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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR One recent Sunday morning, Jack and I got up early to bake cakes for one of our little charity stalls at the front gate, this time in aid the Cyclone Idai appeal. We’d watched the news reports about the cyclone which has left around three million people in need of help and Jack’s immediate response: let’s bake! And so we did. We cut out letters to make a Cyclone Idai Appeal banner and set up the table with cupcakes at 50p each. It was a lovely morning and the lane was busy with dog walkers and cyclists so trade was brisk. The little money pot was filling up nicely, but when we realised we’d forgotten to tell grandma what we were doing, and knowing how much she loves cake, we ran next door to tell we were almost sold out. When we returned our little money pot had disappeared! At first I thought it had just blown off the table, but there was so sign off it anywhere. It was well and truly gone. Jack’s little face was a picture, and not a pretty one. I still can’t quite believe it happened. I just don’t understand how anyone could be so heartless, or even have the nerve to do it! But the story doesn’t end there. Feeling the need to vent, I posted a message on the local Facebook page and was humbled by what happened next. The first person who posted a reply also made a £25 donation to the appeal. Then a man I don’t know turned up at the door with a £5 donation. He wanted to meet Jack and to tell him not to be disheartened by what had happened. There were a few angry comments on Facebook, but most people wanted to express sympathy and to ask when we were having our next cake sale. Many others donated to the appeal and in addition to the £10 we received from a lady who dropped by the house later in the day, and our own contribution to cover sales, the total donated on the day was £160. Clearly there is an odd bad egg in the world, but so many, many, many more good eggs who can achieve great things when they come together. Of course, I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know. In every area where we publish there are multiple fundraising events happening all the time, but isn’t it lovely when a negative becomes a positive and doubts are overcome. And on that basis we shall be running another cake stall very soon!
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NEWS INAUGURAL MEETING FOR THE RON AMES MEMORIAL FUND It’s only a short while since we reported the tragic passing of Ron Ames, followed by the news that he’s secured the Lifetime Achievement Award at the prestigious Stowmarket Town Awards. It’s now time to announce the time and date of the inaugural meeting of the Ron Ames Memorial Fund where the purpose and aims of the fund will be discussed. The meeting will be open to all – runners, swimmers, volleyball players, friends or simply members of the public interested in listening to the intended aims of the fund. So what is the fund and the meeting all about? The idea behind the memorial fund is to establish a sustainable legacy to a much-loved and respected person who was an active and successful member of the running, swimming and volleyball clubs in Stowmarket and who, for many years, helped and encouraged people of all ages in their chosen sport. The fund will be managed by a legally constituted charity, the Ron Ames Memorial Fund. The aims of the charity will be to encourage, motivate and support young members of the three stated sports clubs to enhance their involvement and opportunities in their chosen sport. Small grants (up to £200) will support individuals for any aspect of his or her involvement at the discretion of the trustees, including, for example, items of equipment, help with transport and access to specialist coaching. The meeting to put in place not only a lasting legacy to such a great local hero, but also provide financial help to sporting youngsters for years to come will be held at Stowmarket Football Club on Monday, May 20 at 7.30pm. Interested but don’t want to get ‘roped in’ to committee meetings and fundraising events? That is not a problem, please come along to listen to the plans. Obviously for those who wish to get involved further, the door will be wide open and all positive ideas and offers of involvement will be gratefully received. We really hope to see you there for the first step of a very exciting journey.
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There’s lots of fun to be had at a free family share day on May 29 from 11am to 3pm at the Ark, 11-13 King William Street, Needham Market IP6 8DG. There will be willow weaving demos and workshops, face painting, Irlen Screening, a craft workshop, plant stalls, tombola and delicious teas and cakes. The event will raise awareness of Irlen Syndrome and raise funds for those who are affected and need financial support. ABC For Reading is the national charity supporting people with Irlen Syndrome whose symptoms can include headaches fatigue, clumsiness, difficulty with concentration, difficulty with text and print (glare), dislike of fluorescent lights, difficulty with night driving and poor depth perception. Irlen can affect academic performance, motor skills, behaviour, concentration and confidence. ABC for Reading is a group of trustees who support individuals from across the UK in order to afford lenses which will reduce their symptoms, allow them to fulfil their potential and improve their quality of life. All proceeds and donations to be shared between ABC For Reading and the ARK, Needham Market. To find out more about the charity visit: www.irlenabcforreading.co.uk
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NEWS GOLFING FOR MACMILLAN Golfers at Stowmarket Golf Centre are once again going to play 72 holes of golf in one day! They will be walking about 14 miles and hitting the ball, hopefully the same one, about 300 times, all in an effort to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. Stowmarket Golf Centre is a nine hole course, so everybody will be playing eight rounds in a day! Because cake is taken with our drinks after a round, we are called Centre Cake Crew this year. Last year 20 golfers took up the challenge. This year 35 have volunteered to put themselves to the test. All the rounds will be played at Stowmarket Golf Centre during the week of June 23 to 29 and everyone is trying to raise sponsorship for this very worthwhile cause. Last year more than £4,000 was raised and the hope is this year that total will be beaten. If you would like to help please go to: www.longestdaygolf.macmillan.org.uk/Team/centrecakecrew All the money raised goes straight to Macmillan Cancer Support. You can, of course, drop in to the golf centre and donate in person or cheer us on. Malcolm Barnes
NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR FORMER NATWEST BUILDING A partnership between Mid Suffolk District Council and the John Peel Centre is set to breathe new life into the vacant former NatWest building in Stowmarket, bringing art, leisure and entertainment into the heart of the town centre. NatWest in Market Place closed its doors for the final time in September 2017. Mid Suffolk District Council took on the building last year with the aim of using it as a community space that the whole town could enjoy. Now its vision has come a step closer with the keys being handed to the neighbouring John Peel Centre for Creative Arts for an initial five months. The arts centre will use the opportunity to open up the building to the public and seek local views on how it can best be used in future. Sheila Ravenscroft, wife of the legendary DJ and patron of the John Peel Centre, is pictured here with Councillors Nick Gowrley and Gerard Brewster. She said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Stowmarket and for the John Peel Centre. We take pride in the variety of original music, poetry, film, theatre, comedy and private events we already host at our centre in Church Walk, but this partnership gives us a presence right in the heart of the town. Now we’re looking forward to exploring exactly how we can work together with the public and other venues in the town to bring a real vibrancy into the town centre – that’s a legacy John would have loved.”
SPONSORED WALK FOR STOWMARKET CHARITY MID SUFFOLK AXIS Andrew McFarlane, a volunteer for Mid Suffolk Axis, raised over £400 as part of a fundraising campaign for members of Axis. Andrew wanted to embark on a sponsored walk as a surprise for the members of Mid Suffolk Axis so they can continue to enjoy activities and excursions as part of the programme of events which are offered by the charity. The 10-mile walk started at Needham Market and finished at Stowmarket Community Centre and took Andrew two-and-a-half hours from start to finish. Andrew trained prior to the sponsored walk so he was in top condition to carry out the task on Friday, April 5. His contribution is especially important as an active member of the team who has learning disabilities his commitment is valued as part of the volunteer force. Mid Suffolk Axis is a social and active club for adults with physical/sensory disabilities and as a user-led organisation we like to get out into the local community and enjoy new experiences. We have been providing the service for over 30 years and we pride ourselves on the atmosphere of our club as a meeting place to enjoy each other’s company, friendship, laughter or simply a listening ear. Offering a change of scene, excursions, arts and crafts, guest speakers, music and singing, exercise sessions, games and a two-course hot meal, we are dedicated to the wellbeing and enrichment of peoples lives who attend our club. We have our own minibus so attending the sessions is easy, especially important if you are living with a disability as public transport can be problematic. We meet from 9.30am-2.30pm at Red Gables on Tuesday and Thursday and at Stowmarket Community Centre on Friday. Try our free taster sessions. Contact: 01449 775667 / 07956 993042
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Councillor Nick Gowrley, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Cabinet Member for Assets and Investment, said: “We’re really excited about the future of the building and what it means for the town. Planning permission for a change of use to food and drink, assembly and leisure was approved unanimously last summer and now, by working with the John Peel Centre, we can start to think about exactly how that could work – and how we might showcase the town’s many attractions from this central site.” Councillor Gerard Brewster, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “It’s wonderful that this vacant building in the heart of the town centre will enjoy a new lease of life as a gateway for entertainment and leisure in Stowmarket. Boosting visitors to our high street and market, and giving local residents a new and exciting community space in the heart of the town is great news for the town.” The building will reopen its doors once work is complete on initial displays and a pop-up community area so people can start to give their views.
NEEDHAM MARKET RAFT RACE 2019 Come and join us for a great family day out at the lake on Sunday, June 23. Raft judging takes place at 1.30pm but the real fun starts at 2pm. Bring a blanket or a chair to get comfy, bring a picnic or make use of the great food and drinks that we have on offer. But whatever you do, make sure you bring your voice as we like it loud! We are always looking for new competitors, all you need is three friends (or family), £16 to enter and a good sense of humour. Did we mention that there is a trophy for the winner of the event and the fancy dress? This year’s theme is The Reality Raft Race. You will get the chance to race twice. The first race is a time trial and you will compete for the Tracey Cadman Challenge. The second (if your raft is up to it) is for the trophies! Can you help us by being a steward for the afternoon? We are a friendly bunch and always on the lookout to rope in more people to lend a hand. For more information find us on Facebook or visit: www.needhamraftraceblog.wordpress.com
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NEWS PRAISING AND APPRAISING THE STATUS OF STOWMARKET FOOTBALL By Luke A Fitch
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Friday, May 3, 10am-noon: Coffee and Networking Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday, May 17, 6.45am: Breakfast This month it’s time for the AGM at The Mix Stowmarket, Suffolk To book online: follow the link on: https://stowmarketchamber.co.uk/networking-events
STOWMARKET BELLS UPDATE We will be outside St Peter & St Mary’s Church with lots of great plants for sale from 10am until 12.30pm on Saturday, May 18. We’ll have a good variety of plants including a selection of tomatoes for those who like to grow their own and have the joy of eating them straight off the plant in the summer months. If weather is not in our favour, we will be in the church hall opposite. Then on Saturday, June 22, we have the renowned Charlie Haylock giving us a talk entitled An Eccentric Look at Spoken English. This event will include supper and starts at 7.30pm in the church hall. To book this event, please contact us at: 01449 781619 / stowmarketbellsproject@gmail.com
STOWUPLAND FLOWER FESTIVAL AND CRAFT FAIR Saturday 4 to Monday, May 6, 10am-5pm Holy Trinity Church and Stowupland Village Hall / IP14 4BQ Scrumptious refreshments, free parking, free entry For more information contact: anndoubtfire1@gmail.com
When one thinks of all the superb sporting clubs that operate in the town of Stowmarket they perhaps forget – with the success of the bowls, badminton, and rugby – that we are host to a long-lived footballing institution. While it would be ignorant of me to ignore the sterling work of the footballers of the town’s pubs and its Salvation Army team, the progress of Stowmarket Town Football Club deserves to be highlighted. Formed in 1883 and disrupted, yet never destroyed, by the two World Wars, the club’s progress in the last 15 years has been inspiring. After facing relegation from the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division, the club were ecstatic at its achievement in the 2016-17 season, not only achieving its first title since 1950, but also its first promotion in its history. As a spectator on that fateful day, it was truly amazing to observe the changes in atmosphere and attendance that has occurred during the five years of watching the team. When I first saw the team play in the 2014-15 season, the experience was underwhelming. To describe attendance at the matches I observed that season, I believe the phrase ‘two men and a dog’ would suffice. This season, the average attendance is almost 300, and the recent memory of promotion has given the team an impetus to build upon. The fight for the desired promotion places to Step 4 of the Football League Pyramid is within the club’s grasp and the mass attendances reflect this possibility. The status of football in Stowmarket is like a blossoming flower in the spring sunshine. This blossoming appeal of the local sport should not be restricted to a single club, however laudable its progress. Having lived in the suburb of Combs Ford, a section of the town that borders Combs, most of my life, I thought it prudent to humbly place a proposal at the feet of its inhabitants. If anybody, man or woman, is interested in considering the formation of a team in the suburb, perhaps we can create something special. To cite the chair of the formation meeting of Ipswich Town on 16 October 1878: “He hoped that no one would consider that the promoters had any antagonistic feelings […] but that the two clubs might prosper, both being of mutual assistance to each other.”
THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE
If interested, contact me via: l.fitch@UOS.ac.uk
Saturday, May 25- Sunday, June 2: Elmer the Elephant 30th Anniversary Trail Elmer the Elephant is 30 years old! Help us celebrate by having a go at lots of Elmer activities and games as you discover the 75 acres and 17 historic buildings at the museum.
NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY
Saturday, May 25- Sunday, June 2: Den Building Drop in to the Woodland Walk to have a go at building a den in the woods. Saturday, June 8: StowBlues Held in collaboration with BBC Radio Suffolk, StowBlues returns for the ninth year. Featuring a jam-packed line-up of blues acts and a CAMRA supported real ale bar, we’re back for the festival’s biggest year yet! Joshua Carr from Hot Tramp is pictured on the front cover performing at StowBlues 2018.
PMR/GCA SUPPORT GROUP The next meeting of the Polymyalgia Rheumatica/Giant Cell Arteritis East Anglia Support Group is on Thursday, May 16 at Needham Market Community Centre IP6 8BB. The hall will be open at 10.30am for registration, refreshments and an opportunity to meet others who experience the same problems as you. The speaker will be Dr Max Yates, Clinical Senior Lecturer at the Norwich Medical School University of East Anglia and Honorary Consultant at East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust. For further information please contact us at: pmrgcaeachair@btinternet.com
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On Wednesday, May 22, archaeologist Alex Fisher will give an exciting talk about the discoveries of the Bronze Age Village found at the recent excavations at Flag Farm and Must Fen. The revelations have been dubbed England’s Pompeii. The meeting is in the Burton Room at Needham Market Community Centre at 7.30pm. Members free, visitors £3.
UNIQUE GARDEN OPENS FOR CHARITY Every year the National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to over 3,500 exceptional private gardens in England and Wales, and raises impressive amounts of money for nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cake. You’ll be please to know that the wonderful gardens at Bridges, The Street, Woolpit IP30 9SA will be open from 11am-5pm on Sunday, May 19. Adults £5 with children free. Teas will be available and there will be plants for sale. Thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers and visitors, the National Garden Scheme has donated a total of £55 million to nursing and health charities, and made a record annual donation of £3.1 million in 2018. Founded in 1927 to support district nurses, it is now the most significant charitable funder of nursing in the UK and beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.
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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET CRAFT MARKET
THE REGAL IN MAY This year is shaping up to be an amazing year for Disney. Mary Poppins Returns, Captain Marvel and Dumbo have already been massive hits, later this month we have Avengers: Endgame and Aladdin and still to come we have Toy Story 4, The Lion King, Frozen 2 and a new Star Wars film!
Despite the weather, our April market was another successful one with a range of talented, local crafters and a steady flow of people through the door. Hopefully our signs and directions helped!
Away from the family end of the market, we have some fantastic films on screen at the Regal, but we’re especially looking forward to The Sisters Brothers, Wild Rose and Red Joan.
This month we were delighted to be able to help a group of students from Stowmarket High School who are working on the Peter Jones Enterprise Foundation. Selling a range of their handmade items with the guidance of their design and technology teacher, the students have been working hard, even in their spare time to create and sell their work. We wish them well for the future.
Wild Rose: the story of Rose-Lynn, a woman on a quest to become a country music star while also grappling with the responsibilities of being recently released from prison and a single mother of two children. Stars Jessie Buckley and Regal favourite Julie Walters. (1 hour and 40 minutes) Us: new from the Oscar winning writer/director of Get Out, a family’s serenity turns to chaos when a group of doppelgängers begins to terrorise them. (1 hour and 55 minutes)
Our next market welcomes another great range. Every month will be different to the last, making it well worth returning again and again. Come see us on May 4 between 10am and 1.30pm at Stowmarket Scout centre, Milton Road, IP141EX.
The Sister Brothers: in 1850s Oregon, the infamous duo of assassins, Eli and Charlie Sisters, chase a gold prospector and his unexpected ally. (2 hours)
You can get to us by walking through Fox Yard in the town centre. Walk down Fox Yard and pass through the gate on the other side, continue walking forwards, following the path round towards the residential area and the town council garden area. Once you reach the green, continue left down the narrow path which leads straight to Stowmarket Scout Centre.
Wonder Park: the story of an amusement park where the imagination of a wildly creative girl named June comes alive. (1 hour and 25 minutes)
For more information visit our Facebook page or email Sherilee Hawkins: stowmarketartisanmarket@gmail.com
Bel Canto: a world-renowned opera singer becomes trapped in a hostage situation when she’s invited to perform for a wealthy industrialist in South America. (1 hour and 40 minutes)
SENSATIONAL CHORALE CONCERT
Red Joan: Judi Dench starts as Joan Stanley, who was exposed as the KGB’s longest-serving British spy. (1 hour & 41 minutes)
Greta: a young woman befriends a lonely widow who’s harbouring a dark and deadly agenda toward her. (1 hour and 38 minutes) Hellboy: based on the graphic novels by Mike Mignola, Hellboy is caught between the worlds of the supernatural and human, battles an ancient sorceress bent on revenge. (2 hours) Avengers: Endgame: after the devastating events of Infinity War, the universe is in ruins. With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers assemble once more in order to undo Thanos’ actions and restore order to the universe. (3 hours and 2 minutes) Aladdin: live action remake of the Disney classic, a kind hearted Arabian street urchin and a power-hungry Grand Vizier vie for a magic lamp that has the power to make the deepest wishes come true. (2 hours) Live on stage we have Raymond Froggatt, Strictly Nashville and Neil Sands with his new show Sentimental Journey. We also have All My Sons starring Sally Field and Bill Pullman live streamed from the National Theatre to the Regal, and an encore screening of the much loved musical An American in Paris, recorded live at the Dominion Theatre. Find out more at: www.regalstowmarket.co.uk
Facebook: Stowmarket Craft Market
On Saturday, March 30, the United Reformed Church in Stowmarket was filled with excitement as Stowmarket Choral and a buzzing audience found their places in readiness for an evening filled with glorious music. The programme consisted of a familiar Benjamin Britten round, Old Abram Brown, Mendelssohn’s Hear my Prayer, Purcell’s Dido’s Lament and Song of the Cold Genius, and the beautiful Brahms German Requiem. It was performed with energy and form, filling the church with joyous voices and rapturous applause. Everyone agreed it was a splendid performance. Stowmarket Town Mayor said: “I felt as if I was in The Royal Albert Hall – it was incredible.” Another member of the audience commented the choir looked as if they were really enjoying themselves. The choir is kept under tight control by the talented new music director Tom Appleton, and he certainly provided a magnificent performance. As the baritone soloist was ill, Tom gallantly took on this role as well as conducting! No mean feat. His rendition of Song of the Cold Genius was truly inspirational. The choir is also privileged to be supported by the amazingly talented pianist William Baldry. His playing is always sublime. Look out for our summer concert on June 15, Shakespeare Meets Jazz. This will also be held at the United Reformed Church at 7.30pm. Revisit your schooldays by coming along to hear some Shakespeare and wallow in medieval madrigals, songs and sonnets – a real treat to enhance a beautiful summer evening! For further information email secretary@stowmarketchorale.org.uk or visit: www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk
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Suffolk Foot Health Jane Robinson MCFHP MAFHP Calluses Corns Verrucas Ingrowing Nails Fungal Infections Athlete’s Foot Nail Trimming Diabetic Foot Care
HOME VISITS Mobile: 07916 143618
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ALLERGY THERAPIST
Providing Health Care to the Community for over 35 years.
at Woolpit
(Brickfields Business Park) Testing for food, environmental and chemical sensitivities – as well which can cause unpleasant symptoms and illnesses.
For an appointment contact Helen Parsons Dip Allergy Therapy, Food Studies Cert.Ed, B.I.A.E.T.
Tel: 01531 670746
Phoenix Counselling Practice professionals you can trust We match clients to one of our many qualified and experienced counsellors, meeting individual needs in a relaxed and comfortable environment
Are you in pain? Chiropractic may help with many problems including lower back pain, neck pain and related headaches as well as arm and leg pain.
STOWMARKET CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CLINIC
Fees are negotiable for those on a low income To talk to a counsellor or make an appointment please call
Tel: 01449 675974 or visit our website www.phoenix-counsellingpractice.com
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Michael T E Bailey Doctor of Chiropractic Registered with the General Chiropractic Council
7 Stowupland Rd Stowmarket IP14 5AG
Tel/Fax 01449 612620 www.michaelbailey.net
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OUT & ABOUT GARDENING IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN YOU THINK It’s that time when many will be venturing out into the garden. Most people think of gardening as a gentle hobby that doesn’t cause any harm, however, there are some potential pitfalls waiting for some unlucky people who overindulge with gardening. The back is probably the most common known issue with gardening. Lots of bending over while weeding, planting and digging can place stresses and strains through the back. A little of this type of activity shouldn’t cause any issues to a healthy back, but prolonged exposure to these activities can lead to muscle soreness and joint irritation giving rise to a few days of pain. More seriously you can cause some nerve irritation, disc or LAFT issues – remember a few months ago we talked about calling them living adaptive force transducers rather than discs. The best way to try and avoid any back pain is to take regular breaks from what you are doing, bend your back in the opposite way to the way you have been moving or keeping still and make sure that you keep yourself nice and warm. At this time of year most physiotherapy practices have a few extra patients attending with elbow pain. Prolonged use of shears or secateurs leads to lots of use of the forearm muscles. This can cause a lot of muscle pain in the forearm muscles and often a pulling of the tendon (tough material which connects the muscle to the bone) leading to a very sharp and prolonged pain. This ‘tennis elbow’ or lateral epicondyalgia as its known in the medical field can take an awful long time to settle down. Prevention is best; again take lots of breaks during gardening tasks. If you have a lot of work to do with shears, hedge trimmers, strimming or secateurs split the job over a few days or several weekends. Yes it’s more frustrating and takes longer to have that hedge looking neat and tidy, but it’s better than the frustration of lots of pain. Another common condition with gardening but one very few people realise is in the knee. A lot of people have heard of sports people tearing the cartilage in their knee, but it’s also a risk in gardeners. The cartilage is at most risk in the knee when we have the knee bent, put weight through it and then twist. This is such a common movement to do whilst kneeling and rotating to pick up a plant to or to reach over to get at that last weed within reach. Damage to your knee cartilage often results in knee swelling, pain and loss of movement. Often this will settle but gives you pain and loss of function for a time. Sometimes this type of injury needs an operation to get better so rather than risk a knee issue, keep the plants to be planted out in front and move position regularly to avoid the twisting of the knee. While we don’t want to put people off doing some gentle physical activity it’s worth noting some of these dangers so you can avoid the pitfalls of gardening and the errors made by others. Robert Grainger MSc MCSP MHPC CSCS Practice Principal PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic Sports Physiotherapist
CHARITY MOTORBIKE RIDE Saturday, June 8 10am: Meet at Stowmarket Salvation Army Corps 11am: Ride Starts 12.30pm: Finish time back at the Corps 50 mile round trip through the beautiful Suffolk countryside. Suggested £5 donation with money raised going to Stowmarket Salvation Army Youth Ministries. Please contact Jenny for further information: 07940 364028 / jenny.johnson@salvationarmy.org.uk
STOWMARKET SALVATION ARMY BAND CONCERT St John’s Church Needham Market Saturday, May 11 at 7.30pm Tickets (including refreshments) £5 on door or from: 01449 722202
NEWS FROM RED GABLES We have just found out that we have been awarded a Silver Carbon Charter mark from the Suffolk Climate Change Partnership. This endorses the efforts that we go to at Red Gables in managing the buildings, land and gardens and our approach to environmental issues. If you have ever visited our grounds at Red Gables, and in particular the Spinney (a wooded area which is a wildlife refuge and an area for wellbeing and contemplation), please write to us and let us know how you have made use of it. We are trying to prove how much it is used and how much it means to people in the area. Please write to us at: Red Gables, Ipswich Road, Stowmarket IP14 1BE / contact@redgables.org.uk Alive and Singing This is chance to shine a spotlight on another of the projects running at Red Gables. Alive and Singing is a monthly session for people living with Parkinson’s disease or similar neurological disorder and anyone who supports or cares for someone with these conditions. We offer free singing sessions every second Wednesday from 1.15-3.15pm with refreshments. There’s no need to read music, simply come along and lift your voice and spirits by joining in with songs, percussion and laughter. It’s a joyous experience! We are grateful to the Pargiter Fund from the Suffolk Community Foundation for supporting this project. Assistant Manager Robert Horn
READY FOR SUMMER AT SIMPLY We hope you all had a fantastic Easter and, like us, are now getting ready for a long hot summer! We’re very pleased to say that following a very successful trip last year, we’ve been invited back to play at Bandstand on The Beach, part of the Aldeburgh Music Festival in June and are already planning the programme. More details soon. Meanwhile, some of our members have been busy working hard over the winter. We’re very proud to report that three of our cornet players passed their Grade 3 cornet exams with flying colours. Along with that we had a Grade 6 saxophone and a Grade 6 flute. What a multi-talented lot! We still have a few instruments looking for owners and we’d love to hear from you if you would like to join Stowmarket’s very own independent youth brass band. Email us at simplybrassstowmarket@gmail.com or find us on Facebook. The details are the same if you’d like to book us to play at your event.
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OUT & ABOUT CLASSIC CAR & MOTORBIKE AUTOJUMBLE STOWMARKET & DISTRICT MONDAY CLUB Stowmarket Town Football Club, Sundays, June 2, August 11 and October 6, £5 per stand, £10 trade. Free entry for children, raffle, refreshments and a licensed bar. All proceeds go to the Addenbrooke’s Children’s Cancer Trust. No need to book; just turn up. Gates open at 9.30am. For further details please contact Mark Cossey: 07762 052145
WETHERDEN HISTORY GROUP
Stowmarket & District Monday Club’s programme of activities continues into spring. We very much enjoyed an evening of dancing to G & T and a variety of Easter events including an Easter Bonnet Parade. We resume after a oneweek break for Easter with a bingo session, which is always very popular. We are a club for adults with learning difficulties and meet each Monday from 7.30 to 9.30pm at the Community Hub in Crown Street, Stowmarket. We are run entirely by volunteers and new members and helpers are always very welcome. If you would like further information, please contact Lilian Fidler on 01449 672123 or just come along on a Monday evening.
Do you know that May is Local and Community History Month! From Saturday 4 to Sunday, May 12, Wetherden History Group will have a display of resources in St Mary’s Church for visitors to look through as well as enjoying the wonderful surroundings of our Grade 1 listed church. Many of the items on display are collections of information about the village which have been put together in the last 10 years, the time that our history group has been in existence. The church is open every day.
STOWMARKET LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Monday, May 20: The History of the Suffolk Chair by Michael Goater Michael Goater is an antique furniture restorer and has been a lecturer at the London College of Furniture, among other appointments. This talk tries to give a picture of chair making, its customers, makers and historic influences during the late 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. At the centre of domestic furniture it provides a rare insight into society. He will bring slides and actual examples. Meetings are held at 7.30pm at Hillside Community Centre, Stowmarket IP14 2BD. Members £1, non-members £3.50. For further details contact Jeannette Baldry on 01449 675271 or visit: www.stowmarket-history.co.uk
1ST COMBS SCOUT GROUP DUCK RACE Saturday, June 8, 2pm at Pikes Meadow Held at Pikes Meadow, Stowmarket, there will be riders, refreshments, stalls and games, and not forgetting duck races! There is fun for all the family so come along and join us for a great afternoon!
MEDITATION AND WELLBEING GROUP Tuesday evenings at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside from 8-9pm. All welcome. Evenings run on a drop-in and donation basis. Session consists of two meditations with time to have a stretch in between. Bring a blanket and cushions to be cosy. Mats are available if you prefer to lie down or sit on the floor. For further information call Louise Page: 07989 133814
ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION: STOWMARKET BRANCH Since our last report we have had our Annual General Meeting which resulted in a couple of changes on the committee and an excellent film show, Gardens Set to Music, which took us to many gardens in Europe as well as in this country. Looking ahead now to May, at this month’s meeting a Second World War Veteran will tell of his experiences as a bomb aimer. We will also be going to the RAF Museum at Wattisham, and later in the month we will be visiting the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight visitor centre at RAF Coningsby, which will include a hangar tour. An annual event in our calendar is the George Ward Memorial Service at Onehouse Church where George is buried in a War Grave. We support the Stowmarket Air Cadets 1331 Squadron at this service. In 2002 the Cadets agreed to take on the upkeep of the grave. George was one of the first members of 1331 Squadron before he joined the RAF and trained as a rear gunner. Following a successful raid on Dortmund his Halifax plane crashed in thick fog in Yorkshire. George was 19 years old. We are always pleased to welcome prospective new members. We meet on the first Wednesday in the month at the Royal British Legion Club at 7.30pm. If you would like further information, contact our secretary on 01449 676871.
SQUATTING WITHOUT A FENCE As some of you might recall, I have in past articles written about how it is possible for one person (a ‘squatter’) to occupy another person’s land for long enough to be able to claim that he or she is then the owner of it. It is a complicated area of the law, but one that comes up with reasonable frequency in a variety of situations – it might be that a fence between two properties has been put in the wrong place (not along the legal boundary, for example), or at the other extreme, a house has been occupied and then claimed.
This recent case arose in relation to the paving of a forecourt area. The works carried out to it – such as ripping up the old surface, inserting hard-core, levelling the surface, and installing bricks and flagstones, constituted just the sort of thing that an occupier would do with his land. The judge was therefore satisfied that this was a clear assertion of control over the land – both now and for the future – and the claim succeeded. Each case does need to be considered on its own facts, but this most recent one demonstrates that whilst fencing will be required in the majority of cases, possession can be established in other ways.
In all cases, one of the things that we look for initially is whether there has been evidence of exclusive occupation of the land, with a view to then demonstrating on behalf of the occupier, factual possession of the land. When assessing this, we would usually look for there being in place some form of fence or other boundary structure. A recent case, however, has made it clear that fencing is not absolutely essential, where it can be shown that the occupier is in factual possession of the land – and therefore has an appropriate degree of physical control over the land.
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Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET U3A Your local U3A not only runs local events for members, but also takes part in events organised by the national office. The latter include occasional lectures by eminent speakers and an annual summer school programme, this year running from Aston University in Birmingham and The Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester. Locally, our first theatre outing to see Calendar Girls was a great success. Later in the year we hope to see Matilda. Our play reading groups have enjoyed reading The Tiger by Robert Bolt and The Horse and Bright Interval by Cherry Vooght. Our walkers have had excursions to Mendlesham, Cockfield, Rattlesden, Onehouse and around Stowmarket, often with lunch stops at local pubs. A new group is forming to play table tennis and we also hope to see a Learn Spanish group starting soon.
BACTON & COTTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Tuesday, May 21, 7.30pm at Bacton Village Hall: Medieval Graffiti by Mathew Champion Matthew is regarded as England’s leading expert on medieval graffiti. For centuries carved writings and artwork in churches lay unnoticed. A world of ships, prayers, cartoons, charms, curses, wood puzzles and so much else will be explained to us. Members £2, non-members £3.
STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP
For a full list of our groups please see our website (details below). We are always happy to welcome new faces and annual membership is just £15.
Wednesday, May 1: Inn Signs by John Goodhand John Goodhand’s hobby is photographing inn signs. In this introduction to the subject he looks at their meaning and origin.
COMING UP May 15: The Building of the Sutton Hoo Ship, a talk by Paul Constantine May 16: Trip to Bawdsey Radar Museum June 19: Trip to Langham Glass and Pensthorpe Natural Park June 27: Trip to Helyg Garden July 17: Café 200 Project, a talk by The Institute of Civil Engineers
Wednesday, June 5: Where Did All the Houses Go? by Lisa Wall Ipswich has fewer timber-framed buildings today than in the past because many of the old houses were dismantled and re-erected in other parts of the country and even abroad. In the early 1900s you could buy a complete mediaeval Suffolk house and have it delivered!
For further details phone 01449 258865 or visit: www.u3astowmarket.org.uk
WOMEN’S SECTION ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, STOWMARKET Our meeting on March 20 was chaired by Shirley as Sue was on holiday. Shirley gave the exhortation and silent tribute and asked us to remember those members who had passed away over the last year. Liz had also lost her mum and we send her our condolences. Sue had sent a card to thank all those who had helped at our jumble and who contributed to a very healthy profit. We were blessed with sunshine and many more people attended. Thanks also to Mick who takes all the leftover items to local charity shops. Names to be given to Janet for our fish and chip evening scheduled for June. Most of the seats for the mystery trip had been allocated. We then had a fun session with Lynda who had provided cards and toppers for us all to make Easter cards. There was only one ‘Australian’ card, but that was soon rectified. The competition was judged by Lynda with Carol H taking first, second went to Hazel and third to Gloria. Shirley gave Lynda a vote of thanks and then read a small ditty about a hedgehog. Our next meeting is on May 15 and we will have Darren Dordoy with a spoken ‘walk’ round Stowmarket. Lynda Farr
COMBS AND NEEDHAM RAINBOWS
We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall, IP14 4BQ. There is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members. For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386
STOWMARKET CAMERA CLUB On March 11 we welcomed Frank Blyth CPAGB BPE to judge our fourth open competition of the season. The judge gave constructive comments and particularly loved the humour in some of the images. On March 25 member Roy Fidler gave an excellent talk entitled As I See It. Members enjoyed a photographic story of Roy’s experiences as a photographer from dark room processing to today’s digital photography, illustrated with photographs along the way. A few useful tips were also added! Monday, May 2: A45 Inter-club Challenge at the Bury Photographic Society, judged by David Saunders (External Competition) Monday, May 13: AGM followed by Club Night Monday, June 10: Open Competition 5 judged by Brian Carlick LRPS, incorporating the Len Blackhouse Trophy (PDIs) and the Cyril & Mary Hall Salver (Prints) Monday, June 25: Annual End of Season Photoshoot, venue TBA You don’t have to be an expert photographer to be welcomed as a member of the club. For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net
Do you have one to two hours to spare a week? Would you like to help at a local Rainbow group?
STOWMARKET SUFFOLK REGIMENT OCA
Is your daughter aged between and five and seven and interested in joining the youngest section within Girlguiding?
We held our AGM at the Royal British Legion Club in March when all the standing officers, apart from the vice-chairman, were reelected. The new vice-chairman is Garry Quinn. Events for the year were discussed and approved.
At 1st Combs Rainbows and 1st Needham Market Rainbows, we have been working on our Communication Level 1 skill builder along with some Rainbows earning interest badges such as drawing, healthy mind, family tree, storyteller and fruit and veg, with some Rainbows starting on animal lover, helper and agility. Along with 1st Combs Brownies, both Rainbow units paid a visit to Stowmarket and Area Foodbank and donated 24kg of food. In the next term the Rainbows will be starting the Camp Level 1 skill builder. Meetings are held from 5.15-6.15pm on Wednesday evenings in Combs on from 5.15-6.15pm on Thursday evening in Needham Market. For more information please contact the unit leader Kirstie Cole: Kirstie1989@hotmail.co.uk
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We then looked at ways forward due to the age of our membership and decided to open up to anyone who has served in any regiment or the AAC to try and encourage any ex-service man or woman to come along to one of our meetings and join our club. I believe there must be quite a few ex-army people in Stowmarket and the surrounding area. We meet on the last Wednesday of the month at the RBL Club in Tavern Street (opposite Stannards) at 8pm. It would be great to see some new faces and anyone who is interested can either pop into the club and leave your name and telephone number, contact me on 01449 675318 or just turn up on the night. John King
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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday, May 5: 6-mile circular walk from Needham Market via Darmsden. Park and meet at far side of Needham Lake (not toilet side) at 10.30am / GR. TL095548. Leader: 07831 373154 Sunday, May 12: 6-mile walk around Trimley Marshes. Park and meet at Suffolk Wildlife Trust car park at 10am / GR. TM277357. Leader: 07736 573243 Saturday, May 18: River Gipping and Badley walk. Park and meet at Meadland Social Club on Needham Road East, the road behind The Cedars (old road to SCE and PPG) at 6pm / GR. TM057577. Leader: 01449 771724 Sunday, May 26: 5.5-mile walk in the Haughley area. Park and meet at Haughley Playing Field car park off Green Road, Haughley at 10am / GR. TM275625. Leader: 07969 654520
STOWMARKET ART CLUB Our annual Summer Exhibition and Sale of Art 2019 will run from Thursday 23 to Saturday, May 25 at The United Reformed Church in Stowmarket, open each day from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free and there are two large car parks in close proximity. Wheelchair access is available. Stowmarket Art Club has existed for 59 years and the annual exhibition features a huge range of artwork in all media and of a very high standard. To raise money for charity, a number of our artists have painted an A4 sized picture which is sold in a sealed envelope for £5. Just imagine what you might discover!
STOWMARKET SUGARCRAFT CLUB Our speaker for May is Gemma Parker of Gemma’s Crafty Cakes in Felixstowe. Gemma will be showing us how she made some of the decorations she used on some of the cakes that won her gold and silver prizes at the Cake International Sugarcraft Show. So we look forwards to that. If you are interested in sugarcraft we’d love you to visit us. For more information please visit: www.stowmarketsugarcraft or contact Glenda on 01449 615382
STOWMARKET WILDLIFE GROUP Saturday, May 18, 10am: Bonny Wood Walk Join us on a walk led by Peter and discover the wonders of Bonny Wood at Barking Tye. You may see wood anemone, woodruff and herb-paris. Orchids are also typical, including early-purple orchids, lesser twayblade and the common spotted orchid. Birds are also plentiful at this time of year with melodies from summer migrants such as blackcap and willow warbler mingling with the song of resident species. Free with donations welcomed. Booking is essential. John Thompson: 01449 676471 / swtstowmarket@gmail.com
STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB This month’s meeting will be on Wednesday, May 22 at 7.30pm at Woolpit Village Hall. The demonstration entitled Wood and Wicker will be given by Lorraine Scott of Thetford. Please come and join us; visitors and new members are always welcome. The club will also be exhibiting at the Suffolk Show on May 29 and 30.
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SCHOOLS / SPORT SCHOOLS SNOUT FOR SCIENCE WEEK
SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY
At Cedars Park Primary School we celebrated Science Week by having some slightly unusual guests to stay for the week, two micro pigs named Penny and Rosie. Children across the school gained first-hand experience of pig care and were engaged in a range of pig themed activities all supporting Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) learning.
Six members of Scorpion Academy recently travelled to Messingham Martial Arts near Scunthorpe to test for their black belts. The six who passed were assessed over three weeks, culminating with the final test that also included a written exam and a five-hour physical exam. They were:
During the week beginning March 11, classes took part in some animal husbandry, providing new straw and helping to groom and feed the pigs. Children in Reception designed and made enrichment toys containing treats to keep Penny and Rosie happy and stimulated during their stay. Year 1 researched piggy facts using the internet for the first time. Animal Welfare Consultant Toni Calvert visited two year groups, sharing her knowledge about pigs. Year 2 found out all about how pigs are adapted to their environment and made clay models. Year 4 discovered how pigs are reared for us to eat and named some more unusual products that originate from a pig. Can pigs actually fly? STEM Ambassador John Jones explored forces with Years 3 and 5 through designing, making and launching paper pig rockets. Meanwhile, classes in Year 6 utilised their knowledge about air resistance and lift to make model gliders. In maths lessons children undertook some measurements based on the vital statistics of a pig. The new data loggers (purchased by the PTA) were also used to compare sound data and answer our question, “Who are the noisiest – pigs or children?”. In addition, children across the school studied a variety of pig themed texts within reading lessons. This ranged from the fairy tale of The Three Little Pigs in Key Stage One, to Pig-Heart Boy by Malorie Blackman (which explores the questions raised by animal organ donation) in Upper Key Stage 2. During their stay, Penny and Rosie also produced a number of fine artworks, created by moving cornflour-based paints around canvas using their snouts!
EASTER SHARING MORNING & ART SHOW St Peter & St Mary’s Preschool would like to thank all those children and parents who attended our Easter sharing morning and art show. It was a great success! The children have really enjoyed learning Makaton sign language this term so we sang most of our Easter songs alongside using Makaton. All the children, parents and staff were so proud of the wonderful artwork they produced. There were golf ball paintings, Chinese painted numbers, tissue rainbows, collage pigs, sheep, dinosaurs and chicks and, of course, decorated Easter eggs. So many budding young artists! The children had been working so hard and it was lovely to share this with their loved ones. We all enjoyed the tea and hot cross buns.
COMBS FORD BOWLS CLUB Ford View Road, Stowmarket IP14 2BL
Our green has opened up once again for the outdoor season with a fun rollup on April 14. The green is in excellent condition and this is down to the hard work and dedication of a few club members who volunteer each year to put in time and effort making the green as best as possible. A big thank you to all who have worked hard during the closed season, the green looks brilliant. The new outdoor league season is now only a few days away with the club’s first game in the Stowmarket League away to Woodfield and our first home game to Walsham-le-Willows. The club’s first game in the Ipswich League is also away, to Marleborough, and all of these games will be played by the end of April. Then the season really kicks in with all the league and cup games in full flow. We have also held another of our social events, this time a race night, with the aim to hold further events during the outdoor season. In August our club will host the Stowmarket League semi-finals which we are greatly looking forward to so as you can see there is much going on in our club. If you fancy having a go at lawn bowls why not come along to us and give it a try? We are a friendly club and you will be made most welcome, both as a bowler and as a member in general. For further details please contact Paul: combsfordbowls@gmail.com / 01449 676536
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Grace Allen – 1st dan black belt in universal karate Oliver Holland – 1st dan black belt in universal karate Rhys Tinson – 1st dan in black belt in karate jutsu Lilirose Catling Fell – 2nd dan black belt in universal karate Matthew Daly – 3rd dan black belt in universal karate Jack Driver – 1st dan black belt in kickboxing The following weekend well over 100 Scorpion students took part in their coloured belt exams. All were tested on many martial art skills and the standard demonstrated was excellent. The first group grading were the kickboxers who were put through a very tough exam that pushed them to their limits. They completed 10 rounds of boxing, 10 rounds of kickboxing, 10 rounds of k1 rules plus plenty of pad work. The next exams were for the juniors up to red belt level. This exam was in universal karate and our team of juniors performed wonderfully well. The final exam of the day was for the seniors and all juniors at brown belt and above. This exam consisted of running through all of the weapons that are taught at the Scorpion Academy. Kobudo (weapons training) is an important part of the Scorpion syllabus and once again the standard demonstrated was great. We have an amazing team of instructors at Scorpion Academy, all of whom have a wonderful talent for teaching and passing on their knowledge. Many thanks to Senior Master Andy Lewis – 6th dan, Master Josh Trent – 4th dan, Master Dave Fell – 4th dan, Senior Instructor Mel Walmsley – 2nd dan and Senior Instructor Peter Izzard – 3rd dan. We currently teach universal karate, tae kwon do, kickboxing and k1 rules. Muay thai and basic MMA are taught within the main classes on an as and when basis. Children from age five up to 13 are welcome to train in karate and from seven for kickboxing. All senior classes welcome anyone from 14 years and beyond. We offer one month of training for free to all new members joining and we put on a full calendar of events that run throughout the year including seminars, tournaments, Nerf gun Sundays, gradings, charity events and fundraising. For further information please contact Mark JR Trent: 07708 644162 / scorpion.ufkkwa@gmail.com
WILDCATS FOOTBALL SESSIONS FOR GIRLS IN STOWMARKET An exciting new Wildcats Football Centre is launching in Stowmarket which offers girls aged 5-11 a chance to try football for the first time, build their confidence, social skills and friendships as a team and provide regular opportunities to play football in their community. Football is for everyone and Wildcats sessions ensure that every girl has the opportunity to take part and have a great experience. It offers a range of different activities to ensure that the sessions are varied and fun packed in a safe environment. The main part of the session is about getting the girls comfortable with the ball in games that are fun, challenging and help develop skills and finish with mini games. Throughout the year we will have fancy dress sessions, face painting, football rounders and dodgeball alongside football activities. The first session is on Saturday, May 4, 10-11am on the Astroturf pitch at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre and will then carry on weekly throughout the year. All sessions are delivered by an FA qualified wildcat coach. All equipment will be provided, so your daughter just needs to bring a drink, lots of energy and a smile. If interested in joining in the sessions please contact Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre on 01449 674980 or contact Laura Worsley on 07801 532059 for more details.
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SPORT STOWMARKERS NETBALL CLUB Stowmarkers Netball Club has been running since 2011. The club attracts mainly junior players but we welcome players of all ages and abilities. However, we are in need of more players in the club to sustain our netball future. As with many sports clubs it can be difficult to attract new players so what is it that would make you want to join our netball family? We train every week whereas many clubs do not train at all. Training not only equips you with the netball skills you need but keeps you fit and healthy. We have one league team who play in the South Suffolk Netball League but we also have players who train each week just for fun as they don’t want the competitive action. It’s your choice on which path you want to take in this sport. Our club regularly holds events throughout the year which engage the players and are seasonally themed. We also have an annual award ceremony which takes place at the end of each season. As our current training ground is at Debenham High School we are in an excellent location to attract players from Stowmarket, Stowupland, The Creetings, Debenham and surrounding villages. So if you or your daughter, or maybe both of you would like to join please contact Louise, our head coach: 07428 595354
LADIES AND GIRLS BADMINTON NIGHTS Stowmarket Badminton Club’s ladies and girls only sessions continue at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre on Tuesday evenings from 8-9pm. If you fancy a new challenge, or just want to get back into badminton, why not dust off your racket, lace up your trainers and join us for some casual informal fun sessions? Rackets will be provided on the night and we have courts available to allow you to refine your skills, or just have some fun in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. For further information please contact Mary Hughes: 01359 240811 / stowmarketbc@suffolkbadminton.co.uk
FINBOROUGH LADIES NETBALL CLUB
STOWMARKET CRICKET CLUB As I write, we are up and running with both adult nets and youth coaching being well attended. Over 30 youngsters are enjoying their coaching on Monday evenings, so to any youngster out there, why not pay us a visit? You will enjoy it! We have 40 competitive youth games to play, catering for all ages and abilities from under-9 through to under-15. Our thanks go to all our volunteers and to Mid Suffolk Council who have helped us get the SCG (Stowmarket Cricket Ground) ready for an exciting season ahead. After three consecutive promotions, captain Paul Blake has strengthened his 1st X1 squad by welcoming two new players. George Royle has joined us from Wiltshire, having averaged 40 as an opener in their premier league. Meanwhile, all-rounder Jordan Dye has not moved so far, having transferred from a local club. We are sad to lose opener George Tillbrook, but wish him all the best for the future. We have a busy month ahead as we host the following matches. Thursday, May 2: Under-13 v Old Newton, 6pm Saturday, May 4: 1st X1 v Abberton, 1pm Thursday, May 9: Under-11 v Copdock, 6pm Saturday, May 11: 2nd X1 v Lakenheath Saturday, May 18: 1st X1 v Haverhill, 6pm Sunday, May 19: Under-9 Festival, 9.30am Saturday, May 25: 2nd X1 v Haverhill, 1pm So why not pay us a visit? A warm welcome is assured and beverages are available from the Chilton Fields bar. If you would like further information please contact Clive Witherly – 01359 240019 / wigg51@btinternet.com – or visit: www.stowmarketcc.co.uk Facebook: Stowmarket Cricket Club / Twitter: @stowmarketcc
MID SUFFOLK MUTTS SKATER HOCKEY CLUB Mid Suffolk Mutts is the counties first Skater Hockey Club and is focused on developing a fast paced team sport in Stowmarket.
Another mixed netball evening was held at Finborough on February 18. This time 20 people came along, with members bringing their family and friends. We had three teams play in a round robin where everyone played each other for 10 minute games. We finished by mixing everyone around by getting them to pick a random bib out of the bag, which determined their position and their team. It was quite amusing seeing some of the taller boys playing centre court positions and not in the circle shooting where they are normally placed! All in all, everyone had a great evening and the club managed to raise £80. Thank you to everyone who came along, we hope you enjoyed your evening. Our fun nights are often held in the school holidays when we have a few weeks break from our usual competitive league games. Current positions up until April 29: South Suffolk Netball League Division 1: Finborough Kestrels 4th / Finborough Hawks 5th Division 2: Finborough Swans 6th / Finborough Eagles 9th Division 4: Finborough Swifts 1st Division 5: Finborough Wrens 3rd / Finborough Robins 4th / Finborough Doves 6th Junior Division 2: Finborough Cygnets 2nd / Finborough Goslings 4th Holly Phillips www.finborough-netball.com
www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket
Skater Hockey is an action packed, contact sport played on inline skates, with a ball, within BISHA’s (British Inline Skater Hockey Association) Regional League. The sport develops speed and skill, while teaching determination, respect and teamwork. Like other well-disciplined sports, it builds confidence and character while being extremely fun to play and watch. Our plan has been to make the sport accessible to as many families in Suffolk as possible, without parents having to break the bank to pay for expensive kit and memberships while their children explore a new sport. We started the club in January with six children and crowd funded just over £1,000 to purchase the basic protective players kit and initial hall time at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre. We have also been proudly supported by AJ’s Legacy and Cabbages and Kings, two organisations that have helped us to create our new club via donations and purchasing equipment. The club has grown to 15 regular members in a month and we have new interest each week. Our vision for the club is to build several teams across the BISHA age ranges and to compete at the highest level. If you know of any children aged between eight and 11 years (or younger) who would like to give skater hockey a go, please get in touch by emailing midsuffolkmutts@outlook.com or on Facebook and Instagram: @midsuffolkmutts
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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS MEADLANDS INDOOR BOWLS CLUB
STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB
We are the bowls section of Stowmarket Meadlands Recreation Club and our three lane rink is situated on Needham Road, Stowmarket (next to the Cedars Hotel). It’s open from 10am to 10pm seven days a week all year round. As well as the indoor green we have a sports hall with four full sized snooker tables.
We’re definitely heading into silly season at the club with virtually every aspect of activity gathering pace, team practises, match bookings, social mornings and evenings and even some initial ideas to refurbish the clubhouse. There are very exciting times ahead for the club both this year and beyond.
Other sections attached to the Meadlands Recreation Club include angling (with our own lake), badminton, darts, crib and petangue. There is also a shop with reduced prices for members and the Meadlands bar offering extremely competitive prices. Annual subscriptions are now due for renewal at £36 for a playing member and £22 for a social member. Membership and indoor competition forms are available in the bowls hall. All the competitions are the same as previous years with the exception of the Birdie League which will be two divisions instead of three. At the moment there will be 12 teams in each division, but there is room for additional teams. The River League can also cater for additional teams. Currently we are preparing to run a summer indoor league and are looking for additional bowlers. These games are played on Wednesday mornings from 10am to noon. Bowlers of all abilities are always welcome. Contact Bev for more information: 01449 677962 Remember all free daytime and evenings slots can be booked via a diary located in the bowls hall. This applies to the summer as well as the winter season. For further details such as membership costs and rink fees, contact David on 01449 613144 or 07717 940270 or Beverley and John on 01449 677962.
The core of our activity remains as friendly, sociable tennis across all parts of the community. A recently formed diversity and inclusion group is working-up plans to engage with the wider Stowmarket area and take tennis ‘out there’ to see you! This has already begun with a string of nine assemblies in local primary schools and we are looking at other public events where we might pop-up and deliver some short, fun tennis for those nearby. We were voted Suffolk Club of the Year not too long ago and are keen to attract more of you into what is a thriving, progressive tennis venue. One of the best shop windows for the club is the Disco Tennis session every Saturday morning. Several of those attending have no previous experience and are exactly the people this class is designed to attract. You’ll take part in a gentle warm-up of games, drills and movement before enjoying several tennis based activities led by the coach. People are free to work at their own pace and there is no pressure to win or lose because it’s not a competitive format. As I write we’re still enjoying the protection of our dome where it’s calm, quiet, dry and frost free, but getting fairly warm now. By the time this issue plops onto your doormat we’ll have taken it down and will be basking in early summer sun. Or we’ll be diving in and out of the clubhouse between heavy rain or hail showers. Either way, we’ll be playing hard and enjoying every minute. Come along and see what you’re missing! See you on court.
ELMSWELL BOWLS CLUB We are hoping the weather will be kind for us to open our green to members on April 13 which, of course, will be long before this issue is received. Our green is looking extremely good thanks to Nick and his team for their preparatory work and we are all eager to start bowling. Our first league match will be on April 23 and the first cup match on May 17. Results of all matches will appear in the June edition and each month thereafter. On March 29 we held a games night for members which included everything from Scrabble and Shove Ha’penny to Crib and darts. The evening was enjoyed by all participants. By the way, it’s not too late for anyone interested to come along and see us or contact our secretary, Graham Newman on 01359 240846. Roll-ups take place on Thursday afternoons from 2pm for which the rink fee is £1.50 for members and £3 for non-members. Roll-up days are also held on Saturday afternoon when no competition is taking place. Someone will always be there to offer guidance and we would love to see you. David Begg
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Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com / 07761 142372
STOWMARKET GOSPEL HALL We’ve got an exciting Holiday Bible Club lined up for the May half term holiday. It’s called Follow the Clues and the children will have to help solve the mystery of the man who defeated death. Puppets Bert and Lucy will be doing some detective work and there will be lots of activities including singing, quizzes and crafts. It’s for all children aged five to 12 and will run every morning from 10am to noon with a prize giving on Friday evening. Everything is free. Look out for the leaflets in the local schools or contact us through the website. We’ve also got our usual activities during May including Trailblazers at 10.30am on Saturday 11, Friday Club each Friday at 6.45pm and the Tot’s Group, Tea and Play at 10am on Thursdays, except, of course, in the final week of May when the Holiday Bible Club will be in full swing! Find out more about these events and our regular activities at: www.stowmarketgospelhall.org.uk
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CHURCH NEWS STOWMARKET UNITED REFORMED CHURCH As you read these notes our church has just finished a very comprehensive programme of events. The church celebrated Mothering Sunday (picture by Helen Freeman) with each family receiving a gift of flowers. The highlight of Palm Sunday was the visit of Tiger the donkey, reminding us of Christ’s journey to Jerusalem. It was a privilege for him to also pay a visit to our friends at the parish church. Services were also held on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday ahead of the walk of witness on the day of our Lord’s death and Easter Sunday remembering his resurrection. Our Wednesday Club, which meets on the first Wednesday of the month, was pleased with the number attending following their move to meeting at 2.30pm. The ladies are looking forward to hearing the varied speakers during the summer and would love you to join them. You will be made most welcome. The men continue to meet for a full English breakfast at 8.30am on the first Saturday; just come along. We found out ‘who killed the vicar’ as we enjoyed supper during our annual murder mystery evening. Two groups have also just finished five weeks of discussions studying the York course, Daring to See God Now. We now look forward to playing our part in raising much needed funds for Christian Aid, supporting those who don’t have the advantages that we enjoy. There will be many opportunities during the week May 12-18 to support the collectors and events if you are able.
Woolpit Nurseries_Bury Golf Club_200x138mm_PRINT.pdf 1 15/12/2016 10:02:38
For information regarding our church please contact us at: 01449 675045 / stowmarketurc@btconnect.com
OPEN Mon-Sat 9 till 5 & Sunday 10 till 4
And keep up to date at: www.stowmarket-urc.org.uk
01359 240370
THE SALVATION ARMY Violet Hill Road, Stowmarket Wednesday, May 1
7.30pm Live Lounge at Costa, Stowmarket
Sunday, May 5
11am & 5.30pm Services
Saturday, May 11
Band Concert at Needham Market Parish Church
Sunday, May 12
11am Service / 4pm Messy Church
Saturday, May 18
10am Coffee Morning
Sunday, May 19
11am & 5.30pm Services
3pm Band Visit to Chilton Meadows
Sunday, May 26
11am Service / 4pm Café Church
Sunday, June 2
11am & 5.30pm Services
Wednesday, June 5
7.30pm Live Lounge at Costa, Stowmarket
Saturday, June 8
10am Motorcycle Charity Run
WEEKLY EVENTS Monday 9.30-11.30am Funky Monkeys (Parent & Toddler Group) Tuesday 10am
CAMEO (Come and Meet Each Other)
Tuesday 2pm
Over Sixties Club
Wednesday 5.45pm
Kidz Club (ages five plus)
Wednesday 7.30pm
Live Lounge at Costa Coffee (first in month)
Friday 7-9.30pm
Café at the Rec
Saturday 10am-noon
Coffee Morning (third Saturday in month)
We have interesting and varied activities during the week and well attended Sunday Services. For more information, please ring Jenny: 01449 614133
www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket
If you’re looking to be spoilt for choice when it comes to your garden then come and see us The majority of our bedding plants are grown here at Woolpit Nurseries. We grow 90% of our plants on site so we are able to focus on producing only the finest quality products.
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We have over an acre of growing greenhouses, plus half an acre of outside growing space and a large net sided poly tunnel.
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We are specialists in hanging baskets with over 2000 produced every spring. We offer a large range of plants including seasonal bedding, a range of structural Italian plants, structural shrubs, small trees & ‘instant gardens’ with ready-to-go pre-planted hanging baskets and containers. Ever expanding, we also offer a wide range of gardening products including stoneware, pots & baskets, plus fertilizers, plant foods and grit and a variety of composts. With a qualified horticulturist on site we are able to provide professional & friendly advice to gardeners in need.
www.woolpitnurseries.co.uk
Old Stowmarket Road, Woolpit, Suffolk, IP30 9QS
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ELECTRICAL Tel/Fax: 01449 612537 Your local electrical service contractor for expert advice
• Rewiring • New Installation • Testing and Repair Work • Supplier of Electrical Equipment Unit 5, Glebe Farm, Onehouse, Stowmarket
John Bull motors ltd Petrol and diesel MOT Testing Servicing, repairs & diagnostics
Unit 7B, Charles Ind. Estate, Stowmarket
Tel: 01449 774150 Fax: 01449 675898 johnbullmotors@btconnect.com
Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning
Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation
call John Burch: 07870 347486
Tel: 01449 721441
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
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In Touch online:
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Specialising in Extensions, Kitchens & General Building Residential and Commercial Visit our website at
www.sjwallacebuilders.co.uk Tel: 01449 672997 Mobile: 07788 560482 FREE ESTIMATES 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
www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket
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