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Volume 6 • Issue No. 2 • DECEMBER 2018
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Mid Suffolk District Council Waste and Recycling
Christmas & New Year Bin Collection Schedule 2018-2019
Please ensure your bins are presented by 6.30am on the day of collection
Recycling
Refuse
Recycling
Usual Collection
Monday 24th December Tuesday 25th December Wednesday 26th December Thursday 27th December Friday 28th December Monday 31st December Tuesday 1st January Wednesday 2nd January Thursday 3rd January Friday 4th January Monday 7th January Tuesday 8th January Wednesday 9th January Thursday 10th January Friday 11th January
Revised Collection Monday 24th December Thursday 27th December Friday 28th December Saturday 29th December Monday 31st December Wednesday 2nd January Thursday 3rd January Friday 4th January Saturday 5th January Monday 7th January Tuesday 8th January Wednesday 9th January Thursday 10th January Friday 11th January Saturday 12th January
Change
None 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 3 days later 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 3 days later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later
There will be no brown bin collections over Christmas and New Year (between 24th December and 4th January) Please refer to brown bin collection calendars available on: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk for details. From Monday 14th January 2019 normal waste and recycling collections resume.
Waste Services: 0300 1234 000 (option 4) email: Recycling@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
NEWS
I hate winter! There, I’ve said it. I’ve tried to appreciate the positives but I spend every long dark evening longing for spring, which for me starts on February 11. For this reason I love Christmas; it gives us something to look forward to and brings family and friends together with time to relax. Of course it can be an expensive time and requires a huge amount of planning, but somehow it’s always worth it.
MARGARET BAXTER RECEIVES her WELL-DESERVED BRITISH EMPIRE MEDAL
So bring it on I say! Let’s embrace this time to relax and to enjoy the company of those we may not see as regularly as we’d like. This year I’m determined to make Auntie Mary smile, even if I have to spend all day working on it. I’m going to find the perfect non-gift for the impossible aunt who says she doesn’t want or need anything, until she doesn’t get anything of course. I’m going to make the bread sauce nobody eats just so my brother can’t complain that it’s not the same without it! I’m going to discuss the timings with absolutely everyone so nobody comes to the table saying ‘I wish I’d known we were eating this early as I wouldn’t have had that fifth mince pie for breakfast’. I’m going to serve custard, brandy butter, ice cream and cream with the Christmas pudding so mum, my husband, my brother and my nephew have no cause to complain, and for those who always say ‘I don’t really like Christmas pudding’ I shall be serving chocolate mousse.
With her on this auspicious occasion were her son Duncan Baxter and his wife Judy from Jersey, Channel Islands, and her nephew Simon Leadbetter (far left) from Sussex.
My approach to Christmas present shopping has changed over the years. Where once I might have spent hours online looking for something unusual or quirky, this year I’m focused on finding more thoughtful gifts; this requires a hands-on approach so it’s local shops and markets for me this year. I’m taking the same approach with my son. We’ve been influenced by TV ads for the latest gadgets and plastic monstrosities in the past; recent mistakes include Boom Boom Balloon Game, Chippies Robot Dog, Zoomer Dino Robot Dinosaur and Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage. This year I’m determined to find things I know he will enjoy well into 2019 and I’ll be having a word with Father Christmas too. I hope this month doesn’t cause unnecessary stress in your home. Please do support local businesses and local markets in the coming weeks and together we can look forward to a Happy New Year.
InTouch
Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market
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We also publish In Touch with... •B eyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge
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JANUARY DEADLINE
11 DECEMBER 2018 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy
www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham
Margaret Baxter (95) of Needham Market received her British Empire Medal on November 1 from the Lieutenant Governor.
Margaret was awarded the medal for all the charity work she has done both formally and informally to support others over the years, both in Suffolk and in Zimbabwe/Rhodesia where she and her husband Tony spent 32 years. Among other activities, she has been and continues to be a reader for Newstalk for the Blind, bringing news to visually impaired people in Stowmarket area.
If you’re on your own, or perhaps you care for someone or are new to the area, or perhaps you just like getting together with people for a chat! We are up for that! Join us at Needham Market Internet Café on Tuesdays between 10am and noon for free tea and coffee and a chance for a natter. Whatever your circumstances, we will be happy to see you there. For more information contact Dawn Spurling: 01449 401443
MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE The team at the Museum of East Anglian Life is delighted to announce that they have been awarded a grant of £158,610 from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and Defra towards their Heritage Farm project. The grant will allow the museum to build a new attraction at the site, with new displays in a new building, an animal handling and learning area for visitors and better conditions for collections. New paths will make the site more accessible for all visitors. The Heritage Farm will open in April 2019. As well as the new building at the heart of the attraction, there will be a brand new orchard and animals to meet, representing the key East Anglian breeds. The museum’s director, Jenny Cousins, said: “We are delighted to have received this support. Together with a grant from Viridor and the money that the public have given, we will be able to create a new and exciting attraction at the museum. There will be hands-on activities available in all weathers and much better conditions for our collection. We’re really excited about the project!” The grant has been awarded by the Rural Payments Agency as part of its Rural Development Programme for England. The programme seeks to support the development of tourism and recreational infrastructure, to create jobs and growth in the rural economy.
DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com 3
NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS Submitted on November 11 New county councillor for Bosmere Congratulations to the winner in the recent Bosmere By-Election, Kay Oakes 747 votes, Conservative; and the valiant runner-up Steve Phillips 726 votes, Liberal Democrat; and Emma Bonner-Morgan 168 votes, Labour. Visitor information Discussions with Suffolk Libraries have continued with a view to their providing some visitor information services as happens elsewhere in the county. The first library to deliver this activity in Mid Suffolk will be Stowmarket with others (perhaps including Needham Market Library) to follow depending upon success. The Tourist Information Centre in Stowmarket has closed. Needham Lake Visitor Centre/Café The ‘Open for Business’ team on MSDC will continue to progress the feasibility work for Needham Lake Visitor Centre/Café. Litter Innovation Fund The pilot has been extended. Initial feedback has indicated that since the level of rubbish in bins has been monitored this has greatly assisted the teams to deploy staff resources where they are actually needed. Several parish councils have expressed an interest in buying the special bins as the new design is encouraging more people to place their rubbish in the bins rather than around them. Environment strategy for Mid Suffolk Council Wendy attended this discussion to produce an Environmental Policy Statement for the council which could cover subjects such as: population, housing, air quality, climate change, bio diversity culture, landscape, transport, connectivity, health and well-being, sports facilities, waste, recycling and tree planting. So obviously quite wide ranging!
gritters has seen more than 2,000 residents back names like: Gritty Gritty Bang Bang, Frosty the Snow Van, Gritty McGritface and Spready Mercury. Submitted on November 23 Housing Strategy/Community Involvement There was a workshop for Mid Suffolk District Councillors on this subject on Tuesday, November 6. Mid Suffolk has produced a draft Joint Homelessness Reduction Strategy for 2019-24, which is suggesting using the private rented sector to try and provide more affordable houses. However, since the draft strategy was written, the government has changed the rules by lifting the cap which local councils can borrow to build more council houses, so this completely ‘moves the gaol posts’ for the draft strategy. Universal Credit Wendy is going to put the following question to Mid Suffolk’s Full Council: “How much has Mid Suffolk’s rent arrears increased since the roll out of Universal Credit? And how many evictions have there been?” Figures obtained by BBC Panorama have revealed that in Flintshire, one of the first areas in the UK to roll out Universal Credit, council tenants on the combined benefit owed six times as much rent as those on the old system with evictions up 55 per cent on the previous year. Across all areas where the new benefit has been rolled out, those on Universal Credit owed an average of £662.56, more than double the average of £262.50 owed by those on housing benefit. Richard Watts from the LGA warned that “if councils faced sharp increases in rent arrears, the reduced income will hit the number of council homes being built across the country at a time when we desperately need more genuine affordable housing.” (The Independent, 13 November 2018)
Mid Suffolk’s Memorial Oaks Mike and his wife Sheila attended a ceremony on Friday, November 2 at The Meadow, Wells Way, Debenham to witness the planting of the final sapling oak tree of seven to commemorate the centenary of the ending of the First World War. This was an initiative promoted by the Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk and the British Legion as a living memorial to all who paid the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War, particularly members of the Suffolk Regiment. The trees that were chosen were fastigiate oaks, which will grow in a columnar shape and the leaves of which will turn a fiery red in the autumn, to emulate the Flanders poppies.
Event to commemorate the end of the First World War Needham Market Entertainment Company are to be complimented on the absolutely memorable evening they provided – it was very moving and extremely well done. We are very fortunate in Needham Market to have such a wonderful group.
Fireworks Night Congratulations to Needham Market Community Council for the splendid torchlight procession and marvellous fireworks display they organised. It was wonderful to see so many families and children enjoying the evening together.
Locality Award If any local voluntary organisation would like to apply for a locality award, Mike or Wendy can send you an application form, which must be completed and returned to them well before the end of December.
A name for gritters On a lighter note, a public vote originated by Shropshire Council to name 24
A CHRISTMAS CHALLENGE! Use your detecting skills to ‘Spot The Odd One Out’ in the Mayor’s Christmas Challenge in Needham Market. From December 1 somewhere in the windows of shops in Needham Market will be an object that isn’t sold in that shop and shouldn’t be in ‘that’ window. Can you spot it? Collect your detective’s recording sheet from Needham Market Post Office or Needham Market Hardware and DIY and see how many you can find. For more information contact Sheila Norris: 01440 720871 / sheila_norris@hotmail.co.uk
MINECRAFT CLUB If you are the parent of an autistic child who enjoys Minecraft, then come along to our Minecraft Club held fortnightly on Fridays at Needham Market Internet Café from 5.30-7.30pm. It’s just £2 per child and a hot food menu is available. The next session is on Friday, December 14. For more information contact Dawn Spurling: 01449 401443
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Remembrance Sunday The service in Needham Market Community Centre was very well attended, and well organised by all of those involved; and afterwards the laying of the wreaths at the War Memorial at the church yard.
Mid Suffolk District Councillors Mike Norris: mike.norris@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720871 Wendy Marchant: wendy.marchant@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720965
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE This month it’s all about Christmas! We’ve launched our reverse advent calendar to collect festive food donations for Stowmarket Foodbank. Buy one item a day, put it in a box and then bring your collection to the Christmas Lunch.
The December Coffee Morning will include a Christmas Bazaar on Friday, December 7 at Needham Market Community Centre starting at 10am for you to stock up on gifts or treat yourself. Christmas Lunch will be at noon on Friday, December 14 at the Shepherd and Dog, Onehouse. Don’t forget our second business exhibition MSBE2 on March 27 at The Mix in Stowmarket. Have you booked a stand yet? Do you want to ensure you get a goody bag? Sign up as a visitor to make sure. To find out more go to: https://msbe.biz
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NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM District Councillor for Creeting St Peter and Stowupland Locality Grants I still have a very small proportion of my locality budget available to be used for any project in the village which will benefit the community of Creeting St Peter. Please get in touch with me if you have something in mind. Tree for Life scheme A Green Party initiative funded from MSDC’s 2018/2019 budget, the scheme encourages the planting of a tree for new born and newly adopted children. All families within Mid Suffolk who have received a new family member between 1 January and 31 December 2018 are welcome to apply for a free tree to celebrate a new life or adoption. The scheme aims to encourage the planting of trees and promote the benefits which trees bring to communities. For details and an application form visit: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/news/midsuffolk-offers-new-arrivals-a-tree-for-life Investment in Stowmarket I am pleased to see that the council is investing in Stowmarket (rather than just investing in warehouses and shops in other parts of the country). Having purchased the former NatWest bank, Mid Suffolk has recently acquired the building formerly occupied by food store chain Aldi and more recently by Family Bargains, including its car park on Gipping Way. We are waiting to see what the plans will be for the building, but the Council will now be managing and collecting revenue from parking on the site. Work on the car park has started and is expected to take approximately two weeks. Gateway 14 As chair of the council’s Scrutiny Committee, and as the local councillor, I am asking for details of the business plan for the development to be available. Development details will need to be taken through the planning process so that all reserved matters can be considered. I will keep you informed as and when more information becomes available. We need to make sure that measures are put in place to prevent extra traffic using unsuitable local roads as rat runs to the site. Poundfield Products Residents of the Creetings and surrounding area should be aware of the planning application by Poundfield Products for the continued use of land for storage of vehicles and concrete products. Although the statutory period for consultation is over, if you would like to comment on the proposal, please let me know or contact MSDC Planning Department direct. The application number is DC/18/04666. Consultations The district council are currently consulting on a Home’s Strategy and a Homelessness Reduction Strategy. Consultation on both will end on December 7. It is hoped that, before the end of 2018, consultation will begin on a Community Strategy. Next up will be the consultation on the Babergh and Mid Suffolk Joint Local Plan; this will be a key document to help prevent inappropriate speculative housing developments obtaining planning permission.
Energy and Water Efficient Homes The first motion that I put to council after my election in 2015 was to propose that MSDC draw up plans for energy efficient council homes. Conservative councillors were against my proposal and voted instead ‘to investigate how to achieve the aspiration’ to build energy efficient homes. No progress has been made towards achieving that aspiration and so, at the October meeting of council, I called upon the Cabinet Member for Housing to give a firm commitment. All I have received so far is a response that the council has built 38 new council homes in the last three years, none to the standard that I have been seeking, and a statement in the draft Homes Strategy that, in the period 2019 to 2024, the development of an energy efficient standard for some new builds will be explored. So, by 2024, MSDC may well have taken nine years and still not built a single new home to a high standard of energy efficiency. Five-Year Land Supply for New Housing Developments Members were given a briefing recently following the planning inspector’s decision to allow an appeal made by a developer against MSDC’s decision to refuse an application for 49 homes in open agricultural land south of Woolpit. Rachel Eburne, leader of the opposition group, asked again that extra staff be appointed to ensure as far as possible that developments which have been permitted come forward to construction rather than sit in a land bank or stall due to the slow pace of negotiations between relevant parties. Once again we were told that existing staff would be covering this extra work. Our fear is that other planning work could be delayed or be less effective if extra staff are not taken on. Scrutiny Committee In the next few months, some major issues will be matters for the Scrutiny Committee, which I chair. One of these will be the business case for the development of the land in Needham Market where the MSDC HQ buildings and car parks currently are. I am hoping to see a high standard of housing, including units for sale and for social rent. The refuse collection contract is due to be renewed, either by negotiated extension or re-tendering; likewise the recycling contract, and the contract for provision of Leisure Facilities at our sports centres at Stowmarket and Stradbroke. The business cases and contract procedures for all these are likely to come to the Scrutiny Committee early in 2019. It is the job of the committee to question the work of cabinet members and officers to ensure that they give good service to residents in a lawful, effective and costeffective way. Needham Lake Needham Lake is one of the most popular free all-year-round visitor attractions in the East of England, but it has very limited facilities for visitors. I welcome proposals by MSDC to provide more facilities, especially an outlet offering a variety of refreshments, better toilets and more on-site supervision. Keith Welham keith.welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 673185
STOWMARKET CHORALE On Saturday, November 3, Stowmarket Chorale, formed in 1901, performed Handel’s Messiah in their first concert under recently appointed music director Tom Appleton. Although the choir has performed this piece before, Tom brought his own interpretation to this well-known music. The audience heard the choir sing For unto us a Child is Born and Hallelujah, amongst others, interspersed by solo pieces such as Ev’ry Valley and The Trumpet Shall Sound by the soprano and bass soloists. The choir was complemented by a string quartet, our regular accompanist on harpsichord
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and a trumpet player who took a prominent place in the pulpit. The fireworks display going on outside added some unexpected sound effects! Under Tom’s guidance, the choir seems to have found a new energy and enthusiasm. Rehearsals are a lively affair, bringing the music ‘off the page’, which resulted in a moving concert. To their delight the choir received a standing ovation. Tom’s hard work with the choir has obviously paid off! The choir will next be performing at The Apex in Bury St. Edmunds on December 1 for BBC Radio Suffolk as part of Children in Need, where they’ll be singing a selection from the Messiah and various carols. In March 2019 they will be back for a concert at Stowmarket Parish Church to sing Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem in German. For more information about the choir, please contact choir secretary Mary Payne: secretary@stowmarketchorale.org.uk
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NEWS
WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE STARS OF BABERGH AND MID SUFFOLK AWARDS The winners of the Stars of Babergh and Mid Suffolk Awards have been announced following a night of glamour and celebrations on Thursday, October 18.
Community Project of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Inspire Suffolk’s Princes Trust Team at Stowmarket Finalist: Search for the Stars
The finalists gathered at St Mary’s Church in Hadleigh for a star-studded event to celebrate their outstanding efforts in the community. The awards received over 150 entries and the church was packed with businesses and individuals who have all played a vital role in making the districts what they are today.
Sporting Achievement of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Sudbury Cricket Club Finalist: Kelly Mires, Hadleigh Stars Gymnastics
FULL LIST OF WINNERS AND FINALISTS Business in the Community Award – Babergh Winner: Manish Patel, Shotley Stores Winner: Mukunthan Thurairajah (Muku) Business in the Community Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Cabbages & Kings and the Mix Finalist: Orbital Media Business Growth Award – Babergh Winner: Suffolk Market Events Finalist: Hollingsworths Store & Butchers, Chelmondiston Finalist: Stour Sort & Sparkle Business Growth Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Ocala Finalist: C&K Meats Ltd Community Group of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Stutton Community Shop CIC Finalist: Ansell Memories Café Community Group of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Information Line Volunteers – Suffolk Family Carers Winner: Talk & Support Volunteers – Suffolk Family Carers Community Spirit of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Joes Golf & Activity Park Finalist: Shotley & Erwarton Good Neighbour Scheme Community Spirit of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Redgrave Community Society Finalist: Radio Stradbroke Best Community Achievement Award – Babergh Winner: Team Together Tuesday Finalist: Kernos Centre (KERNOS) Best Community Achievement Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Courthouse Café Volunteers Finalist: Stradbroke Good Neighbours Community Project of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Lavenham Community Land Trust Finalist: Diane Chase & Audrey Lorford, producers of Hintlesham & Chattisham, The Story of Two Suffolk Villages
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Sporting Achievement of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Mark Trent, Scorpion Martial Arts Academy Finalist: Tim Carr, Claydon FC Community Champion of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Norman Bugg, Community Volunteer Finalist: Janet Dicks, Hollywood, Ansell Centre, Hadleigh Community Champion of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Irene Davis, Community Volunteer Finalist: Roger Rehan, Founding Trustee of Mid Suffolk CA Finalist: David Goodlad, Community Volunteer Volunteer of the Year – Babergh Winner: Will Hunt, Cornard Dynamos Finalist: Jane Snowdon, Community Volunteer Volunteer of the Year - Mid Suffolk Winner: Carol Prybus & Chris Brook, Stowmarket Rookery Bowls Group Special Recognition – Babergh Winner: Caroll Reeve, Lavenham Community Volunteer Special Recognition - Mid Suffolk Winner: Kat Terry, Community Volunteer Overall Star – Babergh Winner: Will Hunt, Cornard Dynamos Overall Star - Mid Suffolk Winner: Redgrave Community Society Councillor Julie Flatman, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Last night was about celebrating the real heroes and heroines who’ve done so much in our districts. We feel so proud to be able to offer these awards to recognise such outstanding achievements. We couldn’t have done it without any of our nominees or sponsors so well done to everyone involved.” Councillor Margaret Maybury, Babergh District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We’ve been able to celebrate those who do amazing things throughout our towns and villages, often unnoticed. This exciting and important work helps our communities thrive and makes a big impact in out districts. The look on people’s faces last night when they received their awards made the event and I’m sure that the happiness and memories will resonate long after the music and lights went down. Congratulations to all.
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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Autumn shutdown Between October 1 and 19 the facility completed its second shutdown for 2018. These planned shutdowns take place twice a year to ensure the facility continues to run efficiently. During this shutdown, inspections were carried out inside the furnaces, and repairs were carried out within the boiler. A new belt was installed on the conveyor which transports bottom ash from the furnace to the building where it is sorted for recycling. School bookings for 2019 The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is taking bookings for the New Year. Why not book your school in for a visit? Classes of up to 30 students from Key Stage 2 and above are welcome to visit the facility and explore how we make use of Suffolk’s household waste. During the visit, students will be given
THE REGAL IN DECEMBER Christmas is finally upon us, which at the Regal means one thing… PANTOMIME! The Stowmarket Operatic and Dramatic Society bring their new take on the classic Dick Whittington pantomime to the theatre from December 4-9. Tickets will be in short supply so don’t leave it too late. This month there is a rare opportunity to see two classic Christmas movies on the big screen, with charity screenings of The Polar Express and Home Alone on November 30. On December 10 country music legend Stephen Smith returns to the Regal as part of his national tour. The National Theatre brings us a recorded live screening of Antony and Cleopatra from their Olivier Stage on December 20. This re-telling of the Shakespeare classic stars Ralph Fiennes and Sophie Okonedo. Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald: starring Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law and Johnny Depp. The second instalment of the Fantastic Beasts series set in J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world. Bohemian Rhapsody: starring Rami Malek and Lucy Boynton. A chronicle of the years leading up to Queen’s legendary appearance at Live Aid. Nutcracker and the Four Realms: starring Keira Knightley, Morgan Freeman and Helen Mirren. A young girl is transported into a magical world of gingerbread soldiers and an army of mice. Widows: starring Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez and Liam Neeson. Four women with nothing in common except a debt left behind by their dead husbands’ criminal activities, take fate into their own hands and conspire to forge a future on their own terms. Robin Hood: starring Taron Egerton, Jamie Foxx and Jamie Dornan. A warhardened crusader and his Moorish commander mount an audacious revolt against the corrupt English crown. The Grinch: voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, Rashida Jones and Pharrell Williams. From the makers of the Despicable Me and Minions movies, a grumpy Grinch plots to ruin Christmas for the village of Whoville. Nativity Rocks: voiced by Ruth Jones, Celia Imrie and Hugh Dennis. The staff and students from St Bernadette’s Primary School in Coventry audition for a place in a rock musical competition. Ralph Breaks the Internet: voiced by John C Reilly, Sarah Silverman and Gal Gadot. Six years after the events of Wreck-It Ralph, Ralph and Vanellope, now friends, discover a Wi-Fi router in their arcade, leading them into a new adventure. Mary Poppins Returns: starring Emily Blunt, Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and Julie Walters. Decades after her original visit, the magical nanny returns to help the Banks siblings and Michael’s children through a difficult time. We’d like to wish all of our customers past and present a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
a tour of the facility and have a chance to explore our specially designed interactive visitor centre. Visits can be tailored to meet specific requirements to ensure the experience is suitable for students from Key Stage 2 up to Higher Education level. If you would like to discuss what we can offer, please get in touch via the details provided below. If you have any queries about our operations, please don’t hesitate to contact us at: 01473 839149 / suffolkefw.uk@suez.com OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Book a visit: 01473 836149 / suffolkefw.uk@suez.com Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE & CHARITY SHOP We are delighted with the response to our appeal for the Father Frost Special Delivery program. Many people have pledged to send a Christmas stocking to a Chernobyl child and we are very grateful for all the support given to us for this program. We will travel to Belarus on December 28 with the children who will have visited for December and spend nine days distributing all the stockings to disadvantaged children in outlying villages and in the children’s hospitals. We are still looking for hosts for our 2019 program; although it seems a long way off much preparation has to be done both here and in Belarus to allow the children to come. Next year’s visit will be from June 30 to July 28 and we would ask that anyone interested about finding out more about the program gets in touch with us as soon as possible for an initial discussion. A reminder about our forthcoming events: We are holding a Christmas themed Chocolate Bingo event on December 15 at Stowmarket Football Club. Tickets are already selling strongly so make sure to get yours in plenty of time. Tickets (£6 / £4 for under-10s) are available from our charity shop in Needham Market or directly from the football club. The charity continues to enjoy your support and for that we are extremely grateful. Please remember, if you are having a clear-out before Christmas, all those unwanted gifts you have put away and don’t know what to do with make fantastic raffle prizes for our fundraising. We regularly receive new donations to our charity shop in Needham Market and stock is frequently rotated so the shop is well worth a visit. We provide regular updates regarding new items of interest via our shop Facebook page so keep checking back there. Donations are especially welcome at this time of year as we may be able to use some items for the children who arrive in December, or those that we are taking presents to at the end of the year on our Father Frost program. We are starting to build a really good stock of eveningwear for that special big night out during the festive season. Why spend a fortune when you can pick up something ‘nearly new’ instead? As always we are extremely grateful for your support of our children and we can assure you that every penny raised stays in Mid Suffolk to use for the benefit of our local link and the children and families we support in Belarus. Elizabeth Parker, Link Chair CCLL Mid Suffolk 01449 760343 / www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
www.regalstowmarket.co.uk
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NEWS DICK WHITTINGTON December 4-9 at the Regal Theatre, Stowmarket
NEEDHAM SESSIONS MONTHLY OPEN MIC NIGHT Since June this year I have been running a monthly open mic at Needham Community Centre. Since then we have seen many talented folk come and perform for us. We have had poetry readings, Karaoke singers, singer-songwriters, rock and roll bands and even a lady with a cello! As we head into darker and colder evenings I look forward to hosting many more performers. If you have never been to an open mic before, it’s a great place to ‘have a go’.
Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society’s panto is creeping closer! Here are our junior rats trying out their costumes. Will they stop Dick becoming Lord Mayor of London? Come along and find out from December 4 at The Regal. All tickets are £10 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Get your tickets from 01449 612825 or online at: www.regalstowmarket.co.uk
GIPPING WOMEN’S CLUB We meet at 7.45pm on Tuesday evenings during school term time at Needham Market Bowls Club, Crowley Park, Barretts Lane, Needham Market IP6 8BX. We are a friendly club with members from Needham Market and surrounding villages such as the Creetings. We always welcome new members to all our meetings and events and you can phone beforehand or just turn up one Tuesday evening. Our meetings consist of a talk, demonstration or activity followed by refreshments. This month we have Christmas Dinner at The Crown on December 4 and a Christmas Party with Crafts on December 11. In mid-November Hattie Bennett had problems finding us so we juggled the evening around and started with our tea. She was well worth waiting for as her talk about life playing the cello was fascinating and illustrated with appropriate tunes. We are trialling having no meetings in January so the New Year programme will restart on February 5. For information, please call Stephanie Wiggins: 01449 723440
Most people who attend will be supportive to those getting up on stage for the first time. We get all kinds of performer, from those getting up on stage for the first time to professional musicians. We have a full PA available, so you can rock up, plug in and rock out. If you want to sing along to your own sound tracks we can plug your laptop or phone into the PA. Even if you can’t perform, where else can you enjoy half a dozen live acts for the price of a pint (or two)? On December 20 we will be staging our Christmas party session; come and join us. For more information contact Martin: 07756 575158
A JOLLY, JINGLING CHRISTMAS What are you doing at 7.30pm on Tuesday, December 11? Forget about sitting in your old armchair watching the same old TV programmes. Come along to the United Reformed Church, Stowmarket where you will receive a warm welcome from the Jubilee Ladies Choir, our conductor Simon Welham and accompanist Calvin Goymer. For your evening’s entertainment we will be singing a selection of seasonal music. Tickets are £7 and include light refreshments. There will also be a raffle. Tickets can be purchased by ringing 01449 736374/723424 or at the door. Why not take a look at our Facebook page where you can listen to our rehearsal and concert tracks?
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB There will not be a meeting in December, but instead the club’s Christmas Party will take place on Wednesday, December 5 at Stowmarket Golf Club
REINDEER RAMPAGE Christmas Eve was unusually mild this year, so Father Christmas turned out the reindeer into the paddock for some well-earned exercise before their great efforts the next day. As reindeer are want to do, fun and games soon followed, with much chasing and rough and tumble. Blixen scurried after Vixen, who bumped into Dancer, who in turn sent Prancer flying and crashing into the paddock gate, which slowly swung open. Someone had forgotten to lock it!
The neighbour maintained a convincing rant and urged Father Christmas to be more careful, but was secretly glad because he didn’t really like Brussels sprouts anyway, and when he thought about it bit more, if there were no Brussels sprouts, at least they wouldn’t have to go through that incident with the fire brigade when Uncle Fred ate too many three years ago. The whole incident had to be reported to Mrs Christmas, of course. “You really must be more careful with that sort of thing,” she said. “This could have been a costly mistake,” she added, while clutching the paddock gate key tightly in her pocket, just in case it should fall out, or worse, be seen by Father Christmas.
Seizing their chance, the reindeer charged forth out of the gate and into the next-door neighbour’s vegetable patch. Within minutes, each reindeer was soon munching their way through the crop of Brussels sprouts, grown especially for Christmas dinner. On seeing this, Father Christmas’s neighbour flew out of his back door and yelled to Father Christmas to collect his animals immediately before they caused any more damage, which Father Christmas did as quickly as possible, fearing that he would be liable for the costs as he was responsible.
Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk
Gudgeons Prentice wish all our clients and everybody we work with a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
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OUT & ABOUT ROTARY CLUB OF STOWMARKET GIPPING VALLEY The Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley is once again organising their annual concert of Choirs and Christmas Trees at the Parish Church of St Peter and St Mary in Stowmarket. This year they are pleased to welcome the return of the Suffolk Rock Choir who have proved to be ever-popular, and for the first time Ipswich based Stella Acappella who are gaining a reputation as a very accomplished choir. This year’s supported charity is Age UK and, of course, other local good causes. The date for your diary is Friday, December 14 with doors opening at 6.30pm for a 7.15pm start. Tickets are £10 and are available from the Age UK shop on Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, at In Harmony, 33 High Street, Needham Market or from the organiser Arnie Bennett: a.bennett16@btinternet.com The Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley meets fortnightly on Thursday evenings at the Cedars Hotel and members of the public are very welcome to come along to sample one of our lively meetings. Further details can be obtained from Arnie Bennett (email above).
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB In October each year we mark International Day of the Girl Child by writing to our MPs (we happen to have club members in four constituencies). Remembering the talk by Maureen Reynel of Families in Need, we used the opportunity this year to urge them to press for free sanitary products for girls up to 18. This would save many from missing school. Linda Pepper, Director of the Oasis English Language School, talked about their work with students from 27 countries, many wanting to learn English in order to integrate into society here. We decided to make a grant from our Education Bursary Fund to buy course books. For Ipswich women the highlight of the year was the Women’s Voices, Women’s Vote celebration. One of our members was involved in organising the short story competition, another was included in the list of 100 special women featured in the countdown to the event and on the day we raffled a quilt on our stall in aid of Lighthouse. It will be an honour to welcome the Mayor of Ipswich to our next meeting. Meanwhile we haven’t forgotten that we are a worldwide organisation. Our delegate has just returned from our annual international conference with reports of discussions on climate change and mental health issues for women with a call for action from Soroptimist clubs. Something to get our teeth into in 2019! If you would like to know more please contact Joyce: 01394 615659
STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday, December 2: 6 mile walk around Stowmarket via Harleston Church. Park and meet at Stowmarket Football Club at 10.30am / GR. TM 046596. Leader: 01449 612093 Sunday, December 9: 5 mile walk in Dedham Vale followed by Carol Service at Lawford. Park and meet in the car park near Red Lion pub in East Bergholt at 10am / GR. TM 068347. Leader: 07519 164931 Sunday, December 16: Short walk around Thornham Estate. Park and meet at Thornham Walks Centre car park (fee payable) at 10.30am. Leader: 07919 350170 Sunday, December 23: 4.5 mile walk in Great Barton village and countryside. Park and meet at Great Barton Village Hall (opposite garage on A143) at 10.30am / GR. TL 894670. Leader: 07795 574762 Sunday, December 30: 10 or 6 mile walk along Felixstowe Prom. For longer walk park and meet at Landguard Point Visitors Centre (GR. TM 284322) at 10am and for shorter walk park in town where legal and meet at Felixstowe Pier at 10.50am. Lunch at one of the Felixstowe Ferry cafés or bring a picnic. Leader: 01449 781917
STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB A number of members took part in the Felixstowe Congress in early October. Two teams in the Swiss teams of four competition, both containing Stowmarket members, tied for first place; David Willson and Simon Riley made up half of one of one winning team while Norman Less was a member of the other. David Willson and Simon Riley came top in the qualifying heat of the Pairs Championship and a very creditable seventh in the final with Sam and Bim Wilson coming tenth. Jan Wynne and Jim Sawyer came seventh in the Consolation Final with John Heath and Caro Hunt eighth. New Stowmarket members Alison and Conrad Simons won the Really Easy Pairs. On November 9 club members will take part in a nationwide simultaneous pairs competition in aid of Children in Need. On November 23 the club is holding a teams of four competition in which members of other clubs are invited to take part, while on December 16 the duplicate pairs session will be accompanied by festive drinks and bites. Stowmarket’s final position in the county summer league for teams of eight depends on the result of one outstanding match, but whichever way that finishes Stowmarket while finish mid-table, a creditable position for one of the smaller clubs. Visitors and new members are welcome. For more details contact Arthur Winchester on 01449 612105 or visit: www.bridgewebs.com/stowmarket Mervyn Pearson
STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday, December 5: The Angel Roofs of East Anglia by Michael Rimmer Angel roofs – elaborate timber structures adorned with carvings of angels – were often too difficult for Reformation iconoclasts to reach. As a result, they comprise the largest surviving body of major English medieval wood sculpture. Michael Rimmer’s talk will show the artistry and architecture of these inaccessible and little-studied medieval artworks and explain how they were made and why. Small contributions of festive fare will be very welcome. We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ where there is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members. Please note that we do not meet in January but have an exciting programme in store for 2019. For more information, contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS NEEDHAM MARKET & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY In October, a party of members had a delicious annual dinner in the restaurant at Stonham Barns. Thanks go to all who made this an enjoyable evening. For our final meeting of the year, we were given month by month advice from Martyn Davey on how to look after our lawns. This was appropriate as most of our lawns had succumbed to the heat of the summer. The programme for 2019 was distributed with some entertaining talks and interesting visits planned. Don’t miss 50 Shades of Green in July! The first meeting of the year will be the AGM on February 7. There will be a talk by Jaime Blake entitled Alan Bloom, Thinker and Doer, followed by the AGM. New members are always welcomed. The following meeting in March will be Roses A-Z with Simon White. Meetings are usually held on the first Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the community centre. We have varied, interesting and entertaining speakers, refreshments and a bring-and-buy plant stall. We also organise coach trips and evening visits to local places of interest. If you are interested, just turn up at one of the meetings or visit: www.nmdhs.onesuffolk.net Happy Christmas to all!
The containers have been planted and the pansies are already looking great. Our thanks have been sent to Woolpit Nurseries for providing some really good quality plants this year. The Sensory Garden has been tidied, and the small pile of rubble that was fly tipped on the centre bed has been disposed of. We happily give our time to maintain our areas and it is disappointing when we find litter or any other damage. To keep up the work, we will be looking into fundraising options for next year – any suggestions or help would be welcomed. The date of out AGM will be published in the February edition. Happy Christmas to all. Our meetings are usually on the last Saturday of the month in the community centre at 10am.
STONHAM ASPAL CEVAP SCHOOL
If you would like to join us, or offer help, please contact Vera: 723424
We’ve been very busy as you will see below. Girls Football Tournament
We travelled to Framlingham to attend the High Suffolk Girls Football Tournament on October 4. Our team competed really successfully, showing great team work, creativity and perseverance to win the tournament. The children were so pleased. They shared their achievements in our celebration assembly and showed the school the medals and certificates that they had received. Well done to the whole team and thank you to Mrs Corsie for organising the team. Bawdsey Manor Residential A great time was had by all on our residential visit to PGL Bawdsey Manor. The children did a wide range of activities in a beautiful venue with predominantly super weather. They tried hard to work well together as a team and to be independent and resilient, and were often complimented for their good listening behaviour. History Day
Miss Ruddock, our history co-ordinator organised a visit from Portals to the Past on October 31 to help the children understand more about Remembrance and how special this year is. Our visitor was fabulous. He brought a wide range of artefacts with him to share with the children and kept them enthralled for the whole of their session. Thank you to all the parents, carers and children for supporting this day by dressing up as a child from the time of the First World War.
If you are deciding which school you should send your child to, we think you would choose our school. We are extremely proud of what we achieve. We have been recognised by the diocese as ‘Outstanding’ and by OFSTED as a ‘Good School’. Please feel free to contact the school office to book a visit at a time that is convenient to you. www.stonhamaspal.suffolk.sch.uk
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HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to a visit from The Rev Carl Merville who will be sharing the Christmas story with the children, and a trip to the New Wolsey Theatre to see The Ballard of Rudy. The children have been practising Christmas songs along with Makaton which they will be singing to the parents/ carers at our Christmas performance, and of course we finish with a visit from Santa. We are a small, rural and friendly setting based at Henley Community Centre. We pride ourselves on high levels of staff to children ratios and therefore providing the maximum care and learning for the children. All staff are highly trained and continue with regular training to build their knowledge further. We provide an extensive range of resources and activities to suit all ages and abilities, ensuring all levels of development and play within the EYFS are explored. Parents play the most important role in children’s lives so we work closely together to ensure we work in partnership. We also hold stay and play sessions each term that are very well supported by parents/carers. Session places are currently available. We accept eligible 30-hour funded children plus two and three-year-old funded. We are open term time only. For further information please call 01473 833848 during session time (9am-3pm) or email Bridget Wyatt, our manager, at: enquiries@henleypreschool.com Bridget and the team
TUESDAY TOTS Calling all mothers, grans and carers! Come along to The Ark on King William Street on Tuesday mornings from 9.30-11am in term time for fun, crafts, songs and stories for your little ones. Only £1 per family to include refreshments.
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SPORT SCORPION ACADEMY It has been a very busy time for Scorpion Academy with our family fun day at the Hunt Outdoor Centre. We started with a short martial arts training session followed by tree planting where everyone had the chance to name lots of trees, a barbecue fed everyone then games of laser tag finished off the fun day. Such was the success of this family fun day we plan to make it an annual event. Hunt Outdoor Centre along with Scorpion Academy can host laser tag events, outdoor martial arts training and team building events. Three members of Scorpion Academy recently travelled to Brigg near Scunthorpe to take their blackbelt upgrades. After a long and hard day of physical and mental training which saw nearly 30 students on the floor, the following were presented with their new grades: Master Josh Trent – 4th Dan in Kickboxing, Sam Corsie – 2nd Dan in Universal Karate, Chief Master Andy Lewis – 6th Dan in Universal Karate and 5th Dan in Kickboxing. The grading was also made very special with a visit from one of the founders of the British Taekwondo Association, Grandmaster Lee Chee Kin – 9th degree blackbelt. The grandmaster was very impressed by the standard of everyone taking their blackbelts and mentioned that it was an honour to be at the gradings. Not only is Grandmaster Lee Chee Kin a very famous tae kwon do master, back in his prime he was a top kickboxer and trainer having worked with names like Chuck Norris, Simon Rhee and the legend Bruce Lee. Five senior members recently took part in the Mount Snowdon martial arts challenge which saw them travel to Wales where they spent time rock climbing and sightseeing before the climb. We are planning to run challenges like this on a regular basis next year. Eleven members travelled to Sheffield to attend the BTA and UFKKWA British Invitational Championships. We came away with a gold medal and a title for Danielle Kay in the ladies kickboxing section, silver medals for Master Dave Fell in kata and Grandmaster Mark JR Trent in veterans sparring, a silver medal in ladies sparring for Hayley Langley, silver for India Langley in girls sparring, bronze medals in sparring for Ben Langley, Josh Smith, Ash Abbott and Christian Graham and special attendance medals to Chief Master Andy Lewis and Grandmaster Mark JR Trent for specialist kata and to Will Ribbons for sparring. Scorpion Academy was awarded the Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Council Sporting Achievement Award 2018. Mark JR Trent had been nominated and, much to his surprise, he won the category which was great news for the academy and for all members past and present who have made it such a special place to train, make friends and achieve. Scorpion Academy has been running for nearly 30 years and takes great pride in the high standard of martial arts that it has to offer. Top quality tuition in universal karate, tae kwon do, kickboxing and muay thai means that there is something for everyone. We offer one month free to all new members and we look forward to meeting you. All main classes run out of the Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre with a junior karate class running at Needham Market Community Centre on Tuesday afternoons. For further information please contact Mark JR Trent: 07708 644162 / scorpion.ufkkwa@gmail.com
STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB It’s up! Our winter airhall, or ‘dome’, was successfully installed on October 19 after a very long day. More than a dozen volunteer club members came along to lend many hands, but a particularly huge thank you to David Stamp and Carol Clements for working right through until tea time in order to help get the job completed. It’s a wonderful facility, very rare to find in a club of relatively modest size, and is something that many larger and more expensive tennis clubs can’t offer. The dome enables three of our five courts to be virtually winter-proof and have uninterrupted play right through the coldest, wettest months of the year. Let’s just keep our fingers crossed that if any snow comes our way we only get a couple of centimetres! Competitive play is in top gear at the moment with many of our members involved in the Ipswich & District Winter League. Each match involves home and away ties so any home advantage is balanced across the fixture. We have particularly slow, bouncy macadam courts here but some clubs, such as David Lloyd, have incredibly fast carpet. It often takes quite a while to ‘tune in’ to the different surface and often the only way to be totally at ease is to play for an hour or two every day for a week. Not possible when you’re visiting the away club for just one match, but something the pros do regularly before starting a tournament. Good luck to all our doubles pairs as they chase wins and promotion for next season. The coaching program is also firing on all cylinders. The juniors are enjoying eight weeks of ‘open’ style coaching focussing on performance fundamentals – court position, footwork, targeting the shots, recovery, etc. Often it gets a bit too cold inside the dome to slow down and work through the nuances of technique so instead the sessions open up and we get the players moving constantly which keeps everyone nice and warm. Adult disco tennis is now on Saturdays only from 9-10am, which is a great way to start the weekend, burn a few calories (or pre-burn a few ready for the weekend!) and no tennis experience is required. The class is a superb way to try a bit of tennis, chase a load of balls, all while some fantastic disco tunes drive you along. Brand new faces get the first session for free so why not give it a bash? Lots going on, loads of activity, so all you have to do i s get in touch. See you on court. Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com / 07761 142372
CLAYDON & DISTRICT BADMINTON CLUB Why wait until the New Year to start getting a little more exercise? Why not get back into badminton right on your doorstep here at Claydon High School? Claydon & District Badminton Club is a social badminton club which meets on Monday nights from 7-9pm during school term time in Claydon High School Sports Hall. Although we are a popular club we have some space and you would be very welcome. If you fancy a game you can have a free taster session. Come along to meet us and have a few games at the Sports Hall on any Monday night during school term – our season started in September and we’ll have a short break over Christmas, but start again in January. For more information visit our website or get in touch with C&DBC chairman Dik Langan: claydonbadminton@dnacomputing.co.uk / 01473 830692 www.claydonbadminton@wordpress.com
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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB
ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH
We are now well into the indoor bowls season at the Meadlands; for information contact David Hindley on 01449 613144 or 07717 940270.
The Rev Diane Williams For baptisms, weddings and funerals please call: 01449 720316 / 07714 016554
But now to the most important events of the winter seasons, the socials! As you read this we will already have had our November social which was signing-on night for the 2019 season. If you missed it you can pay your membership at any of the following socials detailed below. Friday, December 17 from 7pm is our Christmas social. Various games will be played and the food will be sausage rolls and mince pies. It’s a good chance to dust off your Christmas jumpers and hats and to kick start the festive season. Raffle prizes would also be appreciated. Members £3, non-members £6. Friday, January 25 sees the return of the Stowmarket Strummers who are always a popular attraction so come along and enjoy an entertaining evening. Food will be sausages, jacket potatoes and beans and again raffle prizes would be appreciated. Members £3, non-members £6.
Churchwarden: Linda Ruby, 07940 581879 Ark Enquiries: 07940 581879 SERVICES FOR DECEMBER 2018 Sunday 2
Advent Sunday 10am Family Communion
Sunday 9
10am Sung Eucharist and Sunday Club 3.30pm Badley Carol Service
Sunday 16 10am 4pm
Sung Eucharist & Sunday Club Carol Service
Sunday 23 10am
Sung Eucharist
Further socials will be on February 22 and March 22 with the opening drive on April 13. Details will be published in a later article. Meet and Greet days will be Saturdays, April 27 and May 4 from 10.30am.
Monday 24 Christmas Eve 3.30pm Crib Service 11.30pm Midnight Eucharist
The way the green played came in for a lot of praise. It has now been put to bed but work will continue throughout the winter to ensure it is in the best possible condition for the 2019 season. Anyone interested in helping with the green will be warmly welcomed and should contact Alistair Bailie.
Meditation: Third Monday in the month at 43 Barking Road, 6pm
Anyone wishing to discuss any aspect of NMBC can contact either Alistair Bailie on 01449 720759 or Pat Hadden 01473 831308.
NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH
Tuesday 25 Christmas Day 10am Family Communion Sunday 30 10am
Sung Eucharist (No Sunday Club)
Pause for Prayer Group: Tuesday mornings in Church, 11am-noon Home Worship: First Monday of the month at 137 High Street Uvedale Hall Communion: Second Wednesday in month, 11.15am Mothers’ Union: Third Wednesday in the ARK, noon Uvedale Hall Bible Fellowship: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 11am
Sometimes people object to the words ‘Happy Xmas’ on Christmas cards or seasonal posters. To them it seems as though Christ has been removed from Christmas when they think he should have the first and central place.
Tuesday Tots: Tuesdays in the ARK, 9.30am (term time only)
I don’t know the origin of the word ‘Xmas’, but I do know that the first letter is not necessarily the 24th letter of our alphabet. It could also be ‘chi’, the 14th letter of the Greek alphabet, which appears as an ‘X’ in transliterated form. The significant thing about ‘chi’ is that it is an accepted abbreviation for the word ‘Christ’ because it is the first letter of the Greek word for Christ. Looked at this way, ‘Xmas’ doesn’t remove Christ from Christmas at all.
Saturday, November 24: Christmas Fayre at Needham Market Community Centre, 10.30am-12.30pm
I only mention this because perhaps some people are glad to see ‘Xmas’ instead of ‘Christmas’, because it helps them to forget about the baby who was born to be the saviour of the world. But as I’ve tried to show above, you can’t get rid of Jesus that easily. He’s there even when you think he isn’t!
HOME WORSHIP
The time will come when we shall all have to face him. There will be no hiding from him then. Peter Kinley SPECIAL DATES IN DECEMBER Missionary Meeting: Tuesday, December 4 at 7.30pm, when Paul Davies from the Albanian Evangelical Mission is due to be with us Christmas Services: Sunday, December 23 at 10.30am & 6.30pm and Christmas Day at 10.30am REGULAR MEETINGS Sunday Services: 10.30am & 6.30pm. Bible Study and Prayer Meeting: Tuesdays at 7.30pm For further information, if you require transport, or you would like a home visit, please contact Peter: 01394 271645 / 07570 558072 / peterkinley60@gmail.com www.needhamchurch.org.uk
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Christians Together: Thursday, Room 4, Christchurch Hall, 10.30am (term time only) Young People’s Group: Please see The Rev Diane Williams for details
Sunday, December 2: Castleton Brass Christmas Concert in Church at 3.30pm. Church open for refreshments after morning service until the concert www.needhammarketparishchurch.co.uk
Helen Woodroffe from the Diocescan Children’s Education Team led our Home Worship in November. She explained that nowadays schools have to teach ‘comparative religions’ – ‘What do Muslims believe?’, ‘What do Hindus believe?’, ‘What do Christians believe?’ and so on. How do you explain the incarnation to children? We, Christians, believe that God became man and dwelt among us. So how did God do that? He sent his son into the world as a baby – she had a baby doll in a cradle to illustrate this. Then, of course, the baby grew up to be a man, and she had a big picture of Jesus being baptised by John the Baptist, with the Holy Spirit represented by a dove above Him. What did Jesus teach? That we should love one another, even as God loves us. The children were asked who they loved and if they would like to send them a card with a personal message. They were then given a card to colour in and as Jesus died for us on the cross, they were also given a small wooden cross to hold. Finally a candle was lit for each of the children, representing a prayer for them. Our next Home Worship on, Monday, December 3 will be our special Christmas one, with Christmas decorations up and Christmas treats to eat. The Rev Diane Williams, our own vicar from Needham Market Parish Church, will be coming to lead. We meet at 10am at 137 High Street, Needham Market IP6 8DH. All welcome. Wendy Marchant
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CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist): 01449 612619
Scrabble Club: Monday from 2-4pm. New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871
Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am (including crèche and Sunday Club)
Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm. Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871
Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday
Christians Together: 10am-noon. Contact Tony Leigh Pollitt: 01449 403105
I was talking to someone the other day who told me her family had decided not to buy Christmas presents for the adults and only get gifts for the children, because ‘Christmas is for children’. What do you think about that? I assume this decision was partly made because buying for everyone becomes expensive, and partly because it’s difficult to know what to buy for ‘people who already have everything’.
Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon, always with cakes for sale
I appreciate those sentiments, but I do take issue with the assertion that Christmas is for children if that means it’s not for adults. Surely Christmas is for everyone. The story we hear each year contains words from an angel telling the shepherds to not be afraid because ‘I am here with good news for you, which will bring great joy to all the people’. All the people – not only the children! Maybe the problem is that we tend to focus on the material side of Christmas and we make judgements about the perceived success of Christmas by the gifts we or our children receive. Yet many of us remember Christmases of our childhood – perhaps through rose tinted glasses – when life seemed so much simpler. Yes, we had a present, but there was more to Christmas than material gifts. It was special, we had been anticipating it, excitement had been bubbling and brewing – it was time to spend with our family and neighbours. And if we were fortunate it was indeed a time of great joy. So as we think about Christmas this year, can I ask you to think about who Christmas is for? It is for everyone. And maybe, if you are able to do something like support a charity, look in on housebound neighbours, perhaps even come to church, you will discover the great joy the angel talked about.
OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Saturday 8-10am Yoga: Monday 6.45-8.45pm / Wednesday 9.15-11.15am Moosical Moo: Sing, dance and play for 0-5s, Tuesday from 9.15am-noon in term time Osteo Stretch & Exercise: Tuesday 12.30-1.30pm Karate: Tuesday 6.30-8.30pm Karate: Wednesday 5.30-7.30pm (term time) Karate: Friday 6.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday 6.30-7.30pm (term time) Exercise Classes: Friday 9-10.30am HALL LETTINGS There are spaces available for hire. To arrange a visit to view or for further information ring: 07857 742847 CHURCH CONTACT: Lindsey Gomez, 01449 722418 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk
Joy, love and peace to you all this Christmas Reverend Mary Playford Special Services for Christmas Crib Service at Christchurch: Thursday. December 13 at 5pm Carol Service at St John the Baptist Church: Sunday, December 16 at 4pm Christmas Day Service at Christchurch: 10.30am In January Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Service Sunday, January 20, 10am at St John the Baptist Church WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS Tiddlers: For mums and babies up to four years, Monday from 9.30-11.15am in term time. Contact Victoria: 07725 037026
CHRISTMAS AT CHRISTCHURCH IN THE COMMUNITY Have you ever wondered what goes on at Christchurch throughout the week? Come in and see at our Christmas Coffee Morning, 10am-1pm on Saturday, December 1, and Sunday, December 2, noon-5pm alongside Needham Market Street Fayre. You will be able to create something at Tiddlers craft table or play one of their games. See what Sunday Club has found out about Christmas traditions and add your special Christmas tradition to the tree, as well as drawing and listening to Bible stories. Find out what Sunday Club do during Sunday services. Learn to knit with Knit for Peace, try French knitting, or knit a few rows on our community scarves. Enjoy playing a short word game at the Scrabble table or try to beat one of our club members in a game. Find out what the Brownies get up to on Thursday evenings. Create a small Christmas table decoration with some of our church flower arrangers. Meet our Ministers or just sit and enjoy some light refreshments. These are weekly activities at Christchurch but, most important, is our Sunday Worship every Sunday morning from 10.30-11.30am. Why not join us on Sunday, December 2 for our Café Style Service? Everyone is welcome – we look forward to seeing you.
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