In Touch News with Needham Market April 2019 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

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with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market Volume 6 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2019

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

NEWS

I often write about how fortunate we are to live in a part of the world where ‘community’ is valued and where there are endless opportunities to engage with those who share our little part of the planet. Finding that special place to lay your roots and raise your children, where you know you will be greeted with a smile when you pop into the local (shop or pub) and share your day-today existence with neighbours you can call on in an emergency is something to treasure. If you’re lucky you may even have family close by. A recent trip home to Ireland to celebrate my dad’s 80th birthday has reminded me how distant I have become from my extended family, inevitable when you move away. Events like weddings and significant birthdays have become treasured opportunities to catch-up, to meet new family members and to get to know others a little better. And so it was on this occasion. For possibly the first time ever, I had an opportunity to have a proper girly chat with my dad’s three sisters, a chat which started when they admired my dress. Well in no time at all they were telling me about the way they dressed going to dances and balls when they were young. They howled with laughter as they told me about cycling six miles to dances at the Emerald Ballroom and back home again at 1am. They talked about the music, the dancing (proper dancing!), the way all the men lined up on one side and the women on the other… and the dresses. They’d all learned to make their own dresses but occasionally paid a local dressmaker to create something for a special occasion. The planning and effort they put into these events was extraordinary. Everyone had to get their hair properly done and in those days hair-dos were an architectural phenomenon. Hair pieces are not a new invention! They laughed in horror when they remembered having to sleep on their faces because their hair had so much lacquer in it! I know it wasn’t all dressing up and dancing, but boy did they know how to party, and alcohol wasn’t mentioned once (which is probably why they remember every tiny detail). If you do have older family members in your life, or neighbours who would like nothing better than an opportunity to reminisce, don’t wait for an occasion. Put the kettle on and get to know someone a little bit better while you’re fortunate to have the opportunity.

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Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market

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The plans also include a retail unit on Hurstlea Road at the former council office car park, and a new library in a converted Victorian building on the middle school site. Listed building consent was also gained to convert the Grade II listed building at 131 High Street itself into flats while retaining its key historic features.

Anyone interested in registering an early interest in the shared ownership units should email: housingdevelopment@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk

45th East Anglian

Needham Market Community Council will be staging the 45th East Anglian Art Exhibition and Sale at Needham Market Community Centre over the Easter weekend, Friday 19 to Monday, 22 April, with a wine and cheese buffet preview evening on Thursday 18. Tickets for this event are £8 and include two glasses of wine.

Admission to the exhibition during the weekend is £2 with children admitted free. We are open from 10am until 5pm each day. Refreshments are available during the event.

More than 700 paintings will be displayed in all forms, from landscape to abstract and wildlife, in all mediums, from watercolour to oils, and all from local artists. For further information contact: nmccartexhibition@btinternet.com

OVE

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PAIN TING S!

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NEEDHAM MARKET ‘S ANNUAL EASTER ART EXHIBITION Community Centre School Street Needham Market IP6 8BB

20 APRIL 2019

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Housing on the former middle school site consists of: 12 two-bedroom houses, one two-bedroom bungalow, four three-bedroom houses and four one-bedroom flats for affordable rent and six two-bedroom houses, three two-bedroom bungalows, seven three-bedroom houses, two one-bedroom flats and two two-bedroom flats for affordable home ownership.

Friday 19th April to Monday 22nd April 2019, 10.00am – 5.00pm

MAY DEADLINE

The two applications approved are for 94 new homes at the former Mid Suffolk District Council Offices at 131 High Street and 41 new homes at the site of the former Needham Market Middle School. In total the approved plans include the following on the former office site and Hurstlea Road car park: 41 two-bedroom, 18 three-bedroom and three four-bedroom houses, 12 one-bedroom, seven two-bedroom and three three-bedroom flats, six two-bedroom and one one-bedroom flat for affordable rent and two twobedroom houses for affordable home ownership.

The work of the region’s finest artists under one roof

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The planning applications for a total of 135 new homes were approved by Mid Suffolk’s Planning Referrals Committee on Wednesday, February 27, securing 38 per cent affordable housing across both sites when completed, either for affordable rent or under affordable home ownership schemes.

Admission £2.00 (children free).

Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints.

Thursday 18th April 2019

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WINE & CHEESE BUFFET PREVIEW EVENING

Printing Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk

Enquiries to: nmccartexhibition@btinternet.com

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Preview tickets available from Needham Hardware and DIY, or call 01449 720845 Admission includes two glasses of wine. Doors Open 8.00pm. Admission £8.00.

Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk

•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

Proposals for the regeneration of the former Mid Suffolk offices and the former Needham Market Middle School have been approved, giving the green light for new housing and retail in Needham Market.

Councillor Jill Wilshaw, Mid Suffolk’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “These housing permissions are good news for our district: not only do these plans bring two disused sites back into use, they will provide much needed housing in the town, with a mix that will provide affordable housing for those on the lowest incomes as well as those purchasing at market rate. The commitment to deliver a new library and retail facilities, along with the work to keep safeguard historic buildings on both sites, means these plans strike the right balance.”

Published by: Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

HOUSING PLANS APPROVED

NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET LIBRARY LINKS-UP WITH NEEDHAM, US

FUNDING BOOST TO GIVE NEEDHAM LAKE BRAND NEW FACILITIES

An arts project at Needham Market Library provided a live link-up between local children and those at the library’s namesake in Massachusetts on Saturday, March 23.

Mid Suffolk District Council has approved up to £600,000 for the development of a brand-new visitor centre at Needham Lake.

Late last summer the children’s supervisor at Needham Free Public Library, Massachusetts, contacted Suffolk Libraries to see if they would like to take part in a joint children’s project at Needham Market Library in Suffolk. The town of Needham, Massachusetts was named after Needham Market in the 18th century. Work on the project began at the beginning of the year with 10-12 children aged five to 12 meeting on alternate Saturday afternoons in the library to work on art projects based on places of interest and historical buildings in their local area. The artwork includes press printing, a 3D skyline picture of Needham Market at night, wire sculptures, felt birds, a collage of Needham Lake and a children’s version of stained glass windows. In Needham, Massachusetts, 15 children have met on a weekly basis to create individual pieces of artwork based on seven landmarks. On Saturday, March 23, children from both Needhams had a live link-up via Skype to share their artwork, discuss local history and talk about life in their respective towns. Photographs of the children and their artwork will then be incorporated into a book. Needham Market Library Manager Donna Grand believes that this is a positive event for the children involved: “This has been a wonderful opportunity for the children to make new friends, work together on various art projects and learn a little about local history as well as learning about Needham, Massachusetts.” For more information on library events, visit: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/events-activities/upcoming

SnOASIS PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA) By the time you read this SnOasis Reserved Matters will have been considered by the BMSDC Planning Committee. Unfortunately our efforts to arrange a meeting with planning were unsuccessful and it’s disappointing that our efforts to engage were not taken up. The period of notice given of the meeting was 10 days, a very short period for members of the public, the local parish councils and meetings, the SPA, our district councillors and members of the planning committee to prepare for this crucial stage in the process. As I write, we don’t know what the outcome will be. You can be assured that everyone from the SPA has been working hard to prepare for the meeting. They have made the point over and over again that there is still too much detailed information missing from the proposals and too many questions that remain unanswered. We hope that the planning committee will realise this and act accordingly. However, no matter what the outcome of the meeting the SPA will continue to try and work with any developer involved with the site as well as with planning to protect the interests of residents and get the best possible outcomes for our community. Background: In the autumn of 2016 Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no 4494/16. A number of local parish councils and meetings joined together to form the SnOasis Parish Alliance to work together to represent the residents of their communities, over 11,000 people, who will be affected by this development. The SPA member parishes are Baylham; Barham, Bramford, Claydon and Whitton, Great Blakenham, Little Blakenham, Needham Market, Nettlestead and Somersham. For further information please email Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume

Proposals to build a high quality environmentally friendly visitor information centre include a café and new public convenience facilities. The improvements complement an already well-used and popular destination in the district and have been developed following a user consultation. The new centre would be owned by the council and operated by a private business or social enterprise. Needham Lake already attracts in excess of 300,000 visitors a year, with Visit England having ranked it as the second most visited free attraction in the East of England. The lake provides a great place for the community to get active and spend time in the natural environment. The aim of the improvements is to create a venue that will enhance visits to the lake each year and help to boost the local economy. It is envisaged that works will start in the autumn with the visitor centre opening in time for the 2020 summer season. Councillor David Burn, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “It’s great to see proposals for new facilities at Needham Lake reaching the approval stage. Our ambition is to secure the future of Needham Lake as a premier visitor, community and family destination for our residents and beyond. Having a café included in the plans provides a much needed community-based venue that is easily accessible to locals and visitors alike, whilst also helping to support our local economy.”

OPEN MIC NIGHTS We had a good turn-out at the community centre in February with six acts, some regulars and some new. From Diss we had Colin who showed he was an old hand with a few great covers and one or two original songs. We also had a return visit from a young lady called April, one of the stars of our Christmas session, who wowed us with a couple of unaccompanied songs. Mark from Barking borrowed my guitar and had a go. All in all it was a fine evening. This month’s session is on Thursday, April 18. Why not come along and join us to sing, play, perform or just watch? I look forward to seeing you. Bill Pipe

CONSULTATION EVENING Wednesday, April 24, from 6-8pm at the museum on Crowe Street Stowmarket IP14 1D The Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket has been given support from Mid Suffolk District Council and New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership towards commissioning a business plan to develop the museum. We are currently making ambitious plans to transform the museum over the next 10 years and want people who live and work in the town and surrounding area to be involved in shaping our new direction. We will be holding an evening event at the museum in April so you can hear about where we’ve got to so far and to let us know what you think. We are keen to hear from local residents of all ages and backgrounds so that we can take a wide range of views into account. If you’re a regular visitor, please tell us what you value. If you’ve never been before, we’d like to know what would encourage you to come. There will be a short presentation and opportunities to talk to museum staff and trustees.

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NEWS NEEDHAM MARKET RAFT RACE 2019

PALMERS BAKERY CELEBRATES 150 YEARS IN BUSINESS

‘Reality’ Raft Race

Palmers Bakery in Haughley is 150 years old this year! Six monarchs, five generations, 18 million loaves and 500 employees later (30 of whom between them have worked 1,000 years for the company), it’s a century and a half since William James Palmer took over the bakery in 1869. In that time we have seen the sun set on the British Empire, two world wars and the human race has put man upon the moon.

Sunday, June 23 at Needham Lake Fancy Dress Judging: 1.30pm Races start at 2pm Teams of 4, £20 per team Local & Charity Stalls Food & Drink Vendors Children’s Entertainment A LOCAL EVENT RUN BY LOCAL PEOPLE Fundraising for Local Charities & Organisations www.needhamraftraceblog.wordpress.com

Today the medieval bakehouse sits on the picturesque village green in Haughley from where the craft bakers rise early to ‘bake your daily bread’. They use fresh local ingredients and bake in their famous vaulted ancient brick ovens. ‘Fired up’ each morning, these unique ovens never cool and bake the bread to a perfect crust.

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CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE Following our Chocolate Bingo on April 6 (tickets still available from the charity shop in Needham Market) I will be travelling to Belarus to meet the group of children who will be coming to Mid Suffolk in July. We will be working with a completely new area this year which will be both exciting and challenging at the same time. Seventeen children will be coming with two interpreters, only one of whom speaks English. All the children will be visited in their homes to try and gain as much of an insight into their characters as possible to help us allocate them to the host family that will suit them the best. They will all be measured for shoes and clothing so we can provide as much as possible for the host families to have waiting for them on arrival. We do try to provide both winter and summer clothing. With more children than usual coming this year, we are making a major appeal to everyone to donate clothing for children aged five to 16 years, especially in the range of six to 11 years as this should cover the majority of the children we will see or who will be visiting us. Other clothing will be taken back by the children for siblings at home. We would also like to send some clothing back for the children in the local social shelter as with children only staying for an average of six months in this facility the population is everchanging and when the children are removed from the family they have very little in the way of clothing with them. Also required are basic medicines and for each child we try to collect the following items: Lemsip (powders only), decongestant capsules or drops, vapour rub, menthol nasal sticks, Immodium (or similar), menthol crystals, Sudacrem cream, oil of cloves or similar, digital thermometers, cold sore cream, Iglue mouth ulcer cream, Paracetamol or Ibuprofen (tablets/caplets only as they can be broken in half for younger children), plasters, Strepsils, Lockets, chapsticks, Drapolene cream, general antiseptic cream and after-bite or similar. All contributions are greatly appreciated and can be dropped in to our charity shop in Needham Market or I am happy to arrange collection. The charity shop has a wide range of nearly new clothing for all ages, from babies and children to adults, both men and women. We also have a really good selection of shoes, handbags and hats, together with a wide range of toys and books for all ages. Hope to see you at the Bingo! Thank you all for your support; so little can mean so very much. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker, 01449 760343 / 07771 550868

William James Palmer purchased the bakehouse and newsagents when it had already been running for over 100 years. He and his wife opened their shop door on August 3, 1869 with their best seller being sticky buns. He would then go round local villages delivering bread from a horse and cart, announcing his arrival with a blast on his trumpet! A fervent political campaigner, he lost his wife and daughter in 1885 when he brought back the smallpox virus from one expedition to London. His son, William E G Palmer, took over the business in 1903, expanding it by founding a mill and farm before buying their first van in 1918. After Williams’s death in 1968, his son Roy took over the business and steered it through the 1970s Bread Strikes which saw hundreds of customers queuing for bread. He is also well remembered for his bakery and village museum which raised thousands of pounds for local charities. In 1989 it was taken over by his son Kenneth Palmer and he was joined by his son Kieron. In 1978 they appeared in You & Me, a BBC children’s programme about the bakery. In this, their jubilee year, they have many events planned, not least a funday and village museum and fireworks for the village, but are also donating commemorative mugs to the children of Haughley School. A Haughley Bake Off is planned at the church festival, and they will be sponsoring Haughley Fete and Woolpit Steam Rally. Local MP, Jo Churchill, will be judging a Palmers Children’s Painting Competition and Palmers will also be unveiling a new public clock on the bakehouse to mark the event. In an era of mass produced products, Palmers believe in quality, service and tradition. They produce a wide range of bread and confectionery from white, wholemeal, multi-seed and granary breads to specialities such as spelt, olive, chia and even marmite bread. Their hot cross buns, mince pies and patisseries are legendary and they also are the largest stockist of Tiptree jams and marmalades in East Anglia. In addition they sell local produce such as free range eggs, teas, Suffolk honeys and takeaway sandwiches, hot food and drinks! Birthday cakes are a specialty, while in the summer they sell produce from their own orchards such as plums, pears, apples and walnuts. As well as their bakery at Haughley, then have shops in Stowmarket, Stanton, Woolpit and Ipswich as well as Freshfills of Claydon and Bretts Bakery in Needham Market and can be reached at: 01449 673286 / office@palmersbakery.co.uk Happy Birthday Palmers!

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NEWS MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS Submitted on March 20

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Friday, April 5, 10am-noon: Coffee and Networking Needham Market Community Centre Friday, April 12, 6.45am: Breakfast at The Mix A week early this month because of Easter! To book online, follow the link at: https://stowmarketchamber.co.uk/networking-events

SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Spring 2019 Shutdown The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility will undergo its first planned maintenance shutdown of the year between April 23 and May 16. These shutdowns take place twice a year for essential cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the facility continues to run efficiently. During this shutdown, essential components of the boilers will be repaired or replaced, and maintenance will be carried out inside the furnaces. The maintenance of each of our two furnaces will be staggered, so that we can continue to accept waste throughout the shutdown period. There will be an increased amount of contractors on site during this period, but there should be no impact on the local community. If you have any concerns about the upcoming shutdown period, please contact us via the details provided below. Tours of the Facility We are unable to host tours of the facility during the shutdown period due to the works on site. Therefore our next series of open day will be on June 3 at 2pm, July 19 at 10am and August 6 at 6pm. These open days are available to anyone interested in the facility, from the age of seven and up. There are a total of 20 spaces available on each date. To reserve a space contact us at: 01473 839149 / suffolkefw.uk@suez.com OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910

SnOASIS This, the biggest development in Mid Suffolk since the last town council meeting, was debated and approved at Mid Suffolk’s Planning Referrals on Wednesday, March 13. It will be enormous. Apart from the ski slope, there will be an ice rink, speed skating, an entertainment area, a boating lake, a club house, a sports training area, a massive hotel with a multi storey car park, lodges, flats and a hostel, a cycling area, a sports area, an education centre, a convenience store, a sports equipment shop and many other attractions. It will be world class and should attract people from around the world. A young Suffolk man who had completed in the Olympics spoke in support of the project, explaining that he has to travel abroad when he’s training but that these facilities will enable him and others to train in this country. However, local people had a number of concerns. In the original plan there was to be a railway station at Great Blakenham but because the rail company wasn’t willing to stop the trains at Great Blakenham, this plan had to be scrapped. Instead there are going to be shuttle buses from Stowmarket to SnOasis. (Will the rail company regret this decision in years to come?) Nettlestead is concerned about light pollution and visual appearance, and changing a peaceful rural area into something more urban. In addition to air quality and environmental issues, Great Blakenham is concerned about the extra traffic generated and whether County Council Highways have agreed sufficient measures to mitigate this. Little Blakenham’s concerns are drainage, water run-off, and thus possible flooding, especially at houses on The Beeches development. One of the biggest concerns the local representatives had was that they hadn’t been sufficiently involved enough in discussions, even though some have expertise and local knowledge which could be very useful. Wendy asked the Planning Officer to enlarge upon this and at first he said there would just be someone from the local parish councils. Wendy then asked if the local SPA representatives could be included in the External Reference Group which will be looking into all the issues they are concerned about. The chairman agreed that they should and that this will happen, which is a very good thing. Mid Suffolk District Councillors Mike Norris: mike.norris@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720871 Wendy Marchant: wendy.marchant@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720965

CAN I KEEP A PET IN FLAT? One of the main differences between leasehold and freehold property is that there are usually many more restrictions on an owner or an occupier under the terms of a lease. One of the reasons for this is that a leasehold property – usually a flat in this part of the country – will generally form part of a larger building. Given the close proximity of owners and occupiers, there is a desire for closer regulation of what may or may not be done at the flat through a series of restrictions and covenants. The same restrictions and covenants will usually apply to all of the flat owners in the building.

A recent case involved some buyers who bought a flat. They were advised that there was a prohibition on keeping a dog, but proceeded to purchase the flat anyway, and move in with their dog. The flat owners applied to the management company which owned the building (the landlord, in effect) for consent to keep the dog and were told that they could not. The case went to court, and the management company obtained a court order to have the owners remove the dog from the flat. The judge held that there was a clear policy in place which had been made clear to the new owners, and whilst the management company had indicated that they would consider allowing a dog in special circumstances, the owners produced no evidence to that effect.

There may be covenants that concern not causing a nuisance to an adjoining owner through playing loud music, or a prohibition on conducting a business from the flat – amongst others. The nature will depend on the terms of the individual leases involved. One such covenant that is quite common is a prohibition on keeping a pet at the flat - sometimes an outright prohibition, and sometimes with the consent of the landlord only.

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

HOW LONG IS A PIECE OF STRING? When meeting new clients and taking on claims for personal injury, one of the first questions that we are often asked as personal injury practitioners is “how long will my case take to settle?” Unfortunately, this is a difficult question to answer. It tends to be case specific and is dependent upon a number of factors: • What further evidence is required before we can submit a claim for personal injury and loss on your behalf to the person who we deem to be at fault. • Whether responsibility for your accident or illness is accepted at an early stage by the person at fault or whether further evidence is required before a decision can be made as to whether the claim can be pursued. • What the extent of your injuries are. • Whether you require further treatment to assist in your recovery. If this is the case then it depends on when we are able to obtain a final medical report detailing the extent of your injuries and loss. • What further evidence we will then need to calculate the financial losses that flow from the injuries or illness that you have suffered, and when we can obtain the information required. Once the above information has been gathered, then your case can either proceed to a settlement, normally by way of negotiation with the person at fault (or more likely their insurer.) Or if fault has not been admitted and we are still of the view that the case should be brought against the person who we deem to be at fault, then at a court hearing. Fortunately, the vast majority of cases are settled without proceeding to court, but the process can take a matter of months or longer depending on the circumstances of the specific case. It is worth remembering that as personal injury practitioners, we are here to guide you through the personal injury claims process, and to assist you through to the conclusion of your claim as quickly as possible. This includes obtaining appropriate treatment for you where necessary to aid your recovery. If you would like any advice or assistance arising out of an accident or incident and would like to pursue a personal injury claim, please contact our Louise Plant: 01473 232121 / lplant@prettys.co.uk

Our experienced personal injury lawyers handle accident claims arising out of incidents at work, home, on the roads, on holiday or in a public place in the UK or abroad. You will receive professional dedicated support throughout every part of your claim to help you recover the damages that you deserve.

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09/05/2018 16:33

OUT & ABOUT MUSICIAN’S DEBUT ALBUM IS RESPITE FROM SERIOUS ILLNESS

bRAVO THEATRE WORKSHOPS

A musician from Needham Market who finds solace during serious illness through music has released his debut album, Song.

Stowmarket bRAVO! students came together on Saturday, February 9 to perform in the mayor’s show at Stowmarket High School. The show raised funds for two of the mayor’s charities, Home Start and Citizens Advice.

Suffolk singer-songwriter Keith Sadler says: “It’s the culmination of over two years of work on these songs but the story behind the album goes back even further than that. “I lost my job in 2009 due to a serious illness. I had worked as a secondary school RE teacher for seven years in a very challenging school near Hull, where I was twice rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofstead, and then for one half term in a very different school here in Suffolk. But in 2009 I developed an autoimmune disease that would later be diagnosed as ME, and following a minor TIA at the end of 2009, I ended up not being able to return to work.” The following few years were the worst of Keith’s life. He says: “I was virtually house bound and I became very depressed. I have since been diagnosed with Bipolar (2) Disorder and Complex PTSD. These were very dark days and I was even suicidal at times.” Then in 2013, with a lot of encouragement from his wife Anna, he went out to an open mic in Ipswich and shared his songs for the first time. “I was blown away by the warm and friendly welcome I received from the local music scene,” he says, “and making music became my release and gave me a new fresh outlook on life. I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that I’m not sure I would still be here without music.”

Wow, what a spectacular way to start 2019!

Close to 140 children aged four to 18 danced and sang the night away, performing some of their favorite pieces from 2018, including our Greatest Showman dance which we performed at The Royal Albert Hall last summer. It was treat for all who watched it. It was such a lively and energetic show and it was clear to see how much effort and hard work had gone into it. Anna, the principal, said: “The feeling was electric from both students and audience. The audience were going crazy and the joy and energy in the students faces was contagious. It’s wonderful to see their hard work pay off.” bRAVO! has a very busy and wonderful year ahead with two musicals coming up, performances at Stowmarket Carnival and The Ipswich Regent in the summer and a visit to Sadlers Wells Theatre in November. If you would like to join in the fun, we meet every Friday evening at The Boys Brigade Hall in Stowmarket. For more details, please contact Anna at bravotw@hotmail.com or visit: www.bravotheatreworkshops.co.uk

Things slowly grew and at the beginning of last year Keith began to record his album with the helpful guys at GingerDog Records near Stowmarket. They were extremely kind and understanding of his health problems and they spent about eight months recording the album in bits and pieces when he was able. He says: “The album itself also reflects the tremendous support I have had from the other songwriters on the local music scene here in Suffolk, with many of the artists who have made such an impact on my life guesting on the album. The record features guest appearances from Tilly Moses, Honey and The Bear, Dusky Sunday, Christopher Lockington, Oli Arditi and Andrea King, all wonderful musicians from Suffolk. I have received lots of support from BBC Radio Suffolk over the years and Stephen Foster even made Song his album of the week for the week beginning March 11 this year.” The album is available to pre-order on Keith’s website. Keith adds: “I can’t wait for whatever comes next and I know that, whatever happens, making music will continue to be a massively positive influence in my life.” www.keithsadlermusic.com

NEEDHAM & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY Our AGM was held in February and a committee was elected. The evening also included a talk by Jaime Blake from Blooms of Bressingham on Alan Bloom, which was enjoyed by all. In March we were entertained by Simon White of Alan Beale’s nursery with a talk entitled Roses A–Z. He showed us a wide range of roses with some information on their heritage and hints on how to look after them. He also brought some for sale, which were soon snapped up. On April 4 John Foster will present The Spring Garden. Bookings are being taken for the outings to RHS Hyde Hall in May, to Moverons in Brightlingsea in June and to Woburn Abbey in July, and our event organisers are now busy arranging speakers and visits for 2020. 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

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OLD NEWTON FLOWER FESTIVAL & ART EXHIBITION Saturday 15 and Sunday June 16 Old Newton is holding a flower festival and art exhibition over the weekend June 15 and 16 between 11am and 5pm. The flower festival will take place in St Mary’s Church. The theme for the floral displays will be Art and Artists. The art exhibition, featuring work by local artists, will be in the village primary school. Art work will include paintings, photography and textiles. Through both days refreshments will be served in the school and will include ploughman’s lunches and tea and cakes. In addition there will be a raffle and a produce stall outside the church. To draw the festival to a close on Sunday 16, there will be a Songs of Praise service at 6pm. Entry to the event is free, but donations towards the upkeep of the church will be most gratefully received. Parking will be available at the church (IP14 4PJ), the school (IP14 4PJ) and also at Old Newton Village Hall (IP14 4ED). Contact Libby Brooks: 01449 775334 / familybrooks@btinternet.com

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OUT & ABOUT MAKE A DATE FOR A LAST TANGO AT THE JOHN PEEL CENTRE Stowmarket Operatic and Dramatic Society are bringing a little slice of Mike Harding to town with the hilarious comedy Last Tango in Whitby in May 2019. The play tells the story of an unexpected spark of mutual attraction between Pat and Phil while Pat enjoys a charabanc trip to Whitby.

PRODUCE STALL ON APRIL 6 The Parish Church of St John The Baptist Saturday, April 6, 9-11am Selling homemade cakes, pies and preserves, along with plants and produce. We will also be holding a coffee morning in the church from 9.30am to noon with all proceeds to church funds.

Director Tory Bolger likes that the play mixes comedy with one of her great passions, dancing. “It’s a play about a group of people going on holiday together. I liked the idea of a group of more mature people getting together and going wild!”

FREE HEARING CARE EVENT

The play, while tinged with sadness with Pat having recently become widowed, is a feelgood comedy that is proving great fun for the cast and all involved at rehearsals. “There are a lot of dances, with at least 15 in Act One, and with several weeks to go, they’re also really getting on top of the lines, and some of the cast do have quite a few lines to learn!”

Hearing loss affects one in six people in the UK and it takes 10 years on average before those who have noticed a loss in their hearing choose to seek help. Research has also proven that other than a reduced quality and experience of life, hearing loss can also lead to cognitive decline resulting in conditions such as depression and dementia.

Although Tory has choreographed several times before, she has a dedicated choreographer to allow her to concentrate on the directing, but admits that old habits die hard, and she did get to choreograph one of the dance scenes.

The Hearing Care Centre, a family-run business with 26 centres across East Anglia, is holding a special Hearing Care Day at Needham Market Country Practice on Saturday, April 27. Complimentary hearing assessments will be on offer, as well as professional advice from The Hearing Care Centre’s award winning team to help you hear to your full potential.

Pat, who was very much in love with her late husband, is doing their annual trip to Whitby without him for the first time, and it’s there that she meets Phil, a member of the hotel entertainment team. Realising life is short and that you have to live and enjoy every part of it, she finds a connection with Phil, under the sometimes-disapproving eyes of her friends. Tory is pleased the play showcases some of SODS’s more mature members alongside some younger members. “SODS haven’t put on a comedy for some time. People can relate to it, relate to the characters in the play. They can come and watch it and say, ‘I do that,’ or, ‘I know somebody like that,’ and that’s what makes comedy funnier. It creates that feel-good factor.” You can see Last Tango in Whitby between May 15 and 19 at The John Peel Centre in Stowmarket. Tickets are on sale now. For more info about SODS, visit: www.stowmarketoperatic.org.uk Ange Welham-Hagan

STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday, April 3: The Suffolk Cloth Industry by Dr Nicholas Amor South Suffolk villages such as Lavenham and Long Melford are well known as centres of wool production in the Middle Ages. The talk looks at the heyday of this local industry. Dr Nick Amor is chairman of the Suffolk Institute of Archaeology and History and an honorary fellow of the University of East Anglia. He is author of Medieval Ipswich: Trade and Industry and From Wool to Cloth: The Triumph of the Suffolk Clothier Wednesday, May 1: Inn Signs by John Goodhand John Goodhand’s hobby is photographing inn signs. In this introduction to the subject he looks at their meaning and origin. Wednesday, June 5: Where Did All The Houses Go? by Lisa Wall Ipswich has fewer timber-framed buildings today than in the past because many of the old houses were dismantled and re-erected in other parts of the country and even abroad. In the early 1900s you could buy a complete mediaeval Suffolk house and have it delivered!

Karen Finch, founder and lead audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre, said: “Hearing loss is a real issue in the UK. More often than not it’s a gradual process, it’s not always easy to tell if you’re losing your hearing. Therefore it is so important to have your hearing assessed on a regular basis to intervene at the earliest stage possible.” To find out more or to book an appointment, call 01473 230330 or visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk/needhamopenday

RIVER GIPPING TRUST A good turnout of volunteers each Wednesday along the River Gipping has continued through the winter months. Last year the trust totalled nearly 4,000 man hours of volunteer labour along the river, and we expect this year to be similar. The trust is currently working hard on clearing and restoring the old riverside footpath leading up to the bridge abutment remains on both sides of the river which are about a mile upstream of Baylham Lock / Rare Breeds Farm. The brick bridge abutments are thought to date back to 1790 when the canal was built, and the trust is hoping that they will be able to reuse the abutment superstructures to support the new bridge. Clearance work around the bridge abutments to enable a professional assessment of their condition is ongoing. The bridge span between the abutments disappeared some 70 years ago. Unfortunately, there are no known photos or drawings of the bridge. It would appear from the remaining brickwork that it was a wooden bridge sitting on the brick abutments, but we don’t know if it was a flat or arched bridge. If anybody has any further knowledge of what it was like, please get in touch with the trust as they would like to rebuild it as close as possible to the original if they can. The trust is always looking for environmental improvements, like using old tree branches to create dry hedges, and leaving suitable piles of branches to encourage wildlife. We often collect bucket loads of plastic rubbish.

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 and £3 for visitors.

The trust has no paid employees, everyone volunteers their time accordingly. The trust produces a very informative newsletter magazine (The Gipping Gossip) every six months for its members, and they would love to increase their membership, which helps ensure continuation of their work. Membership details, the latest 24-page colour newsletter and contact details can be found on their website.

For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

www.rivergippingtrust.org.uk

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB

STOWMARKET CHORALE TOASTS COUNCILLORS

On February 11 we welcomed Mike Lloyd to judge our third open competition of the season. There were plenty of entries from members and constructive comments from the judge.

Stowmarket Mayor, Councillor Linda Baxter presented a £500 grant from Stowmarket Town Council to Stowmarket Chorale towards the cost of its forthcoming concert of Brahms’ Requiem on March 30. The choir responded by toasting the councillors at a recent fundraising event.

On February 25 we were entertained by Barry Freeman who gave a talk entitled Earth and Skies. Members enjoyed seeing many of Barry’s monochrome prints, receiving many tips and ideas for photographing earth subjects and skies. NEXT MEETINGS Monday, April 8: Colin Stubley Shield (Portraiture) & A/V Trophy, judged by Andy Wilson Monday, April 16: Granville Foulger Trophy, East Ipswich Camera Club, judged by Vic Hainsworth Monday, May 2: A45 Inter-club Challenge, Bury Photographic Society, judged by David Saunders Monday, May 13: AGM followed by a club night You don’t have to be an expert photographer to be welcomed as a member of the club. All you need is an interest in photography. Our aim is to encourage you to develop your interest and skills, as well as to provide a place to meet a range of friendly people who share your interest. New members are always very welcome at the club. 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 are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second the fourth Monday of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30pm start. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us? www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday, April 7: 5 mile circular walk around Combs. Park and meet at Solar car park in Combs Lane at Combs Ford at 10.30am / GR. TM049578. Leader: 01449 771724 Sunday, April 14: 5 mile walk around the Thornham Estate. Park and meet at the overflow car park at the Thornham Centre at 10.30am / GR. TM099715. Leader: 07519 164931 Sunday, April 28: 5.5 mile walk in the Debenham area. Park and meet at Debenham cemetery car park at 10.30am / GR. TM175637. Leader: 07359 536673

Chairman Roger Pooler, pictured receiving the cheque from Councillor Baxter, said: “We would like to thank the town councillors for subsidising this exciting concert. To bring high quality live classical music to Stowmarket, we have to hire top professional musicians, a conductor, instrumentalists and solo singers. Our ticket prices need to be affordable by all so they rarely come close to covering our costs. So we are truly grateful for this help with the cost of the venue hire and publicity.” In addition to the hugely popular Brahms Requiem, the programme will include Mendelssohn’s soaring piece, Hear My Prayer, and moving and interesting works by Purcell and Britten. The concert is at 7.30pm on Saturday, March 30 at the United Reformed Church. For tickets call 07901 758009 or visit: www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk

STOWMARKET WILDLIFE GROUP Wednesday, April 24, 7.30pm: Urban Buzz Ipswich by David Dowding Ipswich has already come a long way in its journey to improve the local open spaces and parks so that the public can gain more enjoyment from them. David from Buglife will tell us about Urban Buzz, a project that brings an exciting new twist to this with the creation of lots more pollinator habitat, colour and life in key areas across the town. The talk will take place at Stowupland Village Hall. Admission is £2.50 including refreshments. Saturday, May 18, 10am: Bonny Wood Walk with Peter Holborn Join us on a walk led by Peter and discover the wonders of Bonny Wood at Barking Tye. You may see wood anemone, woodruff and herb-paris. Orchids are also typical, including early-purple orchids, lesser twayblade and common spotted orchid. Birds are also plentiful at this time of year with melodies from summer migrants such as blackcap and willow warbler mingling with the song of resident species. Places are limited and booking is essential. Free but donations are welcomed The complete 2019 programme can be downloaded from: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/wildlifegroups

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OUT & ABOUT NEEDHAM MARKET IN BLOOM Another blooming year is underway and a team has been elected at the recent AGM. A quiz for our benefit in March will go a long way to help with funds, and plans for a plant sale in May and a table top at the Christmas fair are on-going. Everyone we spoke to last summer said that the containers in the High Street looked spectacular, and we hope to achieve the same this year. To do this we need money. We invite any business or individual who would like to support us in making the town an attractive space, to please contact Pam at: pamnmib@gmail.com / 01449 720942 The next meeting is on April 13 when we will be thinking about summer planting. Our meetings are usually on the last Saturday of the month in the community centre at 10am. If you would like to join us, or offer help, please contact Vera: 01449 723424

FRENCH’S CARE HAVEN APPEAL FOR HELP French’s is an animal rescue charity. We help all animals, but primarily work with horses and donkeys and we need extra help. Are there any ladies out there who would like to join our small team and head the fundraising/projects team? You could have a hidden talent for this or maybe you have been a successful team member elsewhere before? We need a couple of ladies to take the reins and have a go at as many different types of events they can think of. It’s not all work; there’s a lot of fun and personal reward from doing so much good by helping a charity in need. Please contact me if you would like to have a go. Once I have some response to this appeal, I think it would be nice to have a wine evening where we meet up and discuss a way forward together. My contact details are: 07747 755556 / jann.turner@hotmail.co.uk I look forward to hearing from you, Jann Turner

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB The club is holding a workshop from 10am to 3.30pm on Saturday, April 6 at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD. The workshop is free of charge and being taken by a well-known and talented demonstrator Adele Kent. All you will need to bring is a pair of secateurs and your choice of flowers and foliage. If you are interested, please contact Caroline Barnes, club chairman, on 01449 720907 as places are limited. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert for free! Our meeting on Wednesday, April 24 at Woolpit Village Hall will be another chance to learn some tips and get hands-on practice. New members and visitors are always welcome.

DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com 16

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SPORT / SCHOOLS STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB We’re approaching ‘silly season’ at the club with spring not too far away. The number of players filling the courts has risen steadily and the club is now busy pretty much every day, which is always great to see. We’re always on the lookout for new players, particularly in the junior age groups, which is why I’ve been visiting the local primary schools. At the time of writing there are seven assemblies arranged which roughly translates to 1,000 children receiving information about the tennis club and where they can get started. Not just juniors of course, we welcome new adult players all year round whether beginners or experienced. The theme of each visit is very much practical with several children invited to practise some racket skills and even play some rallies and points. So far they have been great fun, with a few more to deliver ready for the better weather to come. The next exciting event to run at the club will be the annual Easter Camp. It’s always oversubscribed so there will be a limit on the numbers of children getting a place. Information about this will be in the schools as this edition is delivered so keep a look-out. Camps are one of the best ways for children to try some tennis with six hours of activity over three days – enough to give a real experience of the game, but not so much to make it too challenging. Some of our best players started their tennis through camps, either Easter or summer, and went on to be regular members of the Suffolk team and some even played for their colleges in the United States. Lots going on, as ever, and lots more to look forward to over the next few months. If you’d like to get on court get in touch with me. Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com / 07761 142372

NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB

STONHAM ASPAL PRIMARY SCHOOL Welcome back to the second half of the spring term. The weather has been surprisingly dry and mild so the children have already had the opportunity to use the field which has been a great hit. Our new playground apparatus has also been popular. The old tower has been replaced, as has the wobbly bridge. The old ‘sandpit’ has gone and in its place is a lovely wooden train. Other repairs were completed and a fabulous all-weather service has been installed underneath our play house. These instillations were funded by the school and the PTA and I would like to thank everyone for their support in enabling this to happen. The children are loving using the apparatus. Cross Country Six children took part in the High Suffolk Cross Country event. Boys and girls raced separately. Three of our competitors came in the top five in their event and will now progress to the county finals; a very impressive achievement. Well done to everyone who took part. All our children did really well. Share Afternoon It was lovely to see once again that so many parents and carers were able to come along to have a special time with their children looking at their work – every available space was taken! Hockey Tournament Six children from across Years 5 and 6 attended a High Suffolk hockey tournament. Our team lost their first game but went on to win all their other games in their section – very convincingly. Only the winners of each section progressed on to the semi-finals so it was a tense wait to find out how our opposition had got on. Sadly, we came second in our section by one point! It was a great performance all round with great team work and some impressive attacking and defending skills. Well done to the team for a great effort. Headteacher Mrs Sharon Waldron

HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL Thank you to Miss Way from Henley Primary School for visiting us and sharing useful and early phonic ideas with us. From this we have been looking at letters and sounds, encouraging the children to learn these in a fun and ageappropriate way.

We are now well into the indoor bowls season at the Meadlands and teams from NMBC are doing well, especially in the Birdie and the Rivers leagues. For information on indoor bowling contact David Hindley: 01449 613144 / 07717 940270

We are also preparing for Easter, cooking Easter nest cakes and creating crafts as well as our traditional egg hunt in the garden.

Friday, February 22 was ‘Big Quiz’ night and congratulations to John Milliard’s team on a very strong performance. The turnout was a bit disappointing with only four teams playing, but enjoyable for those of us who did attend. Thanks as usual go to quizmaster Linda Benthom and to Pat Goodrum for the food. Both put in a lot of time and effort to make the event a success.

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.

The turnout for the socials this year has been down on previous years so if anyone has any new ideas please speak to the committee. The opening drive (attire should be greys and club shirts) will be on Sunday, April 14 at 2pm. Please bring food for an American tea. Meet and Greet days will be Saturdays, April 27 and May 4 from 10.30am. Work continues on the green and it’s looking in extremely good condition for the 2019 season. Anyone interested in helping with the green will be warmly welcomed and should contact Alistair Bailie. To discuss any aspect of NMBC please contact Alistair Bailie (01449 720759) or Pat Hadden (01473 831308).

April brings us to the end of spring term and when we return we look forward to new children joining us.

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 in term time only from 9am to 3pm. We have a well-supported Facebook page that provides lots of information and you can see what the children have been doing. It’s also another way to contact the setting directly. 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

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CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH

Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP

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

Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist) 01449 612619 Easter is late this year, but hopefully that will mean the weather will be kind and everyone will be able to enjoy some spring sunshine over the weekend. I wonder whether I’m being rather optimistic with those words, as the weather so far in 2019 has been quite bizarre. Wearing t-shirts in February is just wrong! I’m actually convinced there will be snow at Easter as I head off to Yorkshire on Easter Monday for a walking holiday! Uncertainty and surprise are key components of the Easter Weekend as in the church calendar the pendulum swings from the darkness of Good Friday when Jesus was crucified to the bright light of Easter morning when Jesus’ followers found the grave stone rolled away and encountered him in the garden and on the road to Emmaus – seemingly bizarre events all those years ago. Whatever your beliefs, there’s no doubt that those few days had an enormous impact on their lives and on the lives of thousands of others over the years.

Churchwarden: Linda Ruby, 07940 581879 Ark Enquiries: 07940 581879 SERVICES FOR APRIL Sunday 7 8am Holy Communion 10am All Age Worship Sunday 14 Palm Sunday 10am Sung Eucharist & Sunday Club Monday 15 to Wednesday 17 7pm Compline and Meditation Thursday 18 Maundy Thursday 7.30pm Eucharist with Stripping the Altar Friday 19 10.30am 2-3pm

Good Friday Walk of Witness from the Ark to Christchurch for refreshments Last Hour before the Cross

Sunday 21 10am

Easter Morning Easter Morning Celebration

I hope you all have a good Easter break.

Sunday 28 10am

Eucharist Sung Eucharist

‘After darkness, light; after winter, spring; after dying, life: Alleluia! Alleluia!’

All are welcome to all our services.

Rev Mary Playford

Saturday, April 6: Produce Stall and Coffee Morning (see p13)

Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist): 01449 612619

Meditation: Third Monday in the month at 43 Barking Road

The stories told by the early church convinced many, and yet left others totally cold; and so it is today. The story of Easter is really rather strange but it is there should you wish to explore it. As for me, on Easter Monday I shall head north with a degree of uncertainty about the weather, and the routes we will be walking. I hope that I shall return having been surprised and delighted by the week.

Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am (including crèche and Sunday Club) Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday 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: 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 6.45-8.45pm / Wednesday 9.15-11.15am Moo Born Baby Massage: Monday 12.30-2.30pm Moosical Moo for ages 0-5: Tuesday 9.15am-noon in term time Osteo Stretch & Exercise: Tuesday 12.30-1.30pm Over Power Body Transformations Fitness Class: Wednesday 5.30-8pm 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: 07851 742847 CHURCH CONTACT: Lindsey Gomez, 01449 722418 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk

Pause for Prayer Group: 11am-noon on Tuesday mornings Home Worship: First Monday of month, 10am, 137 High Street Mothers’ Union: Third Wednesday at noon in the Ark Tuesday Tots: 9.30am in the Ark in term time Christians Together: 10.30am on Thursdays at Christchurch (term time) Young Peoples Group: Please see The Rev Diane Williams for information Cafe Church: Third Sunday at 4pm in the Ark (please check) www.needhammarketparishchurch.co.uk TUESDAY TOTS Calling all mothers, grans and carers. Come 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. Just £1 per family to include refreshments. STOWMARKET SALVATION ARMY BAND IN CONCERT Saturday, May 11, 7.30pm in church. Tickets £5 on door or from 01449 722202. Refreshments included.

HOME WORSHIP On Monday, March 4 we enjoyed singing gospel songs with Norman Cronin, a retired Baptist pastor, his wife Dawn and, on guitar, Nick Strawson (Leonard Barnes son-in-law). Norman talked about his life, reminding us of how much God loves us. On Monday, April 1 Tony Leigh-Pollitt from the parish church is going to speak on Jesus the Money Man. All are welcome to join us at 10am at 137 High Street, Needham Market. After the worship we enjoy refreshments and a friendly chat. Wendy Marchant

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