Brandon Country Park lets you get crafty in the woods as you collect natural materials such as sticks, leaves and rushes to make, and then keep, your creations. And The Nasty Normans at Clare Country Park is a fun take on the history of the Norman Conquests with an actor narrating the story as you’ve never heard before!

The festival kicks off at Clare Country Park on Saturday 9 May and runs for three weeks until 31 May. See the full programme and purchase tickets at: www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk

The volunteers did a great job trimming back the hedge along the A1214 to encourage the hedge to thicken at the lower levels and to let more light into the woods over the top. The hedge makes great bird foraging and nesting habitat, and great care was taken to ensure that we did not disturb any nesting activities.

DATES FOR THE DIARY Volunteer Work Morning (all ages) Sunday 19 April, 10am-noon. Meet at the education area. Tools, training and light refreshments provided. All welcome; no need to book.

Nature Explorers (ages 11-18) Saturday 16 May, 9-11am. Please book a place via our email address below.

New volunteers of all ages and abilities are always welcome with no experience necessary. For further information, please contact us at pwcg.martlesham@gmail.com / 01473 612632, visit www.pwcg.onesuffolk. net or join our members’ Facebook group by messaging Duncan Sweeting.

Chairman Stephen Corley

DEBEN FLOWER CLUB Deben Flower Club meets in the Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PU on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm.

On Tuesday 14 April Terri Potter from Chelmsford will present a demonstration entitled This Way and That. Terri has recently returned from a trip to India where she took part in the World Association of Floral Artists (WAFA) competitions, so no doubt she will have some interesting tales to tell us.

You may even be lucky enough to win one of Terri’s arrangements in the raffle.

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available after the demonstration. Visitors are always welcome (£5).

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9TH TO 31ST MAY THE SUFFOLK

WALKING

FESTIVAL 2020

OVER 120WALKS AND EVENTS www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT EASTER TREATS AT YOUR COUNTRY MARKET

IPSWICH HOSPITAL EYE APPEAL QUIZ

The Eye Appeal at Ipswich Hospital aims to raise £55,000 to purchase a portable Optical Coherence Tomographer (OCT), a state-of-the-art non-invasive imager which is used to detect, diagnose and monitor eye disease. It uses light waves to take cross-section pictures of the layers of the retina. This allows the ophthalmologist to map and measure their thickness.

You can support the appeal by taking part in a fundraising quiz at Seckford Golf Club on Friday 24 April at 6.30pm. Teams of four, tickets £15 (inc. a hot meal). Buy tickets online at: www.colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk/eye-appeal

DR DAN POULTER MP REPORTS BACK: MARCH 2020 Perhaps it’s because I am an NHS doctor myself, but ever since I was first elected as an MP almost 10 years ago, I have always taken a very keen and protective interest in Ipswich Hospital.

My first battle on behalf of local patients was to fight to keep cardiac services based at Ipswich Hospital, and to ensure that people with a heart attack would not have to travel many miles for life saving treatment. We won that battle and I was pleased to play my part in helping to gain funding for the new cardiology unit.

Since then, Ipswich and Colchester Hospitals have merged. Understandably, hospital mergers can cause anxiety and, of course, there can be challenges, but in my view this particular merger has largely been a success. Ipswich Hospital will soon see further improvements to its Accident and Emergency department, and there will be a new purpose built elective surgical unit for orthopedic patients at the Colchester site.

This new elective surgical unit does not mean that patients in Suffolk will be missing out; quite the opposite as instead it will help to improve and expedite care. Far too often during the busy winter periods, patients from Suffolk awaiting a hip or knee operation unfortunately have operations cancelled due to bed capacity issues. Emergency orthopedic operations and all followup care will still take place at Ipswich Hospital, but the new and dedicated elective unit will mean fewer cancelled operations, which can only be good news for patients waiting in pain and discomfort for their operations.

At a recent visit with the chief executive of Ipswich Hospital, I was shown around the newly commissioned isolation pods for people presenting themselves with possible Coronavirus symptoms and to learn more about the plans in the event of any cases in Suffolk. These isolation pods are ready for use in every general hospital around the country and our clinical professionals are very well prepared to deal with potential cases.

Understandably, people are becoming increasingly concerned about the potential for Coronavirus to arrive in Suffolk, but it’s important not to worry too much. Our NHS is in a good place and our local health services are well prepared. The best way of helping to stop the virus spreading is by ensuring good hand hygiene measures – washing your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds and covering your mouth or nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in the bin. Further advice is available from NHS Online (www.111.nhs.uk) if you think you may have coronavirus, or have been in touch with someone who has the virus. Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital, but first call 111 for advice.

Dr Dan Poulter MP, Central Suffolk and North Ipswich

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Not only do we have some new makers and bakers at Martlesham Heath Pavilion but we have some lovely new Easter novelties and treats for you.

Ace gardener Chris Young returns with all his new herb plants and his not to be missed trailing sweet peas. If you haven’t tasted our traditional simnel cakes, there’s still time to order yours now. This year’s marmalade hasn’t sold out yet: there’s time to stock up on jams, chutneys and preserves to eke out the Spam of the two-week isolated diet. Why buy mass-produced food and gifts when you can buy locally hand-baked or lovingly hand-crafted unique and delightful Easter and every-day produce – knitwear, crocheted nests and chicks, tasty edible Easter biscuits and cakes, as well as nutritious ready-made dishes for one, for a family or for a special occasion.

Now more than ever we need to keep the wheels of our local economy turning. Make a market member smile just by coming through our door on a Tuesday morning. Chat about how we make things, what’s in them, and what we can make for you.

Martlesham Heath Country Market is at the pavilion from 9-11.15am every Tuesday morning. Tea and coffee, a friendly welcome and a nice sit-down, accessible facilities – everyone is welcome.

ON ON DAB ONLINE FM

+ ON YOUR

SMART

SPEAKER FM • DAB • IPSWICH102RADIO.COM

IPSWICH 102 – 40,000 LISTENERS CAN’T BE WRONG Local commercial radio has changed significantly in recent years. National networks have emerged and programmes are beamed in from afar on what were previously local frequencies, but Ipswich is bucking the trend.

When in summer 2018 the regulator (OFCOM) awarded the local Ipswich licence to Ipswich 102 (to take over from the existing operator) work started within days to create the local radio station Ipswich deserved.

Paul Morris (formerly of SGR, Heart and Town) was appointed station manager and began to assemble a team of presenters, journalists and commercial staff, along with finding a suitable location to base a radio station. Inside two months Ipswich 102 had launched programmes on DAB digital radio and then in October they also began broadcasting on FM. The vision behind Ipswich 102 is simple – great music and information for the community, from the community and with the community. All programmes are broadcast from Ipswich, with a mix of new and experienced staff. Indeed two legends from the days of Radio Orwell – Nigel Rennie and Patrick Eade (pictured) – present Solid Gold Sunday on the station every weekend.

Ipswich 102 supports local organisations and charities, working with St Elizabeth Hospice, Inspire Suffolk and Fresh Start, New Beginnings in their first year, and in 2020 you’ll see them at the Midnight Walk, Ipswich Music Day and many other local events.

Reaction from listeners and advertisers has been overwhelmingly positive and with nearly 40,000 people tuning in every week Ipswich 102 is proving that proper local radio is still liked and much loved in Suffolk.

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SCHOOLS / SPORT HEATHLANDS COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL Our children have been enjoying exploring the lives of dinosaurs in their new Jurassic World and their new Gruffalo Hideaway.

They also enjoyed their parents coming in to share story books with their friends during our shared storytime week.

We held a lovely Mother’s Day coffee morning and children were able to enjoy doing some special activities together. Lots of yummy cakes were enjoyed by all. Our Lunch Bunch Club is now exploring the offering of hot meals and children are enjoying sampling new foods.

Our Summer Fair will be held on Saturday 27 June from 10am to 1pm – this event is open to everyone so bring family and friends and enjoy the fun of the fair. Entrance is free.

We will be holding an open evening for prospective parents on Monday 22 June at 7.30pm which is a great chance to view our setting and hear what we offer. If you are interested in attending please contact Marie Whiting on 01473 417517.

Heathlands is a well-established, committee-run pre-school in the grounds of Broke Hall Community Primary School. We can offer funded places for eligible two year olds and for all other children the term after their third birthday. Breakfast and afterschool clubs are also available. We are pleased to accept applications for a place for terms starting September 2020 and beyond. Please contact us on 01473 417517.

THREE BEARS PLAYGROUP Thank you to everyone who supported our Easter raffle fundraiser.

We will be buying seeds and plants for the vegetable garden with the money we raised. The children will be planting and learning about growth when we are back after the break.

We wish you all a lovely Easter break; let’s hope for some lovely weather and plenty of sunshine.

If you are interested in a place for your child at our setting, contact us now, it’s never too early to join our waiting list.

Three Bears Playgroup, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave IP5 2ES 01473 635255 / threebearsplaygroup@btconnect.com www.threebearsplaygroup.org.uk

BRIGHT STARS Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children with parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers on the second and fourth Monday of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Sessions are free and usually based on a theme. During the spring term we enjoyed sticking tissue paper all over 3D cardboard trees and adding a little picture of Zacchaeus, who climbed a tree to see Jesus and became Jesus’s friend. In another session we made cardboard lanterns and sang songs about light, with actions and percussion instruments, an opportunity to make lots of noise!

The summer term dates are 27 April, 11 May, 8 and 22 June and 13 July.

Just turn up, there’s no need to let us know in advance. We look forward to welcoming you.

If you would like further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196

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GORSELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL We celebrated World Book Day by inviting the children (and staff) to come into school dressed as their favourite book characters.We had a wonderful day with lots of reading for pleasure taking place. We also supported Sport Relief on Friday 13 March with extra sporting activities taking place.

HEDGEHOG NURSERY The Hedgehogs have had a great time planting bulbs and seeds in the kitchen garden we are developing. We discovered how plants have a drink and how they stand up strong. We hope to grow a variety of vegetables that we can eat. The story of Jasper’s beanstalk captured our imagination; there was even a mysterious beanstalk growing in the garden, with a castle at the top!

We also enjoyed celebrating World Book Day with our favourite books and dressing up as characters. Our special books were laid out on a table, just like a blanket, so everyone could have a good look and talk about them with friends. We are continuing our popular book vote each morning.

We warmly welcome families from our community to come to see us in practice. If you are curious and have a three or four-year-old, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the school office to arrange a visit.

Nursery Lead Teacher Mrs T Haig Hedgehog Nursery is open from 8.30am-3.15pm Monday to Friday for three and four year olds and we offer wrap-around care from 7.30am-6pm every weekday. If you would like more information, please visit www.gorseland.net or contact the school office on 01473 623790.

WALDRINGFIELD & DISTRICT BOWLS CLUB Are you interested in taking part in a summer sport suitable for all ages and abilities?

Waldringfield & District Bowls Club was established more than 50 years ago and has played at Ransomes Sports Ground for the past three years, its members having returned the bowls green and the buildings to their former glory.

We are now able to accept more new members from the surrounding area and would welcome people of all ages, even if you have never bowled before.

Amongst our members we have eight qualified bowls coaches who will gladly assist you. If you would like to try the sport free of charge, we can arrange a taster session at a date and time to suit you. If you are already a bowler and would like to find out more about the opportunities at the club to play in leagues and competitions, we would be pleased to talk with you.

Our new season commences on Saturday 18 April when members will be at the green. Our opening drive takes place that afternoon. If you would like to talk to members and find out more about the club during the afternoon, please visit us. You will be made very welcome.

If you would like to know more before then, please phone or email the club secretary, Linda Nunn: 01473 736337 / lindanunn15@hotmail.com

MARTLESHAM CARPET BOWLS In February the club lost 8-2 away to two of the top teams, Copdock and Barking. However, we are the only team to take any points off Barking this season on their mats. A very close home match against the bottom club, Bentley, resulted in a 6-4 win, giving us an eight point cushion over them for the remaining few games, 42 points to 34. A key match for us will be at home against Burstall, who are also in the relation zone, in March.

The draw has taken place for the club mixed singles and the fours will have taken place on 10 March. This will leave the doubles to be played in April before the AGM on 5 May. Vic Harrup

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CHURCH NEWS FIELDS CHURCH Spring is in the air! To make losing that hour in bed a little less painful, we would love to let you know what’s on at Fields Church this month.

You may be looking forward to your Easter egg or a hot cross bun (or two!) and we love those things here at Fields Church, but for us Easter is so much more and we would love to invite you to the Easter events that we have going on this month.

On Friday 10 April at 10.30am we are holding a short Good Friday service at Cedarwood Primary School and you are invited. Hot cross buns included.

Saturday 11 April is our ever-popular children’s Easter Egg Hunt. Take part in our age-zoned Easter Egg Hunt, hear a great message and take home some chocolate.

Tickets are free. Please sign up via our website or get in touch with us via the details below. Make sure to get your tickets fast before we run out.

Easter Sunday is such a celebration here at Fields Church and we would love it if you could join us on Sunday 12 April at 10.30am, with the cafe open from 10am. You would be so welcome.

We also have our regular Connect groups which run weekly, and our regular ladies’ group, Kaleidoscope, and men’s group, Valour. Please use the contact details below to find out more about any of our meetings or groups.

You are welcome every Sunday at Cedarwood Primary School for our morning service. We are currently running a fantastic series around the I am project, hearing more about who God says we are. Cafe from 10am and service from 10.30am. Find us on Facebook or Instagram to find out more. www.fieldschurch.uk / E: hello@fieldschurch.uk

BIXLEY FARM CHURCH AT TOWER HALL Along with the other churches in the MIE group, we are reading the whole Bible in a year. One misconception is that the Old Testament is ancient history with little relevance to the times we live in. But while there are some obscure sections, there are also stories of flooding, pestilence, genocide, fire, war, disease control, diet advice, local elections and general family drama. So not much different to 2020! There is even a 3D visual representation of our place in the universe, and that’s just in the first four books. But some of the passages are genuinely difficult and that’s why learning altogether makes a difference.

The message of the Bible is as life-transforming now as it has ever been. If you’ve ever wondered about what it is, and why that message has transformed the lives of so many people down the centuries, why not come along to one of our Christianity Explored courses which look at Mark’s gospel in seven sessions in a straightforward but engaging way.

We’re a small friendly group of Christians keen to understand what the Bible teaches and how to apply that in our lives. We’d welcome anyone, young or old, Christian or not, to come along to our services, events or activities.

Our Sunday morning service is at 10.30am and lasts just over an hour, with a Sunday School for youngsters. During the week, we have several activities open to anyone, including: • Toddler Group: Tuesdays 1.30-3pm • Women’s Fellowship: Wednesdays 2.30-3.30 pm • Coffee Morning: First Thursday of the month 10.30am-noon Friday Night Youth Clubs: • Yoyo’s for Reception to Year 3, 3.30-4.45pm • Activ8 for Years 4-6, 6.30-7.45pm • Trailblazers for Years 7+, 7.30-9pm A particular invitation to our Easter services:

Regular events like Little Lambs, our parent and toddler group, continue every Friday in term time at 9.15am at Tower Hall, as do our midweek home groups and monthly prayer meetings. Little Lambs held a successful mum’s night on Friday 13 March and there will be an Easter Pram Party and service on April 3 at 9.15am.

Our regular Sunday@4 Worship Service at 4pm in Tower Hall continues to draw new people. We hope you will join us on Sunday 12 April for our Easter Day services and there will be a chance to join a local Alpha group after Easter.

Looking ahead, on May 10 we are holding a big celebration of VE Day to mark the 75th anniversary of ending of the war in Europe. We will be holding a street party with food, songs and other memories from that period. Celebrations will be 2.30pm onwards. More details next month.

All our events are open to everyone; you will be most welcome and we always have time for a cup of tea and chat.

For more information, see our website or contact Paul Mickelsen: paul.mickelsen1@btinternet.com / 01473 401956 www.kesgravebaptist.church

For further information/questions on any of the above go to www.mie.org/ bixley, email office@mie.org.uk or call 01473 270978.

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