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with Burstall & Sproughton
Volume 7 • Issue No. 7 • MAY 2017
Image by Caroline Wolton
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NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’m having guitar lessons at the moment. In fact it’s a family guitar lesson, though Jack seems to chit-chat most of the time which is more than a little annoying. I’m not naturally ‘musical’ and have no immediate plans to join a band, but decided to do this to give my brain a bit of a work-out. It’s proving to be a challenge. I spend so long trying to recall each chord I doubt if I’ll ever produce anything which resembles music, but it has been interesting to explore my mental back catalogue to find pieces I want to play (eventually). Different types of music and different artists have accompanied me through various stages in my life. Johnny Cash was my first love, then Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, U2, The Stunning, The Pale, Leonard Cohen, Neil Young, Snow Patrol, Regina Spektor, Nick Cave, Ed Sheeran… and always Johnny Cash. One song I go back to again and again is U2’s Stuck in a Moment. The following words have helped me through some difficult times: “And if the night runs over, And if the day won’t last, And if your way should falter, Along this stony pass, It’s just a moment, This time will pass” Another which reduces me to tears every time I play it, and I play it a lot, is Johnny Cash’s version of Hurt. His video is regarded as one of the saddest ever produced, but on their own the opening lyrics are, in my opinion, the most powerful description of loneliness I’ve ever encountered: “I hurt myself today, To see if I still feel, I focus on the pain, The only thing that’s real” Right now these lyrics make me sad for those who are alone with little or no prospect of human contact. The days may be longer and most of us are getting out and about, but not everyone. Spare a thought for those who are isolated through illness or age and consider what you might do to provide a distraction. In Save Myself, Ed Sheeran sings “...human beings are destined to radiate or drain…” Let’s try to radiate more than drain – and I promise to never, ever, ever play guitar in public.
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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. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Burstall & Sproughton is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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SPROUGHTON MILLENNIUM GREEN TRUST AGM 2017 The Annual General Meeting of Sproughton Millennium Green Trust took place on March 15. Although attendance was disappointing with only one member of the public present, the chairman reported on a much more positive year in 2016 than previously. Of particular note was the appointment during the year of two new directors, Emma Middleditch and Vic Gray, whose contributions to the work of the trust and at directors’ meetings had already made a significant difference. The future certainly seems more secure for now with a stronger team of active directors. On the green itself, a considerable amount of work had taken place. Regular work parties had helped to tidy the green and dispose of rubbish, the millstone had been pressure-washed and a number of troublesome willows had been attended to. Another successful fete and fireworks night had seen large numbers of people enjoying our Millennium Green during the year. The treasurer reported a better year financially, with very significant donations to funds from the fete committee, fireworks organisers and community shop. Without these, and the income from our 100+ Club monthly draw, we would not be able to pay our regular maintenance costs. A very successful quiz night last year had also raised a good sum, and it was hoped to repeat that again in 2017. The chairman thanked all those who’d donated to or supported the Millennium Green in any way in the past year. Their support really made a huge difference. So, in summary, it was a better year last year and we have every reason to be hopeful for the future. Two main issues now concern us: relocating the vehicle entrance to the green to a safer location on Sproughton Road and dealing with the legacy of the willows along the riverbank. Both problems are complex and will be costly to resolve, but we are trying to find answers to both in the coming few years. Watch this space! Thank you for your continuing support for our Millennium Green. Ken Seager
SPROUGHTON VILLAGE FETE, JUNE 25 Not long to go now until our village fete this year on the Millennium Green on Sunday, June 25 from noon to 4pm. Final arrangements are now being made for what will be a great afternoon of fun and entertainment for all ages. Don’t forget the dog show! Full details of classes and other details will be published in the June edition of In Touch and on posters which will be put up around the village this month, so start practising ‘sit’ and sausagecatching with your dog now. Come along and enjoy St Peter’s Band – back by popular demand – while you sip a beer or Pimm’s (yes, it has an apostrophe) and enjoy our barbecue. Teas and cakes will be there too, and so will the ice cream van. Burn off some energy and help local charities and organisations by smashing some crockery (at the fete, not now) or by soaking the villain in the stocks. Pick up a coconut if you’re not too shy (groan). Beat your dad at football, and beat everyone in the tug-o-war. Remember: every penny raised goes to local causes after next year’s fete is secure, so come along to support and celebrate our community. If you have a current first aid certificate (i.e. gained in the last three years) and can spare an hour or two to provide a first aid service for our fete, please contact June Webb on 01473 742778. See you there! Ken Seager, 07578 552324
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NEWS THANKSGIVING SERVICE There will be a short Thanksgiving Service for the life of our friend and villager, Albert Collins, at St Mary the Virgin, Tattingstone on May 11 at 3pm. All welcome. Parking at the playing field.
A CELEBRATION OF A COUNTRY CHURCHYARD – BURSTALL Saturday, May 13, 10.30am-3pm Come and explore the history, wildflowers and ecology of the churchyard at St Mary’s Church, Burstall, together with the history of the church and village. Churchyard surveys and registers will be available to peruse. There will also be a plant sale, cake stall, books, bric-a-brac and quizzes for children (and adults!). Refreshments all day, parking.
GREAT BLAKENHAM WEDDING FESTIVAL Wedding fairs are usually held in grand country homes or large hotels. We are bucking the trend and holding a church-based wedding fair. We want couples to have their dream church wedding, so we are teaming up with local businesses to run our very own wedding festival. Over the weekend of May 27-29, from 10am-4pm daily, St Mary’s Church, Great Blakenham, will play host to one of the very first and only churchbased wedding fairs. The unique event will be held in the church, the Chequers Free House and Church Hall opposite. Join us for prosecco and canapes at our preview evening at 7pm on Friday 26 with Bishop Mike (tickets are £5). On Saturday 27 and Sunday 28, the church will be open to view show-stopping flower arrangements from various local companies and flower arrangers, beautiful wedding dresses throughout the ages, as well as dresses for sale. Hear wedding music on the organ, and chat to local vicars who can advise you on matters about your special day, and can also support you as you begin married life together. At 4pm on Sunday 28, there will be a Renewal of Vows Service which will also enable unmarried couples to experience a church wedding, and there will be plenty of favourite wedding songs to sing. On Monday 29 there will be over 30 local exhibitors and stall holders to give you ideas how to make your wedding day special – from photographers to wedding cakes, dresses, entertainment and music, jewellery, beauty, cars, clothing and so much more! There will also be goody bags for wedding couples. The Chequers Free House will be open all weekend, providing a great wedding menu to try. The Rev Carl Melville, Vicar of Great Blakenham Church, writes: “This is such a unique and exciting event. If anyone can do weddings well, it’s the Church of England. We can be traditional and formal or contemporary and quirky and we want to show couples that a church wedding is the perfect choice for them. A church wedding ceremony is a similar price to other venues, and much more personal and meaningful. By teaming up with local businesses and bespoke exhibitors, I hope people can catch a glimpse of how a church wedding can make the most special day of their lives perfect.” So, if you’re thinking about marriage, if you’re getting married soon or if you’re been married for 40 years, come along and have a great day. Admission is free, donations are welcome.
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LENT LUNCHES Thank you so much to everyone who supported in any way the six Lent Soup Lunches, which through your generosity raised £376. A cheque has been sent to World Vision, an international Christian charity working continuously in many places but also among the first to respond with practical help in emergencies. Rosie Wilcox
SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM Now the clocks have sprung forward for spring, the weather is getting better, days are getting longer and people are spending more time enjoying the outdoors, we would ask that you remain vigilant to crime. Before you go out and leave your house or car, check those windows that you opened to allow the fresh air through the house, check that door that you left ajar and check those garden tools or toys that you left out. Have you made it easy for that chance criminal and left any insecure items as an open invitation for a chance burglar. The reason we ask you to STOP, CHECK, LOCK, is that over recent weeks some of our smaller villages have been targets for thefts from sheds and other out buildings. With this in mind, Hadleigh Safer Neighbourhood Team is holding Community Engagements in various villages throughout Babergh with the aim in offering crime prevention advice and reassurance. We will be advertising these events on Twitter and Facebook and in parish magazines so look out for one near to you. Last month we were in Shotley for several hours with our mobile police station at the village vall. Colleagues patrolled the village on foot and incorporated speed enforcement during the day. We spoke to local residents, listening and responding to their concerns and issues. While I have this opportunity, I would like to give you all updates on recent crimes that have occurred in our area and the work that has been carried out: • Operation Fireside: Burglaries around East Ipswich and Shotley. A detective inspector has been appointed to oversee this, two people arrested, one warrant executed for stolen goods and enquiries ongoing. • Burglaries in Bentley: One person given a 10 year prison sentence. • Holbrook Burglaries: One person on Court Bail until March 30. • Series of ram raids on February 8, including Hadleigh and Capel. One person has been arrested and is on bail, two others are being sought. • Anti-social behaviour in Hadleigh: Four young people have been dealt with and referred to the Youth Offending Service. • Pinewood Burglaries: One person on bail waiting for a charging decision from the Crown Prosecution Service. As you can see, Suffolk Police in our area have been very busy dealing with incidents with positive outcomes. I would encourage all readers to: •
Follow us on TWITTER @HadleighPolice
•
Join up to POLICE CONNECT at: www.suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect
•
Obtain statistics from: www.police.uk
As always, Hadleigh SNT is at Hadleigh Police Station and can be contacted at: hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk Emergency: 999 / Non-Emergency: 101 Until next time, PC1220 Garrod, Hadleigh SNT, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD
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NEWS SPROUGHTON PARISH COUNCIL 2017 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – WEDNESDAY, MAY 3 The Annual Parish Meeting will be held in the Tithe Barn, Lower Street, Sproughton at 7.30pm on Wednesday, May 3. We look forward to seeing you there, Chairman Simon Curl AGENDA Welcome by the chairman of the parish council To read, confirm and sign the minutes of the Parish Meeting held on May 4, 2016 Matters arising from the minutes Annual Report of the council To receive reports from the district councillors and the county councillor To receive reports from community groups To receive the parish council accounts for the year ended March 31, 2017 To receive the Reading Room & Caretakers House Charity Accounts and the Sproughton Almshouse and Relief in Need Charity Accounts Presentation of the 2017 Local Hero Award(s) Matters raised by parishioners Clerk: Mrs S Frankis, 24 Church Crescent, Sproughton IP8 3BJ 01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk www.sproughton.onesuffolk.net SPROUGHTON PARISH COUNCIL REPORT The last full council meeting was held on Wednesday, April 5. Draft and agreed minutes can be found at www.sproughton.onesuffolk.net/parishcouncil and on the noticeboards on the village green (Lower Street) and Hadleigh Road. The next scheduled meeting is on Wednesday, May 10 at 7.30pm in the Barley Room at Sproughton Tithe Barn, Lower Street. Meetings normally
conclude by 9pm. Members of the public are always welcome to attend. County Councillor Dave Busby and District Councillors Nicholas Ridley and Barry Gasper are normally in attendance to give reports of their council’s recent activities and to answer queries and question. VACANCIES STILL EXIST FOR PARISH COUNCILLORS There are six councillor seats remaining vacant on the council. A REMINDER ABOUT AWARD OF GRANTS BY THE PARISH COUNCIL In order to better manage budgets and to help other community organisations that award grants to allocate their resources to best effect, the council will for the forthcoming year beginning 1 April 2017 consider and make decisions on requests for grants twice per year; at the April (12) and October (11) meetings. It will be happy to receive requests at any time of the year, but it will hold over the decision until the April or October meeting. The council would encourage other community organisations that award grants to liaise with each other and the council. Also, it is parish council policy to only offer one grant per financial year to any one organisation. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Ninth Sproughton Beer Festival: Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 May Thirty plus real ales, with cider, lager, wine and soft drinks and food available throughout the weekend. Open from noon-10.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Live music with SaltShaker on Saturday night. Festival ‘Pub’ Quiz on Sunday night from 7pm. Free admission, sensible beer prices and great fun! Village Family Disco: Friday, May 12 Bar and BBQ, tickets available from community shop and school GRANTS AWARDED BY THE PARISH COUNCIL A grant of £250 has been awarded to Suffolk Accident and Rescue Service. Simon Curl, Chairman Sproughton Parish Council: 01473 747114 Sue Frankis, Clerk: 01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk Please call between 9am and 5pm weekdays only. In an emergency outside these hours you can contact the chairman.
JAMES CARTLIDGE, MP FOR SOUTH SUFFOLK President Trump’s decision to launch Tomahawk missile strikes against Syria has opened yet another high stakes chapter in the whirlwind that is international affairs today. Parliament rose for Easter following the UK’s formal notification to the EU of our intention to leave. It looks like we will be returning to debate the prospect of military conflict – not just in the Middle East, but also in dangerous, dubious North Korea. It has been well remarked that Mr Trump’s move to back armed action by the US against President Assad represents a significant volte face on his part. Who knows, perhaps this unpredictability is an asset as despots like Assad and North Korea’s Kim are unable to second guess him, and perhaps feel more wary of aggression? Of course, if we are to assume that US sources are right in stating that Assad was responsible for launching chemical weapons on his own people, there is an argument for a limited and proportionate response. We certainly now need maximum international pressure applied to the Russians to cajole them in to breaking with Assad; equally, we need the Chinese to lean on
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North Korea so that they don’t proceed with further missile tests. Wishful thinking, perhaps. Whatever we do, in my view we must proceed with maximal caution. My fear is that we risk repeating the now tried and tested pattern of a bellicose linguistic ratchet that creates its own self-fulfilling momentum for conflict. With an unpredictable world, and an unpredictable president, we need to support our allies without adding to the growing sense of a militaristic adrenaline rush. I have only voted once in parliament on sending UK forces to war, and that was very strictly to extend existing UK air strikes against ISIL terrorists in Iraq over the border into Syria – with no evidence of civilian casualties to date. I certainly did not vote for ‘regime change’, a phrase now re-emerging in Washington in relation to Assad. The policy of ‘regime change’ has failed in Iraq, and this is why I repeat the need for caution rather than a rush of blood. I hold regular advice surgeries offering help and support to local people. Please see page 14 for my contact details.
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of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
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NEWS
SPROUGHTON COMMUNITY SHOP: Something for everyone As I write, the good-natured shop volunteers have been experiencing a couple of unexpected challenges. Firstly, one of our number, Tara, slipped and broke her femur while walking the dog. Poor Tara will be unavailable for shop duties for several weeks. We wish her a speedy recovery. Secondly, on the night of March 24-25 we had a break-in. The front door was smashed with a lump of concrete, but it seems that our very loud alarm had the desired effect. Our vigilant neighbours called the police at the first inkling of prowlers and the police were in attendance very quickly. It took several hours to clear up all the glass which had scattered like a snow storm, but we took the opportunity to give a good clean in awkward corners and to bring into prominence barbecue charcoal, so we look on the bright side, even though the shop was darker with the boarded up door. Anyway, this is the first incident the community shop has had since opening for business in March 2010 so, as retail premises go, we count ourselves reasonably lucky. We’re even luckier when it comes to customers. I enjoy serving in the shop because people are generally
so good-natured. If my old brain cells are slow in calculating the right change, people are seldom in a rush. There is time to chat. Indeed, for some of our regulars chatting about the matters of the day seems to be an essential part of their shopping and I enjoy the social interaction. Although it may sound a bit sentimental in these days of supermarkets and online ordering, for me a village shop is an essential part of a real village. Why not join us? May is the season for fresh English asparagus and we’ll be having some in stock as soon as we can. May also signals the start of the hay fever season. Many people believe that eating local honey gives relief. Our shop is bursting with honey from Mrs Gray of Boxford, who marks each jar with the hive of origin. Of course, we also stock hay fever tablets! It shouldn’t be long before Lindsay Farm starts supplying us with their delicious strawberries, definitely something to look forward to. Finally, a reminder of Sproughton Beer Festival on the weekend of May 13-14 when the shop will be open all afternoon. Simon Lavington
GO WILD WITH THIS PUDDING! A sharp, sure pudding that goes down well on a hot day from May on into summer, at the end of a picnic or barbecue, is something that probably originated somewhere in Suffolk, the Blueberry Slump. I’m sticking my neck out on this one as the recipe comes from the East Coast of America, New England, and we know many of those settlers originated in Suffolk. This recipe is a treasure in my family as it is as delightful to involve the whole family in wild berry-picking as it is to delight in seeing the wide-eyed children wowing the results of their efforts. The ‘Slump’ can be made with just about any edible berry you want to try. I’ve used blackberries with great results. No doubt Sproughton Community Shop will have its supply of local produce, so do check for the seasonal berries and give your taste buds a treat to enjoy again and again. Mary Bright Basan Queries or comments? E-mail: ms.bb@talktalk.net BLUEBERRY SLUMP 125g plain flour 1oz sugar 10g baking powder
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1 large pinch salt ½oz butter 2pt punnet berries, picked over and washed 8 fl oz water 2oz sugar Small pinch salt ½ fl oz lemon juice 100ml milk Thick cream or vanilla ice cream for topping Mix together the first four dry ingredients, then cut the butter in until it is crumbly. Set aside. In a saucepan or medium-size casserole that can stand heat from the hob, combine the next four ingredients and bring to boiling. Immediately reduce heat, cover and simmer for five minutes. Stir in lemon juice. Add milk to the dry ingredients and stir until moistened. Drop six dollops of dough on top of the berries, without overlapping. Cover tightly, cook over low heat for 10 minutes without opening the cover. Serve hot with a pitcher of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for topping. Happy eating!
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE SITE
IPSWICH – YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED!
Shutdown update The first of the twice yearly shutdowns at the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is now complete. Shutdowns are a normal part of operational life and offer the opportunity to carry out inspections and maintenance work. For example, during this shutdown we have installed scaffolding to give access to the boiler and grate, and we have carried out repairs to the lining of the boiler and a major overhaul of the grate (where the rubbish is burnt). All these tasks will ensure the plant continues to run safely and efficiently.
For many years now Ipswich Tourist Guides have been showing off their town and are used to people (even those who have been born and bred in Ipswich) being amazed at what they see and hear. For example, did you know that Ipswich is the oldest ‘English’ town settled by the Anglo Saxons in the seventh century and has been a thriving settlement ever since, or that the town was an important place of pilgrimage? Even Henry VIII visited Ipswich’s shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Grace.
We manage shutdowns to ensure minimal disruption to the local community, making parking and transport arrangements for the contractors who are working at the site, and confining any night working to within the building itself. Civic Trust award Suffolk’s energy-from-waste facility was one of 45 projects recognised in this year’s Civic Trust Awards, which aim to encourage the very best in architecture and environmental design and to reward projects that benefit their local communities. Described as ‘a striking innovation in industrial architecture’ the awards highlight the important role the facility plays in processing the waste left after recycling to generate electricity. Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to contact the facility on 01473 839149. Other useful contacts: To book a visit: 01473 836812
Environment Agency: 0800 807060
History may not be your thing, but why not come along and learn more about the future of the town. When will the New Cut flood barrier be complete, will there be a second bridge across the Orwell and when will the ‘winerack’ be developed? The guides are up-to-date with all the latest news, they know the history of the town and can entertain you with lots of fascinating snippets too. Why not join a guided walk and get to know Ipswich better? The cost is £4 per person. The summer season of walks begins on Tuesday, May 2 and from then on a tour of the town will be available on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons until September 28. Walks leave from Ipswich Tourist Centre in St Stephens Church at 2.15pm. There’s no need to book, but if you would like more information please contact the centre: 01473 258070 / tourist@ipswich.gov.uk Enjoy a gentle stroll around Suffolk’s county town, be entertained and informed by an Ipswich Tourist guides and I’m sure Ipswich will surprise you.
SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910
PLANT SALE AND LUNCHES
PAWS FOR TEA At Blue Cross Suffolk Animal Rehoming Centre Join staff and volunteers at the charity’s annual Paws for Tea event at Blue Cross Suffolk, Bourne Hill, Wherstead, Ipswich IP2 8NQ on Saturday, May 6 between 11am and 4pm.
On Saturday, May 13 we will be holding our popular plant sale at Bramford Church Room with lunches available between noon and 2pm.
As well as refreshments, take time to look around our various stalls and have a go on our grand draw. There will also be guided tours of the centre including kennels and cattery. Entrance is by way of a monetary donation.
Come along and find a variety of different plants – I’m sure advice will be available at no extra charge if you need it – then sit down and enjoy lunch. Proceeds go towards the upkeep of the village church. Stewart McGinty
For further information please contact the centre on 03007 771480 or Ian Hendry on 01449 767747.
As we walked through the bluebell woods, I thought he’d like this It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day
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for your nearest funeral director visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton
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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5
Town/village
Location
Time
MIP/5A
Sproughton
Church Lane
9.10-9.25am
MIP/5B
Sproughton
Wild Man
9.30-9.45am
MIP/5C
Bramford
St Mary’s Close
9.50-10.05am
MIP/5D
Bramford
Paper Mill Lane
10.10-10.25am
MIP/5E
Great Blakenham
Chequers
10.35-1055am
MIP/5F Great Blakenham
Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park
11-11.15am
MIP/5G
Baylham
Post Box
11.25-11.45am
MIP/5H
Claydon
Crown
11.55am-1pm
MIP/5I
Claydon
Edinburgh Gardens
2.05-2.20pm
MIP/5J
Barham
Bacon Road
2.25-3.50pm
MIP/5K
Bramford
Packard Place
4-4.30pm
2017 DATES: May 9, June 6, July 4, August 1, August 29, September 26, October 24, November 21, December 19
AN INVITATION TO ALL MEN Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir is inviting all men who love to sing to some open rehearsals in May. On Tuesday, May 2 an open rehearsal is being held at Stowupland Village Hall, 3 Church Road, Stowupland IP14 4BG and on Tuesday, May 16 an open rehearsal is being held at Ipswich and District Indoor Bowling Club, 136 Rushmere Road, Ipswich IP4 4JU. Both events commence at 7pm. Formed in April 1968, Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir has built a reputation and tradition for music to entertain a wide variety of audiences. One of its main purposes is helping local communities and charitable organisations by assisting them in their fundraising whilst representing the Constabulary. The choir, who normally rehearse at Martlesham Police Headquarters, is pleased to recruit and welcome members from all walks of life with or without a connection to the Constabulary to continue its social function and charitable work. There are no auditions and the ability to read music is not essential. On average the choir performs one concert per month in aid of local good causes. For more details contact choir secretary Stephen Wade: 01449 672600 / scmvc@scwade.eclipse.co.uk
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IPSWICH EPILEPSY GROUP QUIZ The Ipswich Epilepsy Group is a registered charity run entirely by volunteers who either have epilepsy or know someone with epilepsy. We support people in Ipswich and the surrounding areas and offer social events such as family bowling, meals out and day trips. We also have a help line run by group members to offer advice, information or just be there to listen to people in difficult times. We offer a large range of free hire books, DVDs and information fact sheets and provide advice and training about Epilepsy. We also offer financial support helping with aids, adaptations and assistance technology where possible. Our new website is regularly updated with new information: www.ipswichepilepsy.org.uk One of our annual fundraising events is a quiz night which this year is on Friday, May 12 at Westgate Ward Social Club, 74 Victoria Street, Ipswich IP1 2JX from 7pm. This is a fun evening for teams of up to six people. Entry is £6, including a buffet and licensed bar. We also hold a raffle during the evening. If you would like to come and join us please contact 01473 461407 to reserve a table. We look forward to seeing you there.
SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB By the time you read these notes we will have had our AGM and elected a new committee, full details of which will be given next month. The only event before then will be a talk and demonstration of products by Sharon Burnett of Wiltshire Farm Foods at The Church Hall on Wednesday, May 17, arriving at 1.30pm to start at 1.45pm. The talk will end by 3pm for tea and biscuits, followed by the usual bingo. I was quite intrigued by our editor’s remarks about her experience of rude drivers and shop customers. I always find people very helpful and considerate. OK, I appreciate that I use a stick when on foot, but my stick is not in use when driving and I find the vast majority of drivers are polite. In fact it does not end there – I often find when I am getting my shopping out of the car, a neighbour will suddenly appear to help. I certainly agree that showing consideration to other road users is often reciprocated.
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OUT & ABOUT / ON THE GRAPEVINE BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB May is a month with holidays! There will be no meetings on May 1 and 3 because of May Day, and also not on May 29 and 31 because of the school half-term break. Meetings will go ahead on Mondays 8, 15 and 22 (7.309.30pm) and Wednesdays 10, 17 and 24 (10am-noon). Membership is £1 for the school year, £2 per session. Internet and refreshments available. We aim to help you to get the most out of your computer. Meetings are held in the upstairs room at the Methodist Church.
COUNTRY WALKS For the Sunday afternoon walk in March the group had a local ramble in Chantry Park, and for the Tuesday outing we enjoyed visiting the Waldringfield area. It is a very lovely village. On Sunday, May 14 we will meet at the church at 2pm for a local ramble. The Tuesday walk will be on May 23, leaving from the church at 10am. Destination not decided upon at the time of printing. Doreen
QUESTIONS ON CASH Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb answers your questions Colin, Graham and David from Great Blakenham ask: “We are partners in a small but successful engineering business. We have no formal arrangements in place in the event of one of us dying, and we are unsure how to protect the business and ensure that the other partners could carry on if that happened to any one of us. What do you suggest?” When one of the partners or shareholders in a business dies, it is important that the surviving owners can continue trading, and keep control of the business. If you are a partner or shareholder, you will probably have two concerns: that the business you have worked hard to build will be able to carry on successfully if one of your partners dies, and that your family will get the full value of your share of that business if you die before your partners.
WALK TOWARDS A CURE FOR PARKINSON’S IN SUFFOLK People in Suffolk are being asked to pick up the pace against Parkinson’s this year at Walk for Parkinson’s – Glemham Hall on Sunday, July 9, one of a series of walk events to be held across the UK for Parkinson’s UK during 2017. Walk for Parkinson’s offers the opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to get involved in a fun and active day out, while helping the charity step ever closer to a cure. There are a range of distances on offer to suit everyone, with a 1.5 mile, 3.5 mile and 5.5 mile walk to choose from. It is the first time the charity has hosted a Walk for Parkinson’s at Glemham Hall. Previous walks in the region have seen more than 200 local people take part, so the charity hopes to involve even more walkers with the new and exciting venue. The registration fee is £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s. Everyone who registers will receive a free Parkinson’s UK t-shirt, fundraising pack and at the end of the walk, a finishers medal. The charity is hoping to raise over £400,000 from the 32 events, so suggests walkers aim to raise at least £50. All money raised from Walk for Parkinson’s – Glemham Hall will help Parkinson’s UK’s work to provide support and information for people affected by Parkinson’s and to help find better treatments, and ultimately a cure. As well as walkers, the charity is on the lookout for volunteers to help register people at the start/finish area or to be a walk marshal at various points on the route during the day. To find out more and to sign up to walk or volunteer contact: 0207 963 9367 / fundraising@parkinsons.org.uk or visit: www.parkinsons.org.uk/walkglemhamhall
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This process can actually be put into place using a partnership protection strategy. That’s a special legal ‘buy out’ agreement linked to some basic life insurance policies. The most flexible option is for each of you to arrange an insurance policy covering your own life, written in trust for the other business owners, or, if there are only three of you, you can each have a policy, which covers the life of the other business owners. That way, when one of you dies, the
others receive the funds, and can use them to buy the share of the deceased partner from his family. You will then need to draw up an agreement, the partnership agreement or ‘Business Will’, to ensure that your wishes are carried out. This will require the assistance of your solicitor. You could have a Double Option agreement, where the partners have the right to buy your share and your family has a right to ask them to buy, or a Single Option agreement (often used for critical illness claims) so you can ask the other business owners to buy your share, but they cannot force you to sell.
Having the correct agreement in place can also mean that the assets are potentially eligible for Business Property Relief and therefore not liable to Inheritance Tax. If you would rather transfer the assets into a trust rather than be paid directly to your estate, a separate ‘Bypass Trust’ can also be arranged to accommodate your requirements. Good legal advice from a specialist business lawyer is essential when setting up such a partnership protection arrangement. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services of Baylham in Suffolk. The information within this column is provided only as a general guide and does not constitute personal financial advice. If you would like to take advantage of a complimentary meeting to talk over your options for your own investments or financial planning you can contact Nick by email at nick@ plumbfs.co.uk or by calling the office on 01473 830301. Plumb Financial Services is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
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In Touch online:
ON THE GRAPEVINE SUFFOLK LIBRARIES Survey Closing date: MonDAY, May 8
FREE BREEZE LADIES CYCLE RIDES
Library customers are being asked to have their say on the future of the county’s library service. Suffolk Libraries is an independent organisation which has a five-year contract with the county council to run the county’s library service. At the end of 2016, Suffolk Libraries’ Board voted unanimously to trigger a fiveyear extension to this contract which will run from August 2017 to 2022. Suffolk Libraries is now looking ahead to the next five years and will be undertaking a review to define how it can run a modern and affordable library service which meets the needs of the people of Suffolk. A new customer survey is being launched, asking people what they feel is important about the county’s library service, and there is also a new membership scheme giving people a new opportunity to support Suffolk Libraries. The library service budget has been reduced by a further £200,000 for 2017/18 and year-on-year reductions means the library service budget is now 33% less than in 2010. Tony Brown, Chair of Suffolk Libraries, said: “Whilst there are challenges ahead for our library service, we are now looking to the future and want to build on the successful work we have done since 2012 to protect and improve services across Suffolk and to local communities. “There is much to be positive about; all our libraries are still open, some have even increased opening hours. Suffolk Libraries has strived to make improvements and innovations, whilst offering a diverse range of services and there are now even more activities in libraries. We may have to make difficult decisions but we are still committed to doing everything we can to protect local library services which we know mean so much to their communities.” Alison Wheeler, Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, said: “We have been warning that further cuts would be challenging and as we have less money, we will have to make further savings. We want to approach these challenges in the right way, by carrying out a review to help us make a longer-term plan. We also intend to listen to people. We have built up trust and support in the community and we want as many people as possible to have their say. “We must be realistic; staffing is our biggest cost so it is likely there won’t be as many jobs in the future. However, we want to reassure people as much as we can – we do not anticipate that any changes we have to make will include library closures, handing over libraries to volunteers or charging for what the law or our contract says must be free. Our review is likely to take several months and until we’ve done that we can’t say what changes we’ll have to make.” Suffolk Libraries are running a customer survey until 8 May 2017. This can be done via www.suffolklibraries.co.uk, via www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ SuffolkLibraries2017 or there will be hard copies available in libraries. Tony Brown added: “We anticipate that council funding will continue to shrink so we will keep looking for alternative funding to supplement what we get from the county council. Our community groups who support libraries have been a big part of this and have raised thousands of pounds every year which have funded things like refurbishments, equipment in many libraries and the cost of Wi-Fi. “We want to do our bit and we are launching ‘Suffolk Libraries Extra’, a new supporter scheme offering people the chance to make an annual donation to get more involved and help the library service. “We believe there may be individuals or local businesses out there who may want to become Suffolk Libraries Extra supporters. It won’t affect the service to everyone else, it’ll just mean that for those who feel they can, there’s a way of giving us some extra support. There will be more details about Suffolk Libraries Extra soon but anyone who is interested can get in touch or visit www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/extra.”
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More women are cycling more often thanks to HSBC UK Breeze, British Cycling’s biggest programme ever to get women into riding bikes for fun. This was set up five years ago and the plan is to get one million women on bikes by 2020. Breeze is all about remembering how good it is to ride a bike with friends. Organised by British Cycling trained Breeze Champions, these free rides explore local, accessible routes in small friendly groups. Rides are taking place all year round and are ideal for women who are looking to get back on a bike or begin riding and are a great way to make new friends. These rides are taking place in various locations in Suffolk on a weekly basis so check www.letsride.co.uk for further details of date, time and location. A typical example is the Maglia Girls Group who meet at Maglia Rosso Cycle Shop & Cafe at Hawstead near Bury St Edmunds on a Wednesday at 10am. There are generally between two and eight ladies every week and age varies from 30 to 70 years. Sara Hale, the Breeze Champion for this group, started cycling only 18 months ago after many years of ill health. She was nervous of joining any local cycling groups because of speed and distance but went out with her local Breeze group. After going out weekly, gaining confidence, riding technique, building distance, being encouraged and the all-important café stop at the end of the ride with cake she decided to undertake the training so she could help others. Since then she has entered many sportives, joined a local cycling group and has the confidence to ride out on her own or with friends she has made through these groups and it is a great way to keep active. The rides are gentle and vary in distance from two to 20 miles depending on riding level and experience of participants. They will be on quiet country roads and nothing too hilly (to start with). Ladies (16 years upwards), it is preferable you wear a helmet, although it isn’t compulsory. It is advised you wear suitable clothing, bring a drink for the journey, a puncture repair kit or spare inner tube and a pump. If you need advice on anything contact your Breeze Champion who will be happy to help. The rides are for the complete novice, those returning to cycling after a break or the keen and experienced cyclist. It is not a race or competition we just want you to get out on your bike, so come along meet new people and have some fun. Breeze is part of British Cycling’s programme of free events, activities, information and support, designed to help and inspire people of all ages and abilities to get back on their bikes. For more information and to register your free place on a Breeze bike ride, visit: www.letsride.co.uk Or contact your local Breeze Champion, Sara Hale: 07757 102526 / saradowsing@btinternet.com
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SPORT
PLAYING FIELD NEWS
SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB
Here’s the latest update on what the Playing Field Management Committee (PFMC) have been doing recently. Maintenance It is spring so the community payback visits have re-started. We have a program of visits booked throughout the year to make sure the field continues to look presentable. Two thoughts though – firstly we have to book the visits way in advance, so if it seems a bit overdue then we need to service our crystal ball. Secondly, and more seriously, if you do see the ‘naughty boys (and girls)’ doing their work please give them a smile and a thank you – they do a good job to a standard way beyond what is required under the terms of their agreement. Clubhouse and Changing Room Development We’ve been applying for funding to commission a set of architects drawings. So far we have a fighting fund of over £3,000 which is made up of a mixture of donations from Sproughton Community Shop and a significant private donation, but we need another £2,500 to set us on the right path. We hope to have more news on the results of this activity next month. To put things in context, the reason the drawings are so important is that once they are complete, proper project costings can be drawn up, large grant applications set up, and planning permission applications be made. Sproughton Club Update The next Super Saturday will be Saturday, May 6, the weekend before the beer festival. The club will open from 7pm as usual. All welcome. Volunteers – the big ask (as usual!) As you’ll by now know, the playing field is run by Sproughton residents for the benefit of the village by way of the Playing Field Management Committee. Lending your support would be really helpful, so if you think you can help please get in contact. PFMC Chairman Damian Lavington: 01473 809512
SPROUGHTON TENNIS CLUB May promises to be a busy month at Sproughton Tennis Club. Our regular Thursday afternoon junior coaching sessions continue and adult club nights are on Mondays and Thursdays from 7pm. We are also trialling an open club session on Friday mornings at 10am. We are holding an Open Day on Sunday, May 14 from 2pm. This is part of the LTA Great British Tennis Weekend and is your opportunity to play for free for the afternoon. Between 2 and 4pm we are expecting families to come along while between 4 and 6pm, it’s the turn of over 14s and adults to play. We hope to see people of all ages, not only juniors. So, if you have played tennis in the past or just want to try something new, dig out that racket and come along. If you don’t have a racket, come along anyway and we will find you one to play with. We’re hoping for fine weather and there may even be prizes available.
By the time you read this the outdoor bowls season will be underway. We will have played several pre-season friendlies and the league programmes will have started. Full details of all fixtures and results, as well as the latest news and more information about our club, can be found at: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com Our very own Joy Mackie will also have played in the Suffolk final of the ladies indoor singles competition at Lakenheath which was held just after the editorial deadline for this piece. News of how Joy fared can also be found on our website and will be included in next month’s In Touch. If you are interested in trying the game of bowls, or would just like to spend a pleasant summer’s evening watching, please just come along, we’d be pleased to see you.
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For further details visit: www.sproughtontennis.co.uk/gbtw We are also holding free coaching lessons for juniors new to tennis between the ages of five and eight as part of the LTA Tennis For Kids initiative. These will be held on Saturday mornings beginning May 20 for six weeks. There are two courses: 9.15-10.15am and 10.30-11.30am. The numbers available for these sessions are strictly limited, so you must pre-book. Please see our website for details: www.sproughtontennis.co.uk/tennisforkids The club can be found at The Playing Fields in Church Lane, Sproughton IP8 3AX.
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CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook and Belstead and Bentley with Tattingstone For parish queries please contact: The Rev Annette Shannon The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton, Ipswich IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674 Benefice Administrator Hayley Purnell northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07713 863023 Friends, It is my turn to write this month’s letter and I have been struggling over what to write. Most of my free time this week has been spent thinking about it. It seemed as if the more I thought the less I knew. Then into my head popped the words ‘The Lord’s Prayer’. How many times have I said that whenever I don’t know what to say I use the prayer our Father taught us? And instead of getting more and more wound up I gradually felt at peace. I have nothing profound to say, nothing life changing happened. I was gently reminded of the power of prayer. I hope by writing these thoughts that not only will they act as a reminder to me but to others, because maybe I’m not the only one who occasionally forgets the value of prayer. Sometimes it’s not necessary to say anything but sit quietly in his presence, because as one little lady told me a long time ago ‘if you don’t, how will you hear what he says?’ Already we are in the month of May, almost half-way through the year. The gardens are full of flowers and bees and butterflies. We are still in the Easter season and as Annette said last month, butterflies are a symbol of Easter. They are a delight to watch and whenever I see them I am reminded of new life, birth and the resurrection of Christ. They bring joy to my heart.
Bentley Evening Prayer Fridays at 6.30pm during the summer. Join us for an opportunity for quiet contemplation on May 12 & 26, June 9 & 23, July 7 & 21, August 4 & 25, September 8 & 22. A Celebration of a Country Churchyard Saturday, May 13 at St Mary’s, Burstall, 10.30am-3pm. Refreshments and plant sale. Pentecost Services Sunday, June 4: 9.30am at Burstall / 11am at Nine Oaks, Tattingstone Copdock Plant Sale Saturday, May 13, 10am in the Church Room FROM THE REGISTERS Baptisms Elizabeth Amelia Froud – Sproughton Funerals Jean Scrivener – Sproughton Maryann Turner – Copdock Burial of Ashes Albert Collins – Tattingstone Weddings Scott Mitchell and Lauren Matthews – Belstead Sinead Osbourne and Ryan Mounihan – Copdock MAY 3
Bentley Home Communions, 10am
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Bentley Coffee and Company, 10am Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm
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Copdock Morning Market, 10am
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Comfort Corner Sproughton Church Hall, 1.30pm
The Lent period gives us the time to think about our faith and where it is leading us. I think this Easter season gives us hope as we realise the enormity of what Christ did for us. The strength of God’s love shines through like the light on the top of a lighthouse. It stands high above everything, pulsing out its light for everyone to see. It helps to stop people from being shipwrecked, cast out to sea. It’s there for everyone, not just those who don’t know what dangers lie ahead. Whereas we have many lighthouses for protection against physical danger because they are limited as to how far their light will show, there is only need to have God’s light which is so powerful that it shines all over the world, to protect his children spiritually.
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Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm
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Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am Celebration of a Country Churchyard, Burstall, 10.30am Copdock Plant Sale, Church Room, 10am
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Copdock Home Communions, 10am
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Ascension Day Service in Sproughton and Archdeacon’s Visitation, 7.30pm
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Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm
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Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm
The Easter season finishes at Pentecost which is at the beginning of June this year. At the time, Christ’s followers were probably trying to come to terms with the crucifixion and puzzling over what to do next. Their grief must have been tangible. But they had realised who he was and my prayer is that they saw him as their lighthouse and were able to follow in his footsteps with his light leading them forwards.
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Copdock Morning Market, 10am
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Pentecost Services: 9.30am at Burstall / 11am at Nine Oaks, Tattingstone
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Bentley Home Communions, 10am
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Bentley Coffee and Company, 10am Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm
I don’t know what the scribes and pharisees thought, but probably they were quite happy with themselves, thinking they had won. I hope some of them were touched by what had happened, by Christ’s presence and began to question their understanding of who he was. And I think that maybe this is a good time to consider our understanding.
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Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm
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Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am
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Comfort Corner, Sproughton Church Hall, 1.30pm
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Joint PCC Meeting at Sproughton School, 7.30pm
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Copdock Home Communions, 10am
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Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm
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Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm
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Ministry Meeting at The Rectory, noon
In love and prayer, Gwen Runnacles All services and events will be updated at: www.facebook.com/northsamfordbenefice
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JUNE
In Touch online:
CHURCH NEWS SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE MAY 7 8am Copdock Holy Communion 9.30am Burstall Holy Communion 10am Bentley Family Service 10am Copdock Morning Prayer 10am Tattingstone Holy Communion 11am Sproughton Holy Communion MAY 12 6.30pm
Bentley
MAY 25: Ascension Day 7.30pm Sproughton
Holy Communion
MAY 26 6.30pm
Evening Prayer
Bentley
MAY 28 8am Sproughton Holy Communion 9.30am Burstall Matins 10am Copdock Holy Communion 10am Bentley Holy Communion 10am Belstead Morning Worship 10am Tattingstone Family Service 11am Sproughton Family and Friends
Evening Prayer
MAY 14 9.30am Sproughton Croissant Church 9.30am Burstall Family Service 10am Copdock Holy Communion 10am Bentley Holy Communion 6pm Tattingstone Evensong MAY 21 9.30am Burstall Holy Communion 10am Washbrook Holy Communion 10am Bentley Family Service 11am Sproughton Matins 6pm Tattingstone Holy Communion
JUNE 4: Pentecost 9.30am Burstall 11am Tattingstone
Benefice Service Benefice Service
JUNE 9 6.30 pm
Evening Prayer
Bentley
JUNE 11 9.30am Sproughton Croissant Church 9.30am Burstall Family Service 10am Copdock Holy Communion 10am Bentley Holy Communion 6pm Tattingstone Holy Communion
Church letters and copy for the June edition of In Touch to Hayley Purnell by May 4 please: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com
VILLAGE CONTACTS LIST Details for organisations and activities in Sproughton Allotments
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Parish Council
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Almshouses (Cooper Trust)
Ken Sheppard
01473 743122
Parish Council Chairman
Simon Curl
01473 747114
Badminton Club
June Jackaman Jean Mardon
01473 745246 01473 461568
Parochial Church Council
David Shannon
07703 678911
Playing Field Committee
Damian Lavington
01473 809512
Burial Ground
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Lunch Club
Sheri Walne
01473 602717
Bowls Club Chairman
David Biggs
01473 421454
Quilters
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Brownies
Debra Last
01473 741773
Ramblers
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
Carpet Bowls Club
Bob Jones
01473 744093
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Reading Room and Caretaker’s Gwen Moore House Charity
01473 740629
Children’s Play Area Church Hall Booking
Jill Quadling
01473 464336
Senior Citizens’ Club
John Bates
01473 743476
Community Shop
Rosalind Lavington 01473 747768
Sports & Social Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Craft Group
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Sproughton CEVC Primary School, Karen Read (head) 01473 742182
Football Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Suffolk Guides
June Webb
01473 742778
Footpath Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Tennis Club
John Tallent
01473 402307
Jigsaw Pre-school
Rosemary Laflin
01473 745716
Tithe Barn Bookings
Sue Frankis
01473 463852
Millennium Green Trust
Ken Seager 01473 741410 07578 552324 / keseager@sky.com
Tower Captain (church bells)
Ralph Earey
01473 743812
Tree Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Mother and Toddler
Sam Pateman-Gee
Village History Recorder
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton
01473 464595
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