In Touch News with Sproughton April 2019

Page 1

In Touch with...

The best place to advertise your business services Delivered FREE to your door!

In Touch

™© ™©

with Burstall & Sproughton

Volume 9 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2019

Easter Smiles by Caroline Wolton


2

In Touch online:


NEWS

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

InTouch

SPROUGHTON VILLAGE FETE 2019 This year’s village fete will be on Sunday, June 23 on the Millennium Green from noon. All the usual attractions will include live music from St Peter’s Band, a Fun Dog Show, a barbecue and a beer tent, refreshments, pony rides, stalls, sideshows, family games and much more! Our grand draw tickets will be on sale later this month. You can get yours from the community shop. Please buy a few tickets – the draw accounts for most of our income and helps to secure next year’s fete. We are having some difficulty finding an ice-cream van this year. If anybody knows of one, please give me a call or text me on 07578 552324. We hope our normal loyal band of helpers will be able to help us set up the fete on the morning of June 23 from 8am. We’ll be in touch soon. Finally, we hope local charities, organisations and businesses will want to have a stall at the fete to promote themselves and join in the fun. Stalls are free for charities and local not-for-profit organisations. Stalls for businesses are only £10 for small traders or £40 for larger commercial concerns. Enquiries can be directed to me on the number above or by email to: kenseager511@gmail.com See you on June 23! Ken Seager

with Burstall & Sproughton

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380

Send editorial copy to: sproughton@intouchnews.co.uk

Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380

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

01473 400380

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

01473 400379

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

We also publish In Touch with... •B eyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge

In Touch with...

MAY DEADLINE 10 APRIL 2019

is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

JIGSAW PUZZLE CHALLENGE EVENING In aid of Sproughton Millennium Green Saturday, April 13 at Sproughton Church Hall “Second place is really first place for losers” Anon Prove you really are the best in this village at jigsaw puzzles by coming along to our Jigsaw Challenge Evening on Saturday, April 13 at 7pm in the Church Hall, Lower Street, Sproughton. Each team has an identical jigsaw puzzle to do in a limited time with only a ticking clock for company. OK, maybe a bit of friendly barracking, and possibly the odd act of sabotage, but otherwise it’s all down to you. Complete the puzzle in the time, or have the fewest pieces leftover at the whistle and you’ll be crowned 2019 Jigsaw Champions. Fame and fortune await you. Come with family and friends as a team of up to six, or turn up and make up a scratch team on the night. Tickets bought in advance are £5 for adults, children under-12 are £3. Please note: adult tickets bought on the night at the door will be £5.50 each. Bring your own bottle(s) for sustenance. Light refreshments will be served at half time, and we’ll be having a raffle to raise funds for our Millennium Green. As always, your support for this event is vital to help keep the green safe and pleasant for all and is much appreciated. For advance tickets, call in at the community shop or call/text: 07578 552324

3


NEWS BORN TO RUN HOME CHALLENGE Hastings to Sproughton – 132 miles

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

On May 2-4, I am running 132 miles in what I am calling the Born to Run Home Challenge in aid of The Eye Appeal at Ipswich Hospital and ActivLives. I was inspired to create this challenge as I celebrate a significant birthday in May and the challenge symbolises my life up until now, starting at the site of the former maternity hospital in Hastings where I was born, and finishing at my home at 8 Church Crescent in Sproughton. It’s a continuous event in that I am on my feet all the time and will not sleep until I have finished. I have organised this event myself and am doing it solo. In some places I may have some support, but in others I may be popping into shops en-route to top up with food and water. I have chosen to support The Eye Appeal at Ipswich Hospital as I am an NHS employee and it will help them obtain portable eye testing equipment to detect eye disease earlier for those who may have difficulty getting to the hospital. I have also chosen ActivLives who motivate people with their health and well-being and keeping them socially connected. I engage with them as a carer of my mother-in-law, Audrey, who lives at my house and has advanced vascular dementia. For more information or to support me in my challenge through a donation to the charities, please visit my JustGiving site: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/borntorunhome Alternatively I will have the traditional paper based sponsorship forms if you prefer. You can contact me at 01473 742314. David Cranwell

WEDNESDAY LUNCH CLUB Since 2007 we have been holding a regular Wednesday Lunch Club in the Barley Room. Although originally designed for senior citizens, the club is open to all. Lunch, typically consisting of a ‘meat and three veg’ main course (£5) plus a sweet such as apple pie and custard or bread-and-butter pudding (£2), is served at about 12.30pm. We are a friendly bunch! Do come along and sample our meals. Contact David Barnes at the community shop (01473 747768) or Ros Lavington (07850 767778) by the Monday before the Wednesday you wish to come.

Today the medieval bakehouse sits on the picturesque village green in Haughley from where the craft bakers rise early to ‘bake your daily bread’. They use fresh local ingredients and bake in their famous vaulted ancient brick ovens. ‘Fired up’ each morning, these unique ovens never cool and bake the bread to a perfect crust. William James Palmer purchased the bakehouse and newsagents when it had already been running for over 100 years. He and his wife opened their shop door on August 3, 1869 with their best seller being sticky buns. He would then go round local villages delivering bread from a horse and cart, announcing his arrival with a blast on his trumpet! A fervent political campaigner, he lost his wife and daughter in 1885 when he brought back the smallpox virus from one expedition to London. His son, William E G Palmer, took over the business in 1903, expanding it by founding a mill and farm before buying their first van in 1918. After Williams’s death in 1968, his son Roy took over the business and steered it through the 1970s Bread Strikes which saw hundreds of customers queuing for bread. He is also well remembered for his bakery and village museum which raised thousands of pounds for local charities. In 1989 it was taken over by his son Kenneth Palmer and he was joined by his son Kieron. In 1978 they appeared in You & Me, a BBC children’s programme about the bakery. In this, their jubilee year, they have many events planned, not least a funday and village museum and fireworks for the village, but are also donating commemorative mugs to the children of Haughley School. A Haughley Bake Off is planned at the church festival, and they will be sponsoring Haughley Fete and Woolpit Steam Rally. Local MP, Jo Churchill, will be judging a Palmers Children’s Painting Competition and Palmers will also be unveiling a new public clock on the bakehouse to mark the event. In an era of mass produced products, Palmers believe in quality, service and tradition. They produce a wide range of bread and confectionery from white, wholemeal, multi-seed and granary breads to specialities such as spelt, olive, chia and even marmite bread. Their hot cross buns, mince pies and patisseries are legendary and they also are the largest stockist of Tiptree jams and marmalades in East Anglia. In addition they sell local produce such as free range eggs, teas, Suffolk honeys and takeaway sandwiches, hot food and drinks! Birthday cakes are a specialty, while in the summer they sell produce from their own orchards such as plums, pears, apples and walnuts. As well as their bakery at Haughley, then have shops in Stowmarket, Stanton, Woolpit and Ipswich as well as Freshfills of Claydon and Bretts Bakery in Needham Market and can be reached at: 01449 673286 / office@palmersbakery.co.uk Happy Birthday Palmers!

4

In Touch online:


advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed

double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems. Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution… Just replace the glass!! If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly

experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors. Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

Quick & Easy way to upgrade your kitchen...

30 d s r an ur e v s lo O le co y st r 90 e ov

simply cover the worktops replace the doors and drawer fronts for a whole new look!

Special Limited Offer Hurry - Don’t miss out

*£500 appliance contribution when purchasing worktops and door replacements. Not in conjunction with any other offer.

£500 EXCLUSIVE LIMITED OFFER VOUCHER

*

Before

After

Worktops

Don’t just take our word for it

In a matter of hours

The top that fits on top

Granite Transformations were brilliant from start to finish and such nice staff, nothing was too much trouble. So happy with our new worktops - thank you so much. Sue - Colchester

Transforming your old kitchen does not have to be stressful, as we have the products and expertise to modernise it within just a few hours, by replacing the door & worktops - no mess.

With over 1 Million installations globally, our worktops are the market leaders in terms of styles and durability. Plus all our worktops come with an industry leading 10 Year Guarantee.

Appliance Contribution Voucher Code: APPLIANCE£500 Ipswich Showroom

For more information or to arrange a FREE No-Obligation Home Visit

Unit 3 Alstons Court, Leslie Road, Ipswich IP3 9PL

or visit: www.gt-ipswich.co.uk or visit: www.gt-colchester.co.uk

Hatfields Home Furnishings, Peartree Road, Colchester C03 0LA

Call Ipswich: 01473 851 360 | Call Colchester: 01206 807 347 www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

Colchester Showroom

5


NEWS MICHAEL EAREY

SPROUGHTON PARISH COUNCIL Sproughton Parish Council currently has vacancies for six councillors! It would be extremely helpful to have more councillors to share the workload and ensure the views of residents are properly represented. Are you interested in becoming a parish councillor? Parish councils are led by democratically elected councillors from the local community. Parish councillors decide on the services and projects the parish council will deliver.

A life of Engineering and of Service to Church and Community Sixty years ago, Michael and Heather Earey rode their Lambretta scooter around Ipswich looking for a new home. Fortunately for Sproughton, they discovered a building plot next to the church hall in Lower Street, a piece of land which had been the playground when the hall served as the village school. Michael had already served an apprenticeship with Cocksedge & Co, the structural engineering firm in Ipswich, before joining the RAF for two years’ National Service. He then returned to Cocksedge for three years, working in the design office. The opportunity arose for a move across the river to Fisons Fertilisers where he worked as a draughtsman in their engineering section. That early experience meant that he was well qualified to design the bungalow for Drakes to build on that plot of land next to the church hall. This was to be only the fourth new dwelling in the village of Sproughton for over a hundred years. Michael and Heather quickly settled into village life. There was a school, a church and a pub. What more could they want? Professionally, Michael remained an engineer, working for Bexford in Brantham and gaining AMIMech E and CEng qualifications. He moved on to become contract manager for Sturtevant Roote and finally senior site engineer at Smith and Nephew Pharmaceuticals in Romford. This last position was not only very demanding, but involved driving 56 miles twice a day on the A12 which, all those years ago, was even more frustrating than it is today. Michael retired 22 years ago. Once they had moved into their new bungalow, Michael quickly became involved in village life. All Saints Church has benefited enormously from his knowledge and expertise: he became a churchwarden in 1962 and a lay elder in 1977, a position he has recently retired from after 40 years of service. He also served for 16 years as a Justice of the Peace. Michael was elected a parish councillor and served for 16 years, the last three as chairman during which time he and Heather were invited to a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace. They actually met the Queen at the Maundy Thursday ceremony in Bury St Edmunds Cathedral. In 2005 Michael and Heather received the Community Achievement Award for Public Service from Babergh District Council. Despite his major commitments to work and community, Michael, always with Heather’s strong support, has been a Reading Room trustee, the leader for 15 years of the Handbell Ringers, creator and maker of board games (who could forget those hideous bloodshot artificial eyes we used to roll towards elusive targets?), organiser of beetle drives and monthly markets and the leader of calligraphy classes (do you recall the enormous example of his lettering which covered the whole of the western side of the tower of All Saints during our 750th Jacobus celebrations?). Perhaps, for most of us living in the village, Michael’s most outstanding and highest profile contribution has been the refurbishment and regeneration of the church hall. A century old, it was suffering the ravages of time and needed major works if it were to survive. Michael and Heather proved to be a formidable team, raising something in the region of £100,000 to transform the ailing building into a desirable meeting place for a wide variety of organisations. The recent addition of a front entrance with modern facilities has further enhanced the building.

As representatives of the first tier of local government, and the closest to their communities, parish councillors are best placed to engage with their residents and find out what the real local issues are and how to overcome them. Parish councils encourage residents who are passionate about their community to stand for election and are committed to the inclusion and recognition of all regardless of race, culture, ability, ethnicity or gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, marital status, religious affiliation and socio-economic status. Do you, or someone you know, have what it takes to be a parish councillor? Contact Sproughton Parish Council and stand for election now. NALC and the Electoral Commission have produced materials and guidance for those looking to stand for election, which can be found at: www.nalc.gov.uk/our-work/elections Further resources and information (including nomination forms) are also available at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/elections Alternatively, nomination forms are available from the parish clerk at: sproughtonparishclerk@talktalk.net PIGEON DEVELOPMENT: Burstall Lane and Loraine Way B1113 (behind the Wild Man Pub) Many thanks for turning up to the public meeting in such huge numbers on February 27 at the Tithe Barn. It was great to see so many people care about our community. Please remember the deadline to respond is March 29 (DC/19/00567). The community campaign group gave a presentation about the above application which has been submitted by Pigeon Land 2 Ltd and The Felix Thornley Cobbold Agricultural Trust for outline planning permission for 114 homes off Burstall Lane and associated works. Full details of how to comment/object can be found at: www.burstalllane.com Of the 175 (approx) people who attended none expressed support for the proposals. SPROUGHTON BEER FESTIVAL 2019 The hugely successful Sproughton Beer Festival returns for the 11th year running over the weekend of May 10-12. Approximately 40 real ales and ciders will be available along with a local lager. Barbecue food along with other refreshments will be on sale all weekend. Friday night will be an all ticket disco. Tickets will be available from Sproughton Community Shop and Sproughton Primary School. The festival kicks off at noon on Saturday with last orders being called at 10.30pm. Musical acts will be performing throughout the day with Saltshaker Blues once again headlining. Sunday hours are noon until 10pm. Sunday night will see the return of the popular quiz. Hope to see you there. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Wednesday, April 10: Planning Meeting 7pm

During research into the church hall’s history, it was discovered that the original had been built by Cocksedge, the very same company with which Michael began his engineering career some sixty years previously.

Parish Council Meeting 7.30pm

Wednesday April 24:

Planning Meeting 7pm

Ken Sheppard (neighbour)

Wednesday, May 1:

Annual Parish Meeting in the Tithe Barn

6

In Touch online:


Pip’s Tree Services Pruning, shaping and reductions. Felling and dismantling. Hedge cutting and stump grinding.

Contact me for a free quote or advice:

Philippa@pipstreeservices.co.uk

07538 797 302 All Aspects of tree work undertaken.

WE SPECIALISE IN DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS, CALL FOR YOUR FREE CHECK UP

Mr Misty ‘The Window Doctor’ is a family run business that prides itself in exceptional customer care. W e p r o m i s e e a s y s e r v i c e f r o m s t a r t t o fi n i s h .

DOES YOUR DOUBLE GLAZING STEAM UP? WE REPLACE JUST THE GLASS AND NOT THE FRAMES AT A FRACTION OFTHE COST FOR NEW WINDOWS PROBLEMS WE SOLVE ELIMINATE WINDOW CONDENSATION

SECONDARY GLAZING TO BLOCK OUT NOISE

BROKEN WINDOW PARTS

DOOR AND WINDOW LOCKS

BROKEN GLASS

FAULTY HINGES

FREE PHONE : 0800

25 45 111 FOR YOUR FREE CHECKUP

WWW.MRMISTY.CO.UK

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

7


8

In Touch online:


NEWS / OUT & ABOUT FROM THE ARCHIVES The Wild Man, Sproughton The story that older parishioners tell is that many years ago there was a wild man roaming about the district, especially in Devil’s Wood or Warren, the site of the Beet Sugar Factory from 1925 to 2001. There are no tales of his wrongdoings, although Harry Carter of Swaffham depicts him running away with a maiden on the village sign! The villagers eventually caught him near the inn, which now bears his name. The village sign, which stands on the green, shows the mill and the legendary wild man. It was given by the Women’s Institute and was unveiled on Saturday 30 April 1983 by the WI president, Mrs Jean Barnes. The ladies collected £250 to cover the cost. It was one of the last signs Harry Carter carved. The present Wild Man building is partly 16th century with modern additions. The blacksmith’s house jutted out of the north side of the building, but this was pulled down in the 1930s. In the cellar there are some very large old stones. Much of the rear ground floor frame has been removed though the main post remains. On the first floor the frame is partly exposed. There is a tall square crown post with slender braces and some smoke blackened rafters. It is Grade II listed. A barn stood at the back of the pub until it was pulled down in 1949. There was a bowling green and skittles alley at the back of the inn. Darts were also played.

SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Spring 2019 Shutdown: The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility will be undergoing its first planned maintenance shutdown of the year between April 23 and May 16. These shutdowns take place twice a year for essential cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the facility continues to run efficiently. During this shutdown, essential components of the boilers will be repaired or replaced, and maintenance will be carried out inside the furnaces. The maintenance of each of our two furnaces will be staggered, so that we can continue to accept waste throughout the shutdown period. There will be an increased amount of contractors on site during this period, but there should be no impact on the local community. If you have any concerns about the upcoming shutdown period, please contact us via the details provided below. Tours of the facility: We are unable to host tours of the facility during the shutdown period due to the works on site. Therefore our next series of open day will be on June 3 at2pm, July 19 at 10am and August 6 at 6pm. These open days are available to anyone interested in the facility, from the age of seven and up. There are a total of 20 spaces available on each date, so please contact us via the details below to reserve a space. OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Booking a Visit: 01473 839149 / suffolkefw.uk@suez.com Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910

The restaurant was opened on 23 November 1972 and it was refurnished as a carvery in 1982 and again in 1987. The Grand Metropolitan took the public house over from Tolly Cobbold in 1989. In November 1994 it was reported in the Evening Star that the owners, Scottish Newcastle, were undertaking a £50,000 restoration programme. It has since changed hands. It is recorded that a baby of Thomas and Elizabeth Sheldrick, strangers staying at the inn, was baptised there in 1721. The 1744 assessment for tax was 8d in the pound and Thomas Hewil of the Wild Man paid 4/-d. There is a will for one John Clark, Innholder of Sproughton dated 1702 at the archives. In the past there were many rowdy brawls. There is a tale that one Whitsun in the 1950s, the locals managed to get a donkey upstairs and lowered it out of the window! The landlady, Mrs Daldry, dare not stop them. A Mrs Freda Wedgewood did a few hours of cleaning in the 1970s. One day she thought she heard the bar door open and saw a bearded man in a silver grey suit. She turned round again and he had disappeared. Was this a ghost? Doreen Bradbury

BURSTALL TABLE TOP SALE There will be table top sale in Burstall Village Hall on Saturday, June 1 from 11am to 4pm. It will cost £5 to hire a table and the money raised will be split between Burstall WI and the village hall. We will also be serving tea and cake so if you are looking to have a clear out this would be the perfect opportunity! For more information or to book a table please contact Katie or Anna Cooper: coopersaa@gmail.com / 01473 652725 This fundraising event is a contribution to my bronze Duke of Edinburgh award. Hope to see you there. Katie Cooper

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

9


OUT & ABOUT

SPROUGHTON COMMUNITY SHOP: Something for Everyone collection of Sproughton events and images. We’ve had a bit more time to plan the next one and it really is amazing what goes on in the village! Don’t forget to look at our Twitter, Facebook and website to find out what the shop is up to, not least we are delighted to say, our involvement with the 11th Sproughton Beer Festival which will take place from May 10-12. In April look out for seasonal fruit and veg including rhubarb, purple sprouting broccoli, early new potatoes, and if we are lucky, the first English asparagus. Rosalind Lavington

The first quarter of 2019 has passed! Your shop was busy last month with no less than three special events: Red Nose Day, our ninth birthday, and the Pancake Party! Here’s Ken keeping us enthralled after lots of pancakes, lots of running about and lots of fun.

EASTER OPENING TIMES Good Friday: 9.30am-12.30pm Easter Saturday: 9.30am-12.30pm (as usual) Easter Sunday: Closed Easter Monday: Closed

Don’t forget Mother’s Day on Sunday, March 31 – we stock lots of lovely basket flowers, gifts and cards. Mothering Sunday means that Easter isn’t far behind (Sunday, April 21) which means Easter Eggs, and more flowers for those of you watching the waistline, especially Lenten Lilies. It also means our opening times will be a bit different. Refer to your Sproughton calendar or opposite.

01473 747768 / enquiryatsproughtonshop@mail.com

Work on the 2020 calendar is progressing well, with a splendid new

www.sproughtoncomminityshop.co.uk

A JUST DESSERT “By the time you read this” as the cliché goes, Britain should have successfully terminated one of history’s most memorable alliances, her membership to the EU. After months of 24/7 reportage, everyone is sick of the “B” word. However, to protect ourselves from collateral damage in the months ensuing, our larders should now be bulging with at least six months’ worth of non-perishables, having heeded the advice from HM’s Government. This is because not one country in the rest of the world remembered to plant and harvest enough produce for Britain’s appetite in the spring after the “B” word. My gut feeling is that the Westminster drama is now famously turning into a saga of immense proportions and won’t be over until the Fat Lady sings, although we are promised she is not far, somewhere beyond the horizon.

Remember, no matter what happens, try Sproughton Community Shop first for loyalty to your local shop and all the ingredients needed for the recipe below.

Be that as it may, to mark this occasion in British history, whether as a jolly participant or maintaining the moan, thus preventing the Fat Lady from ever singing, a bit of comfort food is in order, at least in my house, using what is now to hand, and actually a delicious pudding any time of year, Peach Cobbler. Enjoy this favourite from the Deep South, a bit of consolation from the American Civil War. At least in this, The Battle of the ‘B’ Word, nary a life has been lost, nor a shot fired. So enjoy!

Sift flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder together. Mix egg with some milk until smooth, then stir in the melted butter. Pour it all into the flour mixture and stir to make a stiff batter and spread it evenly in the bottom of the pan. Meanwhile, bring the peaches to a boil in a saucepan. Carefully pour the hot fruit and juice onto the batter, arranging the peaches evenly. Bake in a pre-heated oven at 190℃ / gas mark 5 for about 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown. The batter will rise, forming a cakey top, while leaving a gooey white, peach-filled centre.

And who knows? I for one look forward to the bounty from around the world that will have docked at Britain’s ports because Britain took one giant leap into the proverbial unknown. Or not!

10

PEACH COBBLER 125g flour 190g sugar 2tsp baking powder Pinch of salt 1 egg 4 fl oz milk, more or less (can use tinned evaporated, diluted a bit) 1½oz butter, melted 1 large tin peaches, with syrup Deep dish casserole or 9” square baking pan

© Mary Bright Basan Questions or comments to: mbb.101@hotmail.com

In Touch online:


Looking after you and your family... Our private client team offers individuals a high level of personal service, tailored to your needs, ensuring you have peace of mind.

Wills and Trusts Lasting Powers of Attorney Probate Disputes

Probate and Estates Court of Protection Financial Planning

Contact us today to make an appointment: enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com www.ellisonssolicitors.com

01473 556900 Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ

Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

11


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

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

Contact us

www.prettys.co.uk

01473 232121 enquiry@prettys.co.uk

In Touch online:

12 PR534 Personal Injury Advert (InTouch) v3.indd 2

09/05/2018 16:33


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

5A 5B 5C 5D 5E 5F 5G 5H 5I 5J 5K

Location

Time

Sproughton Church Lane Sproughton Wild Man Bramford St Mary’s Close Bramford Paper Mill Lane Great Blakenham Chequers Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park Baylham Post Box Claydon Crown Claydon, Edinburgh Gardens Barham Bacon Road Bramford Packard Place

9.10-9.25am 9.30-9.45am 9.50-10.05am 10.10-10.25am 10.35-10.55am 11-11.15am 11.25-11.45am 11.55am-1pm 2.05-2.20pm 2.25-3.50pm 4-4.30pm

2019: 9 April, 7 May, 4 June, 2 July, 30 July, 27 August, 24 September, 22 October, 19 November, 17 December

IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 13 Route 13 Town/village 13A 13B 13C 13D 13E 13F 13G 13H 13I 13J 13K 13L 13M

Location

Crowfield Lay by Coddenham Haysel House Barham Sorrel Horse Creeting St Mary Whissels Farm Creeting St Mary Village Hall Creeting St Peter The Lane Earl Stonham Village Hall Little Stonham Church Little Stonham Magpie Inn Mickfield Church, Debenham Road Stonham Aspal, Walnut Tree Meadow Pettaugh Old Bull Henley Garage

Clear the Clutter – Bag a Bargain! Saturday, April 6 from 2pm at Bentley Village Hall If you have anything you wish to donate, please bring it along to the hall from 9am on the day or telephone Pam (01473 310283) or Aimée (01473 311311) who will arrange to collect it from you. If you would like to come to our sale, the hall will be open from 2pm with tea and coffee available. We look forward to seeing you and thank you for your support.

BELSTEAD VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKETS A market takes place in Belstead Village Hall from 10am-1pm on the first Saturday of every month to raise vital funds to support refurbishment of the kitchen and ladies toilet. With an extensive range of tables, a raffle and refreshments, the market is the perfect place to meet with friends for a chat over a cuppa and a piece of cake while supporting this essential local amenity. You can also support our chosen charity at a table laden with homemade goodies for sale. If you can sew, make or create and would like to hire a table (£10) please contact: 07981 335859 / market@belsteadvillage.co.uk

IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5 Town/village

SPRING JUMBLE SALE

SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB As the lighter nights are now with us and our thoughts are turning to the garden, we have arranged an outing to Bypass Nurseries in Capel on May 22. Afternoon tea will be served and then a chance to look for plants. Before then we have our AGM on April 17 with lunch at the Chequers beforehand. Eunice

Accommodation (bungalow, house or flat) wanted to rent in this area for up to six months while own house has builders in. Single OAP lady, non-smoker, no pets. Willing to move in straight away. Contact: 01473 213352

Time 9.25-09.45am 9.55-10.50am 11-11.10am 11.20-11.30am 11.35-11.45am 11.55am-12.10pm 12.20-12.50pm 2-2.10pm 2.15-2.25pm 2.30-2.45pm 2.55-3.30pm 3.35-3.55pm 4.05-4.30pm

2019: no visit in April, 17 May, 14 June, 12 July, 9 August, 6 September, 4 October, 1 November, 29 November, 27 December

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

13


OUT & ABOUT BURSTALL WI

GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB It has been a busy month! Eight members attended the SEFWI Centenary Annual Meeting at Trinity Park on March 5. By tradition, Burstall members help with the guest lunches and here’s a picture of the two Wendys and Mary with the keynote speaker, Kevin from Strictly Come Dancing. Don’t they look chuffed? After all that excitement it was back to the mundane and Katie Cooper, who is helping us as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award, kindly organised a litter pick of the village. Members turned out and managed to fill five bags with rubbish and were rewarded with coffee, cake and an update on CPR in the village hall afterwards.

Finally, at our regular monthly meeting we raised a glass of fizz to the next 100 years of WI in Suffolk East, sang Jerusalem for the first time in many a year, and then socialised while painting our chosen ceramic item, which when fired, will be a souvenir of the occasion. Quite a month!

RIVER GIPPING TRUST A good turnout of volunteers each Wednesday along the River Gipping has continued through the winter months. Last year the trust totalled nearly 4,000 man hours of volunteer labour along the river, and we expect this year to be similar. The trust is currently working hard on clearing and restoring the old riverside footpath leading up to the bridge abutment remains on both sides of the river which are about a mile upstream of Baylham Lock / Rare Breeds Farm. The brick bridge abutments are thought to date back to 1790 when the canal was built, and the trust is hoping that they will be able to reuse the abutment superstructures to support the new bridge. Clearance work around the bridge abutments to enable a professional assessment of their condition is ongoing. The bridge span between the abutments disappeared some 70 years ago. Unfortunately, there are no known photos or drawings of the bridge. It would appear from the remaining brickwork that it was a wooden bridge sitting on the brick abutments, but we don’t know if it was a flat or arched bridge. If anybody has any further knowledge of what it was like, please get in touch with the trust as they would like to rebuild it as close as possible to the original if they can. The trust is always looking for environmental improvements, like using old tree branches to create dry hedges, and leaving suitable piles of branches to encourage wildlife. We often collect bucket loads of plastic rubbish. The trust has no paid employees, everyone volunteers their time accordingly. The trust produces a very informative newsletter magazine (The Gipping Gossip) every six months for its members, and they would love to increase their membership, which helps ensure continuation of their work. Membership details, the latest 24-page colour newsletter and contact details can be found on their website. www.rivergippingtrust.org.uk

14

Open to anyone living in Great Blakenham and the surrounding areas, the club meets every Monday other than bank holidays in Great Blakenham Parish Room (opposite the Chequers PH) from 2-4pm. The building is fully accessible. Members pay £2 per meeting to cover hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Alternatively you may wish to bring your own project and enjoy our company and make new friends. Members take it in turns to make the tea. In the March workshop titled Seaside, we concentrated on using up fabric oddments in different ways. Our project was to use pieces to make beach huts which when sewn together could be made into zipped pouchs or cushions, added as a feature on a shopping bag or curtains, or made into a picture. Photos to follow next month. We were also pleased to welcome Julie Hickey from Henley and Sarah Mitchell from Claydon to join the club. 2019 PROGRAMME April 1: Fact and Fantasy May 13: Village Life and Little Mice June 3: Summer Sewing July 1: A Bit of Bling August 5: Autumn’s Coming September 2: Take Heart October 7 : Fabric Cards November 4: Christmas Cards with a Twist December 2: AGM There is currently room for new members so please get in touch if you would like to join us. Although the club is all ladies at present, gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome. Unfortunately I can’t accommodate children. Jackie Durrant: 01449 672690

EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of, or a volunteer for, the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF at 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on April 16 when an ambassador from Trinity House will be talking about the lighthouses that are located around the coastline. He will explain their origins, maintenance and everything to do with lighthouses. Trinity House is a 500-year-old organisation based in London and Harwich. It is the general lighthouse authority for England, Wales and he Channel Islands, making the seas around us safer for mariners carrying out their business. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome; the entrance fee is £3. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 per year (£12 per couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary at: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB As a result of the Easter Holidays, the club will meet only on Wednesdays, April 3 and 24. Membership is £1 per school year, payable in September, plus £3 for each twohour session. The club meets from 10am until noon in the upstairs room at the rear of the Methodist Church in Bramford. Ultra+ broadband and refreshments are available. There is no set programme, but we are here to help you to get the best out of your computer. Why not give us a try?

In Touch online:


OUT & ABOUT / SPORT ORWELL PROBUS CLUB We meet for lunch at Ipswich Sports Club on Henley Road on the second Thursday of each month and usually a speaker entertains us afterwards. Probus clubs provide an opportunity for active retired or semi-retired gentlemen to attend regular meetings and enjoy the camaraderie of likeminded people who appreciate similar interests. We have social events, outings and holidays which, of course, include spouses, partners and friends. If you think Orwell Probus Club could be for you, please contact our secretary, Chris Flint: 01473 226996 / mailto@1878.me.uk

COUNTRY RAMBLES The weather wasn’t very good for walking on March 10 and 19, but we look forward to better weather. This month’s walks will be on Sunday, April 14, meeting at the church at 2pm, and on Tuesday, April 23, leaving the church at 10am. Both walks will be fairly local.

INTERESTED IN FLOWER ARRANGING? Ipswich Flower Club would like to invite you to its meeting on April 8 when the demonstrator Vicki Hease will present Treasured Moments Part 1. The meeting starts at 2pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall on Bucklesham Road. The cost for visitors is £5 which includes tea and biscuits. You will be warmly welcomed if you just turn up, or for more information please contact Janet on 01473 415749. On May 13 Alan Smith will present a demonstration entitled Floral Magic. Ipswich Flower Club meets on the second Monday afternoon of the month. We also have six Friday afternoon workshops during the year which are suitable for all. The workshop on May 3 will be a modern contemporary arrangement and will be tutored by Janet Greengrass. If you are interested in the workshop, which will cost £5, please phone Stella for more details and to book a place: 01473 711946

SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB Hopefully, by the time you read this spring will most definitely have sprung and we will be basking in sunshine and looking forward to the start of the outdoor bowling season. While some of our less hardy wildlife, and some bowlers as well no doubt, have been hibernating, Ray Ruffles and the green team at Sproughton Bowls Club have, as always, been hard at work making sure that the green will be in prime condition. This winter has seen the bank on the school side of the green completely reworked with the uneven grass having been dug out and replaced with slabs and shingle. This should allow for some extra seating space at busy times. Once again, Albert Southgate will have prepared the borders around the clubhouse so we can expect a colourful display for the summer. The clubhouse itself hasn’t escaped either, the kitchen has had a top to bottom deep clean and, along with the rest of the building, a new coat of paint. Thanks to Mike Burch and many volunteers for their hard work. Come along on to our social evening on March 29 from 7pm to see the results of all of the hard work. Chairman David Taylor will be providing some food and the evening will also include a quiz. There will also be a raffle so please bring a prize if you are able. Tickets will be £2 to help cover the cost of food. Please let David or any committee member know if you are able to attend. On the playing side, our opening drive takes place on April 14, and the Club Blocks competition on April 14. This will be followed by two friendly fixtures, away to Copdock on April 23 and away to East Bergholt on April 25. League fixtures start the following Monday for some teams, so join in and get some much needed match practice. Like most clubs, we are always looking to increase our membership and to this end we will be holding a taster session for anyone who may be interested in having a go at lawn bowls. This will be held between 10am and noon on Sunday, April 14. All are welcome and the only equipment required will be flat shoes – everything else will be provided. You will also be welcome to stay for a chat and have a drink while you watch the Club Blocks competition which starts at noon. For more information about our club, contacts and how to find us please visit: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com

FUNDING BOOST FOR CLAYDON FC Claydon Football Club is celebrating a £16,305.00 funding boost from SUEZ Communities Trust for the replacement of their ground maintenance equipment. The funding will allow the club to replace the current dilapidated machinery. Along with this grant the club has also been awarded £10,000.00 from the Football Foundation towards the new machinery. The equipment currently being used is, in the case of the main mower, over 20 years old and it is becoming increasingly hard to obtain spares and costly to maintain.

Football Foundation on behalf of the club for this tremendous support.” Marek Gordon, Chairman of SUEZ Communities Trust, added: “SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding awards through the Landfill Communities Fund. This important source of funding has been available since 1997 and has provided such worthy projects with more than £1.4 billion. We were delighted to offer funding to Claydon Football Club.”

The club was established in 1964 and currently provides football facilities for approximately 200 players ranging in age from Under 7s to over 65 years. Training takes place each weekday and matches, parties and events take place on the weekend.

Changing Rooms Update The changing rooms at Claydon FC have undergone a full refurbishment over the last few months and this is almost complete. In addition to revamped changing rooms, new shower facilities and storage, the club has had new toilets and baby changing facilities installed. The work was made possible by generous funding from Virador and Mid Suffolk via a community grant.

Tony Adams, Claydon FC Groundsman, commented: “The new machinery will dramatically improve the quality of the pitches we can deliver at the start of the season and, in addition, we will be able to maintain them to a higher level as we move through the season. On top of this, our reduced overheads in maintenance and spares for the old equipment can be made use of elsewhere in the club. I would like to personally thank SUEZ and the

Perimeter Fencing Update The new perimeter fencing is now completed, securing the site and making it a safer environment for children on match and training days. In addition, the club have been donated a large screen TV and CCTV equipment which is now installed to further aid security and safety on site. Thank you to the U17 parent for the TV and the club coach for the CCTV equipment.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

15


ON THE GRAPEVINE/ SCHOOLS SUFFOLK WALKING FESTIVAL Now in its 12 year, the Suffolk Walking festival (May 11 to June 2) has established itself as one of Britain’s premier walking festivals with over 120 walks and events across our county. Last year all walkers collectively walked 24 million steps over 23 days across Suffolk! th

The 2019 festival is going to be the most creative, imaginative and ambitious one to date. From a dawn chorus to hidden orchids, Arthur Ransome to John Constable, and from Anglo-Saxons to naval heritage, there’s even murder, myths and a little bit of magic. The festival has something for everyone: short strolls, gentle rambles, long hikes, family walks, history walks, nature walks, story-telling, art lessons, photography courses, walks with boat trips, walks with breakfasts, walks with train rides... Some of the highlights include: • A walk with Kite, the Orford Ness sheepdog, and her shepherd owner who will explain how they manage the reserve for wildlife. • Night Safari will enter an ancient woodland just after sundown to experience the wood’s nocturnal life and talk to owls! • A walk to Eye Airfield will reveal its wartime history with a ride back in vintage military vehicles! • A walk discovering the fascinating history of Ipswich’s Waterfront, followed by a Thames Barge cruise down the River Orwell. All walks are ticketed and all tickets must be purchased in advance. Brochures are now available in various outlets including libraries, leisure centres, country parks, Tourist Information Centres, visitor information points and Cotswold Outdoors. To find out more and buy tickets visit: www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk

SUMMER JAZZ FOR ALL Everyone can enjoy music this summer without worrying about the cost. That is the message from Jazz Galore who specialise in playing for afternoon events that are charitable or of benefit to the community. Group member Mike Smith says: “We are amateurs who play for enjoyment rather than profit and we can usually please anyone who asks. Of course, we would like some reward, but we’re not silly about it.” He added: “Last year we played for village fetes, a Women’s Institute event, garden parties, beer festivals, other social occasions and a wedding. There are normally eight of us but we are happy to adapt the number in the band and the tunes we play to meet what people would like. “And we are not too loud. People like that and the fact that we play a greater variety of numbers than most bands.” To check availability give Mike a call: 07874 034390

COULD YOU HELP A LOCAL CHARITY? Suffolk Family Carers is based on Hill View Business Park in Old Ipswich Road, Claydon. We provide information, advice, guidance and support for anyone who is caring for a friend, family member or neighbour. The person that they are caring for may be ill, have a disability, a mental health issue or be elderly and frail. How can you help? We have various volunteer roles available including admin and telephone support. You can even volunteer from your own home! What do we offer? Training and support for your volunteer role, out-ofpocket expenses, the opportunity to meet new people, and to make a real difference to the lives of family carers. Who do I contact? If you are interested or you would like to find out more, please contact us at: 01473 835450 / volunteer@suffolkfamilycarers.org

CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL Spring is now upon us and it’s good to see so many students taking advantage of lunchtime and after-school clubs, as well as the many trips, visits and activities on offer. One of the key messages we give our young people is to take opportunities that arise, so I was delighted to see so many students, especially Year 7, wanting to be involved in the forthcoming school production of We Will Rock You. As preparations and rehearsals take place there is a building sense of excitement, so please keep July 9 or 10 free and do come along! Our most able mathematicians in Year 10 took part in a Maths Feast at Kesgrave High School on March 6, where they competed in teams of four against eight other schools in the county. Our A team were outstanding, winning all four rounds and subsequently crowned overall winners of the competition. The B team walked away with a joint runner-up certificate for scoring highly in all of the rounds. We are incredibly proud of their achievements. On March 7, a group of Year 8 students took part in the BBC’s annual School Report Day. Students spent the day planning, researching and interviewing staff and students, before writing articles which are featured on a dedicated online news website. Every single article was written from scratch to a 2pm deadline, which was a tough challenge. The enthusiasm, dedication and commitment shown by all students was very impressive. Please visit the ‘News’ section of our website to read reports produced on the day: www.claydonhigh.co.uk On Monday, March 25, the art department held an exhibition featuring work from our students alongside work by students at our feeder primary schools. Students and parents/carers were invited along to view the colourful work on display, which included some ‘ragged’ hedgehogs on hessian boards from Year 3 students at Claydon Primary School and mixed media volcanoes from Bramford Primary. Elsewhere in school, the PE department has been busy with rock climbing sessions, a hockey tournament, trampolining competitions and a trip to watch the Junior Indoor Rowing Championships at the Olympic Park. In English, we have had a Book Mastermind Competition and a visit to the Globe Theatre to watch Romeo and Juliet. A group of Year 8 and 9 students took part in the Magistrate’s Court Mock Bar Trial on Saturday, March 9. The competition involved a team of students taking on the roles of magistrates, lawyers, witnesses and court staff to prepare a specially written case. The schools competed against each other at Ipswich Magistrates’ Court. Time is flying by and we are nearly into the Easter holidays with only one more term left in this academic year! Our Year 11 students are revising hard for the final stage of their journey at Claydon High School. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Tuesday, April 30. Please telephone my PA, Ms J Saunders, on 01473 836110 to book a place. Headteacher Maéve Taylor

16

In Touch online:


CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook and Belstead & Bentley with Tattingstone For parish queries please contact:

FROM THE REGISTERS

The Rev Annette Shannon The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674

Weddings Emily Davis & Robin Tomaselli, Copdock

Benefice Administrator Hayley Purnell northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07904 972116 Dear Friends, It’s February as I write and already I am starting to plan for the Easter services across the six parishes, the Church Experiences for the benefice schools and the Easter Party for toddlers. Easter is such a joyful and vibrant time for the church, but for those of you who are not Christian let me explain why this holiday is so important to us. Christians believe that God, the same God who created the sun and the moon and stars, the same God who loved his people so much that he freed them from the bondage of men, humbled himself to become a man himself and free all from the slavery of sin. As a result, no matter what you have done, no matter what you’re doing, you are forgiven. He loves you. But he does long for us all to repent our sins, renounce evil and turn to him. This is what Christians believe. Some point to his miracles as a sign of that love. But one of the most moving actions for me is that the same God who made the heavens and the earth got down on his knees and washed the feet of the very people he created. He then allowed himself to be beaten and crucified as payment for people’s wrongdoing to others and to God. And in one final strike at destruction and death, Christians believe he rose from the dead. Christians know that some consider this blasphemy while others consider it simply superstition. Indeed, there is no reason behind this. You either believe or you don’t. But for those who do, it is a message of love and forgiveness that brings tears to my eyes and to others and it makes sinners bend their knees in gratitude. Christians who truly hold this in their hearts will tell you that it changes them and their lives forever. That is truly awesome. Happy Easter, The Rev Annette North Samford Churches Baby and Toddler Group: 9.30-11.30am at Sproughton Church Hall on Mondays in term time. Suggested donation £2 per family. Leaders: The Rev Annette Shannon (01473 807674) / Doreen (01473 311122) EASTER SERVICES Bentley Palm Sunday, April 14: 10am Easter Day, April 21: 10am Belstead Easter Day, April 21: 10am Burstall Palm Sunday, April 14: 9.30am Maundy Thursday, April 18: 7.30am Easter Day, April 21: 9.30am Copdock with Washbrook Palm Sunday, April 14: 10am Easter Day, April 21: 10am Sproughton Palm Sunday, April 14: 9.30am Easter Day, April 21: 8am & 11am Tattingstone Palm Sunday, April 14: 6pm Good Friday, April 19: 10am Easter Day, April 21: 10am

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

Funerals Geoffrey Balaam, Bentley APRIL Monday 1 Wednesday 3 Thursday 4 Thursday 4 Thursday 4 Saturday 6 Wednesday 10 Thursday 11 Saturday 13 Wednesday 17 Tuesday 23 Wednesday 24 Saturday 27

Bentley APCM Bentley Home Communions, 10am Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm Sproughton APCM Copdock Monthly Market, 10am Burstall APCM Copdock Approval of Accounts Sproughton Morning Market, 10am Copdock Home Communions Copdock APCM Tattingstone APCM Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm

SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE Sunday, April 7 8am Copdock 9.30am Burstall 10am Copdock 10am Bentley 10am Tattingstone 11am Sproughton

Holy Communion Holy Communion Morning Prayer Morning Prayer Holy Communion Family@Church

Palm Sunday, April 14 9.30am Burstall 9.30am Sproughton 10am Bentley 10am Copdock 6pm Tattingstone

Family Service Croissant Church Holy Communion Holy Communion Evening Prayer

Maundy Thursday, April 18 7.30pm Burstall Holy Communion Good Friday, April 19 10am Tattingstone Holy Communion Easter Day, Sunday April 21 8am Sproughton Holy Communion 9.30am Burstall Holy Communion 10am Copdock Holy Communion 10am Tattingstone Holy Communion 10am Belstead Holy Communion 10am Bentley Holy Communion 11am Sproughton Holy Communion Sunday, April 28 9.30am Burstall 10am Bentley 6pm Tattingstone 10am Copdock

Matins Holy Communion Holy Communion Holy Communion

Please submit church letters and copy for the May edition of In Touch to Hayley Purnell by April 4: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com

17


CHURCH NEWS / ON THE GRAPEVINE SOMERSHAM BAPTIST CHURCH Choose Life! Central to the Christian faith is the resurrection of Jesus. But did it really happen? Jesus revealed his destiny to his doubting disciples many times during his ministry. He was bound for arrest, suffering, death and resurrection. Jesus fully expected to be raised from the dead on the third day. His disciples didn’t expect it. They were truly doubting-disciples who needed to see Jesus so many times to be convinced he had risen. That brings credibility to the reports of the resurrection that circulated in the early church. The persistent claim by the disciples that Jesus had been raised was the cause of their persecution and led to their own executions. John might well have been the only disciple to die naturally in old age. Belief in the remarkable resurrection of Jesus would certainly explain the rapid growth of the Christian faith in such a hostile political and religious environment. Resurrection is what the Christian faith has to offer. Resurrection to eternal life. Jesus provides forgiveness for sin by his complete sacrifice upon the cross. Jesus gifts his followers with his Holy Spirit to live like him and for him. This world has no answer to death. But Jesus conquered death and instead of an eternity of death, gives an eternity of life. This Easter choose life. Choose Jesus. EASTER AT THE CHAPEL Good Friday: An hour-long walk leaving the chapel car park at 10.30am and finishing with hot cross buns. Sunday, April 21: Easter Family Worship at 11am. Everyone is welcome. You are welcome to join our regular meetings of worship and fellowship: Sunday 10-10.30am: Prayer and Share 10.45-11.15am: Bible Study (Communion on the first Sunday) 11.30am-12.30pm: Worship Service Refreshments are served between meetings, come when you can and leave when you want. Weekdays at the Chapel Lunch and Listen: Thursday, April 4 at noon Friends and Neighbours: Monday, April 15, 7.45pm CONTACTS Mark Newcombe, Pastor: 01473 831940 / 07958 830103 m.newcombe940@btinternet.com Edwin Mayhew: 01473 658100 WORSHIPPING AND FOLLOWING JESUS TOGETHER

EASTER CHURCH DECORATION We shall be decorating the church for Easter after the Good Friday Service and on Saturday 20 from 10am to 1pm. All help will be very welcome. There is a list of places to be decorated on the board in the porch.

SUFFOLK REMEMBERS RETURNS TO FELIXSTOWE in 100 days St Elizabeth Hospice is asking the people of Suffolk to help them remember loved ones as part of the charity’s annual Suffolk Remembers event. Sixteen large wooden letters, 5,000 candles and hundreds of loved ones will gather in Felixstowe Spa Gardens on June 21 to celebrate and remember friends and family in this unique outdoors celebration. Tuesday, March 12 marked the 100-day countdown to the event, which takes place on Suffolk Day. Pauline Donkin, individual giving manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: “Suffolk Remembers is fast becoming one of my favourite hospice events. There’s this incredible sense of community on the night as everyone comes together for the lighting of the candles and joins together to remember their loved ones as the sun sets on the longest day of the year. It’s so, so special and is open to anyone, not just people who have had an experience with the hospice or our nurses. “We want to light up Felixstowe with 5,000 personal memories and people can remember pets as well, as they are very much part of a family and they too are sadly missed. Every candle will bear the name of a loved one. “Being able to remember and share memories or your loved ones is such an important thing, but quite often it is something we think we can only do in private or by a grave. “Suffolk Remembers is all about giving people an open and public way of remembering their loved ones and helping people to connect with other people in a similar situation. We also have live music on the night and it’s a really wonderful experience. “Each dedication is also replicated on our website and you can go online and make your dedication today and add a photograph and special message. By supporting this event you are also helping the hospice to care for people, and their families, in east Suffolk, to ease pain and restore hope. We’re also delighted to have on board the East of England Co Op Funeral Services as our event sponsors this year.” Michael Davies, of East of England Co-Op Funeral Services, said: “St Elizabeth Hospice plays such an important part in people’s lives. For us, sponsoring this amazing event is our way of saying thank you to the hospice for all the work they are doing caring for the people in our community.” Candle dedications can be made online; £5 minimum donated recommended. www.suffolkremembers.stelizabethhospice.org.uk

18

In Touch online:


VILLAGE CONTACTS LIST

Allotments/ Sproughton Parish Council

01473 463852/ pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk

Almshouses (Cooper Trust)

make.shep@btinternet.com

Badminton Club

dennisjackaman@btinternet.com

Burial Ground / Sproughton Parish Council

01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk

Bowls Club

01473 742572 / David Taylor

Brownies

www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

Carpet Bowls Club

awaiting

Children’s Play Area / Sproughton Parish Council

01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk

Church Hall Booking

01473 464336

Sproughton Community Shop

01473 747768

Sproughton Football Club

georgina.studd@aol.com

Footpath Warden / Sproughton Parish Council

01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk

Jigsaw Pre-School

info@jigsawsproughton.org.uk

Millennium Green Trust

awaiting

Toddler Group

awaiting

Parish Council Clerk Sue Frankis

01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk

Parish Council Chairman Simon Curl

01473 747114 / simoncurl@btinternet.com

Sproughton All Saints Church

awaiting

Playing Field Management Committee

pfmcandbar@gmail.com

Lunch Club

Rosalind Lavington 01473 213254 / 01473 747768

Quilters

Julie Hodges: 01473 226004 / martin.rl.hodges@btinternet.com

Ramblers

Doreen Bradbury: 01473 210008

Reading Room & Caretakers Trust House Charity

awaiting

Senior Citizens Club

eunice.pk585@yahoo.co.uk

To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

Details for organisations and activities in Sproughton

Sproughton CEVC Primary School awaiting Sproughton Tennis Club

evercope62@gmail.com

Tithe Barn Bookings / Sproughton Parish Council

01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk

Tower Captain (Church Bells)

ralphearey@gmail.com

Tree Warden / Sproughton Parish Council

01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk

Village History Recorder

Doreen Bradbury: 01473 210008

Following changes to the data protection laws, GDPR 2018, a number of village contacts have not forwarded their details for publication. The parish council will endeavour to put you in contact where we can.

Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning

Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation

call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441

www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton

19



Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.