In Touch with Needham Market February 2020

In Touch

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with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market

Volume 7 • Issue No. 4 • FEBRUARY 2020

Cloudy Morning on the Gipping by Matt Hurst

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Have you noticed the days getting the teensiest bit longer? It’s barely perceptible but I’m sure the sky is a little bit brighter when I leave work than it was even a week ago. However, it can be a rather gloomy time of the year so this month I’ve set out to give you something to laugh at! I hope it works.

The Funniest Joke of The Fringe award was introduced 12 years ago at the Edinburgh Fringe. The goal of finding the wittiest one-liners falls to an expert panel of 10 judges, comprising of the UK’s leading comedy critics. Last year’s winner was Swedish comedian Olaf Falafel. He took the title with the gag: “I keep randomly shouting out ‘Broccoli’ and ‘Cauliflower’ – I think I might have florets” Ten jokes made the 2019 shortlist. My favourites were: “Someone stole my antidepressants. Whoever they are, I hope they’re happy” Richard Stott “A cowboy asked me if I could help him round up 18 cows. I said, ‘Yes, of course.

That’s 20 cows’” Jake Lambert “A thesaurus is great. There’s no other word for it” Ross Smith “After learning six hours of basic semaphore, I was flagging” Richard Pulsford “To be or not to be a horse rider, that is Equestrian” Mark Simmons Here are a few others which made the shortlist over the years but failed to win: “I’m sure wherever my dad is; he’s looking down on us. He’s not dead, just very condescending.” Jack Whitehall “I like to imagine the guy who invented the umbrella was going to call it the ‘brella’. But he hesitated” Andy Field “I’ll tell you what’s unnatural in the eyes of God. Contact lenses.” Zoe Lyons They say humour is subjective and I know (or have been told) mine is somewhat ‘dark’, but you can’t deny the beautiful simplicity of each of the jokes highlighted here, and the talents behind them. Oh just one more…

“I’m not a fan of the new pound coin, but then again, I hate all change.” Ken Cheng

NEWS THE NEEDHAM CHINWAG IS ON THE MOVE! Most of us love a good old natter over a cup of tea and Age UK Suffolk has recognised this with their continuing series of Pop-Up Chinwags, monthly social groups for older people in community venues.

Having launched back in September, the Needham Market Chinwag is moving to a new home at Needham Market Community Centre. Taking place on the first Wednesday of each month from Wednesday 5 February, the event is free of charge and is open to people in Needham Market and surrounding areas who would like to come along, make new friends, enjoy some light entertainment and, if wanted, take the opportunity to find out about any support and services that Age UK Suffolk may be able to offer.

The groups are all about encouraging social inclusion and are a simple format – lots of tea (or coffee), entertainment and refreshments. Although the groups are free to attend, there is usually a tombola so you may even bag yourself a bargain!

Come along on your own, with a family member or friend or as a group.

All of the groups are dementia friendly so if you are someone living with memory challenges, or are supporting a friend or family member, it’s a great opportunity to relax and have fun for a couple of hours.

For further details, contact Tracey: 01473 298683 / tracey.evans@ageuksuffolk.org

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

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

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Friday 7 February, 10am-noon: Coffee and Networking Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday 21 February, 6.45am: Breakfast The Mix, Stowmarket To book online, follow the link at: https://stowmarketchamber.co.uk/networking-events

We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe

Thurs 20 February is the advertising and editorial deadline for the March edition

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NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLOR REPORT: MIKE NORRIS & STEVE PHILLIPS

COUNCILS’ £420K THREE-YEAR GUARANTEE TO SUPPORT CITIZENS ADVICE

Submitted on January 16

At cabinet meetings in early January, councillors at Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils gave the go ahead to support Citizens Advice (CA) with more than £420k.

Council Tax – 2020/21 Budget The first draft of Mid Suffolk District Council’s budget for 2020/21 is set to be considered by councillors later this month, including a 1.66 percent increase in its share of Council Tax, adding £2.76 a year to the bill of a Band D Property, equivalent to just over 5p per week. The budget was considered by Mid Suffolk cabinet members on Monday 13 January and will go to Overview and Scrutiny on Thursday 16 January. It will then go to Full Council in February and, if approved, will come into effect on 1 April 2020.

Headlines include: A proposed increase of 1.66 percent to Council Tax, equivalent to £2.76 over the course of a year for a Band D property (increases range from £1.84 per annum for the smallest Band A property to £5.54 for the largest Band H property).

No change in the Council Tax Reduction Scheme that sees poorest residents pay just five per cent of their bill.

A change to the empty property discount, reducing the period that unoccupied and unfurnished properties pay discounted Council Tax from three months to 28 days in order to bring empty properties in the district back into use.

After four years of government-enforced reductions, the council is also proposing putting up council house rents by 2.7 percent, meaning a £2.19 per week increase for tenants. Sheltered housing tenants also face an increase of £2 a week on their bills plus a 62p a week increase to their utility charges.

A reserve of £500,000 to be set aside for 2020/21 to tackle climate change.

Council Tax Fraud At a Mid Suffolk Cabinet Meeting on Monday 6 January it was resolved that penalties be introduced to tackle Council Tax fraud, alongside a new protocol to help those in genuine need, and the adoption of the Citizens Advice Council Tax Protocol.

Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Councils have a statutory duty to collect Council Tax across their districts, which is then divided between Suffolk County Council, the Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner, the districts themselves and the local parish or town councils.

The new penalties policy will give the councils the option to issue an initial penalty of £70 to anyone refusing to meet requests to supply legally required information, or failing to let the council know about changes in their circumstances which would affect their entitlement to a discount, exemption or Council Tax reduction.

Needham Lake Visitor Centre and Café As was reported previously, 127 Trading Limited, a trading entity of The Mix, Stowmarket, has been selected as preferred tenants of the centre. They will manage the day to day running of the centre and café/restaurant on a tenyear lease.

Working in partnership with the community, they will offer a variety of refreshments, a seasonal menu and a range of events and activities including evening events. The next phase of the development will be the selection and appointment of a contractor. Following the tender process construction works are proposed to start in the spring.

Needham Market Railway Station Meetings involving Network Rail, MSDC and SCC officers continue with the aim of improving access to and from the Ipswich bound platform. Mid Suffolk and Network Rail are currently jointly funding a feasibility study.

Mike Norris: mike.norris@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720871 Steve Phillips: stephen.phillips@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 721710 Representing Needham Market, Badley, Baylham, Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Darmsden

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Recognising the value of Citizens Advice, estimated to have saved £8.1m across Suffolk, and with more people than ever turning to them for help, both councils have agreed a more sustainable funding approach with two threeyear funding agreements.

Mid Suffolk District Council’s cabinet has granted Mid Suffolk Citizens Advice a minimum of £260,100, which equates to £86,700 a year over a three year period starting in 2020/2021.

Councillor Julie Flatman, cabinet member for Housing and Communities for Mid Suffolk District Council, said: “Mid Suffolk Citizens Advice is a really important partner for us, often providing a lifeline to members of our community in genuine need of help – including offering advice on debt management and arrears.

“We recognise their value in ensuring our district has a bright and healthy future, and hope this three-year agreement provides a more sustainable funding approach, in line with the aims in our communities strategy.”

In Babergh, funds of at least £160,500 for Sudbury and District Citizens Advice were also given the green light over the same three-year period, equating to £53,500 per annum. Funding for the Suffolk West, Diss and Ipswich CAs will continue to be agreed annually, with the individual CAs needing to apply for the money on a yearly basis.

Councillor Derek Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities at Babergh District Council, said: “Our colleagues at Citizens Advice do amazing work to support Babergh’s residents when they perhaps need it most, offering expert advice and guidance on money matters and much more.

“We hope that with this longer-term funding, they can continue to deliver a much-needed service, helping our communities to thrive and be more self-sufficient, whilst also playing a key role in achieving the aims in our communities strategy.”

The exact sums will be confirmed in the early part of 2020, alongside funding to other voluntary sector providers as part of the councils’ grants programme.

The councils will also work with the Suffolk Cross Authority Citizens Advice Task and Finish Group – made up of councillors from Ipswich, Babergh, Mid Suffolk and West Suffolk councils along with input from Suffolk County Council – which aims to provide a more consistent scrutiny approach to CA services across Suffolk.

STOWMARKET OPERATIC & DRAMATIC SOCIETY Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society returns to the stage this spring with the classic musical Half a Sixpence.

When Kipps and Ann were parted as childhood friends, Kipps cut a sixpence in half and told Ann to look at it whenever she missed him. Years later, Kipps is working as an apprentice in a draper’s shop when Ann arrives in town and the two rekindle their relationship.

Soon, everything changes – Kipps meets an eccentric actor and finds he has inherited a fortune, and it isn’t long before he is drawn into high society and becomes engaged to a wealthy teacher, much to Ann’s displeasure...

Featuring the well-known numbers All in the Cause of Economy, Money to Burn and, of course Flash, Bang, Wallop!, this hit British comic musical will delight audiences both young and old.

Half a Sixpence is on at the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts in Stowmarket from Tuesday 21 to Saturday 25 April. Tickets will be available from the John Peel Centre box office.

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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY RIVER GIPPING TRUST The trust’s new footbridge planning application across the river at Baylham has been delayed by a request from Natural England to undertake a preliminary ecological appraisal report into the hibernating and breeding of bats around the bridge vicinity.

This has been extended to consider the impact on otters and water voles. The trust have commissioned Graven Ecology to undertake this appraisal and we look forward to working with Graven to improve the wellbeing of bats, otters and water voles along the river.

The trust are contributing to the TCV I Dig Trees campaign to plant more than one million native trees by planting 50 trees along the banks of the River Gipping.

Come and have a look Are you interested in finding out how your waste is used to generate electricity for the national grid? We’ve just announced a series of open days for 2020 which are free of charge and available to anyone interested in finding out more about waste and the facility.

We have places available on the following dates: March 25 at 2pm, April 8 at 6pm, April 15 at 2pm and June 3 at 10am.

There are up to 20 spaces available each day and pre-booking is essential.

To book a space email suffolkefw.uk@suez.com or call 01473 839149.

SUEZ Communities Trust SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding for projects that support community and environmental improvements. In 2019, the trust awarded in excess of £60,000 to projects local to the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility.

Funding is available to projects within close proximity to any SUEZ sites that meet certain criteria. If you know of any local projects that could be deserving of funding, for more information about the trust and how to apply visit: www.suezcommunitiestrust.org.uk We’re on Twitter Did you know that Suffolk’s energy-from-waste facility is on social media?

For more frequent facility updates, fun facts and all the handy tips you could ever need about rubbish, recycling, and food waste, follow us on Twitter at: @suffolkefw

These trees were planted early in the new year along the south (sunny side) of the river at locations where there is currently little or no shade from the sun. We have noticed large areas of reeds, silt and aquatic weed growth along the river at these open locations, with much more free flowing open water where the river gets some shade.

If you would like to see canoes and boats along the River Gipping, you may wish to consider signing a petition raised by British Canoeing.

Of the 42,700 miles of inland waterways in England, only 1,400 miles can be paddled uncontested. British canoeing wish to change this.

Go to www.clearaccessclearwaters.org.uk/petitions-map or click on the link on our Facebook page.

There was much flooding along the River Gipping when it burst its banks. This photo shows the towpath under water alongside Pipps Ford lock.

Any questions?

If you have any queries about our operations, please don’t hesitate to contact us: 01473 839149 / suffolkefw.uk@suez.com OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01934 524013

There are many more photos of the river in flood on the River Gipping Facebook page.

Restoration Manager Ian Petchey

SURRENDERING A COMMERCIAL LEASE There are various ways to bring a commercial lease to an end. Sometimes, the term of a commercial lease will expire and on the final day a tenant may simply leave the premises and the lease then comes to an end. This may be as a result of a notice to quit served by the landlord.

In other cases, there may be reasons for the landlord and the tenant to agree between them that the lease is to end. This might be, for example, where the landlord wants to redevelop the building or carry out some works which could not be done with the tenant in occupation. Where such an agreement has been made, the surrender of the lease will usually be dealt with by way of a deed signed by both parties. The fundamental advantage of bringing a commercial lease to end in this way is that the deed can clearly set out the arrangement between the parties.

One other way we commonly come across where a commercial lease is brought to an end, is where there is some operation of law. This means that the lease is brought to an end as a result of the actions of the parties. This cannot be by the act of one party alone.

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An existing lease can be brought to an end by operation of law in different ways. For example, an existing lease might be brought to an end where the landlord grants a new lease to the existing tenant.

In addition, the tenant might give up possession of the property to the landlord – and the landlord accepts this. Many surrenders by operation of law are established where the tenant returns the keys to the landlord – but it is important for this to be effective, that the landlord accepts the keys. It is often the case that the parties don’t realise that the handing over and accepting of keys could be sufficient to bring a commercial lease to an end.

Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk

In Touch online:

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB Monday 24 February: Overlanding through East & South Africa by Glenda Taylor Monday 9 March: Open Competition No. 4 / Judge: Frank Blyth CPAGB BPE1 As agreed at the AGM, entries are limited to one monochrome print, one colour print and two PDIs Monday 23 March: Route 66 by David Steele DPAGB New members are always very welcome. You don’t have to be an expert photographer; all you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras.

Regular meetings, which start at 7.30pm, are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Monday of the month between September and June. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us?

For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB 2020 sees Stowmarket Bridge Club celebrating its 50th year. A new mixed pairs competition has just started, and several club competitions are moving to a climax.

We are always looking to increase membership. We play in Stowmarket on Wednesday evenings and Friday afternoons.

STOWMARKET CHORALE The choir is looking forward to a singing day at Woolpit Village Hall on February 8. The chosen music is the iconic and uplifting Verdi’s Requiem. A singing day is the perfect opportunity for anyone, of any age, to join in with people who already know the work and others who have never sung it (but always wanted to!). The music director, Tom Appleton, will lead the day, and it promises to be great fun.

Rehearsals are well underway for the spring concert, the beautiful Faure’s Requiem. This will be performed in Stowmarket United Reformed Church on Saturday 21 March. Choir members rehearse every Wednesday evening at Combs Ford Primary School. Non-members are always welcome.

For further information contact us at: secretary@stowmarketchorale.org.uk

STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday 5 February: A History of Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society (SODS) by David Lilley Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society is affectionately known to members and friends as SODS. Since its formation in 1922, they have performed more than 170 productions. David will look at the origins of the society and at past productions.

Wednesday 4 March: My Family of Criminals by Jill Wright When Stowmarket resident Jill Wright began researching her family history, she probably never guessed that she would discover that some of the town’s most notorious criminals are her ancestors!

We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ. There is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available.

Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members.

For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

For more information, please contact Arthur Winchester on 01449 612105 or visit: www.bridgewebs.co.uk/stowmarket

STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday 2 February: 5.5-mile walk to Newbourne, Hemley and Kirton. We will meet at Newbourne Village Hall at 10am / GR. TM 274428 Leader: 07510 883906 Sunday 9 February: 5-mile walk around Walsham le Willows. Park and meet at Walsham le Willows car park at 10am / GR. TM 001712 Leader: 01449 781917 Sunday 16 February: 5-mile walk in the Ixworth area. Aim to be at Ixworth Village Hall at 10.30am / GR. TL 932702 Leader: 01449 676533 Sunday 23 February: 5-mile walk at Barham and Shrubland Park. We will meet on the road near the former Barham picnic site at 10.30am / GR. TM 122512 Leader: 01449 771724

IPSWICH GANG SHOW 2020 A variety show performed by Scouts, Guides, Rangers, Explorers, Cubs, Brownies and Leaders to empower young people to make a positive contribution to society through performance.

Performing at Great School Theatre, Ivry Street, Ipswich from Wednesday 8 to Saturday 11 April at 7.15pm, plus a matinee at 2.15pm on Saturday 11.

SUFFOLK HOW ARE YOU? Are you a PTA or Friends of Schools/PRUs or community group such as Brownies, Scouts or a youth project?

Would you like £1000 to help children and young people be a part of a project about reducing sugar in their diet?

Find out more at: www.suffolkcf.org.uk/grants/sugar-reduction-fund or contact Suffolk Community Foundation and ask about Sugar Reduction Fund on 01473 602602 or info@suffolkcf.org.uk

Tickets available online at www.ipswichgangshow.org.uk, at Craftability on St Lawrence Street, and from 01473 561004

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OUT & ABOUT

UNDER 65 AND CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR MEMORY? NEEDHAM MARKET IN BLOOM Our tombola at the table top sale proved successful, raising about £100 for funds. It was very busy and we ran out of prizes by lunchtime.

The next fundraising event will be a quiz in the community centre on Friday 27 March, followed by a plant sale on Saturday 9 May. Summer planting will be on the agenda soon.

Dementia Together Younger Person’s Navigator is here to help by providing practical information and support through your journey, empowering you to make your own choices and decisions to live well. Self or professional referrals are accepted via the helpline or email.

For more information visit: www.dementia-together.com Call: 08081 688000 / 07975 235416 Email: SRYC.youngerdementiatogether@nhs.net

The next meeting will be the AGM on Saturday 29 February, 10am in the community centre.

STOWMARKET U3A

We have recently welcomed some new members but would still like more to make Needham in Bloom a great community effort. Please join us on February 29.

In this new decade, would you like to meet new people or learn something new? If you are retired or semi-retired, then maybe Stowmarket U3A is what you are looking for. For those of you who are unfamiliar, the U3A is an organisation that aims to bring together retired people to socialise, educate and participate in creative activities in a friendly and informal environment.

Recently, we came together to hear a very interesting talk by a member of the Colchester Zoo team about its history and the work the zoo does to conserve and breed animals at risk. The work they do is very varied, often involving several steps over many years, and is extremely successful. Last month we learnt about Hearing Dogs for the Deaf.

Contact us via email to pamnmib@gmail.com or call Vera on 01449 723424.

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STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB This month’s meeting will be held on Wednesday 26 February at 7.30pm at Woolpit Village Hall, where Jo Poulter from Peterborough will give a demonstration entitled All Shapes and Sizes.

Why not start the year with a new hobby? Visitors are welcome – £6 per meeting – or membership for a year is £30. You don’t have to be a flower arranger – just come and join us. You’ll soon get hooked and will learn as you go along!

We have a talk every month and the topics are very varied. We also hold social events and trips out. For Christmas, nearly 100 of us gathered to share a very tasty Christmas lunch and laughter.

In the future, we have outings planned to the theatre and places of interest. There are many groups run by members on a whole range of interests, such as canasta, table tennis and singing.

To learn more, please visit: www.u3astowmarket.org.uk Glynis Hunt

THE REGAL IN FEBRUARY

Awards season is upon us, which means a month of first-rate films. This year we’re particularly excited about 1917 and Little Women. We expect both to fare well in the Oscars and BAFTAS later this month.

New for February, we’re launching The Golden Ticket. For just £35 you’ll get 10 tickets to see films at the Regal. The tickets can be used by one or more people and could save you a whopping £47.50!

Little Women: Four sisters come of age in America in the aftermath of the Civil War. Jojo Rabbit: A young boy in Hitler’s army finds out his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their home.

The Personal History of David Copperfield: The life of David Copperfield from childhood to maturity, with his own adventures and the web of friends and enemies he meets along his way.

The Gentleman: A British drug lord tries to sell off his highly profitable empire to a dynasty of Oklahoma billionaires.

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1917: During the First World War, two young British privates are given an impossible mission to deliver a message deep in enemy territory that will stop 1,600 men, and one of the soldier’s brothers, from walking straight into a deadly trap.

Bad Boys for Life: The Bad Boys, Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, are back together for one last ride 25 years after the original film.

Dolittle: Re-telling of the classic tale, this time starring Robert Downey Jnr, in which a physician discovers that he can talk to animals.

Spies in Disguise: When the world’s best spy is turned into a pigeon, he must rely on his nerdy tech officer to save the world.

Just Mercy: World-renowned civil rights defence attorney Bryan Stevenson works to free a wrongly condemned death row prisoner.

We have two top-notch live streamed events in February, with James McAvoy in Cyrano de Bergerac, and Kinky Boots from London’s Adelphi Theatre.

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01/09/2019 17:59

OUT & ABOUT HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL We have been busy getting the garden ready to sow seeds so that we have lovely flowers and vegetables in the coming months. Our special waterproof clothing is well used as the children have been making mud pies and enjoying messy play in our mud kitchen. This allows them to develop their imagination and encourages them to talk about what they are doing. The excitement of being outside and involved in messy play gets young learners feeling even more confident about speaking and sharing their thoughts.

We are a small, rural, friendly setting based at Henley Community Centre. We pride ourselves on the high ratio of staff to children, providing maximum care and learning. All our staff are highly trained and continue regular training to enhance 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 in partnership with them. We also hold well supported stay and play sessions each term.

We currently have limited availability for morning spaces but afternoon sessions are available. We accept eligible 30-hour funded children. These codes need to be in place the term before they are needed. Children can join us from the age of two and we accept government funded and fee paying children. We are open term time only from 9am-3pm.

We have a well-supported Facebook page where you will find lots of additional information and see what the children have been doing. It’s also another way to contact the setting directly.

For further information please call 07979 468467 during session time (9am3pm) or email our manager, Bridget Wyatt: enquiries@henleypreschool.com

DISCO

Wednesday 26 February at 7.30pm: Brocks and Foulmarts with Darren Tansley Darren, the Essex Wildlife Trust River Catchment Coordinator, will talk to us about the changing fortunes of these animals from the 1500s to the present day, their folklore and ecology and prey. From tiny weasel to elegant pine marten, he will uncover fascinating facts and new discoveries.

Wednesday 29 April at 7.30pm: Hedgerows, Herbs and Medicines with Martin Sanford A look at some common plants in Suffolk hedges and waysides, their use as food and medicine and how we use them sustainably.

Admission is £2.50, children free; please pay on arrival. A hearing loop is available on request.

John Thompson: 01449 676471 / swtstowmarket@gmail.com To see the complete programme, and everything else that’s going on, visit: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/events

TUESDAY TOTS

Only £1 per family to include refreshments.

TENNIS Every Saturday 9.00-10.00

am

Stowmarket Tennis Club Iliffe Way, near ASDA In our Dome during winter No Tennis skills required (although you’ll pick some up along the way)

01449 673246 or 07761 142372 e-mail Chris@chriscoaching.plus.com

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The days are lengthening and the new programme of events for 2020 is starting in February. There is an exciting range of meetings planned, and the first two illustrated talks in Stowupland Village Hall are described below.

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.

Bridget, Sarah and Kerry

Call

STOWMARKET WILDLIFE GROUP

BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET This month we are looking for a new home for Milly, a very pretty tabby lady who just loves fuss and attention. She is about 12 years old and is in very good health. Sadly she has been quite stressed in her previous home so is now looking for a quiet home where she can relax and chill. Ideally Milly would love a home as an only pet and where her new owner(s) were at home most of the time as she does love company. She is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

If you are interested in giving a home to any of the cats in our care please ring 01449 674584. For more information visit our Facebook page or: www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need help towards the cost, please ring Margaret on 01284 851055 and leave a message. Your call will be returned as soon as possible. Our Admissions and Lost & Found number is 01449 615500.

Our next big fundraising event is a jumble sale on May 16 in Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside IP14 2BD. For more information please ring 01449 720003.

Thank you for your continuing support.

In Touch online:

SPORT / CHURCH NEWS STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB A belated Happy New Year to you all. We’re back on court now after the festive excesses and working hard to regain that lost sharpness or shed that extra pound or two.

Winter league pairs are entering the home straight of this season’s campaign with several teams looking for promotion once the results are published in early March.

The pros are also back, firing on all cylinders, with the new ATP Cup played across Australia between January 3 and 12, which is slightly controversial as the format is extremely similar to the revamped Davis Cup and very close together in the schedule.

Coming at a time of greater injuries to players, surely questions have to be asked whether there is too much overlap with these two events.

SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY We had a wonderful start to the new decade with very busy karate and kickboxing classes. Everyone was pushed very hard, as is always the case.

Training in the martial arts tests physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.

The academy has a full and busy calendar of events which will include coloured belt exams, interclub tournaments, seminars, British championships, weekend training camps, blackbelt exams and fundraising for charity.

Our very popular Muay Thai sessions are running alongside the multi style class so if you fancy having a go at the ‘deadly art of the eight limbs’ please come and try out.

Scorpion Academy celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and welcomes old and new members to share any photos that they may have. Please contact Mark JR Trent if you can help.

Any clubs, businesses or schools that would like to hold a self-defence workshop are most welcome to contact us as we specialise in realistic and easy to learn/ use techniques.

All eyes will be on Melbourne from January 20 to February 2 as the 2020 Australian Open will be contested in the merciless and predictable oven that is summertime Oz. At the time of writing, Halep is injury free and Sharapova will be hoping to start what may be her final season after having played only 17 competitive matches during the whole of last year.

All new members joining our wonderful and friendly martial arts academy will receive one month for free. We welcome children from ages four to 13 years to join in karate, seven years plus for kickboxing and 14 plus for all senior lessons.

The young guns on the men’s draw will also be looking to exert greater pressure on the senior players such as Federer, Djokovic and Nadal.

Catch ‘em while you can folks because they won’t be around for ever.

Even at this colder, wetter time of year we have a full program of playing and coaching at the club.

Whether you’re young, old or in the middle we have a playing group or coaching session to suit so get in touch and we’ll get you started.

New players are particularly welcomed into coaching classes as we’re always looking to widen the net and attract more talent into the sport.

Since 2004 chief instructor Mark JR Trent has been running the UKKWA (Universal Karate Kickboxing Worldwide Association). We have more than 200 martial art clubs, groups, organisations and associations in 34 countries so all grades issued by the Scorpion Academy are recognised by the best.

Mark JR Trent: 07708 644162 / scorpion.ufkkwa@gmail.com

See you on court.

Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com / 07761 142372

HOME WORSHIP Home Worship began the year with a very well-attended meeting where Chris Wilkes told us about the Children’s Society.

Originally called the Church of England Children’s Society, it was founded by Edward Rudolf in 1881. Edward was a Sunday School teacher.

One Sunday a number of his boys were missing and he later discovered they were begging. They were from a family of seven children and their mother was bringing them up alone as their father had died. There were no benefits in those days so Edward founded a home for ‘Waifs & Strays’.

This was the first of a number of children’s homes. However, times have changed and now the Children’s Society helps children in the community, rather than in homes, children who have run away or been turned out of their family home, or who find themselves in difficulty.

The Children’s Society raises money with Christingle Services, collection boxes and fundraising events.

On Sunday 3 February, Colin Westren from Tools with a Mission will tell us about the work which they do.

Home Worship always meets at 137 High Street, Needham Market at 10am on the first Monday of the month.

NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH REGULAR MEETINGS Sunday Services: 10.30am and 6.30pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting: Tuesdays at 6.30pm Please note change of time for a trial period Coffee Plus: Friday 21 February, 10am-noon. Come and go as you please; hot and cold drinks, homemade cakes and an activity table for children.

Everyone is very welcome to join us at any of these meetings.

After the main part of the morning, we have refreshments and a friendly chat.

For further information, if you require transport or you would like a home visit, please contact Peter: 01394 271645 / 07570 558072 / peterkinley60@gmail.com

Wendy Marchant

www.needhamchurch.org.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

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Pop-Up Chinwag

A monthly social group for people aged 65+ in Needham Market & surrounding areas.

First Wednesday of every month The Burton Room Needham Market Community Centre School Street Needham Market, IP6 8BB 2pm - 4pm FREE Entry - donations welcome Enquiries: 01473 298683 Registered charity: 1085900

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Registered charity: 1085900

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CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH

Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market

The Rev Canon Diane Williams For weddings, baptisms and funerals please ring: 01449 720316 / 07714 016554

Minister: The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist) 01449 612619 Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am (including crèche and Sunday Club) Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday Did you notice the shortest day? It was December 22. Of course it isn’t really shorter than any other day, just less daylight hours, but once we are past that date I always feel spring is on its way and, by the time you read this, we will already be halfway through winter. I don’t mind the winter months, especially when there are clear, crisp sunny days, but then I do have a warm home and a cosy bed to sleep in at night, unlike some people who have to sleep on the streets. It’s hard to imagine how awful that must be – trying to find a safe and sheltered place where you can sleep in near zero temperatures.

There are many charities that find ways to bring people in off the streets for a hot meal and a bed for the night. Some charities also help homeless and jobless people find a way forward out of their hopeless situation. Christchurch supports one such charity, Emmaus Suffolk.

Emmaus Suffolk provides work opportunities and experience for those who have been unemployed for a long time and those who are homeless or at risk of being so. By offering volunteering roles within their (not for profit) business they want to give people the chance to make a difference for themselves in a supportive environment through work related experience and training.

They re-use and up-cycle donated furniture and household goods; each item is evaluated and, if needed, improved, mended and then put into their shop for sale. The volunteers can participate at all levels of the business, which provides them with occupation, experience, training and transferable skills as well as self-respect and personal empowerment.

So, if you come to our coffee mornings or other events at Christchurch, you will be helping to support a very worthwhile charity. We look forward to seeing you.

SN 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 Scrabble Club: Monday from 2-4pm. New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm. Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Christians Together: Thursday from 10am-noon. Contact Tony Leigh Pollitt: 01449 403105 Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon, always with a selection of cakes for sale.

OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Saturday 8-10am Yoga: Monday 7-8.15pm / Wednesday 10-11.15am Moosical Moo for ages 0-5: Tuesday 9.15am-noon in term time Osteo Stretch & Exercise: Tuesday 12.30-1.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday 6.30-7.30pm (term time)

We had a successful Christmas Fayre with several stalls and a very busy coffee bar with people enjoying the Christmas music played by the young people of Simply Brass. The following Sunday we had visitors to the church during the street fayre who came in to view the 83 cribs on display and to enjoy a warm drink. This was followed by a very enjoyable couple of hours with Castleton Brass who played in Christmas with a warm glow. The church was full and everyone commented on what a lovely concert it was.

Our Christmas services were well supported, especially our annual Crib Service on Christmas Eve. If you have seen our Facebook page you will know that there was something a little bit special with the way The Rev Diane and Rev Sarah were dressed! The caption was ‘Our Crib Service will never be the same again’. I’m told that there were quite a few at Midnight Mass; unfortunately circumstances deemed that we couldn’t be there for the first time in 20 years, which we were very sad about.

If you have been into the church you may have noticed our specially made candlestand. This is for your use when the church is open. Not only can you leave messages on our prayer board in the porch for us to pray for someone dear to you who is unwell or troubled, you can now go into the church and light a tea-light and say a little prayer yourself as you leave it on the prayer stand. You will note that this is a wonderful piece of craftsmanship made by the hands of Robert Swanscott from Eastern Farm Park. David went to see him with a rough sketch and he transformed it into this wonderful sheaf of corn with poppy heads and open poppies which make holders for the tea-lights. Whenever I pop into church to do something I feel that I can light a candle and offer a prayer up for someone I know who needs God’s help. I invite you to do the same.

You will recall that we held a concert in church for six months of last year and this year the PCC a looking to do the same. They have lined up different acts and I will put the full details in the March edition.

The church is open during daylight hours and welcomes visitors. Service times are posted on the door and we welcome you to all of them.

CFL SERVICES FOR FEBRUARY Sunday 2 8am

10am

Holy Communion All-Age Worship

Sunday 9

10am

Sung Eucharist

Sunday 16

10am 4pm

Sung Eucharist Cafe Church (please check church boards)

Sunday 23

10am

Sung Eucharist

REGULAR EVENTS Meditation: Third Monday, 6.30pm at 43 Barking Road Pause for Prayer Group: 11am-noon on Tuesday in church Home Worship: First Monday, 10am at 137 High Street Mothers’ Union: Third Wednesday at noon in the Ark Tuesday Tots: 9.30am in the Ark (term time only) Uvedale Hall Communion: 11.15am on the second Wednesday Christians Together: 10.30am on Thursday at Christchurch Halls (term time) Cafe Church: Third Sunday, 4pm at the Ark

Exercise Classes: Friday 9.30-10.30am

Everybody is welcome at all our services.

HALL LETTINGS: There are spaces available for hire. To arrange a visit to view or for further information, ring 07851 742847.

www.needhammarketparishchurch.co.uk

CHURCH CONTACT: Lindsey Gomez, 01449 722418 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/needham

The Ark on King William Street is available for hire for parties, meetings, talks and fundraising events. Full kitchen facilities, reasonable size hall with a stage and additional room for meetings. For prices and availability please call Linda: 07940 581879

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ON THE GRAPEVINE

AUCTION TRENDS IN A SELECTIVE MARKET PLACE Following a record breaking sale in July last year, with a sales total of more than £265,000, Nigel Papworth from Diamond Mills & Co in Felixstowe reports on recent auction trends and a selective marketplace.

It’s clear from recent results around the country that the market for Chinese porcelain and works of art is continuing to attract strong competition. There was a sale in early August in Bath where a Yongzheng celadon coloured vase was sold for £220,000.

Here at Diamond Mills on 31 July 2019, a Doucai porcelain vase (pictured) went for £200,000 after brisk bidding at home and from abroad.

However, other areas are attracting many buyers.

Gentleman’s wrist watches by manufacturers including Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe and others are achieving record prices. In the field of taxidermy, cases of stuffed fish, particularly by J Cooper & Sons of London, are much in demand, and a bow front case of three rudd

by Cooper was sold recently for £1,350.

Although in most cases, Chinese art is out performing Japanese and high quality Japanese items can do well. We recently sold a fine Japanese Meiji period fan with gold lacquered sticks and guards for £1,800.

Strings of amber beads, in particular older yellow butternut examples, are also selling around the country in the hundreds to the thousands depending upon the quality and size.

Items which appear to have fallen out of favour include modern China figurines, tea sets and dinner services, reproduction prints and most modern dark brown furniture.

However, some modern furniture is still in demand, including light or beech-coloured Ercol and light oak items of Thomas Mouseman of Kilburn Furniture. Recently a pair of carved elephant and mouse oak bookends sold for £10,000 in the West Country.

An important factor in all markets seems to be the quality of items rather than the age.

For further information or to arrange a valuation, contact Nigel at: 01394 282281 / nigel@diamondmills.co.uk www.diamondmills.co.uk

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ON THE GRAPEVINE

EVERYBODY NEEDS GOOD NEIGHBOURS Throughout the county, Suffolk’s Good Neighbour Scheme development officer has supported individuals and groups in setting up and maintaining a network of over 30 Good Neighbour Schemes (GNS) and this number is continuously growing.

A GNS is a voluntary initiative that is arranged and run by a group of local residents who want to help local people enjoy a better quality of life by offering them support with everyday tasks or be a friendly face to chat to.

They help the elderly, those who may be lonely or isolated, living with disabilities, single or young parents, and those in need of a little support due to illness or injury. To put it simply, we help anyone in need of assistance to get on with living their life to the fullest.

We voluntarily provide a helping pair of hands. Some carry out simple tasks like grass cutting and light bulb changing whilst others offer transport to social activities and medical appointments. Some GNS also host events such as coffee mornings, afternoon teas, lunches and Christmas parties.

They also get involved with providing transport to local events, Meet up Mondays or Rural Coffee Caravan visits in order to fight loneliness and isolation.

Each scheme’s offer is unique to its community but with the same overarching aim: to build a stronger and more resilient community where people know each other and offer aid when needed. Its old fashioned community spirit but in the modern age!

The Suffolk GNS project is supported by the National Lottery’s Community Fund and your GNS development officer can guide you through the steps towards setting up a scheme in your community and will provide support as needed along the way.

The benefit of bringing a GNS to a community can never be underestimated as it makes a real difference to those most in need, particularly the elderly or vulnerable.

SUFFOLK GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK

To find out more about setting up a safe and sustainable GNS or about existing schemes near you, get in touch with Suffolk’s GNS Development Officer Jane Arkley-Crouch:

01473 345429 / jane.arkley-crouch@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk

QUESTIONS ON CASH

With Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb Alan from Diss is concerned about his role as a trustee. He writes: “My father left a significant sum of money in trust for the benefit of my son, who will inherit in four years time at age 21. My uncle, who was joint trustee with my aunt, died last year and I was appointed as a replacement trustee.

I am concerned that the money is invested in shares. Do we have the right to cash these in and invest the money elsewhere?”

As a trustee, you have a difficult and often thankless role. Although you don’t own the trust assets, you have to look after them as if they were your own.

The Trustee Act 2000 states that trustees must show due care and diligence in the management of trust assets.

When dealing with large sums of cash, it is essential that trustees take professional advice on investing the money. The traditional approach of just slapping everything into a portfolio of stocks and shares is not really an acceptable investment strategy.

Tax efficiency is a very important consideration for trustees. The dividends produced from stocks and shares held in a trust fund attract income tax at the trustee rate, which is currently 45 percent. There are much more tax efficient investments available for trust money, such as single premium investment bonds. These are particularly trust-friendly investments where regular withdrawals of the capital can be taken within certain limits to produce an ‘income’ for the beneficiaries without any immediate payment of tax. If you ignore these investments in favour of less tax efficient options, you must be able to show good reasons why.

You also have a responsibility to meet regularly to review the trust and to take professional guidance on the management of any assets. If it is a discretionary trust, you should be able to demonstrate that you have exercised your discretion in making decisions and that you regularly review those decisions.

Examples might be how the income from the trust is distributed and who receives it. Minutes of all the trustee meetings should be kept in writing.

Generally speaking, unless you have experience and professional qualifications, DIY investment management is not a good idea. Unless the trust assets are being actively managed by a financial adviser or discretionary fund manager, you may not be able to demonstrate that they are being professionally managed.

That could again leave you open to allegations of negligence or even breach of trust. In this case, the beneficiary is your son, so it is unlikely that this will happen, but you should still take care and make sure you are protected.

I would recommend that you and your aunt should seek the advice of an independent financial adviser, who has experience of advising trustees and management of trustee investments. He or she could review the current investment arrangements and offer some guidance on re-investment and ongoing management of the trust assets within more tax efficient investment wrappers.

Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham IP6 8JP, email nickplumb@aol. com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301.

Nick’s comments and answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice on their own situation should contact Nick to arrange a no-obligation complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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