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with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone Volume 8 • Issue No. 8 • JULY 2018
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR You know what it’s like when you have a few precious minutes to catch up on a million tasks. It’s usually a mad dash involving at least one bruise, multiple encounters with people you’d love to chat to at any other time (just not right now) and, almost always, a whole lot of frustration. Well, last Saturday I left home with a mile-long list and 30 minutes to complete them. Parking took at least 10 minutes so the pressure was on from the get-go. First, the library where I grabbed the first Jo Nesbo book I saw (turns out I’d read it before but I’m enjoying it nonetheless). Then I lost precious minutes standing in a queue at the pharmacy. Next the pet shop and then back to the car with a bale of hay. Round two took me first to the gift shop for a baby gift and card, then to the homeware shop for window cleaner and a new squeegee (still unused by the way) and finally to the hairdressers to make an appointment (which I’ll probably have to cancel). I’m exhausted just writing about it, but as I raced from shop to shop and criss-crossed the market square at least four times, I noticed a father and son sitting on a bench under a shady tree. Each time I raced by I was struck by how still they were, dad with his arm draped over his son’s shoulders as they sat close together in silence watching the world go by. I stopped at one point to watch them from behind and in that moment I felt like a complete lunatic. I tried to remember the last time I’d simply sat with my son, doing nothing, just being together, and it had been a while. With one last admiring glance at the relaxed pair on the bench, I headed to the car and home to Jack. After a quick kick around (always his first choice) we snuggled up on the sofa to watch a movie. Of course, I do wonder what the wife/mother was doing while the dad and son relaxed! Perhaps she was tearing about like me, but I hope not. That list of things to do will always be there, but I’m determined to find that happy balance and to spend more time with my nearest and dearest. Now who’s going to clean those windows?
In Touch
with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone
NEWS PICK A POSTCARD! In order to raise additional funds to better support the learning of students with additional needs, staff and students at Holbrook Academy have arranged a Pick a Postcard Exhibition on the evening of July 12. Well over 100 artists have agreed to support the initiative by providing a postcard-sized work of art for the exhibition. Each work can be purchased on the night. Artists include a number of internationally known painters, such as Maggi Hambling, Tory Lawrence and Colin Slee. Alongside these will be works from currently less well-known local and regional artists as well as from a number of the academy’s own highly gifted painters. None of the works will be signed on the front, but all will have authentication on the rear and each work will be priced at £20. In this way, purchasers will not know whether they have bought a Hambling worth several thousand pounds, or a piece from an unknown painter whose works might, in time, command such prices. Some will no doubt try to use a trained eye to spot an established gem, while others may be looking for that diamond in the rough. All, no doubt, will be looking to purchase something they like, and just as importantly, something which will help towards a very worthwhile cause. The Pick a Postcard Exhibition will be in the academy’s Community Room and starts at 6.30pm. Entrance is £5 and within this cost artlovers will be treated to canapes and fizz and suitably ambient background music performed by some of the academy’s own music students. Queries in advance should be addressed to Stella Percival: 01473 32831
Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
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01473 400379 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.
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Shotley Rose, Every Tuesday from 11.30am-1pm Do you feel like the weekend has dragged? Are you fed up with your own company? Maybe you are new to the area? You are invited to come along and enjoy a free cuppa and some friendly chat. #dontbeonyourown Meet Up Mondays Suffolk @meetupmondaysSu www.meetupmondays.org.uk
This month’s cover image was submitted by Sanri Harvey with the following words: One in many, But no less unique. No less special, No less important.
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NEWS HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY Training Days Our next training afternoons are on Thursdays, June 28 and September 13 (there is no meeting in July or August). The practice will be open for patients to come in to collect/drop off prescriptions and book appointments or make enquiries at reception. However, there will be no clinical staff on site and our telephone lines will be switched over to the out of hours’ service on these afternoons to allow staff training. Please ring 111 for advice if your query cannot wait until the following day. In an emergency, dial 999. Return, Recycle, Reuse The NHS ‘equipment amnesty’ held in Suffolk has this week been highlighted by the Royal College of Physicians as being an excellent example of reducing waste and saving money for the NHS. Last year, in conjunction with our local health partners, we asked people to consider returning items they no longer need, such as commodes, mattresses and wheeled adjustable frames. Within a month almost £800,000 worth of equipment had been returned. The campaign is not over and we would still very much like you to encourage patients to return any NHS items they no longer need or use. Anyone with equipment to return can contact Medequip to arrange for them to come and collect it: 01473 351805 / suffolk@medequip-uk.com Return of Unopened Continence Products Our colleagues at the community bladder and bowel service are calling on people and care staff to return unopened continence products and save the NHS thousands of pounds a year. In Suffolk, the NHS provides continence products to eligible patients at a cost of £2million a year. Often these products, such as pads, remain unused because they are no longer needed, but they do not need be discarded. Unopened packets or boxes can be returned through a free collection service, saving an average of £2,000 per month, resources that can be reinvested into this vital service. To arrange collection of unopened products, please call the Care Co-ordination Centre: 0300 123 2425 Collection of Repeat Prescriptions Please remember that we now require three working days in which to dispense your prescription medication. This has helped us to ensure that the majority of the time patients are not waiting for ‘owed’ items. If you have the same medication each month and rarely change this, please ask at dispensary about our Managed Repeat Service. NHS 70 Tea Party The Ipswich and East Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group has asked us to arrange a tea party to celebrate the NHS being 70 years’ old this year. This will be sometime in July and we will be putting up notices when more information is known. Do you have any memories of the early days of the NHS? Are you turning 70 years’ old yourself this year? Do you know someone who is socially isolated who might like to attend this event? Please let our receptionists know so that we can include these people on our guest list. Practice Manager Julia Smith
FLOWER FESTIVAL AT FLOWTON CHURCH RAISED £795 Thank you to everyone who played a part in the flower festival at Erwarton Church. To all those who gave up their time to arrange flowers, to cook for the refreshments, to serve and wash up, to Tony for providing us with lovely posters that brought the people in, to Ted who, firstly with Graham, made sure the churchyard was looking good then got out and put away tables and chairs, and thank you to Shirley, Maureen and Andrew who answered the call for help from the aging ‘crew’ at Erwarton. Without them life would have been tough. It was a very enjoyable and successful weekend which resulted in £795 going into church funds. The weekend was rounded off with a service of Songs and Praise ably taken by Sally.
Babergh District Councillor Alastair McCraw REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: JULY 2018 I thought that I didn’t have much to say this month, but that never seemed likely to anybody. Babergh held its Annual Council Meeting in May where, like all councils, we appoint our chair, vice chair and the other statutory appointments to committees and outside bodies. The new chairman is Barry Gaspar, previously chair of Overview and Scrutiny. I thought I’d write about that a bit, so you might have a little more information on at least one committee. I’m sure this is exactly what you were hoping for when you started reading this. Please bear with me, because in our cabinet system of operation it’s a great deal more useful, and even important, than it might appear. The cabinet are considered to be the executive, with a wide range of decision making powers. They are appointed by the council leader, currently John Ward. The votes of the largest number of councillors decide who the leader is. The leader then appoints the cabinet with individual areas of responsibility. The council are considered the non-executive. Although they make decisions, they have been limited in what areas those decisions can be in. Those are the people that everybody voted for. The majority get to appoint a leader. He appoints the cabinet members. The rest get to use what powers they have to influence. One of the checks and balances is a having a strong Overview & Scrutiny Committee. Exciting stuff, yes? I voted against the cabinet model, the opposition voted against it and some of the people who voted for it have apologised. But there we are for some years to come. OK! This last year I’ve been serving as the vice chair of Scrutiny in our first year of this cabinet government. Looking back, I think we challenged quite a few assumptions about how the council should run. The idea of Scrutiny is not to make decisions, but to allow the council and cabinet to make better decisions in the future. In the extreme, our recommendations might see a serious re-examination of a previously made decision. In one notable instance, we found that the suggested move to merge with Mid Suffolk had not been decided correctly and with the proper process. The fact that the then leader subsequently resigned was not our intent. We sent it back for a, more or less, binding recommendation for proper debate based on a proper case. If you haven’t fallen asleep yet, and I wouldn’t blame you, opposition pressure for a repeat referendum on merger saw that result. The new leader then changed policy. In a cabinet run council, Scrutiny is the link between the cabinet and the councillors you elected. We’re part of a triangle that should reinforce and protect those viewpoints. It’s a surprisingly non-party-based process. ‘Make it work, make it fair and make it open’ seem to be the basis we’ve operated on this last year. That was all fairly obscure for many, but I think you should know something more about the operation of this particular committee. (I could do a series). As it happened, I was elected as the new chair of that Overview and Scrutiny Committee for Babergh. I’ll be working with my counterparts at Mid Suffolk as well. I also look to both focus and expand the range of topics we examine. There’s an expression we seem to use in Scrutiny matters. ‘ADD VALUE’. Both of those words apply, together and apart. As ever, I can be contacted as below, and I’ll be out and about on that old blue Claud Butler pushbike, even to the Women’s Tour of Britain in Southwold (just watching for many obvious reasons). Alastair McCraw 07812 564188 / alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (a joint open group)
FUNDAY AT THE ROSE Shotley Rose Bowls and Football Clubs are holding a Funday on Saturday, July 21 at 2pm on the Rose Inn Playing Field. An afternoon of family entertainment, followed by music and bingo in the Rose. All welcome.
God bless you all, Wendy
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NEWS DISTRICT COUNCILLOR DEREK DAVIS – BERNERS WARD Shotley, Erwarton, Chelmondiston, Woolverstone and Freston Making tough, and sometimes unpopular, decisions is part and parcel of being an elected councillor. Virtually every decision will delight some, and disappoint others, but the important thing for a councillor is to make their mind up with the best interests of their ward, district and country, in mind. We have to abide by government decisions, indeed the law, and also our own policies when relevant. As an Independent I have felt disappointed with some of the decisions the majority in council have voted through, but that is democracy and we have to make the most of what we have been handed. I’m sure some of those members who have voted on party lines, rather than with their own conscious, have had cause to reflect and perhaps may not be happy with the way things have turned out. Planning decisions are by far the most controversial, especially those made at committee, as we have seen across the district, not just on the peninsula. Almost 95% of planning decisions are made under delegated power, meaning trained planning officers take the application through the whole process. The rest are taken to committee, with officers making a recommendation. However, it is not unusual for the committee to come to a different conclusion, sometimes with the tightest of majorities, or even an even split in votes with the chairman getting the casting vote. All decisions have to be justified in terms of planning law and policies. Appeals and judicial reviews cost the council, i.e. you the taxpayer, tens of thousands of pounds, money that could be better spent elsewhere, e.g. social housing. Sadly, one reaction we have seen is false and malicious allegations of corruption in the decision making. It is something I came across even before elected with allegations against local councillors, totally untrue and unfounded and the people involved totally cleared. But that didn’t stop people repeating them to me on the doorstep. This is something that happens nationwide and has led to totally innocent people taking their own lives. Even dealing with the vindictive allegations can take its toll with a painstaking wait as the authorities, or police, quite rightly make sure there is nothing untoward. Again,
HOLBROOK VILLAGE HALL ADDITIONAL HELP NEEDED URGENTLY At the monthly meeting of Holbrook Village Hall Management Committee, grave concern was expressed at being able to continue running the hall unless some additional help comes forward from local people. The committee have been seeking a replacement secretary and bookings secretary since Christmas following their retirement after a number of years. Without these people in place the hall cannot continue to function over the longer term. All organisations in the village are entitled under our constitution to have a seat on the committee, but unfortunately only four organisations do so. We would really appreciate more organisations involved. We also have vacancies for three co-opted members. These are members of the public who would be willing to give some time for the benefit of the hall. In the recent past a lot of the maintenance work and decorating was done by committee members, but regrettably the majority are now in their 70s and are unable to undertake those tasks.
more tax-payers money being used dealing with vexatious and untrue accusations by sad individuals usually pursuing their own personal or political agendas. Just as I’m convinced those councillors pre-2015 were totally innocent, so I’m certain no Babergh councillor or officer has violated any sort of pecuniary rules since I was elected. We are all subjected (quite rightly) to a lot of proper scrutiny, checks and balances, and stories of brown envelopes are most definitely a thing of the past. Decisions, popular or otherwise ,will continue to be made and those who waste time and money and cause distress with their nasty, vindictive and vexatious complaints can crawl back under their stones, because they will not adversely affect the democratic process. Customer Service As part of my cabinet portfolio I have been involved in looking at how we can improve customer service, and I’m fortunate to have some real experts working in that department so we have been able to make real progress of late. From now on, a minimum standard in returning emails and phone calls will be adopted with a response within 24hours mandatory, even if it is just an initial answer, although a full response will be sent within five working days, unless the issue is particularly complex. Being Independent Congratulations to my opposite number Alastair, the member for Alton Ward (Brantham, Stutton and Tattingstone), on being elected as chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee, which is a vital and necessary part of the democracy process. Alastair is also an Independent and along with Clive Arthey who is chair of the Waste Partnership Committee, and me as the only non-Conservative cabinet member, we have shown how Independent councillors can have a strong voice in council, despite not being tied to a particular political party. If you have an issue you would like to discuss please contact me at: derek.davis@babergh.gov.uk / 07824 167196 My Facebook page is: Derek Davis-Your Independent Councillor
SHOTLEY PENINSULA GOOD NEIGHBOUR SCHEMES A HELPING HAND WHEN NEEDED The Shotley Peninsula Good Neighbour Schemes are an important support network in our villages. They are run by volunteers under the umbrella of Community Action Suffolk. They can be contacted for assistance over a range of activities, including shopping, pet care, trips to hospitals and surgeries and collecting prescriptions. We are supported by parish councils and voluntary donations. All volunteers have been DBS and reference checked and are simply people in the community who don’t mind being asked for a helping hand. The contact phone is held by a rota of volunteers who ask volunteers in turn if they are free to help with a particular task. It is for all to use – all of us at some point are glad to be able to call on a neighbour for help. Please contact the Good Neighbour Scheme for your village: Chelmondiston and Pin Mill: 780408
The committee would really like to see some younger members of the village come forward. Meetings are on the first Monday of the month in the hall.
Harkstead and Lower Holbrook: 328326
If you are interested please get in touch with the chair, David Rose, on 01473 328862. You will be made very welcome.
Stutton Support Network: 327753
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Shotley and Erwarton: 07799 873881 Tattingstone: 07895 052086
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NEWS CLASSIC CAR & MOTORCYCLE EVENT Friends of Woolverstone are to have their first ever Classic Car and Motorcycle Event on the Church Field, Marina Road, Woolverstone (sat Nav IP9 1DQ) on Thursday, July 12 from noon. This is a beautiful location set in parkland and close to the marina and it offers good access and hard standing. Members of the Eastern Counties Motor and Motorcycle Clubs have been invited and it is hoped that there will be a good response to the invitation. On the day refreshments will be offered in the village hall and in the dairy at the Dairy House on the edge of Church Field, where helpers will be pleased to offer you refreshments including delicious cakes and savouries. A beer tent and barbecue will also be available on the field. A treasure hunt has also been organised with a prize of dinner for two at the fabulous Red Lion in Chelmondiston. Ipswich High school, who have generously agreed that Church Field can be used for this event, have also agreed that photographs can be taken of vintage cars in front of beautiful Woolverstone Hall and they would be pleased to receive any copies of photographs taken to commemorate the day. Please bring your preferably manufactured before 1972 vehicle to display for everyone to see and admire. Or just bring your friends and family for a wonderful afternoon. There is no cost to display your vehicle, but donations will be asked for to cover our costs and for our village. If you have a car that you would like to bring contact j_s_young@icloud.com or just turn up on the day.
Continuing our work looking after local footpaths that need extra cutting, we had nine volunteers out on the Marsh Lane path down to Shotley Marina in June. Whenever we have a work party cutting and strimming we always check to ensure that we are not going to disturb bird nests or wildlife habitat, and our local eagle-eyed expert, Ian Peters, spotted a whitethroat nesting in the hedge alongside the path. This section was left relatively untouched for the time being.
SHOTLEY PENINSULA SHOWCASED ONLINE New web pages showcasing the best of Shotley Peninsula have been launched, offering visitors top tips, deals and event information for their trip. The new web pages, hosted and designed by All About Ipswich (AAI) and funded by Babergh District Council, aim to make planning a visit to Shotley Peninsula easier than ever, and can be visited at: www.allaboutipswich.com/highlights/theshotleypeninsula The new web pages are part of a drive by Babergh and All About Ipswich to provide marketing support for Shotley Peninsula Tourism Action Group, with an aim of promoting the unique experiences available on the peninsula. Local businesses are being invited to provide details that can be listed on the website, providing visitors with information on all the peninsula has to offer. Designed in consultation with Shotley Peninsula Tourism Action Group, which was originally founded by Babergh District Council, visitors can find details on upcoming events, top attractions and even on money saving deals on the new web pages. Shotley Peninsula includes areas of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, drawing in a large number of visitors. All businesses on the peninsula are being offered subsidised membership of AAI, including content on the AAI website, social media and PR work. Any businesses interested can find out more by emailing: jack@centralmanagementltd.com The Leader of Babergh District Council, Councillor John Ward said: “We have some outstanding destinations in Babergh, drawing in visitors from across the country and abroad. But while our wool towns such as Lavenham and our artists are well known, the beauty and history of Shotley Peninsula sometimes feels like a well-kept secret. These web pages will help spread the word, and let us share the peninsula with many more visitors, whether they’re walking the Arthur Ransome trail, sailing from the marinas on the Orwell or sampling local food and drink in Wherstead. The peninsula is a wonderful destination and I hope many more visitors have the chance to enjoy it.” Jack Cripps from All About Ipswich said: “We’re really excited to be working with the Shotley Peninsula TAG to promote our region of Suffolk; the peninsula is a beautiful part of our county that is full of surprises that we cannot wait to start sharing. Ipswich and Shotley Peninsula are very different places but by working together we can create interesting and unique stories that attract visitors and tourists while inspiring residents to explore and love Suffolk.” Oliver Paul from Suffolk Food Hall and chair of Shotley Peninsula TAG said: “The collaboration of businesses with local agencies continues to enthuse those who visit the peninsula as well as residents enjoying this corner of Suffolk. This is a fantastic new website facilitated through the AAI partnership, giving tourist providers a dedicated resource and visitors a consolidated view to further inspire all.”
For those who joined us on the last Health Walk from the Shotley Rose, we changed the walk to include Golden Wood, a route enjoyed by all who hadn’t had chance yet to see this community wildflower meadow.
HOLBROOK PARISH COUNCIL
Our next Health Walk is on Thursday, July 19, starting from the Bristol Arms at 11.30am. We are building up quite a following on these lovely strolls around parts of the village, with visitors coming from as far as Thetford and Bungay. Please join us, you will be most welcome.
Update on the Neighbourhood Plan The Holbrook Neighbourhood Plan is now registered with Babergh District Council and all details can be viewed by the public on the parish and district council websites. Details can also be found on the village noticeboards. The chairman of the group provided an update to residents at the Annual Parish Meeting on April 18.
Suffolk Day on June 21 saw us host a walk along the Arthur Ransome Trail, with a barbecue set up at the Bristol Hill picnic area for anyone to use and enjoy. If you want to see what a lovely place Shotley is to enjoy a walk, check out our website where there are loads of photos and descriptions of the areas to be enjoyed: www.shotleyopenspaces.co.uk If you wish to be included on the growing Shotley Open Spaces email list, please contact one of the following: Geraint Pugh: g.pugh1@btinternet.com Gary Richens: gary.richens.583@btinternet.com Tony Lawford-Randall: keyworker@hotmail.co.uk
www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley
Key points from the meeting held on April 16
It has been planned that all meetings will take place prior to Holbrook Parish Meetings so that an update can always be provided. Funding options are also being explored. The terms of reference for the group have been completed and can be found on the parish website along with all the meeting dates, should anyone wish to attend. Full minutes of this and all other meetings are available at http://holbrook.suffolk.cloud or by contacting the clerk: holbrookparishclerk@outlook.com / 07999 583017 Future meeting dates: July 16 and August 20
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT JAMES CARTLIDGE, MP SOUTH SUFFOLK Last month I was delighted to host a meeting with councillors from South Suffolk’s parishes regarding neighbourhood plans. The meeting, which was held at Hadleigh Town Hall, was well attended with representatives from many of the villages across the constituency. The purpose of the meeting was clear; I wanted to impress upon those gathered the necessity of drawing up a neighbourhood plan, and allocating sites within that plan. A neighbourhood plan is a way for parishes, or groups of them, to have greater control over development in their area. The plans cannot stop development but there is no doubt that a community without such a plan will be more vulnerable to speculative development than one with a made plan and where – crucially – they have used the plan to allocate sites for new housing. What does ‘allocating sites’ mean and why it is so significant? The answer is that I have not known a community yet that is unable to answer fairly forthrightly the question of where they don’t want development to go. Allocating sites is the much harder question for communities of where they do want it. But by going through that process and drawing up a plan with a reasonable allocation of homes for the future, the neighbourhood plan has far greater weight in law.
ART AND CRAFT EXHIBITION AND SALE All Saints Church, Sutton IP12 3DT will be hosting an Art and Craft Exhibition and Sale on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 July. Artwork from local artists will be exhibited for viewing/sale from 10am-4pm on both days. A selection of local crafts will also be on sale in the church together with some craft demonstrations. Light refreshments will be available during the event and there are toilet facilities at the church. Admission is free.
I would describe this as the classic trade-off between ‘pain’ and ‘gain’. There is no point denying that the process for a community to allocate sites could be very controversial and divisive. But going through that pain brings the gain of far greater control in future, and the likelihood that housing numbers in the area will be more sustainable than in the absence of such a plan. I hold regular advice surgeries offering help and support to local people. Please see page 8 for my contact details.
WOOLVERSTONE ANNIVERSARY MONTHLY MORNING MARKET July is the anniversary month for St Michael’s Church Morning Market and this year marks our third anniversary. We are inviting anyone with a quirky vehicle to bring it along and show it; this could be a classic or kit car, a motor bike or trike, an old tractor or fire engine… the list goes on. We’d love a tandem to go with the chimney sweep’s bike that I think is joining us! The market opens at 9am on Saturday, July 14, but if you have a quirky vehicle please come any time from about 8.30am onwards.
STUTTON FEST! AT STUTTON PRIMARY SCHOOL Saturday, July 7, 2-4pm Live music, tombola, raffle, lucky dip, cream teas, tug of war, hair and face painting, Pimms and beer tent, children’s stalls, bouncy castle and much more. We look forward to seeing you there!
HOLBROOK SOCIETY Friday, September 7: Foraging – Food for Free! Vivia Bamford of Sciapod Dairy will inspire us to forage in the Suffolk countryside. November 9: Peace Concert in the Church November 24: Christmas Shopping Trip to Norwich Please note we have to increase our charge from £3 to £4: hall fees increased a year ago as have other expenses and to continue to absorb these costs would endanger our financial stability. We hope you will understand.
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There will be the usual stalls selling fresh local produce, meat, craft items and much more as well as our famous bacon butties. It’s a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends and make new contacts as you drink a coffee. We finish around 12.30pm, or when everyone has had enough! All money made at our markets goes to church funds and your generosity allows us to support local, national and global charities too. For more information or to book a stall please contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777 / jane.gould@btinternet.com
GENTS’ BREAKFAST There will be a gents’ breakfast at St Andrew’s Church Room, Chelmondiston on Saturday, July 21 with a cooked breakfast, fruit, toast, etc. I will be there from 9-11am and will happily cook for any gents who would like an English (or continental) breakfast with tea/coffee as required. Bring a friend or neighbour, a newspaper or whatever interests you. Come at a time to suit you and I will cook a fresh breakfast for you. It would be great to know in advance if you will be joining us, but I am sure there will be places on the day. A donation of around £10 towards church funds would be appreciated. Dilly Ridge dilly@hildaridge.co.uk / 01473 780350
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OUT & ABOUT ALTON BELLES
BELSTEAD VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKETS
Alton Belles programme of talks has been really varied this year. We have covered the history of the stage coach between Ipswich and Yarmouth, learned about complimentary therapies, fed and cuddled baby lambs and voted on the WI resolution, Awareness of Mental Health, to go before parliament. June saw us welcoming Martha Loader who gave us a one-off talk on William Shakespeare. Most of us think we know about William Shakespeare. He wrote a few plays, a few hundred years ago. You may have seen one or two of them, but Martha offered us a new perspective on the Bard’s life and work. Some of it was familiar, some was a little more surprising... On July 19 we will need to be Aware, Alert and Alive as we welcome Harare Mata Hari! Come along and join us for more surprises. Alton Belles are a friendly group of women who meet once a month for a programme of talks, tea and a chat. Tattingstone Village Hall provides a lovely venue with easy parking. If you would like to learn more about how you could get involved in our vibrant and forward-looking WI, but feel nervous about coming along, just contact Tamzin (328670) or Jane (327865) who will make sure you are looked after.
A market is set to take place in Belstead Village Hall from 9am-noon on the first Saturday of every month to raise vital funds to support refurbishment of the kitchen and ladies toilet. With an extensive range of tables, a raffle and refreshments, the market is the perfect place to meet with friends for a chat over a cuppa and a piece of cake while supporting this essential local amenity. You can also support Macmillan who will have a table laden with homemade goodies for sale. If you can sew, make or create and would like to hire a table (£10) please contact: 07981 335859 / market@belsteadvillage.co.uk
STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB STOUR VALLEY U3A Tony Diamond’s subject on Wednesday, June 13 was Chocolate. He presented the history of the colourful discovery of chocolate and the spread of the hot drink in Europe, its astonishing aspects and an overview of its financial importance to the UK. Around the World in a Container Ship is the interesting talk by Peter Hesketh, a former police officer and merchant navy purser, on Wednesday, July 11. As a lone passenger for around four months it positively was not a cruise. He explains the attraction of and comments on, life at sea when the ship spends so little time in port. As suggested by members we are introducing our first August meeting on Wednesday, August 8, when Tania Harrington MA, artist, art lover and researcher will talk on Art Attack – A History of Vandalism In Art. She will look at works of art that have been vandalised over the years and the reasons behind these criminal attacks, divided into political motivations, mad attacks and artist attacks. It will be a serious, at times disturbing, but also humorous illustrated talk. On September 12 historian Taff Gillingham will present a very British view on Remembrance and The Great War. Taff advises filmmakers, emphasising the need for historical accuracy on the 1914/18 War. Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. We have a wide range of groups including language study, country walking and computer studies and groups that visit gardens, churches and historic buildings. In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust, have over 260 members and 21 groups. For further information please visit www.stourvalleyu3a.org. uk where membership secretary Gillian Gibbs may be contacted. We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except August and December.
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In a talk entitled The Man & His Poetry, Dr John Knight spoke about John Betjeman on June 6, and on June 20 Chris Parfitt presented A Portrait of a Suffolk River. Both talks were much enjoyed by members. John Field will introduce us to The Treasures of Ipswich on July 4 and we hold our summer buffet at the popular Haywain on July 18 when our spouses and Probus widows join us for what is sure to be an enjoyable event and a tasty meal. We don’t meet in August and return on Wednesday, September 5 when Tracey Mackneww of the Giggly Pie Co will present her life story. Then on Wednesday, September 19, David Ablewhite will return to tell us about The Other Prince William. Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202
SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE EVENTS FLOWER FESTIVAL 2018 St Mary’s Church, Shotley Saturday, June 30: 10am-5pm including hot dogs and bacon butties Sunday, July 1: 11am onwards including ploughmans’ lunches with FAMILY@CHURCH Service at 4pm Stalls, refreshments, draw and more
COFFEE MORNING AND BRING AND BUY SALE Shotley Village Hall, Friday, July 20, 10am-noon Everyone welcome Entry: £3 includes coffee & biscuits plus two strips of raffle tickets
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OUT & ABOUT SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700 CLUB
SHOTLEY SOCIAL CLUB (Over 60s)
MAY DRAW WINNERS 1: Mr A Slatter (92) £25 2: Miss D Waite Gibbs (18) £20 3: Mrs L Jones (96) £15 4: Mrs D Bacon (58) £8 5: Mrs L O’Leary (22) £7
Our meetings for July are on Thursday 5 and 19, both 1.50-4pm On Thursday, August 2, we are going to The Alex in Felixstowe for lunch, then on to the Spa to see The Great Seaside Special. We are now taking names for this.
New members are always welcome to join the 700 Club at a cost of £1 a month, which can be paid at intervals of three, six or 12 months. The money is divided equally between prizes and support for repairs and improvements of the church. To join, contact Norman: 01473 787358 ANNUAL TRIP TO THURSFORD Please note that this year’s trip to Thursford is on Sunday, November 25, a week later than usual. To book contact Norman. Cost details will be provided later.
For information needed about our club or outings, please contact Norman or Eileen: 01473 787358 On July 4, we are going to Peter Beales Rose Garden. We have been before and found there was plenty of seats and the café was very good. We leave Shotley at 9am, the price is £15. We still have a few seats left. For more information, get in touch with Norman or Eileen as above.
AUCTION Our next auction is on September 15 so start getting your lots ready. More details later. FLOWER AND VEGETABLE SHOW Our flower and vegetable show is on Saturday, September 1. Schedules will be available shortly. To obtain one, contact Norman Bugg: 01473 787358
SHOTLEY WALKING CLUB On Sunday, May 13, nineteen members had lunch at the Ski Lodge Restaurant in Wherstead to celebrate 24 years of Shotley Walking Club. It was lovely to see so many of my old friends again. They gave me a lovely rose bush called Happy Memories and chocolates. Seven of us did the last walk with the club down to Suffolk Food Hall and back. Thank you for all the gifts. I still have eight albums of photographs I took on walks. On May 14 my first great-grandchild, Rose Elizabeth, was born. I have enjoyed running Shotley Walking Club, meeting people and walking around eighty different villages. So many happy memories! Jill Nunn
HOLBROOK BROWNIES ENJOY THE OUTDOORS Holbrook Brownies have had a busy few weeks making the most of the lovely summer evenings. We had a fantastic evening at David Lloyd Sports Club where we enjoyed an introduction to tennis, followed by archery competitions and gym games. Our Brownies were so enthusiastic when it came to using their creative talents to produce very pretty flower arrangements. It was lovely to watch them carefully placing foliage and flowers into their oasis to produce just the right effect, which the girls were so chuffed with. Another evening saw the girls creating their own version of Wacky Races with pedal go-karts, and while they were waiting for a kart, the Brownies had great time practising their climbing skills. Their smiles said it all – a beautiful evening to have plenty of fun. If your daughter or ward (aged between seven and 10) would like to enjoy a variety of activities, take part in new challenges, make lasting friendships and, above all, have lots of fun, please register on Girlguiding UK. We have a waiting list so to avoid disappointment, register before they are of age; it’s never too soon!
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ARE YOU IN? NO? JOIN US NOW! The chance to win a cash prize and support fundraising to maintain our churchyard at St Andrew’s Church, Chelmondiston. Only £12 for the year Further details from Fiona Wylie, 13 Woodlands, Chelmondiston 01473 780965
ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY The title of our lecture by Dr Matt Lodder on June 6 was The Untold History of Tattooing, a subject that is perhaps not usually associated with a fine arts society. Nevertheless, Dr Lodder gave us an insight into a fascinating and unusual area of art about which most of us know very little. More questions were asked at the end of this lecture than at any other we can remember, testament we feel, to Dr Lodder’s lecturing skills. We are now taking our usual summer break, but why not join us when our new season starts on Wednesday, September 5, when Rosalind Whyte will be giving a talk entitled 250 Years of the Royal Academy. We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
VILLAGE LINK CLUB Our next meeting will be on July 11 when our talk will be Nature through the Seasons by Tony Brown. Future talks will include Special Music Box Eggs on Display, Collecting Hobbies – Or Obsession, Fused Glass Demonstrations & Sales, Remnants of War, Life as a Tudor Housekeeper, Acorn Village – History to Present Day, The Mystery of Going Underground, My Life as a Live Drawing Cartoonist Comedy Impressionist and Life as a Thames Waterman/Lighterman. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall at 10am. Following the speaker we have refreshments (when there is time for a chat with other members) and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us. Roger Felgate: 01473 311684
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OUT & ABOUT CHELMONDISTON & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
GHOSTS, GALLOWS & GANGSTERS
A reminder to all members that it’s show time on Tuesday, July 31, so take care of those plants, keep stitching, making, baking, photographing and designing so that you have lots of items to enter. If you could put your entry form in on the previous Saturday, it would be greatly appreciated. Entries should be brought to village hall between 3.30 and 5pm.
Shotley & Erwarton WI Wednesday, August 15 Join us on our outing to London and hear stories of crimes and punishment and ministerial ghosts. Start at Whitehall and St James’ Park, then a guided coach tour through the Kray’s East End and stopping at the Ripper’s Spitalfield. Blue Badge guide, coffee and biscuits included. Minimal walking. Coach (with wheelchair access) leaves Shotley at 8.05am.
SHOTLEY AND ERWARTON WI
Other pick-ups are in Chelmondiston and the Oyster Reach. Price £36.
It is a sad reflection on society that our old folk have become lucrative targets for scammers. At our May meeting we heard from Gill Bishop that seven out of 10 are contacted every month, and they will lose a staggering £1.5billion. Ramps, handrails and unkempt gardens help fraudsters to target those most likely to be living alone. Lottery and prize draws, debt recovery and impersonating a bank are just a few of the tricks employed to steal their money. Fortunately help is at hand – anyone who is concerned for themselves or an elderly relative can obtain a free copy of the Senior Fraud Protection Kit by calling 01473 272301. If you would like to join Shotley and Erwarton WI, our next meeting is on September 19 when the subject is yoga. Or join us on our Ghost, Gallows and Gangster outing to London on August 15. Starting at Westminster we will have a guided tour round St James’ Park and the Supreme Court, then a coach to the Krays’ East End and finishing at Spitalfield to hear about Jack the Ripper. Anyone is welcome; the price will be £36. If you would like to join us at either event contact Jo Lee: 01473 787311
Contact Lin Howell (01473 787429) or Jo Lee (01473 787311) for tickets
CHELMONDISTON 100 CLUB We are very pleased to announce that the 100 Club really is a club of one hundred members thanks to a wonderful response. Many thanks to everyone who has signed up. Our first draw went ahead on June 3 and the results are as follows: £100 Winner: Peter Pearson £50 Winner: Kathleen Kemp Many congratulations to them both. The next draw will be in September. If you haven’t joined yet, it’s not too late. Please phone: 01473 780965
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077696 55328 15
OUT & ABOUT CHELMONDISTON WI
SOCIAL SEW-AND-SO’S
On June 12 we enjoyed an evening learning how to crotchet helped by Sally Dunn. Some ladies revealed an already existing talent for the craft although none had a go at the more advanced project Sally had brought, but helped others who had not tried it before.
Our last gathering of Social Sew-and-So’s took place on Saturday, June 2, with more sewing repairs, beading, patch work, embroidery, lavender bags and crochet. Many continued from previous sessions and, again this time, with some new attendees came a new craft, decoupage.
We all had a go, with varying degrees of success, our efforts accompanied by a low buzz of conversation and faces showing intense concentration! Sally brought a selection of her own creations, which were available to buy in support of her friend’s medical charity in Myanmar. On July 10 we are kindly being hosted by Corner Garage at Shotley for the first part of our meeting, where we will be finding out what to do in the event of a car breaking down. We will return to the hall for business and refreshments. Copies of our recipe book containing members’ favourite dishes, both sweet and savoury, are still available at Orwell Stores and Hollingsworth’s for £3.50. We would love to welcome you to our meetings which take place on the second Tuesday of each month at Chelmondiston Village Hall at 7.30pm. We provide great cakes to have with your tea or coffee! Why don’t you come along and give us a try for free as a visitor?
SHOTLEY WHIST DRIVE Our whist drives for July are on Thursdays 12 and 26, both 1.50-4pm.
Decoupage is the art of decorating an object by gluing coloured paper cutouts onto it in combination with special paint effects, gold leaf and other decorative elements. It’s rather therapeutic to watch. There is also a call out to knitters. We have decided to make some poppies ready for Remembrance Sunday. There are instructions for you to follow with support and guidance available for nervous knitters. Knit them in your own time, or come and join us one during one of our sessions. Our next few meetings are Saturdays, July 7, August 4, September 1 and October 6, all from 9am-noon at Harkstead Village Hall. Tea and coffee is available to purchase on the day. Chatter and laughter are free! Come and bring whatever you are working on. My advice to those who don’t know what to bring – load everything in the car and decide once you are here! For further information, please contact Sarah: 01473 328692
For information or lifts please phone Norman or Eileen: 01473 787358
EAST SUFFOLK ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND SHOTLEY PENINSULA BRANCH The June meeting was well attended with Deborah Johnson from Lighthouse Women’s Aid as our speaker. Lighthouse supports and empowers women and children who have suffered or are at risk of suffering from domestic abuse and violence. It was a very informative afternoon with shocking numbers of families affected within Suffolk. This month’s meeting is on Wednesday 4 at 2pm in St Andrew’s Church Room. This is our party meeting with cream teas and a social afternoon and the usual fun and games/competitions so do bring a friend to enjoy a happy afternoon. There is no charge, but gifts or donations for the bring-and-buy table are always welcomed and all funds are forwarded to the work of the Mothers’ Union for our Summer of Hope Appeal. Just £7 could train one person in Tanzania to learn farming techniques that work with the natural environment and ensure they have crops all year round, even when the rains fail. We look forward to welcoming you; should you require a lift please contact Christine (780621), Pam (780796) or Thelma (787660).
OLYMPIA HORSE SHOW Friday, December 21
An independent and voluntary charitable organisation promoting the welfare of blind and visually impaired people in East Suffolk since 1914. Membership is free. We also hold a social on the last Wednesday of every month at Stutton Community Hall from 2-4pm when we provide entertainment, afternoon tea and a raffle, and twice a year we have a lunch at a local hotel. If you would like to join us, contact Ian, our community support worker, for more information: 01473 788380 We are always in need of volunteer drivers to assist us with our monthly social event. If interested please contact Barbara McDonald: 01473 328907 We are holding a Coffee Morning at Stutton Village Hall on Saturday, September 1, 10am-noon. Enjoy coffee and cakes, a raffle and a silent auction for a magnum of Champagne. All welcome, admission is free.
CRAFTERS UNLIMITED A craft club which meets on the first Monday of the month (except for bank holidays when it’s the following Monday). Saturday workshops (10am-4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) are held in Wherstead Village Hall Meeting Rooms. Monday, July 2: Henry will bring his potter’s wheel for a demonstration with an opportunity to try, also making a pinch pot or tile
Departing at 9am from The Red Lion Chelmondiston. Other pick-up points to be arranged. Come and enjoy a full afternoon program. There is also shopping at the various trade stands. Departing when the afternoon finishes Price £65 inclusive of ticket and coach travel Please contact Shirley for booking with payment by August 20: 01473 780084
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Coming Up: Ribbon Dragon Fly in August and Block Printing in September Samples of each project are displayed the month before and other projects are available. Contacts: Ann 01473 780298 / Jill 01473 713534
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SCHOOLS / SPORT CHELMONDISTON C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL The first half of the summer term is over and at the time of writing we are heading quickly towards the middle of June. I don’t know where the past academic year has gone, but it has certainly been one full of fun and learning. During the last half term we have had the Key Stage 1 and 1 SAT tests. As ever, these are challenging times for both staff and children and it was very pleasing to see how positively the children responded. We still found time to participate in a number of exciting events. In the very last week of term, all of the children in Key Stage 1 took part in a running event at Gainsborough Sports Centre. It was such a pleasure to see of all the children taking on a two-kilometre run and succeeding as everyone finished the race. We have also taken part in swimming galas and tag rugby festivals. Children in Melissa and Edith May classes have enjoyed cricket lessons with Chance to Shine. I think that it is really important that we educate the children in everyway we can, nurturing their physical and their spiritual needs as well. The new playground furniture in Key Stage 1 has been welcomed by the children and is being used very well. It is great to see the smiling faces of the children as they enjoy spending time climbing and playing on the new equipment. The new term promises much, particularly for Year 6 as they are about to embark on the next part of their school career with the move to secondary school. On the way there the children will enjoy experiences at the New Wolsey Theatre as part of Youth Perform. Headteacher Sean Cornish
STUTTON C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL It’s official! On June 1 Stutton CEVCP School converted to an academy and joined ASSET Education ensuring the stability and long-term future of our school. There will be changes to our internal systems, but the only obvious, immediate change is in our name and the addition of the ASSET logo. Other than that, it’s business as usual and we will continue to provide a wealth of exciting additional opportunities for our children. Our strong ethos remains steadfast. The staff and governors regularly review our school’s strengths and priorities. We believe that Stutton offers: • A very committed team of staff and governors, working with ASSET Education, to further develop our successful school • A caring family and inclusive school community • A child-centred approach to teaching with a wealth of creative, enriching and spontaneous opportunities resulting in happy children with a positive attitude to learning • Recognition and celebration of children’s achievements both in and out of school We have welcomed new children into KS1 and 2 as the year has progressed, but still have places available for September; please do come and visit. The summer term is always a busy one. As I write, the children have just left for their final swimming lesson of the year. Our KS2 children are very excited about their long weekend in north Norfolk, staying at Aylmerton Field Study Centre. The whole school were very interested in hearing about Ghana from Sue Hewlett and Ian Heywood and really enjoyed recreating African drumming. KS2 will be learning how to stay safe on their bikes with Bikeability, while the younger children continue to explore different experiences in Forest School at Canham’s Wood. Our induction programme for our new Reception in September is already underway. Stutton Fest on July 2 from 2-4pm promises to be great fun with live music from various local musicians. We are also looking forward to a poetry day and our whole school day at the beach as well as sports day. Memorable moments are very important as they help shape our lives and sense of well-being – at Stutton we aim to ensure that children leave us with a wealth of precious memories. Anne Clarke www.stuttonprimary.school
LOCAL YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB SEEKS NEW PLAYERS Holbrook Hornets is a friendly local football club, primarily serving the villages on Shotley Peninsula, but increasingly extending beyond and catering for boys and girls football from Reception through to Under-16s. For the upcoming 2018/19 season, the club is re-forming the Under-15s team under a new manager, Darren Cooper, and is seeking new players to come and join the fun. If you are moving into Year 10 next year then you can play for the team! For further information and details contact Darren: cooperman66@gmail.com / 07722 065447 Players are also being recruited into other age groups, from Under 5s, 6s and 7s through to Under 14s. Kit is provided and training is focused on player enjoyment and development with a fair-playing-time ethos. The season starts in September with pre-season from August and Hornets teams train and play at Holbrook Academy. Interested? Please contact the club at info@holbrookhornets.co.uk or text 07719 577846 and get yourself in on the action!
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SPORT EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB
The AGM took place in the Pavilion. The officers for 2018-9 are: RYA INSPECTION We have recently had our annual inspection by the RYA. This involves an audit of our safe working practices, safeguarding and includes a check to verify all our instructor’s qualifications are up to date. The inspector also witnesses an on-the-water session. We passed the inspection with three minor improvements indicated; these have all be implemented.
Chairman: Martin Peck Secretary: Steve Butcher Treasurer: Ben Bibby First Team Manager: David Goodchild Reserve Team Manager: Richard Moss A Team Manager: TBA Juniors & Ladies: David George, Darren Hogg, Dale Vince Pre-season training will commence in the first week of July We are pleased to announce East Bergholt Utd Junior and Ladies are to join with East Bergholt Utd Men to become one club, East Bergholt United Football Club. This will help the club look forward to a bright and exciting future. We are looking for new teams, boys or girls, of any age group to come and join us as we look for the club to grow. If you are interested please contact David George: davidgeorge5000@hotmail.com We are always looking for people who can help the club as committee members, whether on the playing side or just in the background. EBUFC is a community club with very strong village traditions. The majority of the players either live in, or have links to, the village. Please come along and give us a look sometime. Steve Butcher: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com
SHOTLEY ROSE BOWLS CLUB Shotley Rose Bowls Club is having more of a struggle this season to get the good results of the last two years. As both the club’s teams have won promotion for the last two seasons they are now playing in stronger leagues and the games are of a higher standard. However, Shotley Rose Bowls Club has lost the services of two of last year’s skippers, one to an operation and another to overseas travel. Plus, the club has received the decision of club stalwart Ken Warner to retire after many years of service. He will be sadly missed as a player, but mostly as a fun, polite, gentleman member. Therefore, the club is very short of playing members.
JULY INSTRUCTOR COURSE This will be a very large course again involving many young sailors who have been through the Neptune System. To be accepted on the course all candidates must pass the pre-assessment sailing test. This is extremely difficult and involves a series of manoeuvres to a high standard. We are pleased that recently Alek, Issy, Zoe, Charlotte and Archie all passed. SCOUTS AT NEPTUNE On bank holiday Monday a group of 36 Scouts went for a taster session. This was a great success with very favorable feedback and future sessions planned. MDL OPEN DAY Neptune opened as part of the MDL open day. Our Cheverton launch ran trips as part of the day. NEPTUNE ON FACEBOOK Numerous items have been recently added to our Facebook site with photos, an article and feedback from courses. For booking or additional information visit: www.neptunesailing.org.uk
SHOTLEY FC Shotley FC is an established adult football club based on Shotley Peninsula. Currently we play our home fixtures at Holbrook Sports Centre. Over the years, we have had a successful rise from the lower divisions to currently being an established team within the Suffolk & Ipswich League (Saturday) Division 2.
Now having got the negative news over with, the good news is that both the Monday and Wednesday teams have gained good wins and are scoring well in defeat. Both teams currently sit in mid-table positions. The Wednesday team had a good win over a strong St John’s team last Wednesday in a very closely fought match in Shotley. However, our shortage of players is taking its toll as players go on holiday and the club is having to go into matches with less than the required number of players giving a huge advantage to the opposition. So, the club would like to make a heartfelt plea to all in Shotley village and the peninsula to come forward if you are at all interested in playing bowls. Your bowls team needs you now! If you can help, please contact Andrew Coulson (01473 787304) or Norman Bugg (01473 787358).
We are also proud that 90 per cent of our players and club members are from the peninsula (e.g. Shotley, Shotley Gate, Holbrook, Woolverstone, Chelmondiston, Freston, Stutton and Erwarton). The age range of our current playing squad is from 17 to 48. Like with most amateur sports clubs and groups we solely rely on volunteers, donations and sponsorship. As we prepare for the 2018/19 season, we would like to recruit any people/businesses who may be interested in becoming: • Non-playing or Non-committee Member of the Club (Friends of Shotley FC) • Committee Member (various opportunities to get involved)
Simon Whitney
• Volunteer/Helper
CHELMONDISTON CARPET BOWLS We had a good start to the summer season, playing three and winning three, but as not many teams entered so not many games to play. Anybody wanting a friendly match please get in touch. Our recent AGM was well supported with most members attending. The committee was voted in and the trophies for our club competitions awarded. A special Clubman of the Year award was presented to departing member Peter. This was voted on by the membership.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley
• Match Day Sponsor for our Home Games • Match Ball Sponsor • Training Gear sponsor • Main Kit Sponsor • Club Sponsor Any support would be very much appreciated. As with most sports clubs and groups, we are active on social media platforms and can include you within this if it’s something you feel you’d like to be part of. Please contact our chairman Mr D Scutcher for further details: 07388 896932 / deanscutcher602@gmail.com
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CHURCH NEWS TWO RIVERS BENEFICE
SHORELINE BENEFICE
ST PETER’S, STUTTON July 1 8am Holy Communion 10.30am Worship for All (School) July 8 9.30am Holy Communion July 15 9.30am Holy Communion July 22 11am Informal Service with Baptism July 29 11am Benefice Service in Holbrook
ST ANDREW’S, CHELMONDISTON July 1 9.15am Holy Communion, The Rev D Newton July 8 10.45am Benefice Service at Shotley July 10 10am Tuesday Midweek Communion, The Rev T Crosbie July 15 9.30am Holy Communion at Harkstead July 22 9.30am All-Age Family Worship, Mrs C Ward July 29 9.30am Benefice Service at Harkstead
ALL SAINTS, HOLBROOK July 1 4pm Afternoon Tea July 8 10am Matins July 15 8am Holy Communion 10am Informal Service July 22 9.30am Holy Communion July 29 11am Benefice Service followed by BBQ Bring your teddy bears to church and after the morning service a BBQ in the church grounds and a chance for teddy to be a ‘beardevil’ and parachute from the church tower. All bears must come with their own parachute. Tickets for the BBQ are £5 for adults and £2 for Under-12s. Teddy entry is £2. Prizes to be won. In aid of All Saints Holbrook.
ST MARY’S, ERWARTON July 1 11am Holy Communion BCP, The Rev Canon S Brown July 8 10.45am Benefice Service at Shotley July 15 10.45am Holy Communion at Shotley July 22 11am Holy Communion BCP, The Rev T Crosbie July 29 9.30am Benefice Service at Harkstead
ST MARY’S, WHERSTEAD July 1 No Service July 8 11am Holy Communion July 15 11am No Service July 22 11am Informal Service July 29 11am Benefice Service in Holbrook ST PETER’S, FRESTON July 1 11am Matins July 8 No service July 15 11am Holy Communion July 22 No service July 29 11am Benefice Service in Holbrook ST MICHEAL’S, WOOLVERSTONE July 1 10am Holy Communion 11am Death Café July 8 11am Worship the Woolverstone Way July 14 Monthly Market – Third Birthday & Classic Car Event (see p10) July 15 11am Morning Prayer July 22 11am Holy Communion July 29 11am Benefice Service in Holbrook
THE TWO RIVERS BENEFICE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ROLE The post holder will work closely with the priest-in-charge of the Two Rivers Benefice (the churches in Stutton, Holbrook, Freston, Woolverstone and Wherstead) to provide administrative support which will include running the receipts and payments accounts for the benefice. Other tasks involved are the organisational administration of weddings and funerals, helping in the production of the benefice diary, and the printing and distribution of posters and newsletters. Approximately five hours of work per week are required, to be worked flexibly and mainly from home. The ideal candidate will be well-organised with the ability to maintain financial records with accuracy and attention to detail. For further details and an application form, please contact The Rev Geoffrey Clement by June 30: 01473 327141 / revgclement@btinternet.com
ST MARY’S, HARKSTEAD July 1 9.30am Holy Communion, The Rev Canon S Brown July 8 10.45am Benefice Service at Shotley July 15 9.30am Holy Communion with Chelmondiston, The Rev Canon C Chapman July 22 9.30am Holy Communion, The Rev T Crosbie July 29 9.30am Benefice Holy Communion, The Rev Canon L Oosterhof ST MARY’S, SHOTLEY July 1 4pm ShotleyFamily@Church, Mr A Coulson July 8 10.45am Sea Sunday Benefice Service of Holy Communion, The Rev T Crosbie July 15 10.45am Holy Communion with Erwarton, The Rev Canon T Jones July 22 10.45am Worship for All, Mr A Coulson July 29 9.30am Benefice Service at Harkstead Please check church website and noticeboards for any changes to services.
THE PENINSULA BAPTIST CHURCH Pin Mill Road, Chelmondiston IP9 1JE We invite you to join us on Sunday morning at 10.30am or Sunday evening at 6pm. FIND US, FIND COMMUNITY, FIND LIFE Contact Dave Kelland: 01473 788441 / 07970 312705
BREAKFAST BANGERS AND BLESSINGS On Sunday, May 13 at St Andrew’s Church, Chelmondiston we celebrated our Gift Day. We began with a Songs of Praise and raised the roof with joyful, thankful voices. There was the definite smell of sausages cooking as we praised and thanked the Lord for His gifts to us. We gave thanks for all the many people who work hard to keep our church in the community, arranging the flowers, tending to the graveyard and working towards the upkeep of the building, and to those who work with our school and community. Then we ate a full breakfast of sausages, bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms and eggs. There was coffee and Bucks Fizz. What a wonderful way to begin a day, with laughter, chatter and food! This was a fundraiser and goodness did we raise funds. The grand total so far is £1,614.53 with Gift Aid to be added later. Special thanks to everyone who contributed in the kitchen, in the raffle and to helping with the mountain of washing up. Do join us for our Harvest Supper on Friday evening, October 5 in the village hall when more food will be eaten! Details to follow. Sally Letman
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CHURCH NEWS CHELMONDISTON & HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES
I have written this to celebrate the institution of marriage. It is what God has ordained, it has the potential for beautiful relationships and bringing much joy. In an age when relationships are entered into without real commitment, it was beautiful to see a couple so deeply committed and bringing joy to all their guests. If anyone would like help in planning a wedding or re-affirmation of marriage vows please get in touch. Rev Andrew Sankey Minister at Chelmondiston & Holbrook Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 AT CHELMONDISTON METHODIST Sunday 1 10.45am Worship with Mr Paul Finch 6.15pm Worship and Communion with Rev Andrew Sankey
At Capel Methodist Church we have just celebrated a wonderful wedding. It all began 16 months ago when a young doctor asked his girlfriend’s father for his daughter’s hand in marriage at 6.15am on a Sunday. Happy consent was given (not that it was required). Before he had had a chance to actually propose to her, his grandfather died and it was several weeks later before the right opportunity came for him to propose. He chose Mount Carmel in Israel.
Sunday 8
10.45am 6.15pm
Worship with Bryan Nichols Worship with Rev Diane Smith
Sunday 15
10.45am 6.15pm
Worship and Communion with Rev Sankey Worship with Rev Sankey
Sunday 22
10.45am 6.15pm
Worship and Communion with Tony Brookes Worship Rev Michael Ayden
Eight months later they arranged a day together for both sets of parents to spend time together in Cardiff with them. The wedding was planned for Capel. Both of them are doctors working in different hospitals in South Wales, often on different shifts, so time to the plan the wedding together was difficult. The bride’s parents made the local arrangements. There were over 150 invited guests, some camped at Vauxhall Farm and a curry evening was provided for those who arrived in the area on Friday evening. Refreshments in Capel Village Hall were provided for those arriving for the wedding on Saturday morning.
Thursday 26 11.30am
Messy Church BBQ
Sunday 29
Worship with Margaret Brock
The service was held in Capel Methodist Church, with an overflow video link to the coffee lounge. The groom’s family minister from Aberystwyth preached, the bride’s father conducted the service, Capel Methodist Worship Band led the singing of six songs. One of the bridesmaids sang a classical piece of Mozart. The couple had put the service together reflecting their deep commitment to God, each other and their families and friends.
Home Groups: First and third Tuesdays at 7.30pm and Thursdays at 2pm
The reception was held in Vauxhall Farm Events Barn. Welcome drinks and ice cream were served in a beautiful garden, then into an amazingly decorated barn. The caterers provided the best quality food. The best man’s speech was humorous and very affirming. A barn dance followed with most dancing. It was a wonderful evening The bride and groom returned on Sunday morning to join their guests for a brunch at the venue. The whole weekend was amazing, no hitches, just joy and a great time. If you have not already guessed the bride was my daughter Deborah, and her husband Tom is now my son-in-law.
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10.45am
6.15pm
Music & Song with Mr Mike Stock and Elmsett Brass Band
Lay Pastor and Outreach Worker Rachael Wainwright: 01473 603616 AT HOLBROOK METHODIST (HCT Holbrook Churches Together) Tea and Chat (HCT): Mondays, 2.30-4pm Sunday 1
10am
Saturday 7
10-11.30am Coffee Morning
Sunday 8
10am
Worship and Communion with Rev Sankey
Sunday 15
10am
Family Friendly Worship with Marilyn Watsham
Sunday 22
10am
Worship with Diana Sawyer
6.30pm
Something Different
Sunday 29
10am
Worship with Rev Derek Grimshaw
6.15pm
At Chelmondiston with Elmsett Brass Band
Worship with Harry Chicken
Please see the noticeboard on the front of the chapel for all events in July. For more information about Messy Church, Tiddlers and Family Live (HCT) contact Alicia Holmes: ajnholmes@gmail.com / 01473 658478
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CHURCH NEWS
HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB
Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB Parish Priest: Fr Christopher Smith 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ / 01473 684963 www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR JULY Sunday 1 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 3 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 8 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 10 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass Sunday 15 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 17 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 22 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass Tuesday 24 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 29 17 Sunday in Ordinary Time 9am Mass th
Tuesday 31 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass The weekly newsletter, with weekly mass times, is always displayed in the cabinet alongside the front door. Catholic Commentary Pope Francis recently commented, in a homily in Rome, that Love is not empty words or what is depicted in romantic films – it is action and
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service toward others. “Love is not what they say in movies... Love is not the romantic playing of violins. No, love is work. Love shows itself in works, not in words. Sometimes people might think that love is what they see between couples in films, but love is actually found in always working for others.” Referencing the day’s Gospel, he invited Catholics to strive to remain in God’s love, looking into their heart and asking themselves: “Do I remain in the love of the Lord or do I go out to look for other amusements and conduct of life? If you speak badly of others, then you do not have love,” he said inviting Catholics to pray to the Lord for help to remain in his love and to serve others well. He concluded that Catholics should follow the example of Jesus, who gave his life as a servant, “Because the Lord always loves first, “love is always first.” Events and Diary Dates The 100 Club Draw took place at Holy Family on Sunday, June 17 when three lucky winners shared a record £154 prize pot. The next draw takes place on Sunday, July 22. The club, set up to support the life and mission of our parish, has grown from strength to strength since its launch. New members are always very welcome and the newsletter, that includes an application form, can be found at the rear of the church or at: www.stmarksparish.org.uk Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv and Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am-noon. We are raising funds for a new carpet for the Parish Room and all are very welcome to join us. The next coffee morning is on Thursday, July 26. Supporting our local hospice All parishioners are asked to collect used postage stamps, all year, not just at Christmas, and place them in the box at the rear of the church to help support the outstanding work of our local hospice. Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital Father Adrian Gates is the Catholic Chaplain at Ipswich Hospital. Please contact him (01473 726701) if you or a Catholic is in or due to go into hospital and requires his services. All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services, it is not necessary to be a Catholic and enquiries about the Catholic faith are always welcome. Please contact the presbytery, as above, or a local person whom you know is a Catholic.
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