Spotlighton Felixstowe Issue 184 December 2019
LOCAL NEWS • SPECIAL FEATURES • HOME & GARDEN • HEALTH & BEAUTY • MORE
Award for Felixstowe Academy Students on page 4
Citizens Advice
For everyone for 80 years! on page 8
Santa's Ride Around Town with Rudolph on page 15
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Spotlighton Felixstowe TRAVEL 2 LOCAL NEWS 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10 COMMUNITY NEWS 11, 13, 14, 16, 17 & 20 MONEY TALK 12 SANTA'S RIDE AROUND TOWN... 15 LEGAL EYES 18 LOCAL FEATURE 21 & 22 HEALTH & BEAUTY 23 HOME & GARDEN 24 & 25 WHAT’S ON 27 PROPERTY 28
Deadline for January 2020
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Wednesday 4 December
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EDITOR’S CORNER
December 2019
I’m going to return to a previous subject this month because it’s constantly on my mind. Every time I drive, every time I walk down a busy street or stand in a queue, and very occasionally at home, I’m struck by how impatient we have become. Almost everyone (and I include myself here) is so terribly busy, we seem to live our lives at a rate of knots. It’s utterly exhausting, but also brings less attractive qualities – such as insensitivity and selfishness – to the fore. This morning I witnessed three incidents of poor behaviour – one by a driver outside my son’s school, the second at the Co-op where a terribly important person huffed and puffed in obvious annoyance behind a lady who was struggling to find the correct coins to pay for her coffee, and the third at a pedestrian crossing when not one but two drivers ignored the couple waiting to cross. Not major incidents I know, and I don’t intend to draw major conclusions based on one bad morning, but am I the only one who thinks we have become a little less caring of others in our day-to-day lives? Often it’s the little things which make the difference, a polite wave when a driver gives way, a smile and a thank-you to a shop assistant, holding a shop or office door open, being a little kinder to a driver who may be unfamiliar with the road or just not as quick to react… My granddad was known to say, “Please and thank you will take you around the world”. It’s not entirely realistic, but the connotation is clear. Christmas can be a hectic time and the extra stress and expense may create additional frustrations when we’re out and about, but let’s resist the urge to snap back. What’s five minutes either way? You’ll get there in the end and do it without getting stressed or upsetting someone along the way. Kindness is a quality we all need to embrace a little bit more and it’s entirely free to give. Perhaps my granddad wasn’t so far off the mark after all.
My colleagues and I here at Mansion House Publishing, and lovely Lisa who does all the hard work to create Spotlight every month, wish you and yours the very best for the Christmas Season and the New Year.
SHARON JENKINS Editor
Cover photo: Winter Trees
Spotlight on Felixstowe is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd 20 Wharfdale Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk 01473 400380 Design: Lisa Tyte Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk 01473 400380 Distribution: Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk Printing Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk 01473 400397
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Readers are invited to submit articles, photographs and illustrations for publication.
Send editorial copy to: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
Disclaimer:
The views expressed by the 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. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however, immediately investigate any written complaints.
© Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without prior permission of the publisher. Spotlight on Felixstowe is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd and is part of the "In Touch with..." series of magazines.
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Local News Award for Felixstowe Academy Students
Meet and Make Friends in Felixstowe Old Felixstowe Community Centre is home to a variety of local groups and organisations who meet regularly at the premises in Ferry Road, Old Felixstowe. The centre is run by Old Felixstowe Community Association (OFCA).
Winners and guests gathered at the Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket last month to celebrate the Suffolk Community Awards. The awards are a partnership between Community Action Suffolk, Suffolk County Council and the Suffolk Association of Local Councils. Community Action Suffolk presented nine awards to individuals and organisations representing communities, children and young people and volunteering. The Anne Dunford OBE Award is for a group of young people who have taken a leadership role in a decision making process for the benefit of young people and Anne is pictured (second from left) with Jasmine Smith, Megan Hobby, Chloe Mills and Kat Walker from Felixstowe Academy who put together the Proud, Period! project outside of their lessons after identifying a need within the school. They put together a plan, created a logo and a series of resource boxes which they placed in key toilets around the school. They led assemblies with every year group, one set of assemblies for girls, one set for boys. They presented it in a way that explained periods really honestly, and broke down the stigma and any awkwardness very quickly. They also became aware that some students from poorer families didn’t have adequate sanitary items, so they contacted the local community and produced boxes of free sanitary items which were placed in school toilets for the students to use. The project was an instant success at Felixstowe Academy, with every box being used every day. This is when the project was presented to councillors at East Suffolk House and attracted funding for a roll out across East Suffolk. It is now in the process of being adopted across the district. Christine Abraham, Chief Executive of Community Action Suffolk, said: “These students have made a significant impact to help end period poverty at their school and in recognition of their achievement in having such open conversations and taking action, they are now looking to roll the project out across East Suffolk.”
Clubs such as OFCA Tennis Club, OFCA Craft Group, OFCA Bowls Club and OFCA Table-tennis Club meet several times a week. Linedancers, Brownies, Stroke Support, Hope Trust, keep-fit, and yoga groups meet weekly and other groups such as Colneis Flower Club, WI groups, retired persons groups, clay-making classes and lace-makers meet monthly. One of the most popular events held monthly at the centre is the Community Market (free entry) on the second Saturday of the month. There is a wide selection of goods on sale each month including local homebake stalls, fresh produce, preserves, free-range eggs, a good selection of craft stalls including craft supplies and pre-loved stalls selling a variety of pre-loved items including DVDs, CDs, jigsaws and books. Old Felixstowe Community Association maintains and runs the centre which is currently undergoing a programme of refurbishment and renovation to encourage wider use, especially on Saturdays when the three halls are available for hire at very competitive rates. Chairman Gina Cooper said: “Recently we have had a complete refurbishment of our Wyn Brackley Hall, and our exterior has also been renovated. Our two tennis courts were re-laid a couple of years ago and we have a very enthusiastic group of players meeting regularly three mornings a week. Two of our rooms now have screens for presentations and we are delighted that we have had several birthday, wedding and christening parties at the centre and families find it very convenient to hold a funeral wake so close to the church and churchyard. The centre is becoming a very popular venue for such events.” Situated as it is next to the recently upgraded playpark at Gosfield Park, and opposite St Peter and Paul Church in Ferry Road, the centre is becoming the hub of the local community. Further information visit: www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk
Photo: PagePix
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Local News OFCA Christmas Card Scheme
Here for you every hour of every day
Once again, Old Felixstowe Community Association is running its popular Christmas Card Delivery Scheme. For just 30p per card, their team of ‘posties’ will deliver cards throughout Felixstowe, Walton and the Trimleys. All you have to do is take your clearly and correctly addressed cards to Old Felixstowe Community Centre on Ferry Road at the following times: • Wednesday 11 December, 9-11am • Thursday 12 December, 9-11am • Friday 13 December, 9-11am • Saturday 14 December, 10am-noon (at the Christmas Community Market) Delivery is, of course, guaranteed before Christmas. All proceeds will go towards community centre improvements. For further information, please contact Pauline Varden: 01394 278105
213 High Street, Walton
01394 648590 183 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe
01394 648730
www.eastofengland.coop/funerals
Coffee Morning at Felixstowe Library Felixstowe Friends of EACH (East Anglian Children's Hospices) are holding a coffee morning at Felixstowe Library on Saturday 14 December, 10am -12.30pm. Coffee and cake £2 and we will also have a tombola, raffle, jigsaws, books and EACH Christmas cards and calendars. All proceeds to EACH – all welcome.
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Local News 'Advice is like the snow. The softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon and the deeper it sinks into the mind.' Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Roy Gray Awarded for Ensuring the Patient Voice is Heard Roy Gray, Chairman of Felixstowe Hospital League of Friends, recently received a certificate from the NHS in recognition of his fantastic contribution to the work of the CCG and his involvement with the transformation of local health services. It includes the following declaration: “The award recognises his achievements in ensuring the patient voice is heard and that patients are involved in the shaping of local health services” Richard Bugg, President of the League of Friends, and his colleagues wish to congratulate Roy on this well-deserved acknowledgement of his achievements over many years.
Felixstowe Family History Society & Felixstowe Museum Wednesday 11 December at 7.30pm Felixstowe 1939-1945 – The Untold Stories by Julian P Foynes The talk will take place at Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe IP11 7DD, All welcome; members free, non-members £1.
The Dorian Singers Present A Christmas Cracker The Dorians are back with this year's seasonal feast of vocal and instrumental music. Baritone Mark Ellis, pianist Marina Korneva, special guests Drum and Brass and the Dorian Singers conducted by their musical director Alan Loader, combine to bring you a cracking evening of yuletide treats old and new. We are at Trinity Methodist Church on Wednesday 11 December at 7.30pm. Tickets are £12 for adults, £3 for under-18s, and include seasonal refreshments. Tickets are available at The Card Centre, 6 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe IP11 7AU (01394 283170), from choir members or at the door. This year we are collecting for The Blossom Appeal. Find out more at: www.colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk/breast
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Local News A Christmas Concert by Ipswich Over 50s Brass Band Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a brass band and after last year’s successful concert, Ipswich Over50s Brass Band is returning for another concert at The Orwell Hotel on Thursday 19 December from 2-4pm. Admission is £8 at the entrance to include free mince pies, tea and coffee at the interval. All profits, after costs have been met, will be shared equally between the band, St Elizabeth Hospice and East Anglia’s Children’s Hospice. Come and enjoy the concert and let the band put you in the Christmas spirit!
Disability Advice Service (East Suffolk) At a recent meeting, the trustees confirmed the appointment of Lord John Bird OBE as their patron. Lord Bird is the founder of The Big Issue and a champion for social justice. Lord Bird has also launched a new project called The Chapter-Catcher, a project to get people reading more and to promote literacy. Lord Bird said the work DAS does to help people is something he admires and is pleased to become their patron. For further information please contact our vice-chairman, Roy Gilmour: roy_gilmour@hotmail.com / 07913 209620 DAS is a registered charity based in Martlesham Heath giving free, independent advice to disabled people and careers living in the East Suffolk area.
Local Amateur Theatre Group Looks for Cast Members Felixstowe Musical Theatre is returning to perform at the Spa Pavilion Theatre for the first time since the venue came under private management in 2015. On 9 May 2020 they will present Bless ‘Em All, FMT’s anniversary celebration of the end of the Second World War in Europe.
A call for cast members... Male and female actors, singers and dancers of all ages are needed for this show. A first meeting for those who would like to be involved is being held at the Welcome Hall, Trimley St Mary on Monday 2 December, with auditions being held at the same venue on 16 January. To find out more or register your interest visit: www.felixstowemusicaltheatre.co.uk
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Local News Fabulously Festive Entertainment at the Spa
Felixstowe & District For everyone for 80 years!
December is filled with fabulously festive songs and begins with The Big Band at Christmas with Five Star Swing on Sunday 1 from 3pm. You may have seen them at London’s Leicester Square Theatre or on the BBC’s Children in Need. They promise all your favourite Christmas songs, all given the dynamic big band treatment.
On 4 September 1939, the Citizens Advice Bureau opened their doors for the first time to help the civilian population understand the restrictions that war would bring. The Felixstowe bureau opened as an independent service in 1984 so we are also celebrating our 35th anniversary! We continue to innovate and grow to match the needs of our clients and the requirements of ever-changing society and legislation.
The following weekend join the Spa for the sound of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons with Walk Like A Man on Saturday 7 at 7.30pm. You can look forward to classics including Sherry, Beggin, Big Girls Don’t Cry and, of course, Walk Like a Man.
With our partners, Access Community Trust, we have launched a new social prescribing service within the Felixstowe area. We will to work within GP practices and the local hospital providing support to people who present with an issue, which if not addressed, may eventually result in a much bigger problem.
Then it’s more festive frolics with A Christmas Cracker variety show on the following afternoon, Sunday 8 from 3pm. The Rat Pack Live Christmas Party is back on Friday 13 at 8pm combining Christmas classics Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Winter Wonderland, White Christmas, The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting) with all your favourite Rat Pack hits. Next the Spa manage to fit in some Abba with Arrival – The Hits of Abba on Saturday 14 at 7.30pm, the 45th anniversary of their legendary Eurovision win. You are invited to join Abba fans and celebrate the music of one of the biggest selling, most iconic bands of all time. December’s penultimate show is award-winning The Bluejays – Rock & Roll Revolution Live. On Sunday 15 at 5pm with tickets from just £22, it takes you on a jiving journey through the fabulous fifties. Taking us up to Christmas and into the New Year is Dick Whittington, the 54th annual family Spa pantomime by the Dennis Lowe Theatre Company from 21 December through to 5 January 2020. Discounted family tickets are available. January 2020 arrives with Elvis in Concert starring Marshall King, just days after what would have been the King’s 84th birthday. This is always a hugely popular show. The Spa follows that with more iconic music from Back to Bacharach and then its comedy from Jethro. With The D-Day Darlings & The Songs That Won the War plus Sinderella – the clue is in the title – there’s a veritable feast of entertainment awaiting you.
Tickets are available from the Spa Pavilion Box Office which is open from 11am-4pm: 01394 284962 You can also select and reserve your seats online at: www.felixstowespa.co.uk The café, bars and restaurant are open every day from 9.30am to 5pm and food is served for two hours before every performance. You can follow the Spa Pavilion on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all the latest news and show updates. Photo: Prestige Productions
We are pleased to be supporting East Suffolk Council's initiative to help end period poverty and the stigma attached to it. Period poverty means not being able to access sanitary products usually due to financial costs. Those in need of sanitary products will be able to access these products, free of charge and without question at our office in Orwell Road. We would like to confirm that each Citizens Advice office is an independent charity with responsibility for its own fundraising. In Felixstowe we receive grants from the county, district and town councils, local parish councils and funds from Citizens Advice nationally to deliver specific services, such as help to claim Universal Credit and energy advice. We also receive money from local charitable trusts to offer money management guidance and to provide services to HMP Hollesley Bay. From April 2020 we will not receive a grant from Suffolk County Council and will be reliant more than ever on donations from individuals and other supportive organisations such as Suffolk's Clinical Commissioning Group. Please note our new telephone number 0300 330 9016. If we receive your call during our opening hours we will endeavour to take your enquiry, but if we are already busy with calls you will be redirected to the National Citizens Advice Adviceline Service which will also respond if you call outside our opening hours. Our opening hours are 10am to 1pm Tuesday to Friday and 10am to 5pm on Mondays. We will be closed from 24 December to 2 January 2020 and would like to wish all our clients and supporters a happy holiday season.
Friends of Felixstowe Library Christmas hamper raffle and coffee morning on Saturday 21 December The Friends of Felixstowe Library are holding a Christmas hamper raffle, and tickets are available now from the library. The two lucky hamper winners will be drawn on Saturday 21 December at 11am. We will also be holding a coffee morning at the library on Saturday 21 December from 10-11.30am. Do drop in and join us for free coffee and mince pies – we look forward to seeing you. Thank you to everyone who supported our quiz night in October, and also our Book Mountain sale in November. The funds raised will all go towards improving library facilities for everyone to enjoy.
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Local News Volunteers Needed to Listen to Children Read Can you spare an hour or two a week to listen to children read in a local primary school?
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Schoolreaders is looking for more volunteers across Suffolk to carry out this important role. Reading time for many children at home and at school is often insufficient and according to Government statistics, one in four children are now leaving primary school unable to read to the expected standard. This can have a lifelong consequence.
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Our volunteers find the scheme incredibly rewarding, knowing that a few hours helping a child learn to read each week can have such a great impact on their life chances. For further information: www.schoolreaders.org to join / 01234 924111
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Local News The Christmas Gift of Time Christmas is a time of goodwill and giving back, so why not gift a little of your time over the festive season and put the magic back into someone's Christmas this year? Many charities need a little extra help during the festivities, and they rely on a legion of brilliant volunteers. There are many different ways that you can help and volunteering does not always mean a long term commitment or lots of hours per month.
WAYS YOU CAN VOLUNTEER Fundraising
Fresh Start New Beginnings have Christmas collections taking place throughout December in Ipswich and need people who can give up an hour or more to help us bucket collect and bag pack for Christmas shoppers.
Helping Out with Christmas Events
Suffolk MIND has various roles available during November and December at their head office, Quay Place in Ipswich. These include event planners/administrators – helping out with Christmas preparations for the various events they are holding, Father Christmas – the name says it all, and Christmas Elfs – to help Santa in his grotto.
New Animal-Themed Library Card Available at Suffolk Libraries Suffolk Libraries have launched a new animal-themed library card for ages 0-5. The new design includes a deer, a fox, a duck, a hedgehog, a pheasant, a rabbit and a squirrel, all led by Suffolk Libraries’ new children’s mascot, Oona the owl. The name 'Oona' was selected via a poll conducted on Suffolk Libraries Facebook page. This new woodland-themed design was part of a wider project to relaunch Suffolk Libraries’ activities for 0-5 year olds, now renamed as Wordplay sessions. This includes the regular Baby Bounce, Tot Rock and Storytime sessions that are currently held on a weekly basis in each library. The launch for this re-design took place at Newmarket Library on October 24 with Suffolk Owl Sanctuary in attendance alongside an Oona the owl mascot.
Volunteer at a Food Bank
Hannah Foulstone, who managed the project on behalf of Suffolk Libraries, said: “We wanted to engage more with the community and provide a fun and interactive experience for the children who come along to our Wordplay sessions, as well as support early childhood development. As another organisation that supports learning – and as our mascot is an owl – Suffolk Owl Sanctuary was a natural fit for working together.”
Volunteer for a Local Good Cause
Chris Astridge at Suffolk Owl Sanctuary said: “Suffolk Owl Sanctuary is delighted to be involved with the new Wordplay project and look forward to welcoming young visitors the sanctuary where they will see some amazing and unusual owls (and other birds of prey) which we are sure will add extra depth and texture to their reading as they first explore the wonderful world of books.”
Food banks provide an essential lifeline for families living in poverty all year round, but especially at Christmas. FareShare has a number of voluntary opportunities on Volunteer Suffolk, including volunteering in their warehouses and helping distribute food. Look out in your local supermarkets for donation points for food. There are so many small charities looking for reliable, friendly volunteers over Christmas and throughout the year. Search the Suffolk volunteering database at Volunteer Suffolk for the latest opportunities near you. If you can't volunteer, you can still help by making a donation to a Suffolk charity. You can support the Surviving Winter Appeal. Everyone in Suffolk over the age of 65 receives a non-means tested Winter Fuel Payment, whether they need it or not. Suffolk Community Foundation simply ask that if you don't need it, you donate it. With 310 excess winter deaths in Suffolk alone, the Surviving Winter Appeal is quite simply a life saver.
As part of this partnership, not only did Suffolk Owl Sanctuary attend the launch with a visit from Darwin, a Chaco Owl, but they will be offering free entry to the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary when a customer presents their Suffolk Libraries children’s card.
To find a role to suit you visit: www.volunteersuffolk.org.uk
Owning a Suffolk Libraries children’s card allows children to borrow books at their leisure as well as eBooks, DVDs and eLibrary services. As of April this year, children’s fines were removed for late returns to make libraries more child-accessible and welcoming for children of all ages.
If you are a charity or voluntary group looking for volunteers you can post your opportunities on the website too. If you would like support around managing volunteers, please contact the volunteering team at Community Action Suffolk at: volunteering@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk
For more information on Wordplay, visit www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/ wordplay or reach out to your local library to find out about their regular children’s activities. If you already own a child’s library card, pop into your local library to get a new one with a whole new batch of animal friends!
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Community News Music to Enjoy
Felixstowe Recorded Music Society
27 BeachGarrison Station Lane, Road Flemings, Felixstowe IP11 2DR Felixstowe IP11 7BF
Our last meeting of 2019 will be on Wednesday 4 December when we cordially invite you to Festive Cheer – An Evening of Christmas Spirit presented by Alan Lott. Come and join us, even if it is just for a mince pie and a cup of tea! Bring a friend, perhaps ‘a nibble or two’ to share with our other party goers and enjoy the music.
(Situated off Langer Road)
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We shall take a break in January and re-start our monthly meetings in February, when Ivan Ross will be presenting Bright Ideas on Wednesday 5. We look forward to seeing you in the United Reformed Church Hall, Tomline Road, Felixstowe where the music commences at 7.30pm.
01394 278010
For more information contact Rosalie Thomas: 01394 270491
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The Inner Wheel Club of Felixstowe The Inner Wheel Club of Felixstowe held its annual charity lunch on October 16 at St Felix Church Hall. Thanks to all those who supported us, we raised more than £700 towards our president’s charities.
Haven Health Centre
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01394 670107
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01394 694862
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At David Button’s funeral service, we make sure your loved one’s final farewell is as perfect as possible. You will see the same member of staff who will guide you every step of the way and if you can’t come to us, we will come to you. A simple inclusive cremation at Seven Hills or Ipswich Crematorium £2,965. Our fees are available to view on our website. Pre-paid funeral plans are also available. The Old Bank, 225 High Street, Walton, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 9DT Tel: 01394 200793 Mob: 07546 754531 info@davidbuttonfunerals.co.uk
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Several of us attended the district rally at Fynn Valley Golf Club. Members from every club in the district attended, as did Enid, our association president, and several from our neighbouring district as well as several Rotarians. The picture shows Jan, our president, with presidents from other clubs and Deirdre, the district chairman. On Thursday 7 November we were back at The Orwell Hotel for our usual meeting when we had a very interesting talk on Radio Caroline which brought back many memories. Last, but not least, we all wish you a Happy Christmas and New Year.
Kirton Christmas BazaarSaturday 7 December, 2-4pmKirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PT
Admission: Adults 50p, children freeEnjoy a variety of games for all ages such as face painting, drop the disk, lucky dips, treasure hunt, roll the 10p and win a bottle of gin, plus various stalls such as needlework, tombola, cakes, bottle stall, jigsaws, children’s games, Christmas crafts, children’s tombola and, of course, the raffle. Refreshments will also be available.
For further information contact Linda Negus: 01394 448354
12
Money Talk
Tel 01473 659777 Email info@beatons.co.uk Web www.beatons.co.uk
By
Beatons Christmas Quiz 2019 Providing Expert Christmas is a time for sharing and nostalgia as the family crowdTax aroundAdvice the TV to watch classic films. As we are moving towards 2020 we have an advent calendar of classic movie quotes since the year 2000 (some of these might or might not be on over the festive period). Can you work out the quote, one classic movie for each year? • Personal Taxfilm andfrom Taxthe Minimisation A new quote, and clues will be released each day for 20 days from 1 December 2019 on our social media • Company Tax Planning and Profit Extraction accounts for you to play along so please find us online: • Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Beatons-Group • Wealth Management and Inheritance Tax • Twitter https://twitter.com/BeatonsGroup and • Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beatonsaccountants/ • Corporate Structures Alternatively, if you would like to play along with your family we have provided a handy • quotes Self - on Assessment Tax Returns PDF document of all the our website www.beatons.co.uk/xmasquiz2019
Here are 3 quotes to give you a flavour:
" Wilsooo
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Beatons Group will be closing their offices on Tuesday 24 December and T: 01473 287051 will reopen on Thursday 2 January 2020. info@beatons.co.uk
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous www.beatons.co.uk New Year, from everyone at Beatons Group
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13
Community News Music in Felixstowe Tickets £12 (children free); advance booking recommended from Stillwater Books or Music in Felixstowe: 01394 670633. Book transport on the FACTS bus: 01394 282867
New Year’s Day Viennese Concert
Wednesday 1 January, 3pm at The Orwell Hotel Ballroom
Festival Orchestra leader Nicholas Ward. Tickets £16 (children free) from: Stillwater Books or Music in Felixstowe: 01394 670633
This year's New Year's Day Concert was enjoyed by all We've had a really busy year so far, a multitude of wonderful concerts, a school’s musical- in-a -day, a hugely successful outdoor free prom which had to be moved indoors (thanks all at St John's), and a series of free student concerts by very talented young musicians. We are finishing the year with Christmas fun and frivolity involving not only our amazing musicians but also local choirs. Then we start the New Year in the only way possible, Viennese at The Orwell Hotel.
We hope to see many of you over the season.
Christmas Brass and Singers
Sunday 1 December, 3pm at St Peter and St Paul’s Church:
Seckford Brass Ensemble with Felixstowe Community Choir and Felixstowe Children’s Choir. Tickets £15 (children free) from Stillwater Books or from Music in Felixstowe: 01394 670633
Emily Bennett and the Champagne Trio
Wednesday 18 December, 11.30am His Lordship’s Library, The Orwell Hotel: Well-known singer and violinist Emily Bennett joins the Champagne Trio for a festive programme of much-loved songs.
Celebrations, Great Food & Music at The White Horse The White Horse, 33 Church Road, Felixstowe, IP11 9NF Telephone: 01394 277496 Email: bookings@thewhitehorse-felixstowe.co.uk
New Year’s Eve Disco Welcome 2020 in
at our New Year’s Eve Disco Free entry Dine with us Enjoy our food during usual serving times (visit www.thewhitehorse-felixstowe.co.uk)
with the exception of:
Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day - 12-4pm Christmas Day fully booked
Rock n’ Roll Night Friday 20th December
with the return of Blackjack 59 from 9pm
14
Community News Speakers of Felixstowe Stand up and speak with confidence PowerPoint is a valuable tool for making presentations, but it’s often used very badly which can lead to a boring and uninspiring meeting. Keith gave us a really useful tutorial on business presentations using PowerPoint, building up information gradually, keeping a minimum on the screen and talking to the audience and not the screen. He highlighted many of the common mistakes so we knew what to avoid. Other talks that evening from Peter and Lisa used PowerPoint so that we could compare how effective these presentations were. Thankfully they were entertaining and informative! Wendy gave an excellent demonstration in the use of voice with changes in pitch and accent, loud exclamations, even a sobbing tone followed by a calming voice. A wonderful piece of storytelling that had the audience enthralled!
Our meetings are at the Brook Hotel, Orwell Road, Felixstowe IP11 7PF on the third Wednesday of the month from 7.30-10pm. Whatever level of speaking skills and confidence you have, the club aims to help you to develop your skills, with both prepared and off-the-cuff speeches, for entertaining or formal occasions. Do please come along and see for yourself. For more information visit: www.felixstowespeakers.org.uk
15
SANTA’S RIDE AROUND TOWN WITH RUDOLPH December 2019 Santa, Rudolph and their helpers do their best to visit as many streets as they can. If they don’t catch you at home, or you would like to chat to Santa and take photos, please come to one of the four weekend locations or – new this year – the 6-6.30pm ‘Meet Santa and Rudolph’ opportunities highlighted in capitals on four routes below. All weekday evening runs below from 6pm to 8.30pm latest. You can see the routes that Santa and Rudolph will be taking by visiting www.felixstowerotaryclub.org
Wednesday 4th
Town centre – Valley Walk, Garrison Lane, Newry Ave, Surrey Rd, Goyfield Ave, Chaucer Rd, Princes Gdns, Princes & Queens Rds from St Andrews Rd to Wolsey Gdns plus Orwell Rd & most roads off.
Thursday 5th
Maybush Lane, Priory Rd, Marcus Rd, St Georges, Church Rd & roads off, Looe Rd & most roads off, Sunningdale/Wentworth Drives, Quinton’s Lane. MEET SANTA FOR HALF AN HOUR AT 6pm IN THE WHITE HORSE CAR PARK.
Friday 6th
Walton – Maidstone Rd & roads off Cornwall Rd, Seaton Rd & High St. MEET SANTA FOR HALF AN HOUR AT 6pm IN THE HALF MOON CAR PARK.
Monday 9th
Trimley St Mary – Faulkeners Way estate.
Tuesday 10th
Town centre roads bounded by & including Tomline Rd, Hamilton Gdns, Chevalier Rd, Felix Rd, Gainsborough Rd & St Andrews (West).
Wednesday 11th
Western Ave & Westmoreland Rd and most roads off.
Thursday 12th
Fairfield and Glenfield Ave, Beatrice Ave, Dellwood, Fleetwood & Lynwood Ave, Landsdowne Rd, Rosemary Ave, Colneis Rd, Links Ave, Upperfield Drive.
Friday 13th
Grange Rd & roads off (Mill Lane to railway bridge), Coronation Drive & most roads off, Mill Lane, Stour Ave & Wadgate Rd.
Saturday 14th
9.30am to 4.30pm – HAMILTON ROAD
Sunday 15th
LIDL (GARRISON LANE)
Monday 16th
Trimley St Mary – Sprites Hall Lane, High Rd, New Rd, Chatsworth Crescent, Addington Rd, Station Rd, The Avenues & St Marys Close.
Tuesday 17th
Trimley St Martin, St Martins Green, Mill Lane & most roads off. MEET SANTA FOR HALF AN HOUR AT 6pm IN THE HAND IN HAND CAR PARK.
Wednesday 18th
Kirton
Thursday 19th
St Andrews Rd (east), Croutel Rd, Brook Lane, Picketts Rd, High Rd East, Foxgrove Lane, Thornley Rd, Rosebery Rd, Bath Rd, Quilter Rd, Barton Rd and Constable Rd. MEET SANTA FOR HALF AN HOUR AT 6pm AT THE TENNIS CLUB IN BATH ROAD.
Friday 20th
All roads between Langer Rd & Sea Rd and most roads off Carr Rd down to Adastral Close including Manor Rd & Terrace.
Saturday 21st
9.30am to 4.30pm – MORRISONS 9.30am to 4.30pm – COOP HAMILTON ROAD INDOORS
Sunday 22nd
9.30am to 4.30pm – MORRISONS
16
Community News Lions Club of Felixstowe Lisa Williams of the Lions Club of Felixstowe fought off contestants from 11 countries to win the Golden Spurtle at the World Porridge Making Championship. This was the 26th year of the championship which is held in Carrbridge in the Scottish Photo by James Ross Highlands and the fourth time that Lisa had entered. The golden spurtle is named after the traditional implement used to stir the porridge while it cooks. In the competition the porridge must be made using only the traditional ingredients of oatmeal, water and salt. "I absolutely love the competition. From the moment you step into the village hall you are welcomed like family. It’s hard to describe, but from the flags and the tartan, to the people from the village who organise everything, the ladies who serve the porridge, the volunteers who wash up our equipment, the porridge parade, the bagpipes – it’s just magical.” Lisa runs Stennetts Community Café for adults with learning difficulties in Trimley St Mary. Light-Up Day (November 30) is fast approaching. Although our labour is free, we need to raise over £11,000 towards the lights. If you would like to make a £5 donation, please text LIGHTS 5 to 70085. You can donate any amount up to a maximum of £20 by replacing the 5 in LIGHTS 5 by the amount you wish to donate in whole £s. On September 18 we held our annual golf competition at Alnesbourne Priory Golf Club. For the second year running the winners were The Ferry Boys. This year the chosen beneficiary was the East Anglian Air Ambulance. At our meeting on November 4, competition organiser Lion Peter Cooke presented a cheque for £500 to Kevin Sullivan representing the East Anglian Air Ambulance. On October 13 we once again presented our model exhibition at Felixstowe Leisure Centre. The exhibition featured the hand-built steam engines of the Gauge One Model Railway Association, together with numerous other exhibits. We would like to thank all those who displayed their models and helped make it such a successful event.
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17
Community News Andrew Rowden Travel Throws Party for 200 Customers Local, independent travel agent Andrew Rowdon has just celebrated 10 years in business by hosting a party for almost 200 of his customers. Andrew, whose business is Andrew Rowdon Travel & Honeymoon Escapes, took 172 of his clients to the Orwell Hotel in Felixstowe for a black tie ball. The glittering event was to celebrate not just his company’s 10th anniversary but also to thank them for their support since he began his company bank in 2009.
pass at the airport before they travel, or maybe complimentary parking or even an excursion, and then there’s always a ‘welcome home’ call or email to every client.” Since opening his travel business in 2009, Andrew had bold plans to reach a million pounds in sales turnover by the company’s 10th year (2019). “We actually managed to achieve the one million-pound mark by the end of 2018. So far this year we are ahead of last year’s figures in sales.”
Andrew, from Trimley St Mary, explained how his clients have also become firm friends: “I do spend a good deal of time with them at the planning stage. I take great pleasure in ensuring every holiday booking, honeymoon or overseas wedding I am asked to research is treated as a trip of a lifetime, so to be able to thank them for their support is really important to me. Without my customers I wouldn’t have been able to have a business, let alone win two top travel awards.” As a Rotarian, Andrew believes his client retention is due to his tenacity and making their dreams become a reality. “It’s so important to listen to what a client wants and then to go beyond the brochure for them by really researching their requests to make it happen.” He also advocates old fashioned customer service and adding a wow factor. “I work from 6am to 10pm sometimes, plus some Saturdays and even Sundays. It’s vital to always be available to answer any questions, even out of hours and weekends. It’s also very important that I spend time building up a strong element of trust and rapport with everyone. I also love to surprise my clients (particularly honeymooners) with a bottle of champagne or a lounge
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Andrew is pictured with his wife Erika, daughter Abi and son Nick at the Orwell Hotel in Felixstowe.
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18
Legal Eyes Jackamans Solicitors Expands its Commercial Team The commercial team at Jackamans Solicitors is expanding with the addition of a newly qualified solicitor, Emily Egan, in January 2020. Emily, who is currently a trainee with the firm, will be joining Consultant Howard Wright, a solicitor with over 30 years’ experience in the commercial field in East Anglia, and Stephen Roy, a Senior Solicitor with a wide range of commercial property expertise including that gained from his years working for Aviva Property Finance. We believe that by inviting Emily to work with Howard and Stephen we add depth and strength to the existing commercial team set-up and will allow Jackamans to continue to develop a presence across Suffolk and South Norfolk.
Whilst Emily will be based with the rest of our team at Diss, she will be able to assist our existing client base at our branches in Felixstowe and Ipswich, where she lives, by acting as the first point of call for our commercial clients from Suffolk. The commercial team can also assist clients with corporate matters such as the incorporation of companies, partnership agreements, joint ventures, share purchases and buy-backs along with property matters including commercial leases, sales and acquisitions, property financing or re-financing, residential and commercial development, lease extensions and enfranchisement.
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In addition to the commercial knowledge built up whilst working with the current team, Emily has significant experience of working within residential property obtained prior to joining us. Accordingly, she is equipped to deal with both small and larger scale residential developments along with plot sales, residential lease transactions and ssenisuB a gnilleS dna gniy enfranchisement.
stnemeergA laicrem ytreporP laicrem spu-tratS ssenis yrevoceR tb If you have any queries you think our commercial noituloseR etup team would be able to assist you with, please do not tnemyolp
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Felixstowe 01394 279636 Harleston 01379 854455 www.jackamans.co.uk
19
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REEMAN DANSIE Auctioneers & Valuers
ENTRIES INVITED FOR OUR NEXT
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Illustrated : Thomas Blinks (1860-1912) oil on canvas - Mallards in flight over reeds, signed Sold in our recent auction for £6760
Please call Jonathan Benson to discuss consignments - 01206 754754 8 Wyncolls Road, Severalls Business Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 9HU Tel : 01206 754754 Fax : 01206 754750
Email : auction@reemandansie.com Web : www.reemandansie .com
20
Community News Christmas at Blue Cross Rehoming Centre presents dropped in for the animals from kind supporters. It’s a lovely way to spend Christmas Day, caring for beautiful cats, dogs and sometimes even kittens and it makes me happy to think they are all somewhere safe, warm and cared for on this special day.”
Christmas is a special day for the team at Blue Cross pet charity rehoming centre in Wherstead. The centre is closed to the public so the team get to spend the entire day with the cats and dogs on site – handing out presents that have been donated by members of the public to the pets, taking the dogs out on long walks and, of course, giving lots of fuss and treats to all.
Blue Cross also provides a pet bereavement support service, with support over phone or email even available on Christmas Day itself for those who are grieving the loss of a pet. For more details of the service visit: www.bluecross. org.uk/pet-bereavement-and-pet-loss Clare Williamson, Blue Cross Suffolk centre manager, who will also be working on Christmas Day, said: “We’re really grateful to those thinking about pets who may have lost their owners or been abandoned. The team here really get into the festive spirit and make sure all the pets are well fed and fussed but we couldn’t do our work without the great support we get from our community.”
Over Christmas there are usually around 35 dogs and cats on site to care for. The team will feed them their breakfast, open presents and take the dogs out on a long dog walk in the nearby woods. Among those working this Christmas will be Animal Welfare Assistant Susie Winship. Susie has worked the last six Christmas Days at the centre on Bourne Hill. Susie, who lives in Suffolk with cats and dogs she fosters, said: “Many pets will be calling Blue Cross their home this Christmas so we are their family while they are with us. I love working at Blue Cross any day of the year but Christmas Day is especially wonderful. The cattery and kennels are all decorated and in the run-up to the big day we always get lots of
This Christmas Blue Cross is seeking donations to help its teams give moments that matter to pets this Christmas. To donate, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/ Christmas-news or text Moments to 70557.
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21
Local Feature Ferry Road, Felixstowe, IP11 9RY 01394 286834 www.felixstowegolf.co.uk
Tee Times This past year has been an extremely busy one for Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club. Our County Teams in both the men’s and ladies’ sections have done us proud and our junior section is coming along in leaps and bounds. Because we had such fantastic summer weather, we had lots of visitors and lots of happy members. Obviously the weather makes a huge difference to a golf club and the recent rain has only made our course greener, if a little less encouraging to play on! As many of you know, we have also initiated our exciting new clubhouse project which has meant a lot of hard work and commitment from our executive board.
I am very proud to say that we have a great team who all pull together, from bar and catering staff, ground keepers, professional team, maintenance and office staff. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of them and to wish them and you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Submitted by David Spencer, General Manager
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22
Local Feature We’re all Going on a Summer Holiday (Part 11)
Carol, still the animal lover
The main road to Cameroon
Graham and Carol (and friends) had a seven-day visa to drive across Nigeria and enter Cameroon, but on crossing into Nigeria, at Kano, one of the group was feeling very unwell and they had to find a doctor fast. At the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Steve was immediately admitted, given two injections and placed on a glucose drip. He was suffering from gastroenteritis. The rest of the group parked the Land Rover in the hospital grounds, next to a burnt down ward. Graham reckoned the town must have been the dirtiest in Africa, or even the world! There was rubbish everywhere, the roads full of deep potholes, mostly full of dirty water and the rest of the travellers couldn’t wait for Steve to get better.
After seven days, Steve was well enough and they set off towards tourist conscious Cameroon, where the people were darker skinned and the women seemed to be doing all the work. They drove through numerous banana plantations and densely covered hills around The Benoue and Faro National Parks, set in the jungles of Acacias, and eventually arrived in Douala with its fine hotels and black volcanic sandy beaches. They camped on the beach at Victoria (Limbe since 1982) and relaxed in their tents as the Atlantic broke over the reef. It was good to simply laze around, but the travellers had been warned about a clever thief operating in the area. The following morning, with the sun filtering through the early morning mist, they disturbed an unwanted visitor who had somehow managed to open one of the Land Rover side windows, but couldn’t get the door open as it was padlocked. He had still managed to pinch a pair of jeans and a zipper bag. That evening they were all on high alert, but while they were having tea the thief had returned and unseen and unheard had cut holes in the tents and removed Graham’s suitcase! Very early the following morning, after they had all taken turns all night to patrol the tents and the Land Rover, Graham noticed his soggy suitcase discarded on the beach with a few items missing from inside. They abandoned the ‘beach idea’ and returned to Douala, where they reported the thieving activities, only to be told by the police that it happens quite often in the Victoria area, as if they didn’t already know! They also went to get money from the bank but were told to go to the main branch 250 miles away in the capital Yaounde. As next stop was The Central African Republic and Yaounde was on the way, they accepted the instruction graciously and headed east. However, on the way another of the group was feeling unwell and upon arrival in the capital, Peter was admitted to hospital with suspected gastroenteritis. After a couple of injections and a couple of days, he was able to continue on the journey. While the hospital was straightforward, the bank certainly wasn’t. Their money had come through from England, but the bank could only pay out in travellers cheques, which could only be purchased with Central African Francs (CFA) as the bank only held £17 in Sterling cash. Consequently, they had to change the paper pounds held by the bank to CFA to buy Sterling travellers cheques at a cost of £30 and hoped they had enough money to get them through the Central African Republic and Zaire (now The Democratic Republic of Congo) and on to Rwanda. Submitted by Malcolm Stafford (in memory of Graham Dyson)
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23
Health & Beauty
Felixstowe Clinic of Osteopathy Registered Osteopaths: Primarily Structural www.felixstoweosteopathy.co.uk
• Back pain & sciatica • Neck pain • Arthritic pain • Joint & muscle pain:
Tips for a Healthier Festive Period Don’t be afraid to let your hair down and enjoy yourself over the Christmas period, but to help minimise the hangovers and unwanted health issues linked with over-indulgence, here are a few useful tips:
Be prepared and try not to arrive at a function hungry. Have a small snack
(an apple is ideal) before you go out to reduce the chance of overeating when you arrive. It also helps minimise the effects of alcohol on an empty stomach.
hips, knees, feet, shoulders, elbows & hands
Be selective at buffets if you’re at a party. Decide what you absolutely must
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have and what you can do without. Just have a small taste of what you really fancy and leave the rest.
Stay active to counter the excess food consumption. Visit the gym, take up
swimming, choose to get from A to B on your bike rather than in the car, go for a brisk walk after dinner or walk the dog (if you have one). Also consider joining clubs or classes in your area that offer opportunities to exercise and enjoy social time with other people.
Avoid too much alcohol to limit the hangovers and to avoid health issues associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Also, alcohol is packed with calories and it loosens your inhibitions, allowing you to eat things you normally wouldn’t. Have something to eat before you drink to slow the absorption of alcohol into your system. Also, keep a glass of water topped up nearby so you can keep yourself hydrated.
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■ Steam or boil them for around 6–7 minutes for a perfect, vibrant, tasty accompaniment to your meal. ■ Roast them with garlic and chestnuts. ■ Add them to a nutritious mash using root vegetables of your choice.
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01473 712703 / 07733 420611
Email: marcus@tlchimneys.co.uk www.tlchimneys.co.uk
Email. Dean.hopkins@aol.co.uk
We can help your business grow
Mob 07786012380
Painters and decorators Domestic and commercial
Home & Garden
Specialists In: Interior and exterior Shops and offices Wallpapering
Dean Hopkins LT
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Specialists in: Interior and exterior Shops and offices Wallpapering
Mob: 07786012380
Office: 01394 809258 dean.hopkins@aol.co.uk 51 Mill Lane Felixstowe, IP11 2NL
DANDY DOGS Groomers in Felixstowe since 1982 PAMPER YOUR PET TODAY Dandy Dogs Look Good, Smell Sweet & Feel Swell
Open:
Mon - Fri 8am to 3.30pm Wed - Times vary 7a Cobbold Road, Felixstowe Tel: 01394 270030
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Home & Garden 2019 Was a Wonderful Year! Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve has had its most encouraging year so far. At the time of writing, we have more than 1,500 active members. That means each of those local people have allocated at least three square yards of their garden and/or allotment for wildlifefriendly features such as trees with berries, hedgehog homes, wildlife ponds and insect lodges. If you added up the areas of all those small green spaces, you’d find that the size of our community nature reserve is now well over the minimum size of a football pitch (5,000 square yards). Looking back over the early summer, we worked with Suffolk Wildlife Trust and their film on community-based conservation. The film was launched at the Nature Forum in June and received a great deal of interest, particularly from local people who wanted to start Community Nature Reserves in other Suffolk towns. One of the most encouraging themes of 2019 has been the significant expansion in our plant swapping and pot swapping (even bamboo cane swapping) – all with a view to helping each other to develop more wildlife-friendly features in local gardens and allotments.
Another highlight from 2019 arose when our work was chosen by the Department of the Environment for their Year of Green Action as a case study in community-based conservation. We had a lot of positive reviews from their recognition. It all helped to encourage our members. Throughout the year, we’ve been excited to share paintings from local artists whose work is inspired by our work with community-based conservation. In the United States, our work was given encouraging feedback after Communities magazine published another article about what we do. We also received wonderful feedback from our blog with Canada’s Sustainability TV. Our Citizen Scientists have continued to produce amazing work throughout the year. They continue to expand their work using QGIS and R software alongside Excel. Watch out for some very exciting announcements from them in 2020.
To learn more about Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve, please visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/FelixstoweCommunityNatureReserve Submitted by Dr Adrian Cooper
FENCING & TURFING SPECIALIST
T: 01394 766773 M: 07788 233054 M: 07572 452858
The
Landscape Gardener LTD
www.lawrenceandfenn.co.uk
For all your Landscaping needs
■ Extensions ■ Restoration ■ New Builds ■ Structural Work ■ Loft Conversions ■ Kitchen Installation ■ Bathroom Fitting
t: 07858 853368
Over 20 Years’ Experience Fully Insured
thegardener_felixstowe@yahoo.co.uk
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What’s On Every Monday
Music in Felixstowe (continued)
Wed 11 December (continued)
Dance Classes 7-9.30pm, every Monday at Trimley St Martin Memorial Hall: Beginners and intermediate dance classes. £10 per couple. For further information call 01394 282285 or 07801 933173.
Emily Bennett and the Champagne Trio Wednesday 18 December, 11.30am His Lordship’s Library, The Orwell Hotel: Well-known singer and violinist Emily Bennett joins the Champagne Trio for a festive programme of much-loved songs. Tickets £12 (children free); advance booking recommended from Stillwater Books or Music in Felixstowe: 01394 670633. Book transport on the FACTS bus: 01394 282867
director Alan Loader, combine to bring you a cracking evening of yuletide treats old and new. Tickets are £12 for adults, £3 for under-18s, and include seasonal refreshments. Tickets available at The Card Centre, 6 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe IP11 7AU (01394 283170), from choir members or at the door.
Felixstowe Probus 2 A group that promotes fellowship amongst retired professionals and businessmen every Monday morning at the Brook Hotel for a chat over coffee followed by a speaker. On the third Monday in the month members meet for lunch and four times a year they invite wives and partners for a combined lunch. They also organise trips for members. If you are interested in joining phone 01394 275151.
Third Tuesday of each month Master Mariners The Master Mariners meet at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club for lunch and a guest speaker. If you are interested in becoming a member visit their website or email: secretary@mastermariners.uk
New Year’s Day Viennese Concert Wednesday 1 January, 3pm at The Orwell Hotel Ballroom: Festival Orchestra leader Nicholas Ward. Tickets £16 (children free) from: Stillwater Books or Music in Felixstowe: 01394 670633
Wednesday 11 December
Last Friday of each month
Felixstowe Family History Society & Felixstowe Museum 7.30pm at Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe IP11 7DD: Felixstowe 1939-1945 – The Untold Stories by Julian P Foynes. All welcome; members free, non-members £1.
Positive Pals M.E. and Fibromyalgia Self
Wednesday 4 December
Help and Support Group
10.30am-12.30pm at Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road: A friendly, welcoming group who meet on the last Friday of every month. Contact Liz and David on 01394 279840 or email them at info@positivepals.org to find out more.
Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club Entertainment for December At Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club, 182 High Road West, Felixstowe IP11 9BB: Friday 6: The A Team Saturday 7: Boxing on big screen Saturday 14: Memphis Index Saturday 21: Cool Remedy Tuesday 24: Stargazer Disco, 4-10pm Saturday 28: Andrew Spall Tuesday 31: Shoot the Drummer
Music in Felixstowe Christmas Brass and Singers Sunday 1 December, 3pm at St Peter and St Paul’s Church: Seckford Brass Ensemble with Felixstowe Community Choir and Felixstowe Children’s Choir. Tickets £15 (children free) from Stillwater Books or from Music in Felixstowe: 01394 670633
Music to Enjoy
Felixstowe Recorded Music Society
7.30pm at the United Reformed Church Hall, Tomline Road, Felixstowe: The Society’s last meeting of 2019 where members invite you to Festive Cheer – An Evening of Christmas Spirit presented by Alan Lott. Enjoy a mince pie and a cup of tea, bring a friend and perhaps ‘a nibble of two’ to share with other party goers. For more information contact Rosalie Thomas: 01394 270491
Saturday 7 December Kirton Christmas Bazaar 2-4pm at Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PT: A variety of games for all ages plus various stalls and a raffle. Refreshments available. Admission: Adults 50p, children free. For further information contact Linda Negus: 01394 448354
Wednesday 11 December Dorian Singers - A Christmas Cracker 7.30pm at Trinity Methodist Church: Baritone Mark Ellis, pianist Marina Korneva, special guests Drum and Brass and the Dorian Singers conducted by their musical
Saturday 14 December Community Market 10am-noon at Old Felixstowe Community Centre on Ferry Road (opposite St Peter and Paul Church): Wide variety of stalls including fresh produce, home-bakes, preserves and crafts. Free entry, refreshments available throughout. www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk EACH Coffee Morning 10am-12.30pm at Felixstowe Library: Felixstowe Friends of EACH (East Anglian Children's Hospices) coffee morning with tombola, raffle, jigsaws, books and EACH Christmas cards and calendars. Coffee and cake £2. All proceeds to EACH.
Tuesday 17 December Suffolk Wildlife Trust 7.30pm at Broadway House, Felixstowe: A talk by Chris Parfitt on The Realm of the Polar Bear. An exploration of the Arctic islands of Svalbard looking at some of the history as well as sea birds, wild flowers and mammals including polar bears, all in beautiful scenery. All are welcome, including non-members. Admission £2.50. Tea and coffee available.
Thursday 19 December Christmas Concert 2-4pm at The Orwell Hotel: An Ipswich Over-50s Brass Band Christmas concert. Admission is £8 at the entrance to include free mince pies, tea and coffee at the interval. All profit, after costs have been met, will be shared equally between the band, St Elizabeth Hospice and East Anglia’s Children’s Hospice.
Saturday 21 December Coffee Morning and Christmas Hamper Raffle 10-11.30am at Felixstowe Library: The Friends of Felixstowe Library invite you to drop in for free coffee and mince pies. Christmas Hamper Raffle: Tickets available from the library. Two winners will be drawn at 11am at the coffee morning.
Do you have an event you would like publicised? Contact us and be seen in Spotlight on Felixstowe
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Scott Keith Beckett
Born in Felixstowe Raised in Felixstowe Estate Agents in Felixstowe
Steve
Celebrating a successful year
helping you find your home and supporting our community
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SB Happy Christmas & New Year
to all our clients past and present and to all the organisations we have supported in 2019 with donations, sponsorship and advertising
■ Felixstowe Carnival ■ Trimley Carnival ■ Lions Club of Felixstowe ■ Trimley Red Devils FC ■ Felixstowe & Walton United FC ■ Felixstowe in Flower ■ St Felix Church ■ Felixstowe Art Group ■ Felixstowe Bowls Club ■ Rotary Club of Felixstowe ■ Felixstowe Fireworks ■ Frenchs Equine Rehab Centre The UK’s number one Property site
01394 338000
19 Hamilton Road Felixstowe IP11 7AX enquiries@scottbeckett.co.uk www.scottbeckett.co.uk