In Touch
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with Martlesham Volume 9 • Issue No. 2 • JANUARY 2019
Sunset Over Felixstowe by Debbie Johnson
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Recently I spent time with an friend who is caring for her elderly dad. Sarah is exhausted, sad, stressed and worried, worn out from sleeping on chairs next to her dad’s hospital bed. She talked about the ongoing struggle to get the support they both need, the ever-changing nature of her dad’s condition and her fears for the future, but also of the people she calls ‘Angels’ who she has encountered along this difficult journey. These ‘Angels’ are few in number, but they stand out because they are so remarkable. One she particularly remembers is Sam. He operates the overnight tea trolley in A&E at their local hospital. A&E is never a pleasant place to be, particularly so at 3am, but when Sam arrived, pushing his tea trolley quietly so as not to disturb or agitate patients, my friend was amazed by his smile and the gentle manner in which he approached people. She watched him make his away around the room and was astonished by the effect he had. People returned his smile, grateful to have a hot drink and to chat for a moment to someone who actually looked happy to be there. As he approached, my friend prepared herself to speak for her dad, but Sam spoke directly to him. He said: “I have a cup of tea for you and something tells me you’d like it with sugar.” Her dad hadn’t said a word for hours, but to Sarah’s surprise he replied and he and Sam had a brief chat. When Sam departed with a smile and a wave, Sarah’s dad continued to chat into the morning. This one brief encounter had lifted his spirits and for a short time Sarah and her dad chatted about all and sundry. For this Sarah will forever be grateful to the ‘Angel’ with the tea trolley. I share this story because it has had such an impact on me. I have never been, and will never be, an ‘Angel’. I try to be positive, I really do, but it doesn’t come to me naturally. If I had to push a tea trolley around A&E at 3am I’d be more likely to leave a trail of despair. I dread to think what my work colleagues might have to say! When I’m feeling sorry for myself I think of Sam and my friend’s tears as she recalled her all to brief encounter with him. January is a difficult month for many people for many different reasons. Do you have the capacity to be an ‘Angel’ in someone’s life for a brief moment? I hope I do!
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with Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham
NEWS SOUND ON – IPSWICH & DISTRICT TALKING NEWSPAPER We are in need of more volunteers to run this vital service to keep people with sight loss in touch with their community. Do you have a couple of hours free on a Thursday once every six or seven weeks? There are a variety of jobs involved in the production of the weekly news such as packing, unpacking and sorting address labels, reading, editing and recording the news to go out to more than 300 listeners on memory sticks delivered free by Royal Mail. We are based in the centre of Ipswich. If you think you can help please contact Pam Pelling on 01473 684601 for more details. Your help would be welcome and much appreciated.
HEADWAY SUFFOLK MARTLESHAM DEMENTIA GROUP Headway Suffolk runs a monthly social support group for people with dementia in Martlesham. It takes place every fourth Thursday of the month at St Michael’s Church Centre, The Drift in Martlesham from 11.45am to 3.15pm. The person with dementia must be accompanied by a carer. The group partake in a variety of stimulating and engaging games and activities. It costs £6, which includes a fish and chips lunch and refreshments. The next group meeting is on Thursday, January 24. Find out more at: www.headwaysuffolk.org.uk/dementiamartlesham The groups rely on the goodwill of volunteers to help in the kitchen, with preparations and tidying away, as well as engaging clients in discussion and with various activities, such as indoor games, cognitive exercises and singing. If you would like to make a referral or want to volunteer, please contact Maureen Howes: 01473 712225 / maureenhowes@headwaysuffolk.org.uk
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
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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 Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com
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NEWS
MARTLESHAM PARISH COUNCIL Our best wishes for the new year to all our parishioners. At the start of a new year we reflect on the past year in the parish and look forward towards to what the new one might bring.
• We welcomed two new councillors having said goodbye to two. A new council officer joined our team of part-time staff to help with the ever increasing workload.
Some of the 2018 highlights (or lowlights depending on your point of view):
Looking ahead to 2019:
• Suffolk Coastal District Council (SCDC) approved the development of 2,000 dwellings on land south and east of Adastral Park, now known as Brightwell Lakes.
• The council shares parishioners’ concerns about the problems of increased traffic and at times gridlock associated with the business and retail areas. We will continue to work with the local authorities and businesses to find solutions and make the voice of local people heard, but the power to make change does not lie with us.
• Wickes, Evans Cycles, Home Bargains, Hughes, Boots, Mountain Warehouse, Card Factory all opened on the Retail Park. • Building work started on an ALDI store and a Costa Drive Thru. • Following a referendum in May, the Martlesham Neighbourhood Plan was formally made in July. • The council has resisted infill housing development on Martlesham Heath and gained the support of SCDC with refusal (however this has gone to appeal and is ongoing). • It has also resisted inappropriate development by Travis Perkins on land off Felixstowe Road (we are still waiting to see what happens next here). • The future of Suffolk Constabulary HQ is now in question with the possibility of the land being sold for housing: the Police & Crime Commissioner consulted on this during the year. There is major concern as development here is not in the Martlesham Neighbourhood Plan. • The sun shone on the successful Village Fete in July. • New Management Plan for the Common with ongoing maintenance and enhancement work during the year. A Common Open Day with launch of Friends of the Common. New relationship with Bug Life developed. • A successful Recreation Ground work party. Some improvements to the appearance of the Recreation Ground. • Martlesham trim trail being developed as a result of consultation on sports facilities. • Extensive repair work carried out at the Harry Higgins Play Area to the safer surfacing and a new climbing net installed on the Multiplay Unit.
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• Work is likely to commence on the building of Brightwell Lakes.
• E nhancement of Martlesham Common with information boards, framed entrances, improvements to paths, tree work, encouragement of heather growth. • Installation of trim trail exercise stations with work to commence on next phase of provision of sports facilities. • We will be considering how we can provide some of the facilities you identified were lacking or need improving through the Neighbourhood Plan process. We have called this Neighbourhood Plan Plus! • Parish council election in May 2019. Will we have new faces coming forward? Consider if you can help! FORTHCOMING MEETINGS Wednesday, January 9: Parish Council Wednesday, January 16: Recreation & Amenities Committee Wednesday, February 6: Parish Council All meetings start at 7.30pm in the Parish Room on Felixstowe Road and are open to the public who are welcome to ask questions or make comments to the council during the adjournment. Contacting the council Clerk to Martlesham Parish Council, Parish Room, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham, Woodbridge IP12 4PB / 01473 612632 / clerk@martleshamcouncil.org.uk For latest news and events visit: www.martlesham.onesuffolk.net Parish Office opening times: 9am-noon, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays, but please book an appointment in advance.
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NEWS JOHN KELSO’S DISTRICT COUNCILLORS REPORT
MARTLESHAM HEATH HOUSEHOLDERS LTD
Latest information regarding possible development at Police HQ Residents may recall the consultation that took place during August and September into the proposed first draft of the Suffolk Coastal Local Plan. This proposal was the first phase to produce a document which would contain policies to help control where and what types of development would be acceptable to take place within the Suffolk Coastal area.
We would like to wish all our members a happy New Year. It’s amazing how time flies and we are already preparing for the AGM on March 7 and you will receive our annual report late January early February.
The document supported the Martlesham Neighbourhood Plan, in that it did not envisage the need for any large scale development within Martlesham apart from the Brightwell Lakes development. It also stated that the areas of Martlesham, Kesgrave and Rushmere St Andrew should be allowed to settle after being given a number of large scale developments over recent years. Unfortunately, the Planning Officers at Suffolk Coastal have now decided to recommend changes to the Local Plan. This will include Police HQ as a possible development site for 300 dwellings, many of which are to be flats or other small types of dwellings. They also recommend that a pre-school facility and a football pitch should be made available for locals and residents to use. It should come as no surprise to you that I shall do all that I can as your local councillor to ensure that these changes are overturned, if not by Suffolk Coastal then by the Government Planning Inspector who shall make the final decision on the legality and soundness of the document. Meetings of Suffolk Coastal Cabinet and Council are to take place in January to discuss these proposals before the document is to be sent to the government planning inspectorate in March or April. If you wish to comment on this proposal please email Councillor Tony Fryatt, the Cabinet member with responsibility for planning. His email address is: tony.fryatt@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk If you wish to discuss any of the above matters or any other district council matter, please contact me at: john.kelso@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk / 01473 612632 John Kelso, District Councillor Martlesham Ward
MARTLESHAM SURGERY Practice & Patient Group News If you have attended the recent flu vaccination clinics at the surgery, you will be aware that the Martlesham Practice & Patient Group (PPG) has been looking for more volunteers. We are most grateful to the two new patients who have decided to join our group. If you would like to find out more about this yourself, please do get in touch by sending your contact details to Lynne Marsh at the surgery (marked PPG) or email the chair of the PPG at MartPPG@gmx.com. It would be really good to have someone on our group with a young family. We now have our own tab on the surgery website at: www.MHdoctors.co.uk We are in the process of updating the information on these pages, including copies of our newsletters and how to contact us. Of course, there’s lots of other useful information on the website, so if you haven’t seen it, please do check it out. CORRECTION: Unfortunately, in the news article published in the December edition, Dr Lelijveld’s name was spelt incorrectly. Apologies to him and his family. We wish all patients and staff at the surgery a very happy and healthy 2019.
It’s only through the volunteers on the committee that we can maintain the 200 or so acres of land for the low charge of £35 a year. However, we still have a number of people who have missed the December 1 deadline for payment and as a result we have had to issue a further invoice for the surcharge. We would ask that you promptly pay the outstanding amounts owed to avoid a further surcharge in the new year. Please remember that we are a group of volunteers who deal with land maintenance and we have outlined a number of policies relating to what we deal with and matters to assist residents on our website. We get lots of queries on matters that MHHL do not deal with. The trees that were vandalised on Eagle Way will be replaced by spring and we are currently looking for views on what can be done with the football pitch opposite Gorseland School. Does anyone have any community orientated suggestions? A community orchard or allotments have been suggested, but will need to be managed by a group independent of MHHL. You will have noticed signs at the entrance to Birch Woods. They are part of a risk assessment we undertook and are to remind you to take care in inclement weather. The replacement tree for the Silver Birch that suffered dieback on the green is now planted. It’s a Cercidiphyllum Japonicum Katsura Tree. This has a longer lifespan and is not susceptible to dieback. Sandlings walk has had improvements made to reduce the amount of mud; this includes raising the canopy and also the spreading of aggregate by volunteers in the worst area. We still have some more to do, but that will have to wait until February when the mega bash on SSSI tales place and we can use machinery to move the last of the aggregate. We can be contacted at: 01473 612207 / mhh@martlesham.org.uk www.martleshamheathhouseholdersltd.onesuffolk.net
YOUR LOCAL COUNTRY MARKET Brighten the new year’s early-darkening days with tasty delights fresh from the kitchens of our clever cooks; our market is open as usual from Tuesday, January 8 so there’s no excuse to deprive yourself any longer. If it’s comfort food you’re missing, our brilliant bakers have the answer with mouthwateringly good cakes and biscuits as well as quintessential quiches and appetising savoury dishes. Browse locally clucked hens’ eggs and beatific honey, piquant preserves, fruity jams to remind you of lazy summer days while you make toast in front of the fire. Our crafters (not elves) have regrouped and restocked, having busied themselves over the break. There are gloves and scarves and hand-knitted and crocheted accessories to cheer and warm you and your family, woolly jumpers for all the family. Commissions can be taken. We can also bake sweet and savoury for your special dietary requirements: just ask our cooks. If you are unable to come along in person, why not phone up and discuss your order? And if you would like to make your own hobby pay, we are looking for more cooks and crafters to join the team: pop along to find out more or give Margaret Gayfer a call on 01473 623849. Resolve to find our promised warm welcome at the Country Market in Martlesham Heath Pavilion every Tuesday morning from 9-11.15am. Enjoy a cuppa after some productive browsing. We have a card payment system now so it couldn’t be easier to buy nice locally made things. Thank you for your support over the past year! We look forward to meeting you again soon.
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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH COUNTRY MARKET WOODBRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET This New Year, we want to welcome you! Would you like to shop local in 2019? Eat better quality homemade food? Maybe you want to get out more or get more involved with your local community, or start selling your handmade crafts, baking or surplus garden produce.
This month’s markets are on Saturdays 12 and 26, 9am - 12.30pm at Woodbridge Community Hall as usual.
You can do all of those things at Ipswich Country Market cooperative, and we would love to welcome you into our community.
For those of you who have resolved to eat healthily, we have loads of delicious fresh vegetables from Newbourne Farm, apples from High House and free range chicken from Sutton Hoo. For the rest of us, there is plenty of comfort food with beer from Old Felixstowe, quiches, cheese biscuits and cake from Pinewood Catering, bread from Artizan, Doodle Donuts and much more!
Make us part of your routine and enjoy good company, great food and produce, or maybe find an outlet for your home grown, cooked or crafted items. We offer a free tea or coffee on your first visit, so you have nothing to lose by checking us out!
Don’t forget that all our food is produced in Suffolk by people who cook in small batches and really care about what they do. Whatever you buy from the Farmers’ Market you will be supporting local businesses and your cash will circulate in the local economy and support it.
Our first market in January is on Thursday 10, when we will also have bacon rolls on offer!
Happy New Year and best wishes for 2019 from all of us! woodbridgefarmersmarket@gmail.com
We are open from 10.15-11.30am at Rushmere Village Hall on Humber Doucy Lane IP4 3PB. We have plenty of free parking and home baked refreshments, so you can try before you buy! You can find out more about our market on our Facebook page (Ipswich Country Market) or: www.ipswichcountrymarket.co.uk
MARTLESHAM BRASS Making music fun in East Anglia Everyone in Martlesham Brass would like to wish you a Happy New Year! A very big thank you to all who supported us over the Christmas season by donating towards our chosen charities: The Stroke Association, Tiffers Bus Shelter and Martlesham Community Responders. In next month’s article we will report the final amount raised. Our main band is performing in a joint concert, Ceremony of Carols, with the Gippeswyk Singers on Sunday, January 6. See page 9 for details. We would love to hear from new players, young and old, with or without experience. Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to come and have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and would like to come along and meet us, please contact us via the website or use the contact details below. Publicity Officer Liz Howard: e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617 www.martleshambrass.co.uk
WOODBRIDGE ROTARY CLUB We had a successful charity walk around the town in conjunction with and with close involvement from five school PTAs.
START 2019 BY EXERCISING WITH DANCE FOLKUS Our first dance of 2019 is in Woodbridge Community Hall on Friday, January 4, starting at 7.30pm. After all that Christmas food, get some heart pumping exercise by joining our friendly crowd in a ceilidh or barn dance. The nationally known festival caller Mary Panton will be in charge. She is an excellent, experienced, London-based caller with an extensive range of dances. Don’t miss this opportunity to dance with one of the country’s best traditional social dance teachers. The band will be our resident Dance Folkus ‘Come All Ye’ Band led by Harbour Lights. Local traditional singer Roger Middleditch will be entertaining us during the mid-evening interval. For many years Roger was a longshore fisherman operating from the boats on Aldeburgh Beach. He is a fine singer and sure to give us an amusing ditty or a sea song or two. Roger has been one of the lead singers in the local Quay Street Whalers group who have entertained Suffolk audiences with their range of old traditional pub singalong songs. New dancers wanting to attend can book a discounted place by emailing Dancefolkus@aol.com (no payment in advance) or you can simply come along on the night (entry £7 / students or children £3). Telephone Rob 01473 610951 if you need further information. Visitors to Woodbridge and new firsttime dancers are always very welcome to attend our dances at Woodbridge Community Hall in Station Road IP12 4AU
Approximately £450 was raised. Some accolades from the children: Charlotte (6): “I loved the walk, it was great fun. I didn’t know there were so many steps in Woodbridge. Nana cycled miles to keep meeting us.” Flora (6): “I loved the walk too. My favourite part was through the woods.” On our charity bike ride, The Rough Stuff, 188 riders took part in the off-road event which was great success and enjoyed by all from young children to over-70s. Some remarks from entrants: Ian: “Excellent signage all the way round. GPS was spot on. Organisation was quick and efficient and the after event food was excellent.” Luke (8): “It was brilliant. The trail was awesome. The sign posting was great. My legs ached a bit afterwards though! Daddy fell into a ditch.” Our jazz concert with Phoenix Jazz at Woodbridge Community Hall was a great event raising money for the Jetty Lane Project, a fantastic potential building in Woodbridge.
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LIONS’ CLUB OF WOODBRIDGE & DISTRICT We would like to thank everyone who supported our recent art show and sale which raised £430 to enable us to support local good causes. Quay Time, our joint venture project with Woodbridge Quay Church, presents an informal opportunity for people to meet over tea and cakes and to have a chat. Everyone is welcome, so why not pop along to the Quay Church at 2pm on the third Wednesday of each month. We continue to look for new ways to raise funds and would be happy to talk to any organisation that is running a local major community event for ways that we might be able to get involved. In the past, as well as running our own events, we have organised car parking, marshalled races and walks, organised litter picks and much more to support events being run by a number of other community organisations. Please contact us through our website: www.woodbridgelions.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE LIBRARY NEWS The following craft activities will take place during January:
NEW GROUPS BEGINNING IN JANUARY
Sunday 6: Pop along and design a photo frame for that special picture you took over Christmas. Don’t forget to bring the photo along with you!
Sofa Storytime: 10-11am on the second Monday from Monday 14. Do you enjoy sharing stories? These sessions are designed for parents and carers to pop along to read a variety of books and afterwards allow children to interact and play while you have a coffee and a chat. This month’s theme is Winnie the Pooh and Friends.
Sunday 13: Did you know that a peg can make a great bookmark? Create a peg insect bookmark. What insect will yours be? Sunday 21: Make a 3D crocodile using lolly stocks and pipe cleaners to sit on your shelf at home. Sunday 28: Design a fan for those warm days that will hopefully be with us in the spring! 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 Tot Rock: 9.45-10.15am / BabyBounce: 10.30-11am Free Story Time Sessions every Friday in term time, 9.45-10.15am This session combines stories and rhymes. All welcome. OTHER EVENTS FOR JANUARY Lego Club: Every Tuesday afternoon in term time from 3.45-4.45pm. Parents must stay with under-eights. No need to book. Just pop along, this is a free activity. The themes this month are: Tuesday 8: Monsters; Tuesday 15: Bugs; Tuesday 22: Dragons; Tuesday 29: Creatures from Harry Potter. Knit and Natter: Wednesday 2 & 9, 2.30pm. Just £1 with tea/coffee provided. Welcome to all new members. Thursday 3: Afternoon Book Group, 2.45pm. Currently reading All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. Thursday 17: Evening Book Group, 7pm. Currently reading Exposure by Helen Dunmore. If you are interested in joining any of the groups, please ring or speak to a member of staff
LEARN TO DANCE ARGENTINE TANGO
MacMillan Cancer Support Coffee Mornings: 10am on the fourth Monday from January 28. A group for those suffering with cancer and their carers, an opportunity to meet others, chat and offer each other support. Leaflets offering advice will be available. Coffee, tea and biscuits will also be provided. Do you like reading? Why not make your New Year’s resolution to join Kesgrave Library? All you need to join is something with your name and address on and staff can sign you up straight away. The library not only has books but also DVDs and CDs for hire and audio books and an e-library which includes audio e-books, e-books, magazines, music and newspapers – all free of charge. Used Stamps and Old Coins. Don’t forget you can drop off all your used stamps and any old coins at the library. These are collected in aid of St Elizabeth’s Hospice. Just hand items in to the staff. 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
CEREMONY OF CAROLS
Starting on Monday, January 7, Richard and Mandy from Suffolk Tango are offering the chance to learn the elegant, evocative social dance of Argentine Tango.
Gippeswyk Singers are welcoming in the New Year with special guests Martlesham Brass in a concert at St Michael & All Angels Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL on Sunday, January 6 at 7.30pm.
The five-week introductory course aims to provide a solid foundation in the key elements of Argentine Tango in an enjoyable sociable environment. It concentrates on how to lead and follow the fundamental steps of Argentine Tango. The dance is improvised to the music so there are no long sequences to learn.
Enjoy an uplifting evening of beautiful music including Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols and Brian Latchem’s An Abundance of Blessings conducted by Gippeswyk Singers’ inspirational musical director Geoff Lavery and accompanied by the talented young professional harpist, Anna Wynne. Martlesham Brass will perform on their own as well as joining the singers for a wonderful medley from The Sound of Music which will have the whole audience singing along!
Our current dancers are of all ages, some coming with a background of ballroom, salsa or modern jive, but many have never attended dance classes before. Once you try Argentine Tango you will soon get hooked and an exciting range of dancing opportunities near and far opens up. After this course you will be able to progress into our structured courses for improvers and intermediates. Prior booking is essential, but there is no need to book with a partner as we will offer places as and when we can match followers and leaders. What is more, we always rotate partners during the class to speed the learning process and to make the evening more fun. Held at The Richards Room, Martlesham Community Centre from 7.30 to 10pm on Mondays from January 7, the cost is just £40 per person for the five-week course. You can apply via the online form at www.suffolktango.org.uk, or contact: Mandy@suffolktango.org.uk / 07766 694618
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IT Drop-in Sessions: 9.30am-noon on the third Monday from Monday 21. Are you having problems getting your CV sorted or do you need some help with setting up an email address to be able to apply for jobs online? Just pop along and speak to the staff.
Tickets £5 at the door and in advance from choir members or: paulgalley@btinternet.com Gippeswyk Singers are supporting local charities FIND (Families in Need/ Food Bank Ipswich) and ICSRE (Suffolk Law Centre). 2019 Spring Concert Update Tickets for Verdi’s Requiem, a special collaboration between Gippeswyk Singers, Beccles Choral Society, Phoenix Singers, Lambeth Orchestra and four outstanding international soloists at Snape Maltings on May 11, are already selling well. Conducted by Geoff Lavery, the massed chorus and full orchestra will have over 250 musicians. Tickets (£25, £20, £15) are available from members of all three choirs, cherylcoutts468@btinternet.com or Snape Box Office: 01728 687110 www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of, or a volunteer for, the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF at 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on January 15 when Mark Mitchels, arguably our most popular speaker, will be talking about the River Deben. Rivers were the old highways of England and along their banks stood the towns and villages which form the earliest settlements in our history. Mark will be taking us on a trip along one off the country’s most beautiful rivers, a journey through history showing how the landscape changed to support the needs of the people. On February 19 Marcia Whiting will speak on the life and works of Alfred Munnings. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome; the entrance fee is £3. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 per year (£12 per couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary at: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday, February 11: The History of the Catholic Church in Kesgrave by The Rev Chris Brighten I’m sure many of you will have passed the small Catholic Church in Kesgrave on your way into Ipswich. But are you aware of the story of two exceptional families and a tragic accident that resulted in the building of the church? The church, which is still in private ownership, has some of the most amazing stained glass windows made by an artist who was one of the finest stained glass designers of the Arts and Craft Movement in the first half of the 20th century. Come along and find out more! Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.
ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND Monday, March 11: A New View Down the River Deben Valley – Prehistoric, Roman and Saxon Archaeology along the East Anglia One Cable Route by archaeologist Andy Peachey Andy is an archaeologist who has been working across East Anglia for the last 15 years and over the last two years on a major project, the East Anglia One cable route. This is a corridor excavated along the Deben Valley, through the northern part of Martlesham, before passing over Ipswich to connect the new wind farm to the National Grid. He will talk about the amazing finds discovered during work for these wind farm cables. Earlier last year there was a lot in the press about the interesting and unexpected things unearthed by archaeologists, especially on a site close to Martlesham. These included an exciting array of new settlement evidence, including Roman and Saxon buildings, and an exceptional prehistoric monument, trackway and artefacts that may coincide with the earliest settlements and agriculture in the region approximately 4,000 years BC. This fascinating talk will be on Monday, March 11, 7.30pm at St Michaels Church Centre, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. The venue is fully accessible with adjacent free parking. Light refreshments will be available. Further information about this event and the music fund please contact the Burrows family on 01473 625196 or visit: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk
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SPEAKING MADE EASY AT SPEAK EASY Happy New Year! Here’s a New Year’s resolution you can enjoy keeping, with our help and support. Join us at Speak Easy at Martlesham, your friendly neighbourhood speakers’ club, to improve your public speaking in 2019. We’re holding a special open evening on Thursday, January 24, your chance to find out what happens at a speakers’ club and if it’s for you. Speak Easy is a Toastmasters International club. TI has spent nearly 95 years devising and refining the best ways for all of us to develop. If you improve your public speaking it also boosts your confidence and helps you become a better leader. TI recognises this. There are leadership projects and opportunities as well as speaking projects, all within Pathways, TI’s new educational framework. There are online and downloadable learning materials to guide and challenge you. You’re in control of how far and how fast you progress. We meet every Thursday fortnight at the Richards Room in Martlesham (the Tesco). Our meetings include impromptu speaking, formal speaking and evaluation. Evaluation is a vital part of how Toastmasters’ clubs operate. When you evaluate someone else speaking you not only help them, you also help develop your own speaking through empathy and understanding. For further details or queries please call our VP membership on 07968 372563 or get in touch via: wwwspeak-easy.org.uk (select Contact Us ). If you can’t make the open evening, you’re very welcome at any club meeting. You can check directions and club meeting dates online. Speak Easy at Martlesham is all about learning to speak in a friendly, encouraging and enjoyable environment. We look forward to meeting you in 2019!
MARTLESHAM HEATH AVIATION SOCIETY Friday, January 4, 7.30pm: Hitler’s Aircraft by John Pyle John Pyle looks at Hitler’s later, advanced aircraft; fighters and bombers, the rocket fighter which actually saw service and others which were only prototypes, including the Amerika bomber, and some amazing designs which only got to the drawing board though the concepts used still influence military aircraft designs. We meet at Martlesham Heath Community Centre on Felixstowe Road. Admission on arrival is £3 for members and £4 non-members. 01473 274300 / www.mhas.org.uk
ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY Orwell DFAS does not meet in January so our next lecture will be on Wednesday, February 6 when Andrew Spira will deliver what we are sure will be a fascinating talk entitled The Art and Architecture of St Petersburg. Orwell DFAS meets at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU, on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing promptly at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins before the day on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT CRAFTERS UNLIMITED
MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB
Happy New Year to all our crafting members past and present.
A Happy New Year to all our members!
Crafters Unlimited is a craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere with refreshments, we meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in Rushmere Village Hall from 7.30-10pm.
We have three meetings planned for January. The first after the Christmas break is on January 3 when Mr Westren will tell us about the work of TWAMS (Tools with a Mission). TWAMS collects unwanted tools and equipment, renovates them and send them to developing countries – mainly in Africa.
Thursday January 24: Fabric Owl (Emma) Thursday February 28: Rolling Penny Card (Emma) New members are always welcome. For more details contact Emma: 01787 373850.
SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, January 24, 7.15pm: The History of the Suffolk Fire Service, a specially written talk by Chris Turland on the history of fire fighting in Suffolk, from early beginnings to the formation of the national fire service during the Second World War and the immediate post-war history. We meet at the Co-op Education Centre where the pedestrian entrance is at 11 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JW, and the car park entrance is in Waterworks Street IP4 1JG. Admission is £2 for society members and £2.50 for non-members, who are warmly welcomed. You can join the society at the meeting if you wish. Tickets are not required, just turn up and pay on the door. For more information call 01473 274300 or visit: www.suffolkfhs.org.uk
GIRLGUIDING MARTLESHAM Currently we have one Rainbow Unit (ages 5-7), four Brownie Packs (ages 7-10), two 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, contact chris.s.cooper@btinternet.com (Martlesham) or visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested (HQ). Come join the fun and start your Guiding adventure today!
U3A GEARS UP FOR THE NEW YEAR With the arrival of the New Year, East Suffolk’s lively U3A programme is a feast for the lively minded and includes a wide variety of topics to stimulate interest and discussion. Thursday, January 3, 10.30am: Salvation Army Hall, Felixstowe IP11 7EL The Art of Theft (Fraud in the Art World) by Richard Ellis. Why art is stolen, how criminals use it and why it is forged. Friday, January 18, 10.30am Woodbridge Community Hall IP12 4AU Land of the Pharaohs by Chris Parfitt. Aspects of the time of the Pharaohs and life in Egypt today through visits to Cairo, Aswan and Luxor. Monday, January 28, 2pm Kesgrave Community Centre IP5 1JF Oliver Cromwell: Magic, Mystery and Myth by Tony Diamond Thursday, February 7, 10.30am Salvation Army Hall, Felixstowe IP11 7EL The Campaign for Votes for Women by Joy Bounds. Phases of the campaign from the mid-19th century to the end of the First World War. U3A promises a warm welcome to existing and potential members. You’ll find membership details online or you can call the membership secretary on 0300 123 3913. Occasionally U3A may have to make last minute changes to so please see the website for the most up-to-date information. www.a3aeastsuffolk.org.uk
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On January 17 Clare Simmons is bringing a selection of Body Shop products which will be on sale at the meeting. Finally, on January 31 the Rev Mandy Reynolds will tell us about her work as a hospital chaplin. Make a New Year’s resolution to do something different in 2019 and come to our friendly, interesting meetings which are held on alternate Thursday evenings at 7.15pm in the Richards Room. To find out more contact Doreen Boar: 01473 622768.
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Ipswich, Councillor Jane Riley, to our last meeting and particularly encouraged to hear that she is focussing on finding out more about smaller voluntary groups in the town – like us of course! She kindly presented the quilt which we raffled in aid of Light House at the Women’s Voices, Women’s Vote event to the winner – as it happened, our own newest member. December meant a Christmas meal together. We exchanged greetings with our Friendship Clubs in France and Denmark. We share many concerns with them. This Christmas we sent a donation to Arras towards an event they are hosting on domestic violence. Naested has a long history of working for trafficked women and we recently organised a lunch in aid of a similar project set up by our club in Poole. Our meeting on January 9 has the odd title Knowing Me, Knowing You. For the benefit of new members, we are going to spend the evening introducing ourselves and explaining more fully what Soroptimism is all about. If you are interested why not come and listen in? Just phone our secretary Joyce on 01394 615659.
MARTLESHAM HARD OF HEARING GROUP An independent social group for people with any type of hearing loss. Partners and hearing dogs welcome. Our group meets from 10.30am to noon on the first Thursday of the month at Martlesham Pavilion. We charge £4 per session and frequently have a speaker. Last year we had everything from a local historian speaking to us about Prettys corset making in Ipswich to running a bed and breakfast in Colchester, as well as a lady who told us about her trip to Iceland (the country, not the shop!). We always have time to chat over coffee/tea and biscuits. We are very sociable and always welcome new people to the group. The pavilion has an excellent hearing loop and a lady voluntarily text types so even people with the most severe hearing loss don’t feel left out, something lots of people with hearing loss suffer. There is also free parking. Why not give us a try – we would love to see you? For more information please contact Steph Moon: 07741 310480 / steph.moon@hhas.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY
MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB
Our last meeting in December was at Kesgrave Community Centre where we were able to purchase material from Sarah Brooks. We also took the opportunity to have some festive refreshments and a good time was had by all.
A Happy New Year to all our members!
Our January meeting is at the same venue, also in the afternoon. Roger Swindells, a society member and a dealer, will talk about thematic collecting and there will be opportunity to purchase material from his extensive stock. The centre will be open from 1-5pm. In February we return to our normal venue, Cedarwood Primary School, and evening meetings (7 for 7.30pm) with a members’ display evening on Wednesday 6 and our annual competition on Wednesday 20. We are also arranging a trip to London Stampex on February 13 for £20 per person; there are some seats available if you would like to attend. Visitors are welcome; for further information contact Mike Smith – 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com – or visit: www.ipswichphilatelic.uk
WOOLLY WONDERS Happy New Year! If you’re thinking of taking up a new hobby or interest in 2019, why not make it knitting? If you’re interested please come and find us any Thursday between 10am and noon at The Runway Cafe. You might enjoy it!
IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY
We have three meetings planned for January. The first after the Christmas break is on January 3 when Mr Westren will tell us about the work of TWAMS (Tools with a Mission). TWAMS collects unwanted tools and equipment, renovates them and send them to developing countries – mainly in Africa. On January 17 Clare Simmons is bringing a selection of Body Shop products which will be on sale at the meeting. Finally, on January 31 the Rev Mandy Reynolds will tell us about her work as a hospital chaplin. Make a New Year’s resolution to do something different in 2019 and come to our friendly, interesting meetings which are held on alternate Thursday evenings at 7.15pm in the Richards Room. To find out more contact Doreen Boar: 01473 622768
PORTAL WOODLANDS CONSERVATION GROUP In November, our Nature Explorers spent their meeting doing the annual bird box check, ably assisted this year by the 1st Martlesham Scout Troop and Girlguiding 1st Martlesham Heath Rangers. Each year we record which bird boxes have been used in order to monitor the trends in changing populations of the bird species in the woods. The bird boxes also require fixing and painting, and several have been in dire need of repair for some time. Fortunately, for the past few months the Scouts and Rangers have been constructing new boxes made from unwanted sheets of plastic, kindly donated by John Parker Fixings, and we fitted six on the day.
Wednesday, January 23: The Massey Shaw Fireboat by Tony Roome Wednesday, February 27: Zeppelin Raids Over East Anglia by Ian Mclachlan We meet at 7.30pm at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich; entrance via the rear car park, visitors £3.50, members £1.50 including refreshments. 01473 422145 / www.idhts.co.uk
IPSWICH AND KESGRAVE BRIDGE CLUB Are you looking for ways to improve your bridge game? Ipswich and Kesgrave Bridge Club is the largest in the area. Given the size of our membership, we are a broad church and pride ourselves on being welcoming to players of all levels of experience. As a club we believe we have a responsibility to offer our membership (and the wider Bridge community) ways of developing their game. We try to do this in a number of ways: • Beginners Bridge Classes: a two-year course based on a nationally developed program. We currently have nearly 40 students. • Seminars: aimed at more experienced players and run on specific topics. • Weekly Bidding Challenges: where we send out 16 hands for people to practise their bidding with a proposed set of answers sent the following week. We are always investigating additional ways we can help anyone who wants to develop their game and we have a couple we hope to announce soon.
On the same morning, our volunteers were joined by members of Martlesham Heath Aviation Society (MHAS) to clear the area around the fuel tanks on the perimeter track near the eastern entrance of the woods. We wish everyone a Happy New Year, and perhaps as one of your New Year resolutions you might come along to help at one of our work parties, or just enjoy a walk through the woods. DATES FOR THE DIARY Volunteer Work Morning (all ages) Saturday, January 19, 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, January 19, 9-11am Please book a place via our email below. Nature Watch Club (ages 5-11) 2019 dates to be confirmed
If you are a Bridge player and want to know more about the various ways we look to help our members improve their game, or just want to know more about us, visit our website or contact: greencj06@hotmail.co.uk
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.
www.bridgewebs.com/ipswich
www.pwcg.onesuffolk.net
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS BROKE HALL WI We would be pleased to meet any new ladies who would like to come and see what we do and maybe join in. We meet at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) on the second Friday of the month at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH. We also have monthly clubs, walks, meals out, darts, crafts, theatre trips, outing and visits. Friday, January 11: Quick and Easy Supper Dishes with Jane Sago Friday, February 8: Suffolk Lavender Farm by Karen Orchard Friday, March 8: Pearly Kings and Queens by Gerry Baxter For more information contact Sue (01473 414746) or Cynthia (01473 726068).
The 24th Ipswich Scout Group is holding its monthly jumble sale on Saturday, January 5, 1-3pm at 24th Scout HQ, 330a Bramford Road, Ipswich (beside the railway bridge). Come and bag a bargain! Did you once belong to a youth organisation where you learnt various skills? If so you could be passing on those skills to the youth of today in your community. If you are interested please contact Graham: 07943 895907 / gjlparker@btinternet.com
DEBEN FLOWER CLUB Why not come along to our meeting on Tuesday, January 8 in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane Kirton IP10 0PU at 7.30pm? Our demonstrator will be Shirley Perkins from Leigh-on-Sea in Essex with a floral demonstration entitled Nice to See You. Visitors are always assured of a warm welcome. There will be a bring-andbuy stall for any unwanted Christmas presents you may have and the floral designs will be raffled at the end of the evening so you may be lucky enough to be taking away a design to brighten your home. Tea and coffee will be available and an opportunity to see the flowers at close quarters and to ask any questions you may have. For further information please contact: wa@sandlings.co.uk / 01394 411422
HEATH PRIMARY SCHOOL RECEPTION INTAKE 2019 The window to apply for Reception places for September 2019 is still open until January 15. At Heath Primary School we offer a broad and rich curriculum with a particular focus on outdoor learning. We are lucky to have extensive grounds that include a dedicated Forest Schools area and a separate wildlife area featuring a pond with dipping platform. We are also proud of our school garden that includes an orchard, allotment and an enclosure for our chickens and rabbits.
Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children with parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Sessions are free and usually based on a theme. They normally include singing, games, crafts and Bible stories, followed by refreshments and more play. Just turn up; no need to book. The session dates for the spring term are: January 14 and 28, February 11 and 25 and March 11 and 25. For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196
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At Heath we have a dedicated team of highly-skilled and experienced Reception teachers and a committed team of support staff who work together to ensure that every child has the best possible start to school life. For those who require childcare outside of the school day, our popular before and after school club, Jigsaw, is available. There are also a number of reputable childminders in our area. For more information or to obtain an application form, please contact the school office on 01473 622806. If you would like to look around the school, then please call to arrange an appointment for a guided tour at a time that is convenient to you. Co-Head Teachers Sue Bowditch and David Whatley
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SCHOOLS / SPORT
HEDGEHOG NURSERY AT GORSELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL Can you believe that we are now into 2019? Hedgehog Nursery had a great end of term Christmas celebration with our Wriggly Nativity, which quite literally had everyone wriggling in their seats! We also joined the Polar Express to walk to Martlesham Square to post our very special letters to Father Christmas. Our wonderful families came in to make Christmas decorations and take part in a wide variety of Christmas activities; we all had lots of fun and enjoyed spending time together. The new year has brought some new friends to join us. We have been getting to know each other and have been playing lots of friendship games to help the new Hoglets feel welcome and make new friends. If you would like to visit and see us in action, please contact the school office on 01473 623790 and you will be warmly welcomed! Nursery Lead Teacher Mrs T Haig
GORSELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL Open Session for September 2019 If your child is starting school in September 2019, please come along to our Reception Open Session on Monday, January 7 at 6pm. This is an opportunity to meet our headteacher, Mr Jackson, and the Reception team, as well as having a tour of the school with our Year 6 pupils. We look forward to meeting you. Facilities for Hire Gorseland School is fortunate to have some excellent facilities in the form of a multi-use games area (MUGA), large Astroturf pitch, playground and large indoor hall. These facilities are available for the benefit of the general public on week day evenings and throughout school holidays for a very competitive fee. The facilities are currently used for after school clubs, sporting groups, fitness classes and other one off events. Weekly, monthly or ad hoc bookings are all welcomed. Parking is available on site. For further information or to make a booking please contact the school office: 01473 623790 / office@gorseland.net
RECREATIONAL BADMINTON IN WOODBRIDGE Badminton is one of England’s most popular sports. It’s as popular as tennis and has far more participants than rugby, cricket or basketball. Worldwide it is said to be the second most popular sport with about 220 million players. There is recreational badminton at Woodbridge School most Fridays from September to April. The sessions are for those who wish to play for enjoyment and exercise without taking the competitive element too seriously. It’s certainly very much more fun than going to a gym and there’s no need to brave the winter weather. With six courts available, beginners and inexperienced players can be catered for. There is no coaching, but guidance on aspects such as scoring is available if required. Rackets are available to borrow. The sport is suitable for a very wide range of ages; there’s even a national competition for players over 70. The badminton at Woodbridge School is suitable for ages 14 to 65 and over, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Players are offered a free initial session. There is no joining fee or membership requirement: sessions from 8-9.30pm are just £3 (£1.50 for students). The first session in 2019 will be on January 11. To enquire if places remain available, contact Peter Webb: 01394 386452 / peter@suffolkbadminton.co.uk Partly because of the success of recreational badminton at Woodbridge, Suffolk has been selected by Badminton England as one of three counties to lead the way in increasing the number of people playing badminton. The initiative is a partnership between Badminton England, Suffolk Sport, Suffolk Badminton Association, local leagues, community badminton networks and the Ipswich Badminton Performance Centre.
DEBEN YACHT CLUB We will be starting the year with a bring-andshare lunch on New Year’s Day. As the tide isn’t very suitable for sailing at Woodbridge, we’re opting for a walk beforehand for anyone who isn’t too tired from the night before.
MARTLESHAM CARPET BOWLS We had a busy and successful league programme during November, with three wins from four matches. At the time of writing we are listed as sixth out of ten, but this excludes our latest win against Old Felixstowe.
There are three talks lined up at the club and the first on Tuesday, January 29 is called August 1939: A Suffolk Lad Sails to The Baltic. This is by Julia Jones, author of The Cruise of Naromis. It starts at 7.30pm and there will be refreshments. Non-members are very welcome to attend the winter talks, which are free but there may be a voluntary collection for charities supported by the speakers.
The club singles competitions are progressing on schedule. We held the club pairs competition on November 25. Nine teams took part and the winning team was Doug Benger and Gloria Dimelow. Runners-up were Bob Wellington and Ian Hunt. The proposed date for the annual dinner is April 11, but we are awaiting confirmation of availability from the venue. Hopefully more details will be available next month.
I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year.
The working party are busy with lots of different jobs to get everything improved and mended for the new season. Also, the sailing program is being planned and promises lots more of the fun had last year. If you like boats or would like to sail, do join us!
Doug Benger
www.debenyachtclub.com
This year’s Christmas card collection will be in aid of First Responders. Please consider donating as an alternative to sending each other a card.
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ON THE GRAPEVINE
MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS VALENTINE BY LEAVING AN EVERLASTING GIFT The Leave an Everlasting Valentine Gift Will Month is being supported by Jackamans Solicitors (Ipswich), Ross Coates Solicitors (Ipswich) and Norton Peskett Solicitors (Halesworth), who have kindly offered their services to offer people the opportunity to make a basic single or mirror will in return for a suggested donation to Cancer Campaign in Suffolk. The aim is to raise awareness of the importance of making a Will, as well as highlighting the work of the charity, and is a special way to make a difference and celebrate Valentine’s Day in February. Around 60 per cent of people in the UK do not have a will and planning for later life is essential! People are living longer and with ever-changing family lives; second marriages, extended families, civil partnerships, long-term care needs, lasting power of attorney, funeral costs, inheritance tax… Choosing who you want to leave your gifts to is ever more important so your wishes are fulfilled as complications can arise which can become costly. Making a will gives peace of mind and ensures families and loved ones are cared for in the future. It also gives people the opportunity to leave a lasting gift to a charity that will make a difference to others as well as reduce the inheritance tax bill for the beneficiaries. Karen Hare, Chief Executive of Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, said, “We are delighted that Jackamans Solicitors, Ross Coates Solicitors and Norton Peskett are supporting the Leave an Everlasting Valentine’s Gift scheme by giving their time and offering a will writing service for a donation to our charity. All the monies raised stays in Suffolk to help before, during and after cancer.” For more information visit ww.ccisuffolk.org or contact CCiS: 01473 211884 / fundraiser@cancercampaigninsuffolk.co.uk
COULD YOU BE A YOUNG SHADOW TRUSTEE? Community Action Suffolk has launched an appeal to identify a new Young Shadow Trustee who will have a pivotal post in contributing to how the organisation is run, and how it portrays the county’s youth contingent. It’s the first time CAS has chosen to include a dedicated Young Shadow Trustee on their board, and comes as part of the organisation’s desire to reflect more diversity. A Suffolk-based programme to support young trustees has been in place since last year, led by CAS, and now sees a total of 10 younger persons in place with the region’s charities. Charities in Suffolk with an existing Young Shadow Trustee include the University of Suffolk Students’ Union, Suffolk Mind, Suffolk Artlink and St Elizabeth Hospice. The person for the newly created Community Action Suffolk role will need to be between 18 and 25, and will be prepared to offer around four hours per month. They will not be able to vote in their position, but will develop leadership skills, increased knowledge in business and finance, and will receive training and mentoring. Meetings are mainly held in Ipswich and travel expenses should be covered. Janet Perry, Youth Volunteering Development Officer for Community Action Suffolk, said: “Since Community Action Suffolk has been leading the Suffolk Young Trustee Programme in the county, we’ve received such great feedback from charities about the benefits of having a clear youth perspective as part of their team.” If you are interested in this or other young trustee placements contact Janet: janet.perry@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk
OWL SANCTUARY APPEAL TO GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Suffolk Owl Sanctuary has launched an urgent fundraising appeal to enable them to develop and maintain the wild owl nest box scheme it runs in conjunction with volunteers from the Thornham Owl Project throughout East Anglia.
“Two out of the five native species of UK owl are amber listed for conservation importance, meaning they are in population decline. Part of the reason for this is the lack of nesting sites due to the demolition of old barns and outbuildings, the loss of connected habitat and the depletion of old, hollow trees lost to elm disease.
With Britain’s owl numbers in decline, the charity’s work in providing siting, erecting and maintaining nest boxes in the remote areas favoured by wild owls is vital to ensuring the conservation of the region’s native species.
“All of the sites that I have visited are tucked away out of site, usually well off the beaten track and some distance from tarmacked roads. It’s often difficult to reach some of the nest boxes, especially when it’s wet! A serviceable 4x4 will enable us to site new nest boxes and maintain our existing network of 290+ throughout the region.
Critical to this work is a 4x4 off-road vehicle, which enables them to reach remote areas to install, maintain and monitor nest boxes for various species including Little Owls, Tawny Owls and the iconic Barn Owl.
“As a registered charity we rely on donations from visitors and supporters so we are appealing to local all wildlife lovers to give anything they can to help us continue this vital work to support the conservation of these beautiful birds.”
Sadly their old, well used off-road vehicle, affectionately known as Mabel, is no longer fit for purpose, so the Sanctuary is urgently appealing for donations to allow them to purchase a new off-roader. Steve Duffell, a falconer at the sanctuary who has hands-on experience with the nest box scheme managed by the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, commented:
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To donate please visit the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary website, call 03456 807 897 or send a postal donation to The Trustees, Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal IP14 6AT. www.owl-help.org.uk
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CHURCH NEWS NEW YEAR, NEW YOU? I wonder how you would rate 2018 as you look back on what happened for you over the past year! For me the year was perhaps defined by a moment of foolishness on my daughter’s skateboard back in May when I ended up in hospital with a broken ankle and spent six weeks in plaster learning how to cope on crutches and in a wheelchair. To those of you for whom mobility problems are a regular occurrence – I salute you and your ability to manage the difficulties that this brings. Time spent immobile, and the subsequent recuperation was hard, and is indeed ongoing. And it has made me consider what I have learned – beyond the obvious avoidance of skateboards! I did find that it felt as if I had missed out, that I wasn’t able to do all I had hoped in the year. But it led to many conversations with people I hadn’t met previously in the village and an enhanced understanding of life can be like when you can’t get around as easily as you might hope too. It has helped me to develop more patience (still ongoing!) and shown me that my life is not defined by what I can do. In the Book of Joel, the people of Israel are recovering from an enormous swarm of locusts that destroyed their crops, causing widespread famine. They were looking for where God was in all this. And God promised them that, despite their issues, he did still love them and that good could come from their experiences. “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten. You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; Then you will know that I am the Lord your God.” Joel 2:25-27. If last year wasn’t the best for you, take heart. God doesn’t cause bad things, but can bring good out of suffering and can give us a fresh start. I pray that 2019 will be a great year for you and that you will have a happy and blessed new year.
® Kitchen Makeovers S O U T H
E A S T
Another year has flown by... Where has the time gone? Everyone at Cherry Kitchen Makeovers hopes that you had a fantastic Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Invitation We are pleased to invite you all to our showroom open day on the 12th January. There will be plenty of tea, cakes and of course bottles of bubbly for everyone to enjoy whilst looking at the new kitchen ranges we have to offer. We are offering an extra 5% off our existing 25% sale on all furniture, to everyone who attends.
CONTACT US ON
01206 615858 www.cherry-kitchens.co.uk
The Rev Toby Tate: toby@martleshamcofe.org.uk
in the Richards Room, Martlesham, IP12 4BP.
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call John Burch: 07870 347486
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www.keepingintouchwith.com/mar tlesham
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Quality blinds, shutters and awnings from your local Suffolk specialist. No matter the shape or size of your windows. turnersblinds.co.uk | enquiries@turnersblinds.co.uk
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